While it is true that much of the world celebrates holidays other than Christmas around this time of year, it’s still quite evident that December is the biggest and most popular holiday month on the calendar. Whether you celebrate Chanukah, Kwanzaa, the winter solstice, or call it Xmas, this time of year is all about celebrating and doing special things for the people you care about.

Instead of giving away another itchy sweater or a tie that won’t be worn, perhaps you and your loved ones could take a holiday vacation this year. During the winter months, traveling is far less of a financial burden. On top of hotel rates and restaurants and airlines already charging lower rates in the off season, you can also save money with coupons and double your savings.

You may be surprised at the crowds gathering in airports and train stations in order to visit their loved ones, but in terms of an affordable, unique holiday that you’ll remember for a lifetime, there’s no better time than Christmastime to vacation.

Great Locations to Visit for the Holidays

New York City

No city celebrates the holiday season quiet like New York. While the nighttime weather in the Big Apple may be a little on the chilly side, the sights and sounds and overall atmosphere will definitely warm your soul. With the Rockefeller Tree, displays at Times Square, Broadway productions like the Nutcracker, and much more, New York is the ideal location to visit for a holiday getaway.

Cancun, Mexico

Cancun is mostly known as a spring break location for teenagers. But this area has a longstanding tradition of celebrating the holidays in a big way. They have their version of New York’s Christmas tree in the city, and you will always find some type of party or celebration going on during the month of December. The best part, of course: You can celebrate the holidays without freezing! The weather is still perfect in Cancun during the holiday season, and you and your family can view vacation coupon codes to save a ton of money on your trip.

Sao Paulo, Brazil

Another location where you won’t have to bundle up like Santa on his sled, Sao Paulo, Brazil has beautiful weather, beautiful attractions, and they make a huge deal out of the holidays. With different festivals paying respect to the season, giant fireworks displays and world-class entertainment at the Municipal Theater, you and your loved ones can celebrate in style in this location. Sao Paulo might not be the kid-friendly destination you’re hoping to take your entire family to, but for you and your significant other, the sparks will definitely fly.

Some people are content to visit their mother-in-law’s house for the holidays; others want to take the opportunity to go on a legitimate vacation. If you’re more of the vacationing type, the destinations listed above are great locations to visit during this time of year. You can also save a lot of money on your travel. Whether you get deals for American Express travel via a voucher site or take advantage of your airline miles, you won’t have to spend a lot to vacation in style.

Gareth

My name is Gareth Leonard, a Marketing Director turned World Traveler with a passion for slow, meaningful travel. I have been traveling the world full-time for the past 9+ years and document it all on Instagram and YouTube. Come join me!