Where to Spend the Holidays: Luxury Winter Escapes for Every Style
The holiday season is one of the most magical times of year to travel—and one of the most personal. Some crave snowy landscapes and twinkling lights, while others prefer sunshine, palm trees, and a tropical breeze. Whether you want to cozy up with loved ones in a winter wonderland or escape the chill altogether, the key is finding a destination that matches your travel style.
Here are some of my favorite luxury holiday escapes, from snowy slopes to warm sands—each with something special to offer.
❄️ For the Winter Wonderland Lover: The Swiss Alps
This is what holiday memories are made of—cozy, snow-covered, and surrounded by love.
Best For: Couples or families seeking snow, skiing, and a picture-perfect white Christmas
Where to Stay: Badrutt’s Palace Hotel, St. Moritz – A fairytale castle surrounded by mountains and holiday charm
Spend your days skiing or sipping hot chocolate while the snow falls outside. The Swiss Alps offer an elegant, festive atmosphere—perfect for travelers who love crisp mountain air and cozy luxury.
🎄 For the Classic Holiday Enthusiast: European Christmas Markets
Snow, sparkle, and timeless charm—discover the joy of Europe’s Christmas Markets.
Best For: Cultural travelers, food lovers, and those who want to feel like they’ve stepped into a snow globe
Where to Go: Strasbourg, Vienna, or Munich
What to Book: A European river cruise through holiday markets—seamless travel, festive décor, and stops in some of Europe’s most charming towns
If your idea of the holidays includes twinkling lights, mulled wine, gingerbread, and handcrafted ornaments, a Christmas market escape is pure joy.
👉 Discover Christmas Markets by River Cruise: A Festive Journey Through Europe
🌴 For the Sun Seeker: St. Lucia
Celebrate the season with sunshine, serenity, and Caribbean elegance.
Best For: Couples and families who prefer sunshine over snowfall
Where to Stay: Sugar Beach, A Viceroy Resort – Nestled between the Pitons, with white-sand beaches and Caribbean charm
Skip the coats and boots—this tropical retreat offers luxury with a laid-back feel, perfect for relaxing, snorkeling, or enjoying a beachside holiday meal.
🕯 For the Romantic Traveler: Paris in December
Romance and sparkle—Paris at the holidays is always a good idea.
Best For: Couples looking for European elegance and festive charm
Where to Stay: A boutique hotel in the Marais or Saint-Germain-des-Prés
What to Do: Christmas lights along the Champs-Élysées, holiday markets, and gourmet holiday dinners
Paris is enchanting year-round, but during the holidays, it sparkles—literally. If you’re looking to wrap the year with romance, this city never disappoints.
👉 Luxury Family Travel in Paris: Top Cultural and Educational Experiences for Kids
🐘 For the Bucket List Explorer: A South African Safari
Trade snowfall for safaris with a wild and wonderful holiday in the African bush.
Best For: Adventurers and wildlife lovers ready for a holiday like no other
Where to Stay: A luxury lodge in Sabi Sands or near Kruger National Park
What to Expect: Big Five game drives, outdoor holiday meals under the stars, and warm summer weather in the Southern Hemisphere
Swap snow for savannas this year—this is a once-in-a-lifetime way to celebrate the season.
🧖♀️ For the Peace Seeker: A Wellness Retreat in Bali
Reset your routine and reconnect with yourself in Bali’s peaceful, luxurious embrace.
Best For: Solo travelers or couples seeking rest, reflection, and rejuvenation
Where to Stay: COMO Shambhala Estate or a private wellness villa in Ubud
If the holidays feel more stressful than joyful, it may be time to unplug completely. Bali’s blend of spirituality, nature, and luxury makes it an ideal setting to reset before the new year.
Final Thoughts
Who says the holidays have to be cold? Trade snow for sand and sleigh bells for waves.
The beauty of holiday travel is that it doesn't have to look one specific way. Whether you're drawn to candles in cathedral windows or palm trees wrapped in twinkle lights, the perfect winter escape is the one that feels most like you.
Let’s make this season unforgettable—your way.
Ready to plan your perfect holiday escape?
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