Christmas Abroad: Tips For Family International Travel

by | Nov 3, 2023 | Travel Tips For All Ages

Traveling internationally during the Christmas season is a great way for families to bond and create lasting memories. Whether it's a beach vacation in the Bahamas or a winter wonderland in Prague, there are plenty of destinations that offer unique experiences during the holiday season.

For families who want to escape the cold and enjoy some sun, the Bahamas is a popular destination. With its sandy beaches and island-style weather, the Bahamas offers a relaxing and festive atmosphere during the Christmas season. Families can stay at resorts like Melia Nassau Beach and enjoy activities like snorkeling, swimming with dolphins, and exploring the local culture.

On the other hand, for families who prefer a winter wonderland experience, Prague is a great option. During December, the capital of the Czech Republic transforms into a magical winter wonderland with twinkling lights and festive markets. Families can enjoy ice skating, traditional Czech food, and explore the city's historic architecture. No matter the destination, traveling internationally during Christmas is a great way for families to make memories that will last a lifetime.

Planning Your Family International Travel

Planning a family international travel during Christmas can be exciting, but it requires careful planning to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip. Here are some tips to help you plan your family's international Christmas vacation:

1. Choose Your Destination Wisely

When planning your family's international Christmas vacation, it's important to choose a destination that will cater to everyone's interests and preferences. Some popular destinations for families during Christmas include the United States, Europe, the Caribbean, Mexico, the Bahamas, Turks and Caicos, Puerto Rico, and Canada. London, Rome, Austria, the Czech Republic, Germany, and Italy are also great destinations for families during Christmas.

2. Book Your Hotel Early

Booking your hotel early is crucial when planning a family international Christmas vacation. It's recommended that you book your hotel at least three months in advance to ensure availability and to get the best rates. All-inclusive resorts are a great option for families as they offer a variety of activities and amenities that cater to all age groups.

3. Consider the Weather

When planning your family's international Christmas vacation, it's important to consider the weather of your destination. If you're planning to travel to snowier areas, make sure to check the weather forecast to ensure that it will be safe for your travel days. If you're planning to visit warmer destinations, make sure to pack appropriate clothing and sunscreen.

4. Plan Your Activities

When traveling with family, it's important to plan activities that cater to everyone's interests. Visiting Christmas markets, ice skating, and attending holiday events are great options for families during Christmas. If you're traveling to a city, consider taking a guided tour to learn more about the history and culture of your destination.

5. Prepare Your Documents

When traveling internationally, it's important to prepare all necessary documents, including passports, visas (if required), and travel insurance. Make sure that your passports are valid and will be valid for at least three months past your planned return home.

Overall, planning a family international Christmas vacation requires careful planning and consideration of everyone's preferences and interests. By following these tips, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip for the whole family.

Choosing the Perfect Destination

When it comes to planning a family vacation during Christmas, choosing the perfect destination can be overwhelming. With so many options available, it can be difficult to decide which destination is best suited for your family's needs and preferences.

One important factor to consider is the weather. Some families prefer to spend their Christmas holidays in a winter wonderland, while others prefer to soak up the sun on a beach. For those who prefer a white Christmas, destinations such as Vail and Aspen in Colorado offer plenty of opportunities for skiing and snowboarding. On the other hand, families who prefer a warmer climate can opt for destinations like the Maldives or Cape Town, South Africa.

Another key consideration is the type of activities and attractions available in the destination. Families who enjoy shopping, dining, and cultural experiences may enjoy visiting cities like New York, London, Edinburgh, Rome, or Salzburg. Those who enjoy exploring historic districts and visiting castles, cathedrals, and museums may enjoy visiting destinations like Quebec City, Bruges in Belgium, or Dresden and Prague in Germany.

For families who want to experience the magic of Christmas markets, destinations like the Christkindlmarkt in Munich, Germany, or the Old Town Square in Prague, Czech Republic, are a must-visit. Santa Claus Village in Finnish Lapland is also a great option for families who want to meet Santa Claus and his reindeer.

Overall, choosing the perfect destination for a family vacation during Christmas depends on various factors, including weather, activities, and attractions. By considering these factors and doing some research, families can find the perfect holiday destination that meets their needs and preferences.

Experiencing the Christmas Spirit

Traveling during Christmas is a magical experience that allows families to immerse themselves in the festive spirit and discover unique traditions of different cultures. Whether you're seeking snow-covered landscapes or warm beach destinations, there are plenty of options to choose from.

One of the best ways to experience the Christmas spirit is by attending holiday events. Many cities and towns around the world host Christmas markets, where visitors can enjoy caroling, Christmas lights, and gingerbread treats. Families can also visit nativity scenes and see Santa Claus and his reindeer.

For a more immersive experience, families can take Christmas vacations to destinations that are known for their holiday cheer. Leavenworth, Washington, for example, is a charming Bavarian-style village that hosts a Christmas Lighting Festival featuring an endless amount of dazzling lights and St. Nikolas himself welcoming children with songs and fruit. The A&E Network even crowned Leavenworth the "Ultimate Holiday Town USA."

Iceland is another destination that loves Christmas so much that they celebrate for 26 days. Festivities begin on December 11th and include Christmas markets, concerts, and fireworks. Families can also visit the Yule Lads, 13 mischievous trolls who leave presents in children's shoes.

No matter where families choose to travel, experiencing the Christmas spirit is a wonderful way to create lasting memories and celebrate the holiday season together.

Activities for Kids and Adults

Traveling during Christmas is an excellent opportunity for families to bond and experience new activities. Here are some exciting activities that both kids and adults can enjoy during their international Christmas vacation:

  • Ice Skating: Many cities around the world have outdoor ice skating rinks set up during the Christmas season. Ice skating is a fun activity that the whole family can enjoy together. Some popular ice skating destinations include New York City's Rockefeller Center, London's Somerset House, and Vienna's Rathausplatz.
  • Disney Parks: Disney parks are a popular destination for families during Christmas. The parks are decorated with Christmas lights and decorations, and there are special Christmas-themed shows and parades. Kids can meet their favorite Disney characters dressed in their Christmas outfits.
  • Northern Lights: For families who love adventure, seeing the Northern Lights is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Some popular destinations for viewing the Northern Lights during Christmas include Norway, Finland, and Iceland.
  • Beach Activities: For families who prefer warm weather, a Christmas beach vacation is an excellent choice. The Caribbean and Hawaii are popular destinations for a Christmas beach vacation. Families can enjoy activities such as building sandcastles, snorkeling, and swimming.
  • Train Rides: Train rides are a fun activity for families during Christmas. Some popular train rides include the Polar Express in the United States and the Glacier Express in Switzerland. Kids can enjoy hot chocolate and cookies while listening to Christmas music and stories.
  • Skiing: For families who love skiing, a Christmas ski vacation is an excellent choice. Some popular ski destinations include Colorado, Utah, and Austria. Skiing is an excellent activity for both kids and adults.

Overall, international Christmas travel offers a wide range of activities for families. Whether you prefer adventure or relaxation, there is something for everyone to enjoy during the holiday season.

Returning Home After the Holidays

As the holiday season comes to an end, families start to plan their return home after their Christmas vacation. Whether they traveled by plane, train, or car, there are a few things to keep in mind to make the journey as smooth as possible.

If the family traveled by plane, it's important to check the flight schedule ahead of time to avoid any unexpected delays or cancellations. Families should also arrive at the airport early to allow enough time for security checks and boarding.

For those who traveled by train, families should be aware of any potential delays or schedule changes. It's also a good idea to keep track of the train's route and stops to avoid missing the final destination.

If the family drove to their holiday destination, they should plan their return trip carefully. It's important to check the weather forecast and road conditions before hitting the road. Families should also schedule regular breaks to avoid driver fatigue and ensure everyone stays alert and comfortable during the journey.

No matter how the family traveled, it's important to follow COVID-19 safety guidelines. Families should wear masks, practice social distancing, and wash their hands frequently to reduce the risk of infection.

Returning home after the holidays can be a bittersweet experience, but with a little planning and preparation, families can make the journey as stress-free as possible.