Hi everyone -
Around this time of year, we start getting a lot of submissions asking about traveling during the winter holidays. Good locations to travel to, what the experience is like, etc.
So this megathread will serve as a hub for the subreddit to discuss seasonal holiday travel plans. Feel free to share stories of past holiday travels, questions about your travel plans for this year, etc.
Some examples of topics you can post about in this thread include:
- Where should I travel to over Christmas / New Year's / the holiday season?
- What is X place like over the holiday season?
- What to do for the holidays while you're travelling?
- Suggestions of Christmas markets or other holiday-themed destinations?
- Stories of past holiday travels
While the most common questions relate to the December/January holiday season, this thread can be used to ask questions about any holiday or seasonal travel.
For inspiration, here's a link to last year's thread
Hi! I'll be in Luxembourg around New Year's Eve and travelling solo. I'm not looking for the city or parties, but for a small, cute town or village with a nice atmosphere. Ideally a family-run guesthouse or B&B where the hosts actually live there - something warm and personal, not a chain hotel or hostel.
I'm totally fine with a quiet NYE, maybe a local bar or small village gathering around midnight, or just a cozy place to stay and enjoy the night.
If anyone has village suggestions or knows genuinely nice, locally run places, I'd love to hear them. Thanks!
Any recommendations on which hong kong neighborhood to stay in? looking for hostel/hostels budget price if possible. i don't need it to be fancy but as a solo female it needs to be safe. i just love walking around, sight seeing, bookstore. i love finding a cute cafe and people watching. i do want to hike tai mo shan at some point too.
Alternatives to Times Square for a solo New Year’s Eve countdown in NYC?
Hi everyone, first time posting here.
I’m a solo female traveler in my 40s, and I’ll be spending New Year’s in New York for the first time (staying on the Upper West Side).
I’ve read up on the Times Square countdown, and part of me would love to experience it at least once. At the same time, lining up for hours with no easy bathroom access feels tough—especially since I’m solo and new to the city.
I checked Meetup, and most of the NYE events I found were party-focused. They look fun, but as a bit of an introvert, I’m hoping for something more comfortable and low-key for a solo traveler.
Ideally, I’d love a countdown experience that:
Are there any more low-key or solo-friendly ways to spend New Year’s Eve in NYC?
Neighborhoods, viewpoints, or even just good areas for an evening walk—happy to hear any ideas or personal experiences.
Thanks so much!
Sounds like something you would be up for? hit me up. I’ll land in Bangkok on 31st morning and will be there for NYE bash + 2 more days
solo ‘cuz yolo
I am about to go on my first solo travel in 20 years in a NYE flight to Cairns. I have some trepidation, but I'm kinda excited at the same time.
Can someone help me out? My brother is graduating high school this year and I wanna take him somewhere either June or July. I’ve been to Thailand and loved it. Not sure what direction to take this trip. Could be like a Mexico or a Vietnam. Where do you think two brothers are going to have a good time? I’d like a mix of adventure tourism w
Costa Rica perhaps?
I'm interested in visiting Vienna for the Christmas markets. I've read that 3-4 days is a good amount of time to visit Vienna. I plan to be in London at some point afterwards, for the last few days in December/into early January. In that light, should I arrive in Vienna a few days before Christmas Eve, with the aim to be there over Christmas Day? Or should I look to arrive earlier, and maybe check out one additional city during Christmas before going to London?
Do you already have a flight booked from Vienna to London? I live in London and there's not a lot going on for NYE. You could check out Budapest for new years if you'd like to go somewhere a bit more lively. Fantastic vibes and great nightlife.
Yeah, I already made my bookings. Still, I'm finding it kind of weird that a megacity like London wouldn't have much to do on NYE. Why isn't it as lively as a place like Budapest?
London is famously not a 24h city. Centrally the pubs all shut down by 12. You can find underground spots further out of the centre that go on though, but it’s just not really a party spot. It’s partly because it’s stupidly expensive to drink and get transport, and there’s a lot of noise complaints. Budapest on the other hand is a lot more reasonably priced.
No kidding, really? Serves me right for assuming that London would be NYC's twin across the pond. Do the pubs not stay open late even on New Year's Eve? Even given the famed English love of drinking?
Thinking about flying into Lamezia and staying around Tropea for New Year's. Looks gorgeous - clifftop town, amazing food (nduja, fresh seafood, those famous red onions), way cheaper and less touristy than the usual Italy spots.
But it's off-season. Weather's like 15°C, chance of rain, and I've heard some places shut down in winter.
Anyone been to this area in winter? Is Tropea actually alive or total ghost town? Worth it or should I go somewhere else?
M35
Travel buddy for a Solo trip to Rishikesh from 22nd to 25th Dec! (23M)
Hi all, I'll be going on a solo trip to Rishikesh from 22nd to 25th Dec. My budget is to wrap up the trip under 10k excluding traveling costs. Tentative itinerary is Tapovan, Lakshman Jhula, Shivpuri (for rafting and camping), Kyarki village, Neelkanth Mahadev Mandir, Waterfalls, All major ghats, Devprayag. I''m flexible to change the itinerary if i find a better one.
If anyone is traveling to Rishikesh during the same period, do connect with me and we can go for a coffee or a trek or something!
Also, do share your past experiences, things to carry, itinerary (must visit spots, etc).
Thankyou!
Female solo traveler looking for input on doing a cruise this time of year, preferably leaving from North America (US) to tropical location. Is it best to book ahead of time in off season or during holiday deals? First time doing this, would love any suggestions on what to expect as well.
Solo cruises tend to be a bit on the expensive side since the rooms are often sold with the expectation of dual occupancy, and you'll pay for the whole room. That said, there are some lines that specialise into catering for single travellers. My experience with cruises is generally that booking them ahead of time (or very very last minute when they're getting desperate) during the sales is the best way.
Hi, I'm a solo male of 34 years who's in NYC (and from the area).I'm looking to plan an EOY trip on which I can experience a different place and culture. I would love to engage in thoughtful sightseeing, discover historical and cultural attractions, partake in local customs and traditions, and interact with friendly locals. In short, I would like to experience a place as a traveler, as a welcome guest who recognizes himself as such - not as a tourist with an ugly, entitlement mindset.
a. What destination(s) should I consider with these considerations in mind?
aa. Note: I don't mind the cold at all - in fact, I love it. But warm places would be okay so long as they are not simply warm places where you sit on a beach and do nothing.
b. Should I plan to use a touring company (i.e. for small-group or singles tours)? Or just plan my own itinerary as a solo traveler, aware that locals in some places might not look kindly on touring groups?
c. If I use a tour, should I look explicitly for groups that depart from NYC? Or should I plan to travel to a different starting point?
Leaving for Bologna, Italy in 1 week.. first time as solo traveler internationally, heading out for my 50th birthday to what I'm calling my EAT PRAY LOVE pilgrimage lol (kids/husband staying home woohoo). I'll be there for a quick trip, 5 days, so I want to make the most of my time spent as a tourist. I'm from NYC so I know how to handle the cold but...
Any winter season advice, recommendations or places to see for the holiday? I definitely don't want to be stuck in my hotel room. Thanks in advance!
I just got back from Italy and had the best meal of the trip at Trattoria dal Biassanot in Bologna. I wish I had gotten to spend more time there. Enjoy it!
Great, I will certainly look for that when I get there. Thank you, can’t wait!
ll, 29M here from Singapore but living in Dubai now. I would like to travel to somewhere in Europe or Middle East that is really friendly and safe. I came back from Lisbon a month ago and I loved it there.
I am looking to travel the 30 Dec to 6 Jan, that week. I know some countries are really cold so I need to prepare accordingly. I do not like nightlife, my main goal is to walk around the city’s landmarks and take really nice photos.
I don’t really have a maximum budget or a minimum budget. Maybe 4-5k USD.
EDIT: I would LOVE to go to Russia but not sure about that due to the situation now.
It’s a pretty broad criteria! If Middle East is within your interests I had a really great time in Oman over the winter holidays a few years back. It’s warm there during the holiday season. For most of the highlights you have to leave the capital city either by self driving (easier) or by the somewhat limited public transit (what I did! Doable but sometimes slow or confusing)
Oman is definitely in the checklist, but a week seems too long there correct?
I was there for idk 17 days or something like that! If you like outdoorsy stuff there are some cool hikes to do outside the cities and towns. And some nice places to unwind and relax as well.
Hello!
I‘m 27, freshly single an want to do some (first time tho) solo travelling. Im looking for a bit sightseeing but mostly nightlife. I want to connect with other travellers or locals - I also want to try social/party hostels.
I now have 2 possible locations - budapest or catania. Dates would be 12-15th of december. Are there some folks, who know both cities and can tell me which city will be more fun to me?
Thank you very much!
Hi everyone,
I’m (F26) planning a solo trip for this New Years Eve. This is my first NYE single after my long term relationship ended earlier this year. Rather than staying in bed and crying (which admittedly has been the case these last months), I’ve decided to do something for me. So, I’m seeking out advice/tips for celebrating NYE solo abroad. I’m traveling from Canada and I am budgeting between $3000-$5000 CAD inclusive (flight/stay/food) for this trip. I’d prefer to go somewhere warm, though I’m open to any suggestions. I’m thinking of going for no more than a week. I’d like to meet people while I travel, so if you have suggestions for how to connect with other solo travellers, I’m all ears. My goal is to have a fun New Years Eve and to celebrate with others. Please note that I’m not interested in traveling within Canada or going to the Netherlands (that is where I used to live with my ex before having to move back home). I need a fresh start… and I hope this trip will help me get started. Thank you in advance!
If you're going for no more than a week, consider someplace not too far away in terms of time zones because you don't want to spend the whole week jetlagged. Mexico can be good fun, and the flights are often reasonable at this time of year.
What are the Balkans like for winter travel? Any experiences? Are things still open?
Apart from the resort type locations (montenegro coast for example) everything remains open and life goes on as usual
This is a bit late, but how bad is the cold? Like for inland cities like Sofia and Serbia, is the winter bad enough that there are no tourists, and people all stay indoors, or are there still people out and about?
I've always wanted to visit, and I have some free weeks in January, but if it'll be so cold that walking around will be a miserable experience I'll probably just go elsewhere.
Planning a solo trip to Naples🇮🇹over Christmas… need lodging recs
I’ll be in Naples from December 25 through December 31 and I’m running into the expected issue that a bunch of the good spots are already booked. I’ll be coming up from Sorrento on Christmas Day and trying to lock in a place now before everything decent disappears.
I was originally looking at places around San Giuseppe and San Lorenzo because they seemed like a good balance of central and interesting, but I’m totally open if locals or frequent visitors think there’s a better neighborhood vibe. I’m traveling solo and would love something that’s boutique, character filled, maybe a little off the wall but still walkable and safe enough to come home at night without stress.
A little about me and what I’m into: I love good food (street food or hole in the wall spots just as much as the nicer stuff), exploring neighborhoods on foot, photography, and places that feel local rather than tourist-only. Bonus points for areas with great coffee, markets, and easy access to transit or ferry terminals.
If anyone has stayed somewhere they absolutely loved or has go-to neighborhoods for solo travelers, I’d really appreciate the insight. Even specific hotel or Airbnb names would be amazing. Any must-stay gems, boutique guesthouses, or under-the-radar spots I should check out?
Thank you in advance. Naples looks wild in the best possible way and I’m excited to get a feel for the city.
Recommendations for Xmas week?
47M I live in Switzerland. I am recently single and therefore the time I had scheduled off of work between 25 Dec - 5 Jan is now free to do with as I please.
Can anyone recommend not insanely expensive destinations to spend Christmas? Bonus points if it's somewhere warm with a beach. I miss the ocean.
I have once been to Mallorca. I was not impressed with La Palma or S'Arenal.Too much loud & drunken humanity for my taste. I have heard that other areas on the island are nicer and generally a higher class.
20 years ago I visited Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. I had fun. Although I grew to dislike the constant beach vendors hawking jewelry, alcohol and everything else imaginationable.
I once stayed a week in Victoria BC, Canada. It was beautiful but damn cold.
I grew up in the USA. In some ways, I have been a tourist in Europe for the last decade. Even though I live and work here permanently.
What about Grand Canaria or Croatia, or... ? I'm open for ideas.
Has anyone here used Gekko Trails Explorers to travel through central america before? Or does anyone have any alternatives for shuttling from Antigua (GT) to Copan (HN), and Copan to El Tunco (SV)?
Trip is planned for EOY 2025-26
I'm looking to do a short (3-4 days), drivable solo trip this winter, but I'm having a hard time coming up with where to go/specifics to do. I live in central PA, so I'd prefer something no more than six hours away in the state or neighboring states.
As for activities, I'm mostly looking to relax, have some good food, go hiking/explore nature, and visit museums or other cultural/historical attractions. While hotels would be fine, I'd prefer to stay in a cabin, cottage, or even something unique like a houseboat. I don't have a particular budget in mind, but I'd like to avoid accommodations over $300 a night.
Two ideas I did have were the Pine Barrens in NJ or the Catskills in NY, but any recommendations would be appreciated.
A lot of places will check your first three boxes (relax, food, hiking/explore). But the fourth box (museums and cultural/historical attractions) would point me to a city rather than a small town. Have you thought about Boston, perhaps? You could stay outside the city to save money on accommodation, and pop into the city each day.
hey everyone, first time (22F) solo traveling to a big city, I’ll be going to NYC for christmas from 24-27, i’m planning on staying in financial district from 24-26 and staying in LIC from 26-27. all the tips and tricks needed for everything please. what should I do? what should I avoid? great food recs, i’m not a picky eater and love exploring new foods. also how to take pictures when solo traveling, do I ask people or what? thank you very much!!
For food, NYC has some great offerings that are hard to find in many other places in the US, even major cities.
If you want to try food from Georgia-the-country, try Old Tbilisi Gardens! Expensive but worth it.
Xi'an Famous Foods is also superb if you can handle a reasonable level of spiciness. Only place I visit literally every time I got to NYC.
Also try one of the many pizza-by-the-slice places everywhere in the city.
Otherwise if you're new to major cities, be wary of random people approaching you in the street asking for money or trying to sell stuff. It may feel rude if you're unaccustomed to it but it's really best to just ignore those people. If they sense hesitation they'll pressure you. NYC also has a bit of an arms length culture with strangers so asking people to take your photo may be best avoided, though if you're at a major tourist attraction, asking someone who's clearly there with family and is also a tourist may lead to a warmer reception than asking a possibly grouchy lone stranger who may be a local.
New York is amazing but can be kinda intense too, so don't overpack your itinerary, and take some time back in your accommodation to rest and unwind during the day.
Hey travelers!
I'm looking to do a solo trip in Europe in December, possibly through new years.
From Canada so I don't mind the cold, just looking for fun places to meet people and explore.
Any idea of budget? Trip length? What part of Canada are you flying from? What kind of things appeal to you in terms of interests/activities? Help us narrow things down!
$1000-$1500 excluding the cost of flights. I’m looking to stay 2-3 weeks. (Flight there is already booked)
I like being outdoors, exploring, and meeting people
You say the flight there is already booked. Flight to where?
Flight is booked to Lisbon since it was the cheapest way to get to Europe. I have rough plans to fly to Budapest once I’m there, but open to other ideas.
I mean, Portugal is really nice and you're already flying there.
Fun places to explore and meet people... That could be anywhere. Is there something in particular that you envision or want to see on this trip? Regardless of who you may or may not meet along the way? Meeting people is never a guarantee, so it helps not to center your trip around it.
Hi everyone!
Any recommendations for European (or slightly further afield) cities for solo travel at new year? Looking at staying in a hostel, hopefully meet some new people and spend NYE with them!
Travelling from UK btw! Thanks
Budapest was lovely, has lots of different thermal baths you can visit.
Vienna was lovely as a solo traveler at Holiday time
Hi everyone! I'll be spending 9 days in New York (mainly Manhattan) this December and I need a list of restaurants, cafes, etc to try while I'm there that's good for solo travelers.
I'll be completely solo the entire time so I'd really appreciate any spots that are friendlier to solo diners or places you've tried that are just as good alone as with company. I'll be in New York for the second week of December if that helps.
any place in manhattan is solo friendly!! what neighborhood are you interested in? what kind of vibe are you looking for?
some of my favorite cafes in manhattan are:
-kobrick coffee on 14th street
-julien boulangerie on the upper east side (great croissants)
-chalet on the upper west side (they specialize in matcha but their coffee is much better)
-variety coffee - many locations (they have fresh homemade vanilla syrup on the serve yourself counter!)
-ines upper east side (cozy cute coffee shop during the day and wine bar at night)
There's way too many good food options to list and most places are friendly to solo diners. One of my go-to spots is Kazunori (handrolls).
I recommend browsing https://www.reddit.com/r/FoodNYC/ for food recommendations that fits your dietary preferences
NYC is so big and so so so many good things to do solo! If you get more specific about where in NYC and what your food tastes are that can help.
Spending Christmas & NYE in the Philippines
Hey everyone!
I’m a 32F and have been travelling solo on and off for the past 10 years, but I’ve never spent New Year’s Eve alone before. I’ve travelled solo for my birthday a few times, but NYE feels like it could be a bit tougher to do on my own.
I’ll be in the Philippines from Dec 18 to Jan 17, flying in from Germany, and so far I’ve only booked my flight to Manila. It’ll be a long trip, so I have time to explore and maybe even meet some fellow travellers along the way.
I’d love to hear from anyone who has spent Christmas or NYE in the Philippines… What was your experience like? Any places or events you’d recommend for a solo traveller? Also, if anyone else is planning to be there this year, maybe we could connect!
Looking forward to your tips, stories, or plans 🌴✨
Hey! I'm going to have a few weeks in the us in December and looking for the best destination for solo travel and fun hostels in north America.
I was thinking about NYC or Mexico city. NYC in Christmas for obvious reasons can be interesting and fun, but I'm afraid that it is less of a place for solo travel, even though I have a place to crash there.
Mexico city sounds cool and travel friendly in terms of hostels and fun. Is Christmas time special there?
I'm open to other options you think would be good for party hostels and solo travel in that time, and basically open to fly to all kind of places in the area, anything that comes to mind.
Thank you!!
For hostels, Apopocho in Mexico City will be a good time for New Years. I was there a few weeks ago and there was always groups heading out every night in addition to the hostel activities
US doesnt have a good hostel culture. I would stick with Mexico City since you're looking to party
Tldr: looking for recommendations for december-January solo travel party places and hostels in the us.
I'm going to have 2-3 weeks in the us at the end of December and looking for fun places and hostels for partying and solo travel, that will also be fun at this time of the year.
I guess New York will be over crowded and expensive and less of a solo travel vibe.
I would prefer cheap transfers, busses or something, and stay at a certain area, but im flexible for the the fun place.
I'm currently in austin so might be nice to be in the area, like new Orleans, San Diego, Denver and Chicago, or anything that sounds good at this time of the year. Also thought about Boston and Philadelphia.
I will build the itinerary myself, just want to know where might be suitable for me and why, especially when it's in the winter.
Would love for your recommendations!
yo anyone been to Ladakh solo in December? thinking about going end of the year but worried it might be too cold lol. i know it snows there but idk if that's actually a problem for solo travelers or if it's just cool and manageable.
also is it better to go in early December or wait till like late Dec? heard the roads get sketchy after a certain point.
planning to stay in local guesthouses and just vibe, explore the monasteries and mountains. anyone have experience with solo travel there? what should i actually pack and is December a good idea or am i being dumb lmao
Hey all! I am thinking of a trip between 19-26 Dec, and another from 2-6 Jan. I will be in Prague and Switzerland from 26 Dec to 2nd Jan, so I am thinking nearby countries work best? If anyone has any suggestions or recommendations I would love to hear them!
Based in Copenhagen, and open to using rail!
I've bought a flight to France on 18th Dec, move to Belgium for few days before visiting Germany and leave back home from Frankfurt on 7th Jan. First time to Germany but I don't want to rush and explore everything because I want to relax for once and planning to spend the entire Germany trip in Cologne/Frankfurt area.
Any recommendations where to spend Christmas day and New Year's Eve especially the countdown? I'm not a party people and currently thinking to join the midnight mass for Xmas Eve in Cologne Cathedral and somewhere relaxing to watch the fireworks in Dusseldorf for New Year's Eve.
Hey! I (29m) find myself without new years plans this year. I am from the netherlands and looking for a place that might offer some company, a party, and maybe some good weather as well. Anybody have any suggestions? A nice island maybe?
Let’s go skiing? (31F) am looking to hit some slopes this winter! This would be my first year going alone, which I don’t mind. Any strangers here on the internet want to go in on an AirBnB somewhere in Colorado or northern CA to hit some slopes? 😅 we could get a decent size group together and save on some of the costs lol.
Far fetch but what the hell?
Hi! Is this an answered prayer? ;) I’m 31 F single living in Austin, and I found out my brothers are both spending Christmas with the in-laws this year, so I really don’t want to spend Christmas alone with my parents! I’ve never skiid before but learning is high on my bucket list, and I’d love to soend the holidays in norcal or Colorado!
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If you're thinking of the Baltics, Finland would be a more logical combo to add than Norway. You're right across the water from Estonia to get to Helsinki. And Finland makes a big deal about Christmas in towns like Rovaniemi (Santa's village etc.). Plus, sauna culture.
Prepare for short days and cold temps at that time of year, obviously.
Hello everyone! I’ve been thinking about taking a trip to northern Spain, and maybe including southern France as well(late December early January). Do you have any tips for cities, hostels, or events?
By the way, I’m a bit worried that some cities might be too quiet or not very backpacker-friendly around that time, am I wrong?
Thanks in advance!
Trying to confirm location for NYE
Hi all,
First time posting here.
M37, UK
I travel a lot solo but usually to European countries. I'm in the UK and feeling like I should do something further afield for NYE.
Looking for somewhere that's a good vibe but not drunk/drug party type, or if there is that it's easily avoidable. Last year I was in the Algarve for NYE and enjoyed it (Lagos)
Warm weather would be preferable. I like a lot of cultural things to see (old traditional architecture, ruins) and good food. Sports (football/soccer) I don't drink or do drugs...I'm not really a party guy but I'm good with socialising.
Not a passport bro...no interest in that kinda vibe either.
ATM Japan and Mexico are probably high on the list. If I go further like those locations i'd probably do 2-3 weeks and visit different regions. If I go closer (under 8 hrs flight) maybe a week or 2.
I don't drink or do drugs...I'm not really a party guy but I'm good with socialising.
Any suggestions would be good. Any people with experience in Japan and/or Mexico for NYE would be great to have your input.
Reasons for Mexico
Pros - Mayan ruins, Food, Lucha libre, Football, Weather, Can speak decent Spanish
Cons - Safety, Costs of visiting different regions
Reasons for Japan
Pros - Ancient Temples (all the stuff in Kyoto), Gaming, Anime, Japanese wrestling (big event in Jan happening), Sumo, Food, Good transport system
Cons - I speak 0 Japanese, Stricter accomodation rules, More expensive than central/south america, Not as warm in jan
If anyone else has any other suggestions it would be much appreciated also.
I (30 F) just got out of a long term relationship and I really don’t want to sit home alone on New Years. Any recommendations for a city with fun events I could go to alone?
I’m in the US and would love to go out of the country but I’m also not trying to spend a fortune on flights/accommodations especially since this is last minute. I looked into Rio but that is a trip that would require a lot more advanced planning.
Open to any and all suggestions, I’d love to hear about everyone’s best NYE experiences!
Sorry about your relationship. How many days do you have to travel and what are some of your interests?
I would say Mexico City would be a good spot and flights are not too long. If you do choose Mexico City, i can send you an itinerary and food recs. Regardless of where you go, typically Dec 23rd - Jan 1st is when flights are the most expensive throughout the year. I get that week off from work every year and i don't really fly out of the country since flights are about 50%-80% more
A lot of people have suggested Mexico City it’s high on my list! I’ll do pretty much anything while traveling I love all kinds of activities and exploring. Is nightlife safe for a very white/American looking woman to go alone?
Will you be doing hostels or hotels? I can't comment too much on safety since i'm a guy. Tourists usually stay around Condessa/Roma area which consists of mostly digital nomads and its very safe imo.
Some recommendations:
Frida Kahlo museum, Hot air balloon ride over Teotihuacan, Drinking on the boats at Xochimilco, bike or jog avenue de reforma on Sunday
I only just got back from nearly 4 months of traveling in Europe and North Africa, and now planning a Christmas trip!
I live in Europe but in the far south.Its not really very 'Christmassy' in the stereotypical sense, and it's mostly a family based celebration, not something public.
So,I usually travel for a couple of weeks around Christmas/New Year (I get a little over two weeks vacation from work).
I have spent this period in quite a range of countries, from far away... Australia,Bali,Japan...to much nearer home.
My most common Christmas destination is Germany.I like the atmosphere there, the markets, the cold weather, the Christmas food.
This year I'm going to the Czech Republic.Just booked my flights.
I know Prague quite well but this time going to stay in some different places,in the south and west of the country.
Sometimes I do two different trips... like Paris for Christmas and then fly to Morocco for New Year.
This year,one trip of about 13 days or so!
Hi all, hope you can help spark some ideas for me. I’ve recently found out that due to essentially “good deeds” in the year, I will be having 25th December - 5th Jan off work. This is very unusual for me and fairly unlikely to happen again any time soon. Unfortunately my partner isn’t so lucky but I’m determined to do something with this opportunity, I just need to get her used to the idea.
I’m a 35 M from the North of England. Assume money is no object. I like history, culture and good food (don’t we all). I am very happy in my own company and wouldn’t need to socialise or seek out any nightlife etc. I’m pretty much open to anything other than partying and activity holidays.
Basically, where would be some good places to go around this period? I am tempted as always by Italy but concerned that due to the high religiosity of the country the whole Christmas period might be a write off?
Hey everyone,
I am currently looking at places to travel in January. Right now it looks like I can get a $450 flight to Lisbon from LA from Jan 7-Jan 21. Anyone have any recommendations of any other places or things to see when I am there? I was thinking of visiting all of the southern parts of Spain as well. I am a 21 year old male. Thanks so much!!
Just to counter the other poster, I have done Spain and Portugal over the holidays for two weeks and it didn’t feel too rushed. But I also only travel with a personal item bag and enjoy riding the trains.
I started in Barcelona and did a “U” ending in Porto. Cadiz for Christmas Day was laid back and lovely.
With only two weeks, I would suggest choosing either Portugal or Southern Spain, not trying to cram in both.
Given that it's winter and not beach weather, I'd recommend skipping the beachy destinations (Algarve, Costa del Sol) since everything will be closed for the off-season, and instead, focusing on cities and culture and history. If you're flying to Lisbon, you can spend 4-5 days in Lisbon and surrounds, and maybe head up to Porto for a couple of days, with stops in Coimbra and/or Aveiro, maybe up to Braga or Guimares.
I've done quite a bit of travelling over the winter holiday period, mostly because I've usually worked at jobs that closed down for Christmas and New Year's so I had some bonus vacation days I could take advantage of. Being from a non-Christian background meant that I didn't really have family holidays to celebrate, making it a good time to take advantage of travel opportunities.
Sure, prices are higher and crowds are often a factor. But it can also be a great time to squeeze in some extra travel, especially if -- like me -- you're limited on PTO at your job.
A few types of trips I've done over the years, and some of my personal highlights from my travels over the years:
Countries where Christmas is a big deal:
Mexico: I went about a decade ago and Christmas is a really, really big deal there. From the fake snow and giant skating rink in the main square in Mexico City, to the totally memorable Christmas dinner and parade and light show in Oaxaca, to spending New Year's in Merida with pinatas and countdowns and people burning an año viejo giant rag doll. The lineups at the Catholic churches on Christmas Eve were unreal.
The US: Okay, it's not that different from here in Canada. But I guess it was for me. Growing up as a kid, we used to visit my grandparents in Florida every winter break. Christmas meant buying food from the local deli ahead of time in anticipation of restaurant and grocery store closures, spending the day at the pool, and eating takeout Denny's pie for dessert. For New Year's, we almost always went to the flea market. And my mom used to make us take photos holding up a new year's sign and wearing silly hats. As an adult, I've spent a few winter breaks stateside, notably in San Diego just before the pandemic with my husband where we rang in the New Year at a craft beer party and then nursed our hangovers the next day at the San Diego Zoo.
Countries where Christmas is NOT a big deal:
Japan: I actually went in November the first time I visited Japan, which IMHO is the ideal time to travel for the beautiful fall weather and lower crowds. Christmas decorations were up and running even in November, which is kinda funny since they don't celebrate Christmas there as a religious holiday but it's definitely a retail holiday. They also have a hilarious tradition of eating KFC (I think maybe Colonel Sanders and Santa Claus are one at the same in Japanese culture?) Now I have an upcoming trip planned over New Year's, which is kinda the worst time to travel (high prices, high crowds, lots of closures). But this one isn't solo so I'm a bit constrained on timing, and I'm taking advantage of the winter season to see the illuminations, visit Hokkaido, and ski on the famous Japanese powder.
Thailand, Laos, Cambodia: December and January are peak season to visit Southeast Asia, with the best weather and higher crowds to match. Christmas isn't a big deal in this majority-Buddhist region, though NYE celebrations in cities like Tokyo or Phnom Penh abound. I was actually in Phnom Penh for New Year's, and there were rooftop bar parties and big fireworks over the river everywhere. Then there was that time when we got invited to have dinner on Christmas Eve in Chiang Khong with a group of bikers. (Yes, really.) Actually, I think SE Asia might be one of the best places in the world to spend a winter holiday - great weather, great street food, good parties if you want one.
Israel: Asterisk here: I suppose for many Christians making a pilgrimage, Christmas is a big deal there. But it's a majority-Jewish country where Christmas is kinda an afterthought, and New Year's is either a minor footnote called Sylvester or an excuse to party. The year I visited over winter holidays was actually for a friend's wedding, so I was mostly busy with that. But it was good fun dancing on the beach in Tel Aviv on NYE until the small hours of the morning. The weather can be chilly but it rarely snows, and dipping a toe in the Mediterranean in cold temperatures is fun too. (Note: Yes, the political and security situation have unfortunately devolved in the past couple of years, so now might not be the best time to visit... but under normal circumstances, it's a pretty good time of year for a visit.)
Cuba: I get that it's weird to say that Christmas isn't a big deal in Cuba, because after all, it's a majority-Christian country. But under Fidel Castro's rule, Christmas was officially banned. So families celebrated either low-key in secret or not at all. Christmas was 'un'banned in 1998 (coinciding with the Pope's visit), but people still celebrated quietly. When I visited shortly after Fidel's death in 2016 (and the subsequent official mourning period of no celebrations), Christmas celebrations were starting up again but very quietly and tentatively, as people were uncertain about how much would be permitted. These days I believe there are much larger and more public Christmas celebrations, but I haven't witnessed them. New Year's is a much bigger deal, mind you; Havana has a huge celebration, and there are suitcase walks and a tradition of eating 12 grapes at midnight. Very cool to be in Havana over New Years.
Embrace the winter trips:
Skiing in the French Alps: I'm Canadian, so I can ski at home. But skiing in France is a totally different experience. I did two trips with UCPA, one to Tignes, and another to Chamonix a couple of years later. If you're at all into skiing or snowboarding, you must do this at least once in your life. The skiing is unreal, the views are incredible, and where else can you have a nice French lunch with wine on the hill, and crepes and cheese platters back at the chalet after each ski day?
Skiing in Whistler: Okay, disclaimer: I went many years ago with my family, before the prices and crowds got insane. But yeah, you get the idea. Skiing, winter, etcetera.
I have yet to make it to Europe over Christmas, though I'd love to visit German Christmas markets one day.
Escape the Winter Trips:
Um. Uh. Hmmm. I'm honestly not much of a beach person. I like winter, what can I say? I guess Southeast Asia and Mexico both count for this category.
Spent Christmas and New Year in SEA and yes, its not a thing there. I don't even remember what I did Christmas, it was just another day...
Had a hilarious Christmas Eve dinner with a biker club in Chiang Khong. Yes, really. A motorcycle club of mixed Thai and foreign expats was staying at the same place and we were the only guests not part of the group, so they invited us to join them for a huge potluck dinner. The hotel owner dressed as Mrs Claus, and they had a fake fireplace on a laptop screen playing Christmas carols.
It was one of those travel stories I couldn't make up if I tried.
Oh yeah that kind of unplanned great moments while traveling are awesome, they stay with you, and non-travelers often don't understand why they're so great....
What age good sites for cheaper or more cost friendly travel packages for travelling to different countries like Mexico or in the states.
It's usually much cheaper to book your own travel rather than going with a package deal or tour, FYI. The exception might be some cheap all-inclusives, which are often sold on consolidator sites and might have last-minute deals.
I also like you’re Canadian as I’m a western one
Hi from Montreal :)
Like call the places I want to go and book everything at the same time? How much cheaper? I don’t these things very wel nor have I travelled much booking ourselves
If you don't have a lot of experience planning your own trips, we have lots of first-time travel planning resources on our Wiki. Here's a good place to start: https://www.reddit.com/r/solotravel/wiki/tripplanning
The last two years I went to Honolulu for a week in mid-December. My first visit (my first-ever time in Hawaii) was shortly after I had become the victim of a mass layoff at my company which put a bit of a damper on things, but I still had a great time then as I did on my second visit. A tropical destination during the holidays just seemed wrong...in all the right ways.
This year though, I'll be traveling during the Christmas and New Years holidays proper, marking my first time celebrating the holidays away from the comfort of home. I'll be visiting Japan, my third trip to the country in as many years (I'm definitely not addicted or anything...), and my level of excitement is as high as it was for my first visit.
I admit, it will be more than a little bittersweet to be celebrating the holidays without taking part in many nostalgic little traditions I've amassed over the years. As the specter of middle-age looms ever closer for me, the holidays are one of the few things that I haven't become jaded about, so they still have a lot of meaning to me. But, I also look forward to changing things up a bit, and Christmas in Japan, like spending the holidays in the tropics, could be just what I need.
Just be mindful that in Japan for New Years everything closes for a few days, and Christmas isn't a big holiday and will literally be gone the next day.
Hey everyone!
I’m in the middle of planning a two-week Europe trip (Dec 23rd – Jan 9th). I’m 28 and looking for destinations with: • Fun party hostels & good nightlife • Amazing food spots • A solid Christmas market vibe around the holidays
So far, I’m considering: • London (been there twice, still love it) • Barcelona • Czech Republic (Prague) • Amsterdam (been once, but wouldn’t mind again)
Open to suggestions on other cities or how you’d split up the time! Anyone done Europe around Christmas/New Year’s with a similar vibe?
I’m looking for the same thing with similar destinations!
I still haven’t figured out where I’m going yet,
i’m going to be in vietnam for xmas/nye this year - any cities i should aim for?
How long in total?
I usually travel to Sydney after Christmas and stay there until my work starts back up again in the new year. It's a great time of year to visit: the weather is warm but usually comfortable and there's a really laid back feel to everything as most people are on holiday.
This year I'm planning on spending some time in Sydney, and will fly out to Hong Kong on 1 January for a 2 week holiday to that city and Taiwan. This will be the first time I've taken an extended break over Christmas and I'm looking forward to it.
I'm headed to Sydney in early December, Australia is really the last "big" country I've never touched. Over 10 years, 100 odd countries, some I've visited repeatedly, but never got around to going Down Under. I just hope tickets back home in mid-December aren't too ridiculously priced.
I usually don't travel over the Xmas holidays. Too many people and too expensive. I tend to stay home, enjoy the snow in the mountains where I live, and then plan a trip in Feb/March when things are quiet at work.
The last time I travelled over Xmas was in 2010, and I still remember waking up to the call to prayer in Cairo. Which for someone raised on Jesus in a manger, Santa and pretty trees, was kind of wild and very cool. Nothing says you're not in Kansas now, Toto, like ...
Just want to mention that for a couple years in a row there have been awesome international flight deals departing the US Thanksgiving weekend (got one from Chicago to Santiago, Chile for $250 OW in 2023), for any of those who don't have other plans for that holiday. I guess it can vary year by year, and then overall lodging prices are pretty reasonable for the first two weeks of December before travel picks up sharply for Xmas/New Years. I've built it in my travel rhythm to travel last week of November and first two of December for this reason.
One of my favorite winter memories was wandering through the Christmas market in Vienna. It was freezing and I was standing there with a mug of hot punch when an older couple next to me struck up a conversation and ended up inviting me to join them at a little restaurant nearby that they were regulars at. They ordered goulash soup and potato salad to share, and safe to say it was the most comforting meal I could have asked for, even though we couldn’t really communicate beyond a few words and smiles, for that hour it felt like I wasn’t traveling alone at all.
this sounds so lovely. i’m thinking of going to austria in november. would be open to any of your recommendations
Vienna’s the classic , but if you get the chance I’d also recommend Salzburg: it’s smaller, cozier, and the old town with the lights up feels like stepping into a snow globe.
Food-wise, definitely try tafelspitz (boiled beef, sounds simple but it’s so good) and of course schnitzel. And if you want a break from cities, the Wachau Valley (wine region along the Danube) is beautiful even in late autumn.
i have been looking at salzburg! definitely want to spend winter inside a snow globe. thank you for the wachau valley rec as well.
I don't normally travel internationally for the holiday season but for one story of past travels: one year when I had less time off I decided to go on an international solo trip over the winter holidays, and went to Oman. Winter is a good time to go there for weather-related reasons. Made some calls to loved ones back home on Christmas day and chatted in a restaurant with a worker from the Philippines who was missing home on Christmas. It was cool being overseas for Christmas and New Years, though now that I have more time off at other times of year, solo traveling around this time of year isn't as much of a priority.