Unlike many people think, December is an excellent time for finding travel deals for hotels and flights.

There are many classic destinations to visit during Christmas, but travelers often need to postpone their plans due to the high prices. However, December is also excellent for finding travel deals for hotels and flights, especially before Christmas and New Year’s Eve.

It’s the time to discover popular places without many tourists or find a warm place to forget about the winter for a few days. Luckily, the U.S. has incredible cities to visit during the holidays, and some become more affordable in December. Although inflation is raining on many people’s parades, this article should help guide you in the right direction this Christmas season!

1. Flagstaff Feels Magical At Christmas

• The city puts on an annual Polar Express train ride.
• Hotel rates are the cheapest during the winter here.

One affordable winter destination for those in the Western US is Flagstaff, Arizona. Not only does the entire town turn into a white wonderland once the snow falls, but Flagstaff also gets very festive for the holidays, including a Polar Express train ride. The streets throughout town are also illuminated with lights, music, and joy for the holidays, making this a special place in the Grand Canyon State.

Speaking of the Grand Canyon, few tourists will come here during colder months, and hotel prices drop as well, so maybe do both? They’re close!

2. Orlando Has Excellent Deals

• Orlando is home to countless theme parks.
• The daily temperatures in winter are in the low to mid-70s.

Tourists who love the holiday spirit but hate the cold weather can have the best of both worlds in Orlando, Florida. The average temperature in the city in December is 72.1 °F, and there are endless activities for the whole family.

There is no better way to get into the holiday spirit than to explore the theme parks’ special activities. Travelers should consider spending it at Disney World, Universal Studios, or SeaWorld. Yet, Orlando is crowded during Christmas, and travelers must expect long lines when visiting the theme parks.

3. Christmas In Las Vegas Might Be Surprising

• Las Vegas hotel rates are at their lowest during the Christmas season.
• The hotels across the city go all out with their decorations for Christmas.

The World’s Entertainment Capital shines even brighter in December. The iconic Bellagio Hotel and Palazzo Hotel mesmerize visitors with their Christmas decorations, and the many bars across the city are perfect for having a drink and celebrating.

It’s also relatively easy to find good hotel deals in Las Vegas, Nevada, during the holiday season, so that’s another excellent reason to visit the city. The days are often warm in December, making Vegas another great spot to skip the cold days.

4. Grand Canyon Is A Great Spot During Christmas

• The Grand Canyon will be less crowded during the winter.

The Grand Canyon is filled with surprising spots, and most people visit it during the summer. However, seeing the national park during the winter offers many pros: visitors can avoid the crowds, the temperature tends to be milder, and there are many winter activities in the area.

During the holiday season, tourists can take the Polar Express to visit Santa’s workshop. Of course, there are many options for hiking, and it’s the perfect time to watch the sunrise at the South Rim, especially when there is snow.

5. Salt Lake Is The Perfect Balance Between Peace And Fun

• The public transportation is amazing in Salt Lake City, Utah.
• Snow always falls during the winter, making for great skiing.

Salt Lake, Utah, is relatively cheap in December, and there are plenty of activities for different types of travelers. The city features excellent public transportation and is a perfect spot to visit during the winter. Visitors can find fantastic ski and snowboard slopes in the surroundings, while Woodward Park City is famous among people who want to adventure snow tubing.

Travelers can also enjoy the vibrant art scene at Salt Lake, which is full of murals and sculptures.

6. This Hidden Gem In Texas

• Arlington is home to Six Flags Amusement Park and other family attractions.
• There are countless Christmas markets, light shows, and parades.

Arlington, Texas, receives fewer visitors than other cities in the estate. It’s an excellent destination for families, as the city is immersed in the holiday spirit with light shows, Christmas markets, parades, and theme events. Arlington also features excellent bars and restaurants, making it the perfect place to enjoy the season.

For Christmas market fans, Arlington embraces the holiday spirit and features one of the country’s best Christmas markets. Visitors can also enjoy the light show at Hurricane Harbor Parking Lot.

7. Discover Charlotte During The Winter

• Charlotte is less crowded and cheaper to visit in the winter.
• The streets will be filled with music, lights, and holiday cheer.

Most people prefer to visit Charlotte, North Carolina, during summer. Yet, winter is an excellent chance to explore the city with fewer visitors and find more affordable hotel prices. Visitors can enjoy the holiday spirit by strolling on Christmas markets, attending romantic candlelight concerts, and discovering the excellent heated patios and restaurants in town.

Travelers can also find cozy campsites outside Charlotte, a perfect way to enjoy quiet days in December.

8. Visit This National Park In Montana

• Montana Glacier National Park is affordable and open year-round.

December can be an excellent time to slow down, and one of the best ways to do it is by being close to nature. Luckily, the U.S. has many National Parks open year-round, and the Montana Glacier National Park is one of them.

During winter, visitors can enjoy the Montana Glacier National Park winter forest covered in snow, cross-country ski or snowshoe on the closed roads, or join the hosted tours on the weekend. There is also free auto camping available in the area.

9. This Affordable Spot In Vermont

• Stowe offers some of the best skiing in the United States.
• Try to book lift passes at least one week out.

Stowe, Vermont, has been named one of the best ski towns in the country. Although other spots in the region have better hotel deals, Stowe is covered with more snow than other areas – Therefore, there are no risks of run closures. Travelers can save money by booking lift passes online at least one week in advance.

For travelers who want to discover the region during other seasons, Stowe is also stunning during summer.

10. Winter Is An Excellent Time To Visit Chicago

• Although chilly, Chicago is most beautiful at Christmas time.
• There are free city events during the holidays, like ice skating.

Chicago, Illinois, tends to be cheaper during the winter, making it an option for travelers on a budget. The hotel prices drop during the season, and there are plenty of activities.

Travelers can enjoy Chicago by discovering its outdoor ice skating rinks and light shows, strolling over Christmas markets, and watching the world’s largest permanent digital art projection at Art on theMART. Art fans can also visit the Art Institute of Chicago and the Prince Immersive Experience.

11. Explore Free Activities In San Antonio

• San Antonio is family-friendly and ranks highly for culture.
• The city puts on an incredible Christmas light display.

San Antonio is one of the most colorful spots in the United States. The city combines the culture of two countries (the U.S. and Mexico) and is an affordable destination year-round. The temperatures are mild during the winter, and it features arguably the most gorgeous Christmas lights in Texas.

Tourists can enjoy many free activities, including visiting a museum, strolling along the river, and visiting the San Pedro Creek Culture Park. Another must-go spot to see is the Alamo and its historic buildings.

Air travel isn’t what it once was. Long lines, hours at the airport, and crowded planes make any creature comfort all the more appreciated. That being said, travel prep begins long before your wait at TSA. Here are seven beauty tips from a few pros who know the ins and outs of preparing the body for a long flight so that you can look and feel well rested when you finally arrive at your destination.

1) Don’t make all your beauty appointments for the day before you leave

While making all your beauty appointments for the day before you leave may seem like a good idea, it may not be. According to Nancy Le, the lead technician at the Bliss Spa Boston, you’ll want to space them out accordingly, “Mani-pedis can be done the day before a trip, but don’t wait until the last minute to get a wax. Especially if you’ll be heading on a tropical getaway where your newly waxed skin may be exposed to the hot sun, you’ll want to make the appointment for 2-4 days before your trip in order to give your skin time to recover before sunbathing.” And she went on to describe that facials should be done a week in advance and spray tans two days before, both for the same reason, they need time to full activate and you’ll want your skin at its peak when you arrive at your destination.

2) Prep your skin at home as well

Nancy is a strong believer in at home self-care for the skin. She starts with dry brushing at home twice the week before and uses a sugar scrub on the alternating days that week and puts on a body oil each night. So, don’t neglect any part of your body and prep so it’s perfectly moisturized for your big adventure.

3) Baby Powder is your best friend

For haircare tips on the go, I spoke with runway hair stylist, Jana Rago, who recently opened her first salon, Jana Rago Studios in Boston. She says to “Try to stay away from relying on dry shampoo to keep your blowout alive, as that will build up gunk in your scalp, on your part and on your hairline. It’s just as bad as the buildup of hairspray!” Instead she recommends to “Pick up a travel sized Baby Powder and keep it in your carry-on and apply it as you would dry shampoo.”

4) Resist the urge to sleep with wet hair

When on vacation, many of us come back to our hotels wanting nothing more than a shower and bed after a tiring day of exploring. However, Jana Rago says that “Hair is at its weakest when wet and strongest when dry. Going to bed with wet hair stretches the hair strands causing them to break or become finer. So be sure to rough dry it for a few minutes before hitting the hay!”

5) The hotel hair dryer can be your best friend

If you are looking for a quick refresh before heading out to dinner, work a little baby powder into your roots and then take a blow dryer and turn the heat setting to cool. Jana Rago suggests to, “Dry your hair from the top, around your face back to the ends of your hair. This will push the oils from the root to the middle and ends of your hair, leaving the hair around your face looking refreshed.”

6) Men need a beauty plan too

While beauty routines may be shorter for most men, some planning is still involved. Book a haircut a week before your trip so that you will be looking your best the whole time you are gone.

7) Moisturize, moisturize, moisturize!

Keeping your body hydrated is so important on long flights. And the best way to do this is to attack the dry air from multiple angles. Nancy Le from Bliss Boston always packs eye masks to fight puffy eyes and recommends bringing along a face mist as well to easily refresh throughout the night. And it goes without saying that we should all drink plenty of water on flights as well.

Trains are a comfortable and convenient way to travel around Europe. They’re perfect for day trips from one town to another, as you can hop on a quick train instead of renting a car. They’re also a good alternative to flying when traveling between major cities, such as Paris to Nice or Barcelona to Madrid. Prices are usually affordable, plus you can earn bonus rewards on train tickets with certain travel credit cards.

If you haven’t done much train travel before, it’s normal to have some questions. How early should you arrive? Can you bring heavy luggage? It’s not always easy to find answers to everything, especially since some train company websites are tricky to navigate.

My wife and I spent the summer in Europe, and we took trains often. Here’s what we learned along the way.

1. Search on Trainline, and book at least a few days in advance for longer trips

Europe has quite a few train companies. I recommend using Trainline to compare options. You can see which train companies provide service on the route you want to book, travel times, and prices. Once you’ve found tickets, you can book through Trainline or go to the train company’s website to do it.

Although you can also get tickets at the station, it’s better to book in advance for longer trips. If it’s a popular route, ticket availability could be limited. You may need to book a more expensive ticket if nothing else is available.

On shorter day trips, getting tickets at the station isn’t normally a problem. You also can be flexible about when you head back if you haven’t booked tickets in advance. Whether you book online or at the station, train companies normally accept credit cards. Just make sure to use one with no foreign transaction fees.

2. Always double check the train stations when booking

Many cities have multiple train stations. Paris, for example, has six of them. If one station is right next to your hotel, you’ll want to make sure you arrive there, and not at the station all the way across town.

Keep this in mind when you book tickets so you know where your departure and arrival stations are. I made this mistake when traveling from Montpellier to Paris. We had already taken trains in Montpellier before, so I assumed the train to Paris would depart from the station five minutes from our apartment. The morning of our trip, I realized it was actually departing from a station 30 minutes away. Fortunately, we made it in time, but it was a close call.

3. The luggage rules are flexible, but there isn’t always much space available

Traveling light is always more convenient, but sometimes, it’s not feasible. Since we were spending months in Europe, and we’re the farthest thing from backpackers, we had some large, heavy luggage. I tried researching luggage rules before each trip, but not all train companies provided much information.

Here’s what I learned from experience: Train companies aren’t strict at all about luggage. I never saw anyone being forced to weigh their luggage or told that they couldn’t bring it on board. The unwritten rule seems to be that if you can lift it yourself, you’re good to go. I’d still recommend seeing if you can find the train company’s luggage rules to play it safe. But if you just have typical luggage, even a large checked bag, you can most likely bring it on board without issue.

However, there’s not always a lot of space to put your luggage. This depends on the train and how busy it is. On most trains, there were luggage racks with enough space for our bags. But there were also trains without luggage racks, or where all the space was already taken. In this situation, you just need to put your luggage on the floor, ideally somewhere it isn’t blocking a walkway.

4. You can reserve premium seats and even an entire compartment

Just like when you fly, there are premium seats available on trains. The exact options depend on the train. Smaller trains may have one or two types of seats. Others offer several, sometimes including private compartments with seating for four passengers.

If you’re going to be on the train for hours, I’d suggest getting a premium seat if it works for your budget. They’re more comfortable, and they usually aren’t that much more expensive. It’s nothing like the price difference between flying economy and flying business class.

The private compartments are great if you’re traveling with friends or family. You can also reserve these if you don’t have four people, but make sure to check if you’ll still have the whole compartment to yourself. Some train companies let you reserve the whole compartment and charge you a higher price per ticket if you have fewer than four people. Others charge the same ticket price, but there’s the possibility someone else could also book the remaining seats, and you end up sharing the compartment with strangers (it’s as awkward as it sounds).

5. You don’t need to arrive too early — 30 minutes is more than enough

An advantage of taking the train instead of flying is that you don’t need to arrive early. There’s no lengthy security check where you take off your shoes and take your laptop out of your bag. At the station, you walk to the platform where your train is, scan your ticket along the way, and board.

There’s no need to arrive an hour before departure time. Waiting around at train stations isn’t that enjoyable, either. Train stations can be hectic, with travelers everywhere and nowhere to sit. Some train companies have lounges available if you book a premium seat. But to be honest, the lounges I’ve seen are nothing special. It’s not like the airport lounge access available through many credit cards.

If you’re there 15 minutes to 30 minutes before departure, that’s fine. I’d suggest arriving 30 minutes early if you’re unfamiliar with the station. It’s occasionally tricky to find the train platform, especially in large stations, so it’s nice to have a little breathing room.

If you get the chance, taking the train while you travel Europe is well worth it. It’s a travel method that’s not available in much of the United States, it’s relaxing, and the views can be spectacular.

Here’s our pick of the best destinations and itineraries to book this autumn

In need of some travel inspiration? Browse our list of boutique hotels and bespoke itineraries that are perfect for your next big trip. Happy travels!

Discover a secret oasis in Costa Rica

Tucked away in the Uvita rainforest, Oxygen Jungle Villas is an intimate boutique hotel in Costa Rica, boasting expansive views over the sparkling Pacific Ocean, where a range of unforgettable experiences await. Enjoy the sounds of nature from your private jungle paradise, immerse yourself in the fresh ocean air on several nearby pristine beaches or revel in the enchanting sunsets from the palm-fringed infinity pool. The adults-only hotel has eight Ocean Villas and four Jungle View Villas. For the ultimate relaxing break, the Spa Villas are privately located to ensure tranquillity and solitude, offering a range of massage treatments performed by specialists in the sanctity of your own private space. Choose from a range of memorable adventures and rejuvenating experiences at Oxygen Jungle Villas — your secret oasis in Costa Rica.

Plan an autumnal trip to London

Hotel Xenia, an Autograph Collection hotel, invites guests to experience its warm hospitality in the heart of London. Part of the Marriott Group and housing 98 bedrooms and one suite, the property is ideal for solo travellers or couples. The hotel is a four-star boutique retreat in the centre of London, with two bars and a casual Italian dining restaurant, La Terrazza. The menu offers a wide selection of both seasonal and authentic dishes, as well as wines from several Italian regions, bringing a Mediterranean experience to breakfast, lunch and dinner. It also offers traditional Aperitivo, as well as an Italian-inspired Afternoon Tea, alongside live music. Located in the heart of Kensington, the hotel is just a stone’s throw away from many of London’s delights, including Kensington Gardens, the Natural History Museum and the boutiques of South Kensington.

Visit one of Europe’s finest destinations

There are many reasons why you should book a trip to Warsaw. Named European Best Destination 2023 earlier this year in the European Best Destinations competition, the city has plenty to offer, including interesting historical landmarks such as royal residences, memorials and palaces, as well as an abundance of forests, parks and beaches too. If you get hungry while exploring, take advantage of the incredible gastronomic offerings, from milk bars, whichserve traditional Polish meals like pierogi, as well as street food bars and Michelin-listed restaurants. Visitors can also experience an exciting calendar of festivals, markets and exhibitions, such as the magical Christmas events that take over the city throughout December. It’s also a great destination for an affordable city break, with free admission to many popular attractions. Discover Warsaw, the European destination that’s both easy to reach and exciting to explore.

Experience the beauty of Santorini from a design-centric hotel

Discover the beauty of Santorini while escaping the crowds at NOŪS Santorini. Just five minutes by car from the airport, guests will find themselves relaxing by the pool within 30 minutes of landing on the Greek island. An ideal destination for lovers of modern and contemporary art, the hotel blends world-class interiors with an array of top-notch dining options and wellness experiences. Screened by lush, tropical greenery, the exceptionally spacious guest rooms, bungalows with private gardens and pool suites with unparalleled sunrise views are inspired by the unique colour palette of Santorini’s geological strata. NOŪS was designed to embody the best that this unique island has to offer.

Enjoy a sun-soaked, luxury stay in Sharm El Sheikh

On the Red Sea shores, Four Seasons Resort Sharm El Sheikh serves as a lush oasis between the sea and the sky, offering a wealth of desert excursions and world-class diving experiences. The ideal beach and desert getaway, this iconic resort in Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt, comes with year-round sunny weather, warm waters and golden sands on a half-mile stretch of private beachfront. Unwind in the palm-filled gardens or by the mosaic-covered fountains and marvel at the Arabian architecture. Combined with spacious accommodation with scenic views and a private pool option, 12 authentic dining experiences, four heated swimming pools, a highly acclaimed Spa, and an expertly run dive centre, it’s no surprise that Four Seasons Resort Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt has long been a Red Sea favourite.

Tick Australia off your bucket list with a tailor-made adventure

Planning a trip to Australia? TravelEssence specialises in creating personalised, custom-made holidays that ensure an authentic and unforgettable experience in Australia and New Zealand. Each itinerary is meticulously planned to take you to the most stunning destinations, where you’ll stay in charming, small-scale accommodations, and create priceless memories that’ll last a lifetime. Sample itineraries include food-centred tours, where you’ll discover the finest local produce with the help of a local guide, a wildlife trip to see penguins on Phillip Island and the chance to kayak down the Towamba River. There are also nature experiences such as zip-lining between the trees in the Blue Mountains and exploring the calm waters of Batemans Bay.

Journey through Canada on a custom-made trip

Immerse yourself in the beauty of Canada’s West Coast, discover the magic of the Canadian Rockies or experience a melting pot of culture in Vancouver with Little America. Customers will benefit from personalised, custom-made holidays, small-scale accommodation options and authentic activities across Canada’s vast regions. With trips suited to solo travellers, couples, families or friends, sample itineraries include a three-week trip through the Rockies, starting in Calgary and ending in Banff National Park, a four-week adventure where you’ll discover the gems of British Columbia and, for those looking for a longer break, a five-week solo trip through the West Coast.

Create treasured family memories in Mauritius

Located just 10 minutes from the airport, Anantara Iko Mauritius Resort & Villas is an ideal family getaway. Situated on Le Chaland Beach, the resort offers a range of family-friendly activities and tailored wellness programs. With 164 rooms and suites and eight pool villas, families have multiple accommodation options to suit their needs. Choose from a range of on-site dining options, each offering child-friendly meals, as well as a number of exciting activities, from nature hikes to family snorkelling. There’s also a children’s play area that offers supervised activities, as well as a plethora of nearby attractions such as nature trails and tea plantations. Just a 10-minute journey from the airport for added convenience, the resort is an ideal location for your next family break. Book the Family Vacation Extravaganza Offer now and benefit from a ‘kids stay free’ offer when staying with your children (aged 12 or under) for four nights or more. Offer valid until 31 December 2024.

Visit Santa in Finland

Santa Claus Holiday Village, located on the Arctic Circle of Rovaniemi in Finland, is a family-owned dream destination where the magic of Christmas shines throughout the year. Santa Claus Holiday Village offers you everything you could want for your dream holiday: high-quality accommodation, Lappish-style food and drinks as well as loads of unique activities. Activities include looking for the Northern Lights and experiencing magical husky and reindeer safaris. At Santa Claus Holiday Village, families can meet Santa every day of the year, free of charge. For those seeking the ultimate festive experience, guests can book Santa Claus for a private visit to their cabin. With the airport located only a short drive away, travelling to your dream destination is both easy and convenient.

See more on your next trip

Heading on your next holiday and want to see as much as possible? Private car service Daytrip is available in more than 90 countries, with fully customizable itineraries and a selection of optional sightseeing stops. A range of vehicle categories are available to fit any traveller’s needs, and the service is available 24/7, allowing customers to schedule a ride, anytime. Popular routes include Cancun to Tulum and Naples to Positano, though no matter where you are, world-class support is available around the clock for a seamless travel experience. Benefit from instant confirmation when booked at least 48 hours in advance, as well as English-speaking drivers who have been vetted for safety.

Take a memorable chalet ski holiday without breaking the bank

Looking to take to the slopes this winter? Ski Miquel is a family-owned tour operator that specialises in providing inclusive catered ski trips in atmospheric chalet-hotels across six resorts in France, Austria, Switzerland and Spain. Each great-value itinerary includes flights, transfers, accommodation and breakfast, as well as a four-course evening meal including wine on six of the evenings. As well as incredible slopes, customers will benefit from low prices in the chalet bar, discounted lift passes and ski / snowboard hosting, allowing them to see the best of the resort and surrounding scenery.