Quote of the Month
“May your adventures bring you closer together, even as they take you far away from home.” - Trenton Lee Stewart
I’m not the kind of person who waits for travel. So, while the idea of travelling for the holidays is appealing, the one time it has actually happened for my family was a complete fluke. That would make me one of the lucky ones. The truth is lining up a fantastic trip for your family that falls in late December is tricky at best and can be heartbreaking if it doesn’t work out.
The hard truth is that the time to book holiday travel is yesterday. But, if you’re flexible, there are still plenty of options near and far to buoy your family’s spirits. Plus, there is no wrong time for family travel. So, even if your dream holiday vacation doesn’t work out as you’re hoping, consider moving your celebration to suit your needs and budget. There is absolutely nothing wrong with a Christmas in March, Hanukkah in July or Kwanzaa in August celebration that you make all your own.
Holiday Travel
The holidays are fast approaching which often means time off of work and quality time spent with family. Whether that’s your immediate family, extended family, or perhaps your “framily” (friends who are like family), travel can be a special and bonding time. Will it be an escape from the cold weather to a warm, white, sandy beach? Or are you dreaming of a white Christmas and want to spend the holidays skiing on snow covered mountains? Whatever your choice, Globetrotting Mama has tips and suggestions to help you create the perfect holiday travel getaway.
What’s new in the world of travel?
Though concerns over flight cancellations and rising travel costs loom on the horizon, 47% of Americans still plan to travel this holiday season according to a survey by PricewaterhouseCoopers. After two years of lockdowns, travel bans or restrictions, people are ready to see the world and gather experiences once again! Travel+Leisure notes that domestic travel is on the rise and destinations such as Las Vegas and Orlando seem to be the hotspots. Why the sudden surge in travel? PwC mentions travellers are rescheduling trips that were postponed in the midst of the pandemic. The digital nomad lifestyle has increased with people able to work from anywhere as they simultaneously experience travel. Finally, “revenge travel” has become quite popular. This is due to the pent-up demand for travel over the last two years.
US Family Travel Survey 2022
In their latest annual survey, the Family Travel Association (FTA) and the NYU School of Professional Studies examine how the pandemic and economic uncertainty have affected family travel. The study shows that 85% of parents are very likely to travel with their children in the next year. 47% of those surveyed noted that they are planning multi-generational trips and 46% said they have plans to travel with extended family. Despite the economic conditions, spending on family travel seems to be increasing. The FTA’s survey states that 53% are willing to spend a little more money on domestic travel this year, while 49% intend to spend more on international travel. Multi-day international vacations and city vacations saw a rise in percentages as did visits to museums and/or cultural attractions. Though things seem to be on the rebound, nearly 77% of respondents did admit that the pandemic and financial situations have impacted their travel plans.
What we’re reading at Globetrotting Mama
As the holidays approach, chances are you’re picturing yourself curled up by the fire or on a beach somewhere…with a great book. These two offer something to get lost in whether you’re home or away.
Honor by Thrity Umrigar
Umrigar’s novel is about Smita, an Indian-American journalist, who returns to India on assignment. Though she never thought she’d return to her home country, she agrees to follow the case of Meena, a Hindu woman attacked by members of her village for marrying a Muslim man. As time passes, Smita finds herself uncovering painful secrets and on a journey that would mirror Meena’s. This story is one of love, hope, sacrifice, tradition and devotion to family.
Not Fade Away: A Memoir of Senses Lost and Found by Rebecca Alexander
Rebecca Alexander was born with a rare genetic mutation known as Usher Syndrome Type III. In her memoir, Alexander shares her journey as she simultaneously loses her vision and hearing. Her incredible story touches on the milestones of losing these senses and delves into other traumatic experiences like her fall from a two-story building that left her body shattered. Alexander’s story is one of grit, determination, inspiration and hope.
Great Holiday Adventures for the Family
Orlando, Florida
When one thinks about family travel and Orlando, Florida, theme parks come to mind! A vacation to Orlando could include a trip to Walt Disney World to enjoy the holiday lights, festive fireworks, or visit with Mickey and Minnie. You can also stop at Epcot for the International Festival of the Holidays and learn about holidays around the world. Is your child a big Frozen fan? Visit Olaf at Hollywood Studios to hear the For the First Time in Forever: A Frozen Sing-Along Celebration. You can also reserve tickets to Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party at the Magic Kingdom or tune into any of the special Holiday events celebrating the resort’s 50th Anniversary.
A trip to Orlando could also include a stop at Universal Studios Orlando to enjoy the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Here, you can experience The Magic of Christmas at Hogwarts Castle projection show or warm up with some butterbeer. You can also see superheroes enjoying the holiday season or keep an eye out for The Grinch while visiting Seuss Landing. Either way, a trip to Universal Studios and Orlando, promises fun rides, adventure, excellent food and unique hotels!
Silicon Valley, California
If you have an American Girl Doll enthusiast in the family, consider a trip to Menlo Park, California and a stay at The Stanford Park Hotel. The hotel includes a package that partners with the American Girl store to create a one-of-a-kind experience for your kids. Once you’ve enjoyed the perks of the American Girl Package, hang out in the heated hotel swimming pool and hot tub. You can rest in the tranquil gardens surrounding the hotel or you can take a hike, run or bike ride through the local preserves. Visit nearby Palo Alto for a unique shopping experience.
Saint Lucia, West Indies
Looking for an affordable and all-inclusive travel experience? Check out The Harbor Club in St. Lucia. This beautiful hotel is located on Rodney Bay with access to shopping, dining and nightlife (if you’re able to get away from the kids for a bit). The warm winter-time temperatures make the water adventures even more inviting. As a family, you can enjoy snorkeling, sunset cruises along Marigot Bay or relaxing poolside. Adventure seekers will like the options for horseback rides on the beach, ATV tours or ziplining through the canopy.
Port Jervis, New York
Looking for a unique, cold-weather getaway? Make a reservation at Cedar Lakes Estate. This picturesque estate offers you the winter wonderland you’ve been dreaming of. The estate has a collection of houses and cottages that are great for couples looking for a romantic getaway, or extended families opting to spend the holidays together. Dining is included in your stay there is as a selection of outdoor family adventures such as snowshoeing, sledding, and hiking.Ready to warm up? Stay inside near the fire and enjoy board or video games. A winter getaway also offers Winter Igloos for spa treatments, private dinners, cocktails and more.
Need some alone time as parents? For a really fun adventure, Cedar Lakes Estates offers the full “Home Alone” experience for your kids. While parents stay close by, the kids are offered the full “Kevin McAllister Experience” which includes a viewing of the classic movie, Home Alone, and a smorgasbord of snacks including pizza, ice cream, and more.
Chicago, Illinois
The Swissotel Chicago has a great winter offering. Make a reservation at the Santa Suite to visit with the Big Guy, drink hot cocoa, decorate cookies and immerse yourself in the Christmas experience. You can even opt into a “pancakes and pjs breakfast” with Santa himself. This experience offers breakfast, mimosas (the parents need to have fun too!), face painting and a holiday craft for the kids.
When finished with your Santa Suite experience, the family can venture out into the city for a sporting event or visit the stainless-steel Cloud Gate sculpture (otherwise known as The Bean). An afternoon of ice skating at Maggie Daley Park or visiting any of the amazing restaurants or shops around the city rounds out the perfect visit.
Stay tuned…
In our next newsletter, we’ll share some tips on Multigenerational Travel and some do’s and don’ts for keeping everyone in the spirit of the season…even if things don't go as planned!
And we’d love to hear from you too. Message us on the social media platform of your choice and let us know what travel question we can answer for you!
Instagram: @byheathergd
Facebook: Heather Greenwood Davis
Twitter: @ByHeatherGD
TikTok: @byheathergd
LinkedIn: Heather Greenwood Davis
Website: www.heathergreenwooddavis.com