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Greetings!
Can you believe we're already in October? The holidays are getting closer, and before you know it, we'll be talking about Thanksgiving dinner, Christmas shopping, holiday decorations, and figuring out who's hosting the family this year. Then there's the cooking, cleaning, grocery shopping, and the inevitable question: "What time is everyone coming over?" Well, I have another idea. What if you packed your suitcase and let someone else handle the holiday festivities this year?
I've been fortunate enough to experience the holidays at theme parks and aboard cruise ships, and I can tell you that both offer some pretty incredible ways to celebrate. So this week, let's talk about holiday vacations—and while we're at it, let's start thinking about spring break 2027!
Anyone who knows me knows I love Disney. But there's something extra special about visiting Walt Disney World or Disneyland during the holiday season. Imagine walking down Main Street, U.S.A., surrounded by beautiful decorations, holiday music, the smell of popcorn, and a spectacular Christmas tree. You look down the street toward the Castle, and suddenly you're smiling.
Remember my Main Street Theory? Add holiday decorations and music, and the theory gets even stronger! Both Walt Disney World in Florida and Disneyland in California embrace the holidays with seasonal entertainment, festive food, beautifully decorated resorts, and special experiences. Whether you're traveling with young children, teenagers, grandparents, or just your spouse or partner, there's something wonderful about celebrating the season at Disney.
And here's something I always like to remind people: You don't need to have children with you to enjoy Disney. I've done plenty of research on that subject!
Let's not forget about Universal! Universal Orlando Resort and Universal Studios Hollywood also know how to celebrate the holidays. From festive decorations and seasonal entertainment to the holiday atmosphere in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Universal brings its own personality to the season. And, of course, you can still enjoy the thrill rides, attractions, restaurants, and everything else that makes Universal such a fun destination. Imagine spending part of your holiday vacation exploring Hogsmeade, enjoying the attractions, and then taking in the holiday lights after dark. Not a bad way to spend December!
Here's a Fun Universal Fact! Did you know that Universal also has a theme park in Beijing, China? It's called Universal Beijing Resort, and it opened in 2021. Universal isn't just an Orlando or Hollywood experience. Universal also has parks in Japan, Singapore, and Beijing. So, if you've ever thought about combining an international adventure with a theme park vacation, you have some exciting options. I'd be happy to help you explore them!
Christmas or New Year's at Sea? Yes, Please!
Now, maybe theme parks aren't your idea of holiday celebrations. Maybe you're thinking: "Steve, I don't want to stand in lines. I want to sit somewhere with an ocean view and have someone bring me a drink." I can certainly work with that! How about a holiday cruise?
I've been fortunate to cruise during the holidays, and there's something pretty special about celebrating Christmas or ringing in the New Year aboard a ship. Many cruise lines embrace the season with festive decorations, special dining, entertainment, and holiday activities. Imagine waking up on Christmas morning aboard a beautiful ship.No cooking. No dishes. No worrying about whether the turkey will be ready on time. Instead of spending New Year's Eve trying to figure out who is driving home, you could be celebrating aboard a ship with music, entertainment, and the ocean around you.
Cruising can also be a wonderful option for multigenerational families. Grandparents, parents, teenagers, and younger children can all enjoy activities that interest them while still coming together for meals and family time. Royal Caribbean, Disney Cruise Line, Celebrity Cruises, Princess, and other cruise lines offer different holiday experiences. The important thing is finding the right cruise for you and your family. That's where I come in. One important reminder: Holiday cruises are popular, and the best stateroom choices can go quickly. Planning early is especially helpful when traveling with a larger family or needing connecting staterooms.
Don't Forget to Check Your School Calendar! If you're planning a spring break vacation, confirm your school's exact vacation dates before making reservations. Not every school district takes spring break during the same week. That can affect airfare, hotel availability, cruise pricing, and theme park crowds.
Maybe it's walking down Main Street at Disneyland with Christmas music playing. Maybe it's experiencing the holidays in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Maybe it's Christmas morning aboard a cruise ship or ringing in 2027 somewhere in the Caribbean. Or maybe you're already dreaming about spring break. Whatever you're thinking, you don't have to figure it all out yourself.
And as always, my travel planning services are provided at no additional cost to you.
So, here's my question for you this week: Would you rather spend the holidays at a theme park, aboard a cruise ship, or at home with family and friends? I'd love to hear your answer!
Until next week... happy travels!
Ready to Plan?
If you’re considering your next vacation, I’d be happy to help plan it. Reach me at scohen@curatedtravelcollection.com. Website
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