Delighted to welcome September! As we bid adieu to the sultry stretch of summer, the notion of a winter getaway might be the furthest thing from our minds. However, the reality is that there’s no such thing as planning too early for your holiday travels. In the travel sector, we refer to this time of year as the ‘festive season,’ given its high popularity among travelers—many accommodations are already nearing full capacity.
Eager to kickstart your planning? You’ve landed in the perfect spot. To facilitate your holiday arrangements, we’ve compiled a list of the most sought-after hotels for the festive season, as endorsed by our network of travel experts. This curated list features tropical resorts in destinations such as Turks and Caicos and the Dominican Republic, a luxurious palace hotel in Paris (how about celebrating Christmas in the City of Love?), and several trending properties in one of our perennial favorite locations: Hawaii.
NIZUC Resort and Spa
Set aside thoughts of spring break—there’s no better occasion than the festive season to discover the charms of Mexico. Situated in Cancun’s scenic Punta Nizuc, a mere stone’s throw from the airport, NIZUC ranks high on our list of Cancun’s must-visit resorts—and that’s no minor accolade. This expansive 29-acre haven boasts a lush landscape replete with mangroves, untamed jungle, and panoramic views of the ocean. The resort’s elegantly designed interiors beautifully complement its sleek, minimalist exterior.
When you’re not exploring the captivating surroundings, you can pamper yourself with luxurious services such as natural oil massages at the first-class spa. NIZUC also offers a vibrant nightlife experience, featuring a Havana-themed cigar lounge and a beachfront bar that churns out delectable cocktails around the clock.
Casa de Campo Resort & Villas
Infused with Spanish cultural undertones and resplendent in its natural allure, the Dominican Republic offers an idyllic refuge from the chill of winter. Casa de Campo Resort captures our hearts with its timeless yet modern villas—imagine pristine white linens, soaring ceilings, and generously sized balconies. Situated within an exclusive, gated enclave, this family-centric retreat offers a vast golf course, uninterrupted ocean vistas that stretch to the horizon, and a diverse range of activities to please everyone—be it horseback riding or nocturnal golfing.
Dunes Village, South Carolina
For anyone seeking a family-oriented vacation without the hassle of keeping track of numerous passports (it happens to the best of us), consider a trip to Myrtle Beach in South Carolina. The coastal Dunes Village Resort is a hit with guests of all ages, particularly those who can’t get enough of the water. The resort offers both indoor and outdoor water parks to keep young ones entertained from dawn till dusk. What sets Dunes Village apart are its adaptable lodging options, which range from rooms with dual queen-sized beds to fully-equipped suites with kitchens—making it an ideal choice for extensive families or multigenerational gatherings.
Four Seasons Hotel George V, Paris
Experiencing Paris during the Christmas season is nothing short of magical—the time when Europe transforms into a wintry fairyland adorned with quintessential holiday markets and abundant charisma. Situated a stone’s throw from the Champs-Élysées, the Four Seasons serves as an opulent emblem of the French capital, offering panoramic vistas of the Eiffel Tower, unparalleled customer service, and the epitome of Parisian elegance. Imagine floors adorned with elaborate tile patterns, plush carpeting, and sophisticated interiors dressed in subtle, neutral tones. For culinary aficionados, a meal at the Michelin-starred Le Cinq restaurant is a must, where you can savor inventive and refined interpretations of classic French cuisine.
Wymara Resort and Villas
Boasting immaculate shorelines and consistently balmy climes, Turks & Caicos stands as a captivating destination all year round. Tucked away amidst the graceful palms of Grace Bay, Wymara Resort and Villas presents a more romantically inclined atmosphere compared to other, more family-focused resorts in the area. Its one-bedroom villas, complete with private infinity plunge pools, make Wymara the quintessential haven for couples seeking a stylish holiday celebration. When not basking on the sandy shores, guests can indulge in couple’s massages in secluded suites and meander through the resort’s beautifully landscaped gardens.
Aulani, Disney Vacation Club Villas
For those willing to journey the distance for a Hawaiian winter escape that encapsulates the enchantment of Disney’s Moana, look no further than this resort. The Disney Vacation Club Villas at Aulani offer the ideal setting for families and groups spanning multiple generations. These villas provide all the homey amenities one associates with domestic holidays—think fully-equipped kitchens and living spaces designed for socializing—all set against a universally appealing tropical landscape. Guests have the opportunity to interact with beloved Disney figures, leisurely drift along the lazy river, or indulge in tailored spa experiences.
Bahia Vik Jose Ignacio
Visiting Uruguay during its winter months is particularly rewarding, as it coincides with the area’s low-tourist season, allowing for a more tranquil experience. Bahia Vik Jose Ignacio is the epitome of modern minimalism, featuring expansive glass facades that grant awe-inspiring vistas of the coastline. This haven embodies a flawless fusion of interior and exterior spaces, augmented by exclusive luxuries such as artist-designed villas and an unparalleled natural backdrop. Its beachside bungalows, complete with multi-room suites, are exceptionally well-suited for family stays.
The Westin Hapuna Beach Resort
When contemplating a tropical escape, Hawaii perennially proves to be an unrivaled choice. The Westin, a verdant sanctuary set along the shores of Hapuna Beach, provides the archetypal resort experience, complete with fitness facilities, a golf course, and dedicated pools for both adults and families. Guests can partake in a variety of memorable activities, such as snorkeling with Manta rays under the moonlight and engaging in traditional lei-making classes. The inviting suites available come furnished with living areas, pull-out sofas, and wet bars for added convenience. For dining, the resort’s in-house restaurant, Meridia, is a culinary delight, particularly for those fond of Mediterranean cuisine—the octopus dish stands out as a crowd-pleaser.
Barceló Aruba
Aruba, characterized by its azure waters and gently rustling palm fronds, stands as a favored winter retreat. Its accessibility is further enhanced by direct flights from the East Coast. The Barceló Aruba resort is a perennial hit among visitors, boasting sprawling landscapes that offer a myriad of activities ranging from jet-skiing adventures to enchanting sunset cruises. An added perk: each elegantly designed room comes complete with a balcony overlooking the ocean, adorned with chic furnishings that include accents of navy blue set against pristine white linens.