How to Plan a Christmas Vacation

If sitting around the Christmas tree singing carols and sipping hot cocoa isn't your thing, plan a vacation during Christmastime. You don't have to skip Christmas--just start a new tradition. Since Christmas is celebrated in most parts of the world, chances are that wherever you decide to travel, a celebration will be going on. This will give you a chance to see how different cultures celebrate.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Decide where you would like to go early in the year so you can plan with your family. Perhaps you would like a Disney World Christmas or a tropical holiday on an island.

2. Talk to a local travel agent or go online at Travelocity or Side Step, so you can see what is available. Christmas is a popular time to travel, and places book up fast.

3. Put in for vacation time at work. Many times only those who ask first or with seniority get vacation time at Christmas.

4. Finalize your plans and pack climate-appropriate clothing.

5. Wrap your gifts before leaving to avoid little eyes from sneaking a peek. You may choose to ship them to your destination via UPS (United Parcel Service) or FedEx.

Tips & Warnings

• Consider traveling a few weeks either before or after Christmas for better rates and availability.
• Discuss how you will handle the Santa issue if you have small children.
• Beware of how some of your family members will react to your leaving home for such a special holiday.

Resources

• Travelocity offers deals on vacation packages.
• Side Step is a search engine for travelers.
• UPS offers shipping rates globally.
• FedEx offers worldwide shipping services.