Where the World Escapes for the Holidays

For many travelers, the holidays don’t mean staying put—they mean getting away. While some lean into tradition, others are choosing destinations that offer a complete reset from the usual seasonal rush. These travelers aren’t looking for louder celebrations or packed schedules. They’re looking for space, ease, and a different kind of holiday experience.

For travel advisors, this shift reveals a growing opportunity: helping clients escape the chaos rather than compete with it.

The New Holiday Mindset: Escape Over Excess

Holiday travel used to revolve around fixed routines and familiar destinations. Now, more travelers are intentionally going elsewhere—often far from crowds, cold weather, or predictable plans.

Instead of asking, “Where should we go for the holidays?” travelers are asking:

• Where can we slow down?

• Where feels different from everyday life?

• Where can we actually relax during peak season?

This mindset has reshaped where—and how—people travel in December.

Where Travelers Are Choosing to Go

Holiday escapes tend to fall into a few clear categories:

Warm-Weather Retreats

Beach destinations and island escapes remain popular for travelers looking to trade layers for lighter packing and outdoor living.

Quiet Luxury Cities

Cities that feel crowded most of the year can offer a calmer, more refined experience during the holidays—especially when travelers prioritize premium routing and accommodations.

Nature-Forward Getaways

Mountains, deserts, and remote landscapes attract travelers who want privacy, scenery, and a slower pace without sacrificing comfort.

Shoulder-Season International Destinations

Some travelers use the holidays to visit destinations just outside their busiest months, benefiting from lighter crowds while still enjoying festive local energy.

Why This Trend Is Growing

Several factors are driving the rise of holiday escapes:

• Travelers want their limited time off to feel restorative

• Flexible schedules allow for non-traditional holiday planning

• Premium travel options make long-haul trips more appealing

• Many travelers value experience over routine

Rather than replicating holidays at home, travelers are redefining what the season means to them.

What This Means for Travel Advisors

Holiday escape travel rewards proactive, strategic planning.

Advisors play a key role by:

• Identifying destinations that feel calm during peak periods

• Recommending premium cabins to maximize rest and efficiency

• Planning routes that minimize stress and transit time

• Helping clients think beyond traditional holiday expectations

The result isn’t just a trip—it’s a better holiday.

The Bottom Line

Holiday travel doesn’t have to be hectic to be meaningful. For many travelers, escaping the usual seasonal patterns creates space for rest, connection, and perspective.

As expectations shift, the holidays are becoming less about where people should be—and more about where they want to be.