Who's Ready for Thanksgiving?

By: J5Travel

March 25, 2023

If there's one thing we as travel advisors have learned since our business has turned around and grown so strongly post Covid restrictions, it's that planning as far ahead as possible pays dividends for our clients.
Yes, we are still working very hard on many Summer trips for the upcoming months, but right now is the time to think about Thanksgiving and the Holiday Season, if you're considering travel. This past November and December were notorious for elevated pricing and lack of availability, especially in the Caribbean. Please don't leave it too late this year.
And here are 5 different ideas for your end of year travel, highlighting some wonderful countries and experiences that would provide great value at the luxury level.

Top 5 - Thanksgiving and Holiday Season Trips

1. Northern Lights hunting in Tromsø, Norway (above and below)
Tromsø, the northernmost city in Norway, is an ideal location to view the Aurora Borealis. The city is located in the middle of the Northern Lights oval, and you can experience the breathtaking display by taking a guided tour.

Works great for a 7 night itinerary.

2. Skiing and snowboarding in Niseko, Japan (above and below)

Niseko is a winter wonderland with an average of 14 meters of snowfall each season, making it one of the best skiing and snowboarding destinations in the world. The powdery snow and panoramic views of Mount Yotei make it a perfect winter trip. We think you'd need 10 days to enjoy a wintertrip as far away as Japan, but the cultural side of this experience is worth it alone.

3. Christmas Markets along the Rhine (above and below)
The Rhine River in Germany is home to some of the most festive Christmas markets in Europe, and a winter river cruise can be a great way to experience them. Many cruise lines offer special Christmas market itineraries that visit cities like Cologne, Strasbourg, and Basel.
Just a few of our favorite cruise lines...AmaWaterways, Uniworld and Scenic.

Works great for a 7 to 10 night itinerary.

4. Egypt (above and below)

November, December and January are the best months of the year to visit Egypt.

Here's a quick Top 5 on why you should head there.
1.Historical Landmarks: Egypt is home to some of the world's most iconic historical landmarks, including the Pyramids of Giza, the Great Sphinx, and the Valley of the Kings. These landmarks are a testament to Egypt's rich history and are must-see attractions for anyone visiting the country.

2.Rich Culture: Egypt is a country with a rich cultural heritage, and you can experience this through its food, music, art, and festivals. The country is also home to a vibrant market culture, where you can shop for handmade crafts, textiles, and spices.

3.Beautiful Beaches: Egypt is also known for its beautiful beaches, especially in the resort towns of Hurghada and Sharm El Sheikh. These destinations also offer a variety of water activities like snorkeling and scuba diving.

4.Nile River: The Nile is the lifeline of Egypt, and a cruise along its banks is a great way to see the country's countryside and visit some of its lesser-known historical sites.

5.Cairo: The capital city of Egypt is a bustling metropolis and a must-visit for anyone traveling to Egypt. It is home to several museums, including the Egyptian Museum, which houses some of the world's most important artifacts from Ancient Egypt.

Works great for a 7 to 10 night itinerary.

5. New Zealand (above and below)
Much like Egypt, my absolute favorite country in the southern hemisphere is perfect for a visit from November to January. Whilst this is their peak season, pricing does not go crazy and value remains.
New Zealand is renowned for its stunning natural landscapes and breathtaking scenery, which includes snow-capped mountains, pristine lakes, picturesque fjords, and beautiful beaches.
With its rugged terrain and abundance of natural resources, New Zealand is also a hub for adventure sports. From bungee jumping and skydiving to skiing and surfing, there is no shortage of adrenaline-pumping activities.
The country has a rich and fascinating Maori culture that is an integral part of the country's identity. Visitors can explore Maori heritage through traditional arts, music, and dance performances, as well as by visiting historical sites and museums.
And don't forget that New Zealand is known for its excellent wines and gourmet cuisine. The country's vineyards produce world-class wines, while its chefs create innovative dishes using fresh, locally sourced ingredients.

10 days to 2 weeks minimum for a life-changing trip to New Zealand!

If you are ready to start planning your holiday with one of these itineraries let us know by clicking the button below. We'd be happy to plan a getaway of a lifetime!

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I love travel and I love travel planning just as much and I am proud to be building a team as passionate about exploring the world as myself. It took me a very long time to align my career with my undeniable passion for exploring, but now I and the team are here for you. Your personal travel tailors - award reservation and luxury custom itinerary experts. We provide a bespoke service, imagining and creating itineraries for independent minded families and groups.