Best Places to Travel for the Holidays

Your kids are all grown, and you don’t have a reason to plan a traditional Christmas or New Year’s. Why not take advantage of your freedom and plan a short getaway? Traveling during the holiday season can be hectic but the destination is often relaxing and inspirational. You even have time to work on learning a new language before you arrive.

New York

With English as the primary language in this city, you’ll find no problem navigating your way. New York is a highly walkable city with plenty to do to keep you busy. This city even boasts a 76-foot Christmas tree for a spectacular display you won’t soon forget. You’ll also have ample opportunity to shop at places like Saks Fifth Avenue and Tiffany’s for gifts for the family.

London

Streets filed with lights beckon you to get out and enjoy the season in London. While there is less chance of snow to create the perfect winter picture, cool temperatures will put you in mind of hot chocolate or steamers after a day spent out sightseeing. You’ll also want to check out some of the famous pubs of the area, including Ye Olde Bell Tavern and The Mayflower.

Sydney

Celebrate the holidays in a brand new way with the coming of spring and warm temperatures in the city down under. Sydney boasts spectacular beaches and friendly locals to help you celebrate in style. It’s also home to many cultural sights to keep you entertained as you try out a few new holiday traditions.

Vienna

This city in Austria tops the National Geographic’s list of top cities to see holiday lights. Dazzling everyone who visits are bulbs glistening throughout the city with shops gaily decorated. You’ll want to follow the giant chandeliers that lead to St. Stephen’s Cathedral or visit Schonbrunn Palace where daily concerts take place for Advent.

Medellin, Colombia

Another city in National Geographic’s list, Medellin provides a carnival-like atmosphere with food stalls packed along the Medellin River and huge 3D figures moving along. Oversize ornaments enhance the environment while balmy weather allows you to spend more time outdoors enjoying the festivities.

Tromso, Norway

Enjoy spectacular holiday lights in nature with a magnificent view of the northern lights dancing in the sky. You can enjoy dogsledding and come home to delicious food at the end of the day. You can also enjoy a traditional Norwegian Christmas dinner at Astro, a local restaurant. Because many places are shut down for the actual holiday, you’ll enjoy a more relaxing time instead of the usual hurried pace of life back home.

If you’re ready to try something new for the holidays, any one of these cities will gladly welcome you. Take some time to learn a new language or at least the basics to help in your travels. Whether you want to learn English or another language, you’ll find language learning schools in Toronto and other major cities to give you an introduction into the culture as well as the language.

Berlitz provides language learning in Toronto with private or group lessons. English and French classes and courses allow students to learn a new language in 10 days.

Berlitz provides language classes in Toronto with private or group lessons. English and French classes and courses allow students to learn a new language in 10 days. http://www.berlitz.ca/websites/main/home