Kids in a holiday rental ()
The holiday season in Europe is spectacularly magical. If you’re one of the hundreds of millions planning to take to the roads, rails, seas or skies, you may be wondering how on earth to enjoy and celebrate the holidays. Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered.
“Pre-holiday shenanigans”
Decorate.
Even if we are traveling for Christmas and New Year, we always put decorations up. Granted, I refuse to put them up before Thanksgiving, but you can bet my seriously ugly metal reindeer will grace my front door with his presence the day after. Putting up a few of your favorite or sentimental decorations on display can help set the holiday mood.
Bake treats early.
If making cookies for the Big Guy is a tradition, why not make them earlier and become a cookie Santa for your neighbors and friends? Bringing goodwill (and baked goodness) to those around you can go a long way in celebrating the season. And you’ll still get to lick the frosting bowl.
Reserve your spot.
When you’re in the throes of planning, be sure to see if your accommodation does anything special for the season. Many hotels will be completely decked out to the nines and offer a special dinner. There may be a story time with Santa or a countdown to New Year’s to partake in. Room service is always a good idea if you’re staying in a hotel and missed out on reservations. Cruise lines will often offer unique packages built around the holiday. Be sure to check early and reserve your spot in advance.
“What to do with gifts? ”
Visiting family or friends makes it easier in the gifting department. If you order online, presents can be sent directly. Remember to check “This is a gift” during checkout to avoid any Christmas morning spoilers. Be mindful of quantity, size and prohibited materials for gifts your family will need to bring back to your duty station.
You may also have to get creative. Last year, my youngest asked for an electric guitar. Because we were traveling, we really didn’t want to lug it around and risk damage. Instead, we purchased a cheap inflatable guitar and put a note saying the real one was waiting for them at home.
Or, rather than buying material items, why not opt for an experience instead? Tickets to an amusement park, a football match, a concert or even a baseball game in the upcoming season are great options.
“During the holiday”
Bring a few items from home.
You don’t need to pack the whole tree, but holiday-themed pajamas, stockings, or even just downloading a holiday playlist to mark the occasion can help make it feel homey. If you’re staying with friends or family, offer to make or bring your favorite holiday dish. Even if no one else is particularly fond of Aunt Bethany’s Jello mold, it’s still a reminder of home.
Make it special.
If your family attends religious services, there are a plethora of famous and historical cathedrals and basilicas to visit. European Christmas markets are also one-of-a-kind and add a touch of magic to the season.
Celebrate like a local.
When we traveled to Edinburgh for New Year, we realized we’d be there for Hogmanay. This fantastic local holiday is one of Europe’s largest New Year’s celebrations and stretches over three days. With a torchlight procession (be sure to wear an old coat that you don’t mind getting melted wax on) and an epic street party, it is by far one of my favorite holiday travel experiences. My oldest, who celebrates his birthday on New Year’s Eve, has repeatedly stated that nothing has come close since that party.
Traveling for the holidays doesn’t mean you have to be a Scrooge. With some advance planning, a handful of decorations and creativity, you can make your holiday travel festive and fun. Just remember to pack a little extra patience.
