As the holiday season approaches, many travelers are seeking unique experiences to celebrate with family and friends. Jane Malecki, a franchise owner of Cruise Planners, shares her insights on holiday travel, drawing from her extensive corporate travel background and passion for holiday traditions.
Inspiration for Travel
Malecki’s journey into travel began during her corporate career, where she traveled extensively across the globe. “My local colleagues and clients showed me the treasures of local experiences,” she says. This inspired her to combine her local knowledge with tourist highlights, creating one-of-a-kind travel experiences. Her love for European Christmas markets and diverse holiday traditions fuels her passion for holiday travel. “The romance of travel and Christmas is intoxicating,” she adds.
Current Trends
This year, Disney remains a popular holiday destination. “From November 15 through New Year’s Day, Disney Parks transform into a Christmas wonderland,” Malecki notes. However, she advises travelers to plan well in advance and be prepared for crowds. For families with older children, relaxing Caribbean cruises or all-inclusive resorts are also trending.
Top Holiday Destinations
For families seeking memorable experiences, Malecki recommends a Christmas markets tour through Basel, Switzerland, Vienna, Austria, and Prague, Czech Republic. “These cities boast the best Christmas markets,” she explains. For a nostalgic feel, England and Ireland offer rich traditions, though travelers should plan for closures on Christmas Day. For families with young kids, Malecki highlights Disney as an unforgettable holiday experience.
Hidden Gems
If a trip to Europe isn’t feasible, Malecki suggests Montreal and Old Quebec City for their European charm. Domestically, Park City, Utah, offers holiday markets and festive events like a Christmas Eve torchlight parade, reminiscent of a Hallmark movie.
Planning Tips
To ensure a stress-free holiday trip, Malecki emphasizes the importance of planning. “Know the experience you want, set a budget, and manage expectations,” she advises. Working with a travel advisor can help create a realistic budget and navigate costs.
Overcoming Challenges
Holiday travel comes with its own set of challenges, including crowds and potential illness. “Be patient, enjoy the moment, and remember to care for your health,” Malecki recommends. Travel insurance is essential for handling last-minute changes, providing peace of mind for travelers.
The Future of Holiday Travel
Looking ahead, Malecki predicts a rise in holiday travel demand. “More families are seeking diverse experiences over traditional holiday events,” she explains. As travel preferences evolve, so do opportunities for creating lasting memories.
With her expertise and passion, Jane Malecki is ready to help travelers navigate the holiday season, ensuring they create unforgettable experiences with family and friends.
Cruise Planners
Jane Malecki - Franchise Owner
Phone: 908-200-1320
Email: jane.malecki@cruiseplanners.com
Website: www.jandrewtravelservices.com