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Summer is on the way out, autumn is rolling in, and the Christmas season is right around the corner. Even though we appreciate the coziness and colors of autumn, it’s never too early to book your Christmas getaway before everything sells out!
The travel industry is starting to tip in favor of a more open world than we’ve seen in a while, giving us the opportunity to start crossing borders again. As always, we recommend keeping yourself up to date on Covid requirements and regulations, but it isn’t too early to start making international plans again.
If you’re ready to head out on a Christmastime adventure, we’ve picked three international destinations that would make for an unforgettable one. If you’re more comfortable staying stateside, we’ve picked three domestic locations that are just as wonderful! Wherever you spend your holiday season, we’re here to help you figure out how to redeem your stash of points and miles on a vacation that is both merry and bright.
Staying Stateside
Not ready to head out of the US just yet? No worries! There are plenty of lovely places to spend Christmas within the US. Here are a few that we recommend.
Hollywood
There’s just something about Christmas in Hollywood. Whether it’s the combination of Christmas lights and palm trees or just the general star-struck feeling, Christmas is just a little bit more magical in Tinseltown.
Kimpton Everly Hotel
Kimpton Everly Hotel (Photo Courtesy of IHG)
If you’re looking for some prime real estate near Hollywood Boulevard, book in with the Kimpton Everly Hotel. This gorgeous property is located just north of both Hollywood Blvd. and Sunset Blvd., and just south of Griffith Park and the Hollywood Sign.
Enjoy an afternoon strolling the Hollywood Walk of Fame, be a part of the studio audience at Dolby Theatre, or pop down to Beverly Hills for some Christmas shopping on Rodeo Drive. Back at the hotel, enjoy plenty of natural light and fresh air with open-concept rooms and a gorgeous rooftop pool. If you’ve never experienced Christmas in Hollywood before, a stay at the Kimpton Everly is a great way to redeem your stash of IHG points.
A night at this property is available from 41,000 IHG Rewards points.
IHG One Rewards Traveler Credit Card
80,000
Bonus Points
after spending $2,000 on purchases within the first 3 months of account opening.
Denver
When it comes to appeasing many types of people at once, Denver is a perfect happy medium. The city is just bustling enough to satisfy those who prefer a concrete jungle, but it’s also close enough to the front range of the Rockies for those who enjoy escaping into the mountains.
The ART Hotel Denver, Curio Collection
The ART Hotel Denver, Curio Collection (Photo Courtesy of Hilton)
For travelers who appreciate design, pops of color, and architecture that turns heads, look no further than The ART Hotel Denver. This modern property is located within easy walking distance of the Colorado State Capitol and several different museums, promising fun and educational opportunities for the whole family to enjoy.
The hotel’s glass facade and collection of modern art make it look like a museum itself! While Denver isn’t itself a ski town, you’ll be an easy drive away from some of Colorado’s favorite slopes if you’re planning on a day or two of winter activities. For a pleasant mix of indoor and outdoor fun, redeem your Hilton HHonors points at The ART Hotel.
A night at this property is available from 51,000 Hilton HHonors points.
Nashville
No matter the season, it’s always a wild time in Nashville! The Tennessee capital attracts all kinds of folks, from hot-chicken enthusiasts to die-hard fans of country music. If you’re looking for a lively Christmas vacation, you’re sure to find that energy in Nashville.
The Union Station Nashville Yards, Autograph Collection
The Union Station Nashville Yards, Autograph Collection (Photo Courtesy of Marriott)
We always appreciate a hotel with a history, and The Union Station Nashville Yards does not disappoint. As the name suggests, this property was once a buzzing train station that operated from 1900 until 1979, then later opened as a boutique hotel. Today, the hotel still boasts original architectural details and art that serve as an homage to its early days, but each room includes modern touches and conveniences that nod toward its future.
Located in the heart of downtown, its 10th-and-Broadway address gives visitors access to all that Nashville has to offer — especially during the holidays. If you’re ready for an escape to a storied, cozy piece of history, redeem your Marriott Rewards points on a stay at The Union Station.
A night at this Category 7 property is available from 50,000 Marriott Rewards points.
Crossing Borders
Are you itching to go jet-setting again? We totally understand! If all you want for Christmas is a stamp in your passport, here are a few properties that we recommend.
Mexico City
There’s no way to explore all of Mexico City in just one trip, but this booming metropolis is home to fantastic food, culture, nature, and architecture — all with deep historical roots. If you’re looking to spend Christmas down Mexico way, Mexico City is sure to impress.
Hacienda Peña Pobre
Hacienda Peña Pobre (Photo Courtesy of Hyatt)
For a vacation steeped in both nature and history, book in with the Hacienda Peña Pobre. A proud member of Small Luxury Hotels of the World, this property is a legendary result of Spanish colonialism and Mexico City’s industrial past. Although the Hacienda is located outside the proper heart of Mexico City, it lies on the border between the capital area and stunning National Parks.
December is the beginning of the dry season, making Christmas an ideal time to visit if you’d like to spend a significant amount of time outdoors. Enjoy exploring the many spectacular ecological and archaeological sites nearby, then tuck into your cozy room at the Hacienda.
A night at this Member-Only property is available from 15,000 World of Hyatt points.
The World of Hyatt Credit Card
Earn 5 free nights
at any Category 1 - 4 Hyatt hotel or resort
after spending $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.* These nights could be worth up to 90,000 points.
Annual Fee: $95
Hveragerði
Located just outside of Reykjavík, Hveragerði is a small Icelandic village with one very special secret: it’s located on the banks of a geothermal river! Hot spring bathing is one of the many ways Icelanders survive the long, dark winters. If you’d like to get in on that, Hveragerði is a lovely place to visit.
Frost and Fire Boutique Hotel
Frost and Fire Boutique Hotel
December can be rough in Iceland; if it isn’t the weather, it’s the darkness that can get to you. But as long as you’re near a geothermal pool, you’ll survive just as well as the locals! For a chance to experience life in Iceland’s hot river town, book in with the Frost and Fire Boutique Hotel.
This property is located near the natural hot river Varmá, but if the weather prevents you from getting to a good bathing spot, you’ll have no shortage of hot tubs and hot pools to choose from in town. Enjoy a thorough soak and then sink into your cozy covers with your newfound knowledge of how Icelanders keep warm in the winter.
A night at this lovely property is available from roughly 15,000 Chase Ultimate Rewards points.
Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card
60,000
bonus points
after $4,000 in purchases in your first 3 months from account opening. Plus, get up to $300 in statement credits on Chase Travel℠ purchases within your first year.
Annual Fee: $95
Baden-Baden
Speaking of hot spring bathing, the German town of Baden-Baden is another wonderful geothermal hotspot, famous for its Roman-style spas. In Baden-Baden, you’ll find more dedicated spas rather than outdoor springs, plus a lovely Christmas market to ring in the holiday.
Roomers Baden-Baden, Autograph Collection
Roomers Baden-Baden, Autograph Collection (Photo courtesy of Marriott)
If your vibe is less down-home-Nordic and more akin to a western European spa town, redeem your Marriott Rewards points with the Roomers Baden-Baden.
Designed by Piero Lissoni, this sophisticated property offers all the facilities one might need for a private family getaway or a large holiday event. Additionally, this hotel has its own spa and wellness center, plus a rooftop bar with wonderful views of the Black Forest.
If you’d like to explore some of Baden-Baden’s dedicated spas, guests are just a 15-minute walk to both Friedrichsbad and Caracalla Therme. For a refined spa getaway, Roomers Baden-Baden is a great choice.
A night at this Category 5 property is available from 30,000 Marriott Rewards points.
The Bottom Line
This Christmas might end up being another strange one, but it’s encouraging to notice the travel industry waking up again. With plenty of points properties in the US and around the world, a points redemption could buy an unforgettable Christmas journey for yourself, a loved one, or your family. No matter where you celebrate the holiday season, we wish you happy travels and warmth all around.
New to the world of points and miles? The Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card is the best card to start with.
With a bonus of 60,000 bonus points after $4,000 in purchases in your first 3 months from account opening. Plus, get up to $300 in statement credits on Chase Travel℠ purchases within your first year. , 5x points on travel booked through the Chase Travel Portal and 3x points on restaurants, streaming services, and online groceries (excluding Target, Walmart, and wholesale clubs), this card truly cannot be beat for getting started!
Editors Note: Opinions expressed here are author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.
10xTravel is part of an affiliate sales network and receives compensation for sending traffic to partner sites, such as CreditCards.com. This compensation may impact how and where links appear on this site. This site does not include all financial companies or all available financial offers. Terms apply to American Express benefits and offers. Enrollment may be required for select American Express benefits and offers. Visit americanexpress.com to learn more.
Editors Note: Opinions expressed here are author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.
bonus cash back
after you spend $6,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening
Miles
once you spend $4,000 on purchases within 3 months from account opening
bonus points
after $4,000 in purchases in your first 3 months from account opening. Plus, get up to $300 in statement credits on Chase Travel℠ purchases within your first year.
Membership Rewards® Points
after you spend $6,000 on eligible purchases with your new Card within the first 6 months. Plus, receive 20% back in statement credits on eligible purchases made at restaurants worldwide within the first 6 months of Card Membership, up to $100 back. Limited time offer. Offer ends 11/6/24.
