Give more and spend less with these holiday gift card deals

After spending Christmas on MSC Euribia, I’m convinced there’s no better place to celebrate the holiday season than on a cruise ship. In fact, I’m thinking MSC may secretly stand for Merry Sailing Christmas because it even managed to snag Santa, who was handing out gifts and looking like he’d had a grand old time at the buffet.

The year was 1370, and even the shimmering canals of Venice brought no joy to Francesco Petrarch. Over the last two decades, the world-renowned scholar and poet had travelled the length and breadth of Italy. But with every passing year, he found himself retreating more from social life, seeking to escape the "ignorance" of his age.

Looking for some family-friendly fun for New Years? Then step into a world where New Year's celebrations are not just an occasion but a spectacular adventure for the whole family. From the dazzling fireworks and 3D LEGO magic at LEGOLAND California, to the enchanting vintage circus-themed party hosted by JW Marriott Orlando Bonnet Creek Resort & Spa, these properties offer festivities filled with unforgettable moments for kids of all ages.

Rock your Christmas Holiday with waves of happenings at the Hong Kong WinterFest by the Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB)! During the four-day holiday, members of the public can enjoy a diverse line-up of live performances at Christmas Town and the “Winter Harbourfront Pyrotechnics” at this Christmas extravaganza.

A version of this article originally appeared in Condé Nast Traveler España. This article was translated and adapted from the Spanish by John Newton. The Mandarin Oriental Ritz Madrid is one of our editors’ picks for The Gold List 2024.

Get out the eggnog! Because all the fun with Santa starts very soon.

Since its launch in 2018 as a luxury lifestyle brand of individual hotels with distinct character, Radisson Hotel Group has seen rapid growth within its Radisson Collection brand.

If, somehow, you’re still looking for a spot to spend Christmas or the final week of 2023, the personal-finance website WalletHub’s latest report has some important insights for you. It reviewed data on the nation’s 100 largest cities to find out which are simultaneously the most festive and affordable for celebratory getaways this Christmas season.

When I was eight, Christmas was ballistically exciting and worth dragging my parents out of bed at 4am for. Over my 32 years since, a combination of atheism, credit card bills and John Lewis-branded Venus flytrap monsters has made me more cynical than excitable about the holiday.

As the holiday season arrives, Chicago transforms into a winter wonderland with a myriad of festive activities and events that capture the spirit of the season. From sports enthusiasts to art lovers, families to couples, there is something for everyone in the Windy City. Here are some things worth exploring this holiday season.

Simply saying the word “spa” can conjure memories of pleasurable massages, relaxing music, candlelit soaks, rejuvenating smells, and renewing saunas. They’re places of sanctuary that delight the senses. Giving the spa enthusiast in your life a gift from one of their favorite spas can bring them joy and excitement during the holidays and throughout the coming year. There’s something for every spa lover on this list, so read on to find a last-minute gift for most gift-giving budgets.

On a bone-chilling December morning, a thick sea mist shrouds Venice’s towers and palazzi. The alleys are filled with damp, salty air and infrequent hurried footsteps. At this hour, few people are out enjoying the city, but it is a truly magical moment.