Mariah Carey travel tips

Ah, Christmas in London… the John Lewis Christmas advert, Tesco’s stuffing sandwich meal deals and—more importantly—the sweet sounds of Mariah Carey are some telltale signs the festive season has officially begun. And just like how Cinderella’s carriage turns into a pumpkin at midnight, come November 1, London transforms into a magical hub of yuletide joy. Streets twinkle under the Christmas lights, hotels, and shops are in full-on festive mode and carols ring out in the capital.

Love to travel to the most posh places? A new analysis from travel experts at the blog OptimosTravel ranks Aspen—a mountain town in Colorado—the most expensive U.S. vacation destination.

Pulling up to the red boat slip under a fiery sunset, no one in the boat was looking at the vivid pinks of the Caribbean sky. Instead, our eyes were on the towering hilltop ahead of us, with its wind turbines and precarious Balinese-style treehouses. Night was falling, and glowing ambient lights flickered on as if by magic to light up a maze of jungle-nestled villas and dirt paths. A man in well-tailored dress pants, a button-down, and loafers emerged; not the billionaire we’d come for, but one of the many trusted Sir Richard Branson whisperers in a staff of 134 we'd encounter over the next few days. “Welcome to Necker,” Eddie beamed.

Saudi Arabia has launched a global brand campaign for its cultural tourism site AlUla, home to ancient ruins and a growing list of luxury hotels. The “Forever Revitalising” campaign has been produced in six languages with events in Dubai, London, New York, Paris, Shanghai, and Mumbai.

This as-told-to essay is based on a conversation with Jaclyn Sienna India, the founder of the luxury travel concierge Sienna Charles . The following has been edited for length and clarity.

December brings frigid temperatures and howling winds to the city of Boston, but fortunately, the holiday season serves as a major silver lining for winter residents. Clad in twinkling lights and a towering Christmas tree gifted from Nova Scotia, the city takes on a particularly charming ambiance that makes it well worth visiting in spite of the weather—and as an added bonus, Boston’s hottest hotels, bars and restaurants are all joining in on the festivities. As you plan your next foray into New England’s most dazzling city, don’t miss out on these holiday-themed promotions and events.