❄️ December Getaways: Snowy Escapes or Sunny Adventures? 🎅✨

TravelReport Weekly Issue 007

Author

Rabia Karimi
December 06, 2024

Hey bestie!

It’s December, and you know what that means: holiday vibes, cozy sweaters (or bikinis, depending on your mood), and—duh—epic travel plans! I’ve scoped out the best spots for December adventures, and I can’t wait to share them with you.

But first, let’s talk travel smarts. You know I’ve had my fair share of “oops” moments while traveling (like that time my bag went to Paris without me 🙃). So, I’m spilling all my best tips to keep you safe, stress-free, and totally ready for your next adventure. Let’s dive in! 🧳✨

🛡️ Health & Safety First: Because Adventuring Like a Pro Is Lit ✨

I know, “health and safety” sounds as fun as watching paint dry, but trust me—you’ll thank me later when you’re sipping Glühwein in Vienna instead of hunting for a pharmacy. Here's how to travel like the prepared queen (or king) you are:

1. Travel Insurance: Your Holiday Hero 🎅🛡️

Think of travel insurance as your invisible BFF. Lost luggage? Covered. Snowstorm ruins your flight? No problem. Accidental sledding injury (hey, it happens)? They’ve got your back.

  • What it covers: Medical emergencies, cancellations, lost luggage, and weather drama.

  • Hot tip: Check your credit card perks! Cards like Chase Sapphire Reserve and Amex Platinum often come with killer insurance benefits.

2. Keep Those Holiday Germs Away 🦠🎁

Nobody wants a Rudolph-red nose in their travel pics, so here’s how to keep the sniffles at bay:

  • Pack a health kit: Hand sanitizer, ibuprofen, and some zinc or vitamin C for those long flights.

  • Hydration is life: Drink water like it’s your job—especially on planes. Bonus: It helps with jet lag! 💧

  • Snacks > airplane food: Stash healthy bites in your bag, just in case your in-flight “meal” is… less than inspiring.

3. Protect Your Valuables Like a Pro 💼✨

Pickpockets love crowded holiday markets, but you’re smarter than that. Here’s how to stay one step ahead:

  • Use a slash-proof bag and keep it close. (No backpacks on your back in busy areas!)

  • Pop an AirTag or Tile tracker in your suitcase. Trust me, they’re a lifesaver.

  • Keep your passport safe but accessible—bonus points if you stash a copy online.

4. Offline Everything Is Your New Bestie 🧭📲

From maps to emergency contacts, download it all before you leave. And yes, I’ve learned this the hard way more times than I’d like to admit.

  • Offline Google Maps = no getting lost in Vienna’s charming maze of streets.

  • Pre-download travel insurance details, hotel info, and anything else important. You’ll be so proud of yourself.

💳 Points & Miles: The Real MVPs 💳
Travel points might just be the one area where math actually makes you rich. If you’re not getting free hotel stays and upgrades yet, let’s change that:

  • The AMEX Platinum Card: With great perks and awesome rewards, you wont regret this card and you get a bonus 200,000 membership rewards point here!

  • Hotel Rewards Programs Are Your BFFs: Join one, stay loyal, and let the upgrades roll in. Marriott Bonvoy, Hilton Honors, or World of Hyatt—take your pick and watch the free nights add up.

  • Transfer Your Points Smartly: Some cards let you transfer points to airline partners directly. This can be the ultimate hack to turn a few thousand points into a one-way flight across an ocean. (Cue my excitement dance.)

🌟 Magical Destinations for early December! ❄️

🏔️ Banff, Canada: A Winter Wonderland ❄️🎿

Looking for snow-covered peaks, cozy lodges, and some of the world’s best skiing? Banff is a holiday dream come true!

What to Do:

  • Hit the slopes at Sunshine Village or Lake Louise Ski Resort. ⛷️

  • Take a dip in the Banff Upper Hot Springs—nothing beats soaking in warm water while surrounded by snow. 🛁

  • Stroll through the Banff Christmas Market for handmade gifts and mulled wine.

Points Perks:

  • Fly into Calgary using Aeroplan points or Chase Ultimate Rewards. Stay at the Fairmont Banff Springs, aka the “Castle in the Rockies,” using Accor Live Limitless points. 🏰

Pro Tips:

  • Pack layers! Canadian winters are no joke, but the cozy vibes are worth it. 🧤

  • Book ski passes in advance to save $$ and avoid lines.

If snowy escapes aren’t your vibe, head to the Maldives for crystal-clear waters, overwater villas, and pure relaxation. December marks the start of peak season, with sunny days and calm seas.

What to Do:

  • Snorkel with turtles and manta rays in the vibrant coral reefs. 🐢

  • Indulge in a spa day at your overwater villa (many resorts offer treatments with ocean views). 💆‍♀️

  • Take a sunset cruise and watch dolphins play in the surf. 🐬

Points Perks:

  • Book flights using Amex Membership Rewards transferred to Emirates or Qatar Airways. For accommodations, use Hilton Honors points to snag a villa at the Conrad Maldives Rangali Island. 🏡

Pro Tips:

  • Bring reef-safe sunscreen—it’s a must for protecting the stunning marine life. 🌊

  • Consider an all-inclusive package to keep costs manageable during the peak season.

For old-world holiday charm, Vienna is the place to be. The city comes alive in December with twinkling lights, festive markets, and the smell of spiced wine in the air.

What to Do:

  • Explore the famous Vienna Christmas Markets at Rathausplatz and Schönbrunn Palace. 🎁

  • Tour the Vienna State Opera House, then catch a holiday performance if you can. 🎻

  • Warm up with a cup of Glühwein and a plate of Sachertorte (rich chocolate cake). 🍰

Points Perks:

  • Use Amex points to book flights via Lufthansa or Austrian Airlines. For a luxurious stay, redeem Marriott Bonvoy points for a room at the Hotel Bristol, steps from the Opera House.

Pro Tips:

  • Public transport is efficient—grab a 48-hour Vienna City Card for unlimited rides and discounts. 🚇

  • Pack warm boots for market-hopping and snowy strolls!

Okay, your turn—where are you heading this December? Whether you’re hitting the slopes, sipping wine in a Christmas market, or soaking up the sun in paradise, I need to know! Seriously, reply and tell me—it’s my favorite thing to hear about your trips. 🥰

Until next time, stay safe, stay stylish, and stay wanderlust-y!

– Your (Travel-Obsessed) BFF 🎄🎁✈️

Links and Guides:
To assist you in planning your next adventure, here are some valuable resources:

Stay safe, travel smart, and enjoy every moment of your journey. Until next week, happy travels!