Celebrate & Explore: The Ultimate Festive Travel Guide
The most wonderful time of the year is just around the corner, and Valise Travel Concierge has gathered the season’s most dazzling celebrations, unique traditions, and luxurious getaways. We’ve filled our holiday offerings with festive fun, from Italy’s trulli-lit villages to winter solstice awakenings in the lush Riviera Maya, and from savoring the finest wines in scenic locales to enjoying surprising festive feasts across the globe.
Fine Wines, Craft Gins, and Snowy Escapes in Portugal
Experience the magic of Portugal this holiday season, where festive lights, exquisite wines, and winter retreats await. The medieval village of Óbidos transforms into a Christmas wonderland, with charming markets and Santa visits, perfect for a cozy, traditional escape. Lisbon’s Wonderland Lisboa lights up the city with vibrant displays, while wine enthusiasts can explore the Douro and Alentejo vineyards with exclusive post-harvest tastings of Portugal’s finest, paired with the holiday classic Bolo-Rei. Gin lovers can sample Portugal’s unique craft gins, infused with local botanicals for an unforgettable flavor profile. For a snowy retreat, let Valise guide you to Serra da Estrela, where stunning views, historic villages, and serene winter hikes complete the experience.
A Trulli Enchanting Christmas in Puglia with Valise
Celebrate the holiday season in Italy’s Puglia region, where Valise Travel Concierge invites you to explore towns transformed into illuminated winter wonderlands. In Polignano a Mare, dramatic cliffs above the Adriatic are adorned with festive lights, adding sparkle to its scenic charm. The capital, Bari, lights up its historic center and waterfront with vibrant holiday displays, bustling markets, and events honoring St. Nicholas. Journey to Alberobello, where the iconic trulli houses come to life with colorful lights and enchanting projections, creating a fairy-tale atmosphere in this UNESCO World Heritage site. And don’t miss Ostuni, the famed ‘White City,’ glowing brighter than ever with elegant lights that enhance its pristine whitewashed architecture.
Royal Rhythms in a Historic Vietnamese Garden Theatre
Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of Hue, Vietnam, where an exclusive evening awaits in a garden theatre owned by a descendant of the Royal Nguyen dynasty. This intimate setting, crafted by a celebrated Vietnamese singer and artist, is filled with royal relics and a stunning fusion of Eastern and Western design. Delight in a captivating performance of Vietnamese folk songs, royal chamber music, and classic Christmas carols. Wander through the magical garden, admire exquisite artworks, and enjoy a festive dinner that harmoniously blends Eastern and Western flavors—a truly enchanting way to celebrate the season.
Winter Solstice Awakening on the Riviera Maya with Valise
Experience the magic of the Winter Solstice on the Riviera Maya. Nestled between the vibrant jungle and serene ocean waves, this journey honors the ancient cycles of life and welcomes the light of new beginnings. From December 21 to 22, Valise invites you to join in sacred rituals, creative expression, breath-work, and healing mantras that awaken and renew the spirit. Immerse yourself in a thoughtfully curated culinary experience designed to harmonize with the season’s energy, nourishing both body and soul. Celebrate the beauty of renewal and connection as you step into a new chapter, and indulge in exceptional dining on December 24th and 31st, completing this unforgettable experience.
Finger Lickin’ Festive Traditions in Japan with Valise
Celebrate Christmas with a twist in Japan, where the holiday season comes alive in a vibrant mix of festive lights and quirky traditions. Across the country, cities shimmer with stunning eco-friendly LED light displays, creating magical winter wonderlands that are as sustainable as they are beautiful. Experience the beloved Japanese tradition of enjoying a festive feast with KFC—yes, fried chicken has become the holiday meal of choice, thanks to a genius marketing campaign from the 70s. Skip the turkey and indulge in a truly unique Japanese Christmas, where every detail reflects the country’s creative and joyful take on the holiday season.
Heritage, Gothic Grandeur & Island Luxury in Thailand with Valise
Discover Thailand’s hidden gem of Chanthaburi, where rich heritage meets natural beauty. Just 250km from Bangkok, the gothic-style Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception stands as a stunning tribute to the city’s famous gem trade, housing a statue of the Virgin Mary adorned with over 200,000 precious stones. Celebrate the season with a Christmas Eve Mass and explore the vibrant Sunday gem market. Wander through the 300-year-old Waterfront Community, where Thai, Chinese, French, and Vietnamese-style houses have been transformed into museums, cafés, and guesthouses. Indulge in flavorful street food or enjoy a serene beachside seafood dinner. Then, unwind at Soneva Kiri, a nature-inspired luxury resort on the pristine island of Koh Kood, where island luxury and cultural charm come together for a truly unique holiday experience.