10 Days to Christmas: My Top 10 Travel Destinations to Inspire Your Next Trip
As we count down to Christmas, I love reminding my clients that some of the best gifts aren’t wrapped, they’re experienced. Travel memories last far longer than anything under the tree, and this season is the perfect time to start dreaming about what’s next.
For my 10-Day Countdown to Christmas, I’m sharing my top 10 travel destinations — places I love planning, trips my clients rave about, and experiences that show I plan far more than just cruises.
Each day highlights one destination to spark inspiration. If one of these feels like your next adventure, I’d love to help you plan it.
Day 1: Italy — Food and History in Perfect Balance
Italy never disappoints. Incredible food, world-changing history, charming cities, and breathtaking countryside often all in one day. From Rome and Florence to Venice and beyond, Italy is ideal for travelers who want culture, flavor, and unforgettable experiences.
Best Time to Go
April–June & September–October
Mild weather, fewer crowds, and ideal sightseeing conditions. Spring and fall offer the best balance.
Day 2: Spain — History, Gaudí & the Sagrada Familia
Park Güell, Barcelona
Spain is vibrant, layered, and full of character. From ancient streets to Gaudí’s artistic genius and the awe-inspiring Sagrada Familia, Spain blends history and creativity beautifully. Barcelona may be the gateway, but Spain offers so much more.
Best Time to Go
April–June & September–October
Comfortable temperatures and fewer crowds make this perfect for walking-heavy itineraries.
Day 3: Greece — Ancient Stories and Seaside Charm
Temple of Aphaia - Island of Aegina, Greece
Greece combines timeless history with relaxed coastal beauty. Think ruins, seaside villages, incredible food, and scenery that feels untouched by time.
Best Time to Go
May–June & September
Warm water, beautiful weather, and fewer crowds than peak summer months.
A hidden gem in Cancun
Day 4: Cancun — The Ultimate All-Inclusive Escape
Sometimes the best vacation is the simplest one. Cancun delivers white-sand beaches, turquoise water, and all-inclusive resorts designed for total relaxation. With a wide range of resort styles — from adults-only to luxury and family-friendly — it’s easy to tailor the experience to exactly what you’re looking for.
Best Time to Go
January–April
Dry season with warm temperatures and lower humidity, making it the most comfortable time to visit.
Day 5: Canyon Spirit — Journey Through the Wondrous Southwest
Moab
Experience one of the most scenic rail journeys in the American West with Canyon Spirit. This unforgettable route travels from Denver to Salt Lake City, with stunning stops in Glenwood Springs and Moab, showcasing dramatic canyons, red-rock landscapes, and wide-open skies.
Best Time to Go
April–October
Late spring through early fall offers the most dramatic scenery and comfortable travel conditions.
Day 6: Alaska — Wild, Beautiful, and Unforgettable
Mendenhall Glacier -Juneau, Alaska
Alaska is one of those destinations that stays with you forever. Glaciers, wildlife, towering mountains, and wide-open spaces make it unforgettable whether experienced by cruise, land tour, or a combination of both.
Best Time to Go
May–September
Cruise and land tour season runs during these months, with the warmest temperatures and peak wildlife viewing.
Day 7: River Cruises — Scenic Season & Christmas Market Magic
Christmas Markets along the Danube
River cruising is a beautiful way to explore Europe from April through October, offering scenic sailing, historic towns, and immersive cultural experiences. That said, my personal favorite is Christmas market season, when cozy towns, twinkling lights, charming markets, and warm glühwein create a truly magical atmosphere.
Best Time to Go
April–October (Full Season)
Favorite: Late November–December for Christmas Markets
Day 8: Ireland — Cliffs, Castles, and Countryside
Ireland
Ireland is full of heart and character. Rolling green hills, dramatic coastlines, historic castles, and welcoming villages make it a favorite for travelers who love scenery and storytelling.
Best Time to Go
May & September
The best balance of good weather, beautiful scenery, and fewer crowds. Summer is warm and lively but busier; winter is cozy but darker and wetter.
Day 9: Canadian Rockies — Banff & Lake Louise
Lake Louise - Canadian Rockies
This journey through the Canadian Rockies is truly bucket-list worthy. From luxury rail travel to breathtaking mountain scenery, Banff and Lake Louise offer some of the most photographed landscapes in the world.
Best Time to Go
June–August: Turquoise lakes, hiking, and long daylight
September: Golden larches, cooler temperatures, fewer crowds
April–May: Snowy peaks, waterfalls, quieter travel
Day 10: St. Lucia — Romance and Honeymoon Perfection
St Lucia
St. Lucia was made for romance. Dramatic mountain views, lush landscapes, and stunning resorts make it ideal for honeymoons, anniversaries, or couples celebrating something special.
Best Time to Go
December–April
Dry season with warm temperatures — perfect for romance-focused travel.
✨ Ready to Plan Your Next Adventure?
This 10-day countdown is just a glimpse of what’s possible. Whether you’re dreaming about travel in 2026 or even 2027, planning a special celebration, or finally checking off a long-time bucket-list destination, I’m here to help you choose the right destination at the right time and handle all the details in between.
Travel planning doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With the right guidance, it can be exciting, seamless, and something you truly look forward to.
🎄 Join Me on a Christmas Markets River Cruise — December 2027
If Christmas markets have been calling your name, I’m excited to share that I’ll be hosting a Danube Christmas Markets river cruise in December 2027 — and I’ll be onboard for the journey. This festive sailing will visit charming European towns filled with twinkling lights, traditional markets, seasonal treats, and plenty of warm glühwein along the way.
I currently have limited group space available, and I recommend reaching out early if this is something you’d like to be part of.
Deposit: $750 per person
Occupancy: Double occupancy only
Availability: Group space is limited and offered on a first-come, first-served basis
If this sounds like the kind of holiday experience you’ve been dreaming about, let’s talk soon to secure your room and start planning.
CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION!
📩 When you’re ready — whether for this river cruise or another trip entirely — I’d love to help send you on your next adventure.
-Melissa❤️
Melissa@wandersbymelissa.com | wandersbymelissa.com | 601-540-7336
