The holidays are around the corner, and you may be thinking about the usual suspects for your vacation destination—Florida, Hawaii, or maybe the Caribbean. But what about trying something new this year? Below are five unconventional holiday destinations to consider, each offering its own unique experience.
1. Iceland
Iceland may not be the first place that comes to mind when thinking of a holiday getaway, but it offers a winter experience like no other. With its many glaciers, hot springs, and geysers, Iceland is a must-see destination for anyone who loves the great outdoors. From hiking to ice climbing, there are plenty of activities to fill your days with. You can also visit Reykjavik, the capital city, which hosts a spectacular New Year’s Eve celebration complete with massive fireworks displays and bonfires.
If you’re lucky, you may even get to see the Northern Lights, a natural and truly breathtaking phenomenon. The best time to visit Iceland is during the winter months when daylight is limited, providing great opportunities for Northern Lights viewing.
2. Costa Rica
If you’re looking for adventure and relaxation all in one place, Costa Rica is the destination for you. With its beautiful beaches and rainforests, Costa Rica is a nature lover’s dream. You can explore the many rainforests on guided tours, go zip-lining, or try your hand at surfing. The beautiful beaches and waterfalls are perfect for relaxing and taking it all in.
One of the best things about Costa Rica is its eco-tourism industry. Many of the tour companies have a sustainable approach and aim to protect the natural environment, so you can feel good about supporting a good cause while having fun.
3. Lapland
Lapland, located in the Arctic Circle, is a magical destination for the holidays. It’s the home of Santa Claus, and there are plenty of opportunities to visit the famous Santa Claus Village and meet the man himself. You can also go dog sledding, ice fishing, and take a snowmobile safari through the beautiful winter landscapes.
One of the highlights of Lapland is the chance to see the Aurora Borealis, also known as the Northern Lights. This natural phenomenon is best seen during the winter months and is truly breathtaking.
4. New Orleans
If you’re looking for a festive holiday destination with great music, food, and culture, New Orleans is the perfect place. The city is known for its lively parties and parades, and the Christmas season is no exception. The French Quarter is full of festive lights and decorations, and there are plenty of holiday events to enjoy.
New Orleans is also known for its delicious food. There are numerous restaurants and food trucks serving up traditional Creole and Cajun dishes such as gumbo and jambalaya. And of course, no visit to New Orleans is complete without trying the famous beignets at Café Du Monde.
5. Japan
Japan may not typically be thought of as a holiday destination, but it offers a unique cultural experience. During the holiday season, the cities are lit up with beautiful lights displays, and there are plenty of traditional holiday celebrations to participate in.
Japan is also home to some of the best skiing in the world, with world-renowned ski resorts such as Niseko and Hakuba. And if skiing isn’t your thing, there are plenty of other winter activities to enjoy such as hot springs and winter festivals.
Conclusion
While the usual holiday destinations are certainly popular for a reason, there’s no harm in stepping outside of the box and trying something new. Iceland, Costa Rica, Lapland, New Orleans, and Japan all offer their own unique experiences that are sure to create unforgettable holiday memories. So do some research, pick a destination, and get ready for a holiday adventure of a lifetime.
