Gift Guide: Give the Gift of Travel

Kick off the year with a luxurious, yacht-style escape to the Mediterranean with Windstar Cruises, where winter’s quieter rhythm lets you experience this storied region like a true local. Without the crush of summer crowds, the Mediterranean reveals its most alluring side — its cliff-hugging villages, ancient palaces, and timeless monuments yours to enjoy at a more intimate pace.

From the magnificent Cinque Terre and the culturally transcendent Alhambra to the storied Belém Tower, the wonders come one after another, each more captivating than the last — and Windstar brings you closer to them than ever. Their small, elegant yachts slip effortlessly into scenic ports that larger ships can only admire from afar. Sail up the Guadalquivir River—Spain’s only navigable river—directly into vibrant Seville, or anchor in the very heart of Old Town Dubrovnik as the big vessels glide by. Browse a bustling Mediterranean market alongside a Windstar Chef, savor authentic moments in Giardini Naxos, Portofino, and Mallorca, and wake to a new port almost every day. Thoughtfully curated and rich with cultural immersion, a Windstar journey transforms the Mediterranean into your own private playground of discovery.

Surprise the nature lover in your life with a gift that rises far above the ordinary: an unforgettable journey to Yellowstone National Park. Home to thundering geysers, roaming bison and elk, and some of the most dramatic landscapes in the American wilderness, Yellowstone offers the kind of awe that stays with you long after you’ve returned home.

Visit during the park’s “secret season,” when winter transforms Yellowstone into a serene, snow-draped wonderland — steam drifting from geysers, wolves padding through frosted valleys, and hot springs glowing against the cold. Or plan ahead for summer and secure coveted lodge stays and in-demand tours, perfect for exploring the park’s vibrant trails and geothermal marvels at their peak. Guided tours make it easier than ever to deepen your connection to the park, whether your passion is photography, hiking, wildlife watching, or simply soaking up the magic of America’s first national park. No matter the season, Yellowstone invites you on an adventure that feels both timeless and utterly extraordinary.

The Oasis at Death Valley beckons travelers to a tranquil refuge where warm breezes, natural springs, and swaying palms create an atmosphere that feels worlds away from winter’s chill. Early 2026 is an ideal moment to experience this extraordinary desert escape — float in spring-fed pools framed by dramatic mountain views, wander through otherworldly landscapes on sun-drenched hikes, or tee off at the world’s lowest-elevation golf course for a round you’ll be talking about long after you’ve left. With limited-time offers like the Unlimited Golf Package, guests can elevate their stay with endless play for two at either the historic Four Diamond Inn or the welcoming, family-friendly Ranch. Situated in the heart of Death Valley National Park, The Oasis truly lives up to its name — a rare sanctuary in one of America’s most captivating landscapes.

Winter at the Grand Canyon is a season many travelers never think to experience — yet those who do discover a place transformed. The summer crowds have vanished, leaving the vast expanse of the canyon serene and almost silent, its layered walls dusted with snow that sparkles. The low winter light paints the cliffs in hues of rose and amber, revealing details easy to miss in other seasons. It’s a time when the Grand Canyon feels more intimate, more mysterious, and more breathtaking than ever.

The historic Grand Canyon Railway makes the journey even more memorable. Departing from Williams, Arizona, the vintage train winds through pine forests and high-desert landscapes, with lively onboard entertainment and storytelling that brings the region’s history to life.

Arriving steps from the South Rim, you’re free to wander quiet trails, warm up in a historic lodge, or watch sunrise ignite the snowy cliffs. Paired with the charm of the railway, a winter visit to the Grand Canyon becomes a beautifully timeless adventure.

Alaska and Hawaii belong on everyone’s travel bucket list — and Holiday Vacations makes exploring these dream destinations effortless and extraordinary.

In Alaska, prepare to be humbled by the sheer scale of the landscape. Stand before the towering peaks of Denali National Park, home to North America’s highest summit, and feel the quiet power of the wilderness all around you. Cruise past shimmering glaciers, watch for whales and bald eagles, and, if conditions are right, look up to find the Northern Lights dancing across the night sky. It’s the kind of journey that stays with you forever — raw, wild, and truly unforgettable.

Or trade snowcapped mountains for swaying palms on a Holiday Vacations getaway to Hawaii. With five thoughtfully curated island itineraries, you can dive into the culture, history, and natural beauty of this tropical paradise at your own pace. Spend your days wandering volcanic landscapes, discovering local traditions, or simply relaxing at luxurious oceanfront hotels where golden beaches and emerald-green mountains are just steps away. Whether you’re chasing adventure or pure relaxation, Hawaii invites you to slow down, explore deeply, and savor every sun-drenched moment.

For history enthusiasts or wine aficionados on your list, VBT Bicycling Vacations offers the perfect gift: a captivating cycling journey through France’s Burgundy wine region! 

This six-night adventure follows the famed Route des Vins, where rolling vineyards, storybook villages, and centuries-old châteaux create an unforgettable backdrop. Travelers can savor world-renowned wines, indulge in exquisite regional cuisine, and pedal through landscapes steeped in heritage and romance. The experience doesn’t have to end there — extend the journey with a post-trip stay in Paris and toast to adventure beneath the glow of the City of Light.

Guided by knowledgeable local experts who share insider stories and hidden gems, this immersive cycling trip offers an authentic slice of Burgundy life. Whether exploring solo or alongside someone special, it’s an experience that promises inspiration, discovery, and memories to last a lifetime.

Give yourself—or someone you love—something far more meaningful than a wrapped gift: the promise of an unforgettable journey. A Xanterra Travel Collection® experience offers anticipation, adventure, and memories that last long after the holidays have come and gone. After all, the greatest gifts aren’t things — they’re the experiences that stay with us forever.