Cheap Travel Hacks For Your Next Vacation

EMBRACE THE CHILL

Bethlehem, PA

Just a 1.5 hour bus ride from NYC, Bethlehem, Pennsylvania is known as "Christmas City" for good reason. The Historic Main Street transforms into a winter party with twinkling lights, festive decorations, and holiday markets. The Christkindlmarkt is a must-see, offering handmade gifts, local crafts, and seasonal treats. Stroll around charming 18th century architecture and cobblestoned streets, visit the Moravian Book Shop, and stay and dine at the historic Hotel Bethlehem. Find holiday fun at the SteelStacks cultural center too, like a Gingerbread Competition, and visit the Trees of Historic Bethlehem exhibitat 1810 Goundie House, Kemerer Museum of Decorative Arts, the Moravian Museum of Bethlehem, and Single Sisters’ House for a festive experience.

Breckinridge, CO

Breckenridge, Colorado, less than two hours from Denver, is nestled at the base of the Rocky Mountains. The town is bustling with holiday spirit as snow blankets the charming streets and mountain peaks. From ski-in/out resorts to cozy cabins, there are plenty of ideal stays for your bucket-list mountain escape. Stroll back in time along Main Street in the historic downtown district and admire the colorful buildings dating back to the late 1800s. Once a mining town, now you’ll find boutique shops, galleries and restaurants like the James Beard-nominated Roostalk and Radicato. Take a scenic Gondola ride up to the mountains for winter fun and leave your car behind as all the buses are free in town. The town’s Holiday Lights and the Lighting of Breckenridge create holiday fun while you warm up at a cozy cafe after.

NYC, New York

If you've never visited NYC during the month of December, 2024 might be the year to cross that off your holiday wish list. The city comes alive, from uptown to downtown, with festive lights, decorations, and seasonal events, like the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree and nearby ice-skating rink beneath it. Window displays at stores like Macy’s and Saks Fifth Avenue offer stunning holiday scenes, while Christmas markets like the one at Bryant Park have indie gifts and local treats on hand. Central Park covered in snow is an amazing sight and you can explore NYC's darling tea places to warm up after, like Alice's Tea Cup inspired by Alice in Wonderland. Enjoy a Broadway show, grab a French-inspired brunch at Balthazar in Soho before shopping for last-minute gifts, and take the perfect holiday photo on the Brooklyn Bridge.

Prague

Visiting Prague in December feels like you've walked into a fairytale. The city's medieval architecture decorated with festive lights and snow creates this magical experience. The famous Old Town Square hosts one of Europe’s loveliest Christmas markets, where you can find handmade crafts, traditional Czech treats, and mulled wine. The Prague Castle and Charles Bridge offer stunning views of the city. Warm up in cozy cafés with a cup of hot chocolate or try local delicacies like trdelník, a sugary cake. If you have time, plan to extend your European winter escape and visit Vienna and Budapest for more unique Christmas markets, cultural events, and holiday trimmings.

Park City, UT

Just 35 minutes from the Salt Lake City airport, Park City, Utah is known for its luxe ski resorts like Deer Valley and Park City Mountain, making it a top destination for skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts (and après skiaficionados). Stroll the charming, historic Main Street for cozy restaurants like Firewood, art galleries, and local breweries, and enjoy activities like snowshoeing, snowmobiling, and taking scenic chairlift rides. It's the quintessential winter escape!

Paris, France

Here's a holiday getaway, Emily in Paris style. Holiday shop along the Champs-Élysées, where trees are lit up in spectacular red LED lights. While there, grab lunch and a macaron at Ladurée. The cooler temps and smaller crowds make it an ideal time to visit famous landmarks like the Eiffel Tower (catch a great view of it in the Christmas village at Trocadéro), the Louvre, and Notre-Dame Cathedral, where you'll find a Christmas market for the season (also check out the one at the Tuileries Gardens). Parisian cafés and bistros are enticing with warm and comforting dishes like onion soup, coq au vin, and decadent pastries. Sip a café au lait at Café Charlot in Le Marais or dig into the stunning bûche de Noël at the Butterfly Pâtisserie in the Hôtel de Crillon. After her last trip, Content Editor, Haley Sprankle can't recommend visiting Le Bon Georges — and their biblically long wine list — for a delicious meal enough. Regardless of where you wind up, you're sure to have something lovely!

Leavenworth, WA

This Bavarian-inspired escape is nestled in the heart of the Cascades between Seattle and Spokane. The town's charming alpine-style buildings are decked out in festive lights for the annual Christmas Lighting Festival while snow blankets the surrounding mountains. Enjoy winter activities like skiing, snowshoeing, and sleigh rides, and/or stroll through the streets for cozy shops, holiday treats, and German-inspired foods like bratwurst and pretzels. Enjoy the carolers, festive concerts, and holiday markets that fill the town with cheer too!

Burlington, VT

This charming winter escape offers a mix of festive holiday spirit and natural beauty. Snowy streets and nearby mountains create an IG-worthy setting. Church Street Marketplace, decorated for the season, is filled with cozy cafes, unique shops, and local artisans. Enjoy skiing or snowboarding, and sleigh rides, at nearby resorts like Stowe or Bolton Valley, while the scenic views of Lake Champlain are not to be missed. Take a factory tour of Ben & Jerry's too!

ESCAPE THE CHILL

Santa Barbara, CA

With sunny skies and spring-like temps, Santa Barbara beaches like Butterfly Beach and Arroyo Burro are perfect for strolls, picnics, and capturing coastal views. Visit the historic Old Mission Santa Barbara, beautifully lit up during the holiday season; shop and check out the annual Holiday Parade on State Street; and explore the Santa Barbara Botanic Garden for your reminder of outdoor plants. Take a scenic drive to the Santa Ynez Valley to enjoy wine tasting in cozy, festive tasting rooms, or visit Solvang, known for its Danish-style architecture and being "extra" around the holidays. December is also the start of the whale-watching season as gray whales migrate along the California coast so take a tour to catch an amazing sight of them!

The Florida Keys

With temperatures in the 70s and 80s, December is perfect for snorkeling, scuba diving, and kayaking in the clear waters of the Florida Keys, especially at spots like John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park. Known for its beautiful beaches, Bahia Honda State Park offers opportunities for swimming, hiking, and wildlife spotting, like dolphins, manatees, and various bird species. Key West's historic Old Town is beautifully lit up for the holidays, and you can visit iconic spots like the Ernest Hemingway Home. Stay at resorts like the Lime Tree Bay Resort and Ocean Key Resort to relax in warm-weather luxury while enjoying the festive holiday atmosphere.

San Miguel Allende, Mexico

Fly into Mexico City for a wonderful city, food, and culture experience, and then head over to San Miguel de Allende for a creative's dream. The city's colonial charm with cobblestone streets and historic buildings are decorated with beautiful lights and Christmas decorations, especially around the iconic Parroquia de San Miguel Arcángel. In mid-December, you can watch or participate in Las Posadas, a traditional Mexican reenactment of Mary and Joseph's journey to Bethlehem. The processions, music, and street celebrations make for a stunning cultural experience. San Miguel is also home to several art schools including Bellas Artes, and visitors can take workshops on their visit. The town hosts several holiday markets where you can buy local crafts, gifts, and festive food, and has a beautiful tradition of Christmas Eve Midnight Mass (La Misa de Gallo) at the Parroquia, often followed by fireworks in the main square (El Jardín).

Oahu, Hawaii

Even in December, Oahu offers warm temps, with highs around the mid-70s to low 80s°F. Sit with a good read and enjoy Oahu’s famous beaches like Waikiki Beach, Lanikai Beach, and Kailua Beach. Surfing is especially big this time of year, with the North Shore experiencing massive winter swells, perfect for watching pro surfers during events like the Vans Triple Crown of Surfing, between November 12 and December 20. For calmer waters, snorkeling in spots like Hanauma Bay is beautiful. Humpback whales migrate to Hawaii’s warm waters in December, and you can often spot them from the shore or on a whale-watching tour. This is also a great time to hike Oahu’s scenic trails, like Diamond Head, Makapu’u Point Lighthouse Trail, and Manoa Falls, where you can enjoy lush greenery and stunning views.

Aruba

December weather in Aruba ranges between 80-85°F with plenty of sunshine. Aruba’s pristine beaches like Eagle Beach and Palm Beach are a highlight. Swim, sunbathe, snorkel, or simply relax by the crystal-clear waters. Explore the island’s coral reefs, shipwrecks like the Antilla, and enjoy water sports such as jet skiing or paddleboarding. Inland, you can explore Arikok National Parkfor hiking, cave tours, and discovering Aruba’s unique desert-like landscapes. The capital, Oranjestad, is beautifully lit for the holidays, and you’ll find Christmas markets, parades, and holiday concerts happening throughout the month with a mix of its Dutch heritage with Caribbean flair.

Charleston, SC

Charleston is one of the most charming cities and appeals to every kind of traveler, from beach lovers to urban explorers. Dive into city life downtown, where you'll find delicious dining options like French-inspired Felix, Husk (known for its Southern fare), or great-for-brunch Poogan's Porch. Indulge in downtown shopping (there's a whole day's worth here) and relax with a spa treatment at The Charleston Place, also a great place to stay right in the heart of town. Stroll along the charming streets filled with everything from Colonial to Georgian to Classic and Gothic Revival homes, all photo-worthy and jaw-dropping. Enjoy the fresh sea air with early morning or dusk walks along the waterfront to avoid the heat, or take a sunset cruise with a wine toast. Don't miss the chance to visit nearby beaches too, like Sullivan's Island, where celebrities like Reese Witherspoon and Bill Murray reportedly own homes.

Sedona, AZ

Located two hours north from Phoenix, this small town is a destination for those who want a bit of rest and relaxation and a natural spiritual boost. As soon as you arrive in town, you're struck by the intense beauty of the legendary red rock buttes that surround the town. There are forests filled with pine trees, junipers, and cacti, as well as a stunning canyon and peaceful creek. While Sedona is known for its natural beauty, it's also a hotbed of activity. There are hikes, bike rides, wild jeep tours, spa treatments, spiritual readings, and a delicious assortment of restaurants. Check out Mii Amo for an all-inclusive wellness getaway. Here you’ll find 23 casitas with private balconies or patios, in-room kiva fireplaces and soaking tubs, as well as a new restaurant called Hummingbird. The Hummingbird menu includes items like salmon ceviche, duck breast, poulet rouge, and gluten-free and vegan selections. Daily guided meditations and special presentations and ceremonies (examples include a Summer Solstice Ceremony and Canyon Bathing) create an ideal environment to slow down and refocus, and at the Enchantment Resort next door you’ll find additional amenities you can use while exploring the surrounding 400 miles of trails.

Nashville, TN

Historically, Music City has been mostly known for one thing (music), but in the last few years, the city has been attracting artists of all genres, from chefs to musicians, helping to bolster the city’s reputation as a trendy, must-visit destination. Whether you’re looking to make some sweet music or you’re after another creative endeavor, Nashville’s growing arts and makers scene is hitting all the right notes. Step back in time at Union Station Hotel, a train-station-turned-hotel. The architecture of the early 1900s Romanesque building, the primo location (within walking distance of The Gulch and other nightlife hot spots) and the newly updated modern-meets-historic rooms make this one of the city’s swankiest spots to crash. Enjoy some Southern BBQ at Shotgun Willie’s in East Nashville (top it off with some bourbon banana pudding), shop vintage at the Old Made Good (OMG), which repurposes antiques and thrift-store finds into something extra special; and catch live music at the Bluebird Cafe, where artists like Taylor Swift and Faith Hill had their career-defining moments.

Miami, FL

Miami is a perfect getaway with girlfriends seeking sunshine and nightlife. The award-winning Eden Roc Miami Beach is a solid, oceanfront stay with bright, spacious rooms and multiple pools. The resort is located in Mid Beach so you’re close to all the South Beach buzz, but also far enough to catch a break in a more relaxing environment. For brunch with a side of pool party, book a table at Strawberry Moon, where brunch is served Friday through Sunday in an gorgeous setting. This particular stretch of Miami Beach is the most popular amongst tourists (less so with locals) so you might have some crowds, but it’s worth it to experience quintessential Miami. For a more local experience, head a bit north and pull up your chair at Haulover Beach. Come dinnertime, Española Way is one of the best streets in South Beach. Strolling up and down this pedestrians-only, European-style street, you could easily forget you’re in Miami. Pop into Tropezón for Spanish tapas and creative gin cocktails in an Andalusian-inspired space, then continue the night at M2 or LIV for megaclub vibes, and don’t be surprised if you bump into celebrities at the latter.

Newport, RI

This seaside town in Rhode Island is home to Gilded Age mansions and some of the best beaches along the east coast. Only one hour from Boston and three hours from New York City (without traffic), Newport is accessible via train or bus from either East Coast capital. Go island hopping to the coves of Jamestown and the diminutive Goat Island, and enjoy the view from the fields of Hammersmith Farm (Jackie Kennedy’s summer home). Another must-do for any first-time traveler to Newport is the Cliff Walk, a walking trail that winds along the coast from First Beach (and the mansions on Bellevue) to the sandy shores of Ocean Drive. When it comes to Newport nightlife, there’s one spot that’s the center of it all: Clarke Cooke House, a three-story bar that includes a midlevel for open-air cocktails, a raw bar, and live music, while the basement plays host to an underground nightclub. For food: Flo’s Clam Shack, next to First Beach, is iconic for its quahogs and fried seafood and Newport Creamery is a local go-to for ice cream. Also, a sunset sail is sure to appeal to rosé aficionados.

Canyon Ranch, CA

Secluded within 16 acres of majestic redwoods in Northern California is the all-inclusive Canyon Ranch Woodside. There are additional locations in Tucson, Lenox (outside of Boston), and Las Vegas. If you find forest bathing appealing, this is the ideal wellness getaway for you. Stay in one of 24 luxe treehouse rooms that peek through the forest, to ropes courses and guided meditations that take place under the magnificent canopy. Locally sourced dining menus are served al fresco or in a cozy dining room and include afternoon tapas, colorful salads, and fresh salmon. Each day, Canyon Ranch offers dozens of mind-body activities including hiking, kayaking, mountain biking, dancing, and free-flow abstract painting. Upcoming summer wellness presentations and workshops focus on themes such as “Wisdom of the Horse and Herd” equine therapy; “Activating Your Empathy and Intuition”; and “Find Your Purpose.” Spa treatments include Forest Aromatherapy Treatment and Hiker’s Retreat, designed to perk up your feet after a strenuous hike.

Arches National Park, Utah

More than 2,000 natural stone arches make Arches National Park a special place in Utah. Travelers from around the world come to see the rare colored formations and brilliant sunsets that light up the sky each night. Hikers and rock climbers will love the endless options for exploring, while more low-key visitors are sure to dig the camping (don’t miss Devil’s Garden!), photo ops and ranger-led nature walks. Bring a bike or car to see as much of the 18-mile scenic road as you can or to journey to the nearby Canyonlands National Park or Dead Horse Point State Park. If you don’t want to stay inside one of the national parks, plan to book a hotel or Airbnb in Moab — it’s just four miles away and has tasty restaurants and some seriously cool shops.

NYC

New York City is an irresistible girls trip nearly anytime of year. From the free summer concerts in the park to the fall foliage in and around the city to the holiday buzz from Rockefeller Center to Union Square, the city offers so many exciting adventures ideal for a girls' trip. Shop anywhere from Fifth Avenue to Soho to the Brooklyn Flea for vintage finds. Sightsee along landmarks like the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island with a ferry ride, Governor’s Island for a bike ride, or the High Line for a chill escape from the bustle. West Village is a scene out of Sex and the City with charming brownstones and delightful eateries like Boucherie. Enjoy Italian fare at Eataly, a rooftop drink at Panorarama Room from Roosevelt Island's Graduate hotel, high tea at the Plaza Hotel, and a spa treatment at Great Jones Spa. There's so much to pack in! Explore museums like the MoMA and Met too, and catch a Broadway show like Tony-winningStereophonic to top off your trip.

Big Sky, Montana

Known for legendary skiing and easy access to Yellowstone National Park, the Big Sky area is perfect for immersing yourself in the great outdoors. Yellowstone is full of wildlife, waterfalls, geysers, and geologic wonders. Explore on horseback or by foot, the canyon ravines, many hiking trails, and wildflower-filled fields in the warmer months, as well as zip-lining, whitewater rafting, paddle-boarding, and tubing. After, chill with a customized spa treatment at one of the many spas, like the Solace at the Big Sky Resort, or go for a soak in the Bozeman Hot Springs. Check out Bozeman for delicious food and drink, like wood-fired pizzas at Blackbird and wine at Plonk.

Chicago

Chicago has one of the best city vibes that blends Midwestern friendliness with big-city sophistication. Take in scenic river walks and hop on an architecture river cruise to get a lay of the land. Shop the Magnificent Mile, Wicker Park’s trendy boutiques and Fulton Market. Art lovers will fawn over The Art Institute of Chicago, and Second City comedy shows make for a fun night out. Try Beatrix for brunch, Cindy’s Rooftop for stunning views of beautiful Millennium Park and Lake Michigan, and a cooking class at the Chopping Block to bond with your girls. Don’t miss the deep dish Chicago pizza at Lou Malnati's Pizzeria and inventive cocktails at The Aviary before you wrap up your weekend!

Santa Fe, NM

B+C founder Brit Morin recently hosted a girls trip to Santa Fe, and it was the perfect weekend for her creative friends. They started the trip with a photography class at Santa Fe Photographic Workshops and explored the city behind the lens. They stayed at the Inn of the Five Graces — think maximalist style and comfort with a Santa Fe twist. Ofc, you cannot visit Santa Fe without a stop at the Georgia O’Keefe’s Home at Ghost Ranch. Some of Brit's personal highlights: Soaking in the Japanese-inspired tubs at Ten Thousand Waves spa and shooting cowboy photos at Mortenson’s Ranch where celebs like Tom Hanks have filmed movies. "We packed in quite an adventure taking in the art, color, food and natural beauty of the city, all while upping our Instagram game. I cannot wait to go back," she said.

Sonoma, CA

My favorite place to live is also my favorite place for people to come visit! Sonoma is Napa Valley's charming cousin, but a little more laid back with walk-in wineries and delicious eateries that don't require a months-in-advance reservation. The Lodge at Sonoma is one of my favorite spa experiences with private warm pool and sauna area, plus cozy private reading areas before you get your treatment. MacArthur Hotel is another favorite with their outdoor restaurant Layla, that is stunning in design and perfect for a leisurely lunch. The Fairmont Mission Inn & Spa is another must on my visitor list — cozy outdoor firepits are perfect for grabbing a bite to eat and a glass of wine (Friday nights they have live music and food trucks in the summer). All of the above can be a bit pricey for an overnight but you can definitely take advantage of their amenities without an overnight stay. Take a bike ride along the Sonoma bike path, which cuts straight to the town square for shopping and eating (Sunflower Caffe has a darling garden in the back) and Valley Bar and Bottle offers inventive California cuisine that's sourced locally and so delicious in an outdoor setting. The bike path leads to two Sonoma wineries — Bartholomew Estate Winery, where you can do a short hike into the oak grove of the winery or grab a bottle and a picnic table in the park and California's first winery, Buena Vista Winery, built in 1857. Cheers!

Venice, Italy

Bali, Indonesia

Once an idyllic paradise, Bali now suffers from traffic congestion, environmental degradation, and overcrowded beaches. The island’s resources are strained under the weight of mass tourism, but there are efforts underway to promote sustainability like putting a moratorium on new hotels.

Machu Picchu, Peru

Overtourism has led to erosion and damage to this ancient Incan citadel. A quota system and mandatory guides are helping preserve this popular South American destination.

Tulum, Mexico

Once a tranquil paradise known for its pristine beaches, ancient Mayan ruins, and eco-chic vibe, Tulum has become a cautionary tale of overtourism. The surge in popularity, fueled by Instagram-worthy scenery, has brought overcrowding, environmental strain, and rising costs. The Guardianreported that locals are being pushed out by developers and despite the thinking that tourism helps local communities, poverty nearly doubled between 2015 and 2020. Local ecosystems, including fragile mangroves and coral reefs, are threatened by unchecked construction and pollution too. The local ruins have implemented stricter rules like no food or drink to limit trash and environmental impact from tourists.

Santorini, Greece

Instagram fame has turned this once-serene island into a tourist hotspot. Narrow streets are perpetually clogged, and locals are struggling with soaring costs of living due to tourism demand. The government has since capped the number of daily cruise ship visitors to keep overtourism at bay.

Cinque Terre, Italy

Known for its colorful cliffside villages and breathtaking coastal views, these once-quiet fishing towns now see millions of visitors annually, way more than they can handle. To combat issues like congestion and cruise ships, local authorities have introduced visitor caps and encourage sustainable travel to protect Cinque Terre’s charm.

Reykjavík, Iceland

Is there anyone not going to Iceland these days? A small country with breathtaking landscapes, Iceland has been overwhelmed by tourists flocking to Instagram-famous sites like the Blue Lagoon and Diamond Beach. It's best to travel during the off season (November to April) and travel to lesser known spots like the Sturlungalaug hot spring.

Maya Bay, Thailand (Phi Phi Islands)

This iconic beach, popularized by the DiCaprio film The Beach, suffered ecological devastation from hordes of visitors and anchored boats. Coral reefs were destroyed, and the beach was closed for years to allow recovery. It has since reopened after a huge revitalization project, but they have introduced visitor caps.

Kyoto, Japan

Traditionally quiet streets of this ancient capital city now teem with tourists during peak season. An increase in litter from tourists has required the city to install more trash bins to handle the crowds, and peaceful geishas are often chased down for photos. To mitigate the problem, Kyoto is considering running special buses to popular sites to reduce overcrowding, and temples and shrines are encouraging visitors to come early in the morning.

Mount Everest, Nepal

The ultimate challenge for adventurers, Mount Everest has experienced overcrowding on the slopes and at base camps, leading to dangerous conditions, with litter and human waste piling up on the mountain. Permits are now harder to get, and stricter regulations for climbers are being enforced.

Dubrovnik, Croatia

The Game of Thrones effect brought an influx of fans to this medieval city. Overcrowded streets and cruise ship arrivals have made it difficult to appreciate its beauty. The local government is taking steps to limit daily visitors and impose stricter cruise ship regulations.

Lisbon, Portugal

Short-term rentals dominate the housing market now, thanks to affordable flights and the digital nomad craze. This has led to skyrocketing rents and displaced locals. Historic neighborhoods are inundated with tourists, making them less charming too. Everything from public transport to waste management struggles to keep pace with the influx. I went in December and it still felt a bit like Disneyland. Douro Valley and Madeira might be more favorable destinations any time of year.