Top 10 "Vaxication" Destinations, According to Kayak

Drive the Pacific Coast Highway

Say hello to breathtaking coastal views, charming towns, and iconic landmarks along this stretch of California. Start in the north near Monterey and visit the Monterey Bay Aquarium and stroll the Cannery Row waterfront. Heading south, stop in Big Sur and take photos from Bixby Creek Bridgeand spot purple sand at Pfeiffer Beach. Go chasing waterfalls at McWay Falls in Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park before stopping in the picturesque town of Carmel-by-the-Sea. History buffs and decor lovers will want to stop at Hearst Castle, an OTT estate perched high above the coastline. Take in the laid-back charm of Morro Bay and end your trip in Santa Barbara, A.K.A the “American Riviera,” with its Spanish-inspired architecture and pretty beaches.

View the Northern Lights in Alaska

Spot the ethereal greens, purples, and reds swirling across the sky between September and March. Fairbanks is a prime location, offering the best viewing conditions and aurora tours. Venture to Chena Hot Springs Resort for a unique experience watching the lights in the sky while soaking in natural hot springs. Remote locations like Denali National Park or Coldfoot Camp near the Arctic Circle offer even more dramatic displays away from light pollution.

Shoot Your Best Shot at Antelope Canyon

Explore the stunning natural beauty of the American Southwest with a trip to The Grand Canyon and then to Antelope Canyon, less than two hours from each other. Start at the Grand Canyon National Park, and catch the best views of the remarkable rock formations at overlooks like Mather Point and Hopi Point. Nearby, visit Antelope Canyon, a photo lover’s dream with its narrow sandstone walls that are highlighted by sunlight. Just a short drive away, Horseshoe Bend provides a jaw-dropping view of the Colorado River as it winds around a dramatic rock formation.

Stroll the Mossy Streets of Savannah, GA

Feel like you've stepped back in time with a visit to Savannah, Georgia, where you'll stroll cobblestone streets and admire historic architecture under moss-draped oak trees. Stroll through the charming Historic District, home to landmarks like Forsyth Park and River Street, where shops and cafes overlook the Savannah River. Take a guided ghost tour of Bonaventure Cemetery. Indulge in Southern cuisine at iconic spots like The Olde Pink House or Mrs. Wilkes’ Dining Roombefore heading back to your cozy room at the Bellwether House.

Ride A Hot Air Balloon Above Napa Valley

Rise and shine early for a hot air balloon ride over Napa Valley and float above the rolling vineyards with panoramic views. After your flight, stop by Oakville Grocery, the oldest continually operating grocery store in California, which has become a scene for San Francisco visitors. Grab wood-fired pizzas, the best chocolate chip cookies you'll find in town, and picnic essentials for outdoor dining. After, visit the new tasting garden, also known as the Wren, at Bella Union Winery, where you can enjoy an elegant Cabernet Sauvignon by the glass or by the bottle. Stop by their family of wineries, Nickel & Nickel and Far Niente, too. On day two, indulge in a spa day at the bougey Meadowood.

Jazz & Dine In New Orleans

Enjoy jazz, blues, gospel, and more at the New Orleans Jazz Fest (April 24-May 4) and explore this iconic city. Try Commander’s Palace for upscale Creole classics or Willie Mae’s Scotch House for award-winning fried chicken. Sip cocktails at The Carousel Bar or indulge in a Sazerac at Arnaud’s French 75 Bar.

Visit Old Faithful at Yellowstone

This national park atop a volcanic hot spot spreads from Wyoming into parts of Montana and Idaho and features dramatic canyons, alpine rivers, lush forests, hot springs and active geysers, including its most famous, Old Faithful.Spot bison, bears, and elk in Lamar Valley or Hayden Valley and stay at theOld Faithful Inn(opens May 2, 2025) for its historic charm and proximity to the park’s famous geyser.

Snorkel With Sea Turtles In Oahu

Visit this tropical paradise and take an eco-certified snorkel tour with sea turtles, known locally as honu, in crystal-clear waters. Head to the stunning Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve, a protected marine sanctuary full of colorful fish and turtles, and explore Oahu’s iconic spots like Diamond Head, Waikiki, and the surf lover's North Shore. Turtle Canyon off Waikiki Beach or Laniakea Beach on the North Shore, often called “Turtle Beach,” are more turtle-loving spots.

Take The Most Scenic Train Ride To Chicago

Prefer the serene charm of train travel? The California Zephyr is one of North America's most beautiful long-distance train rides. This iconic route runs between Chicago and San Francisco, taking you through the stunning, snow-capped Sierra Nevada mountains, the dramatic peaks of the Rockies, and the plains of Nebraska. Pass through Denver and Salt Lake City and soak in views from the comfort of the panoramic train cars. This is an unforgettable way to witness the natural beauty of America's midwest.

Spot Orcas Along the San Juan Islands

The San Juan Islands, nestled in the Pacific Northwest, are the perfect escape for whale watching, kayaking, and exploring charming villages likeFriday Harbor. Access the islands via the Washington State Ferry System. Orcas Islandis the largest in the archipelago. Explore Moran State Park, home to hiking trails and stunning views from Mount Constitution, and book a whale watching tour to spot orcas, humpbacks, minkes, and gray whales, even bald eagles!

Art Hop In Santa Fe

Santa Fe is a haven for art lovers. Start your visit on Canyon Road, a lively arts district lined with more than 100 galleries showcasing everything from Native American pottery to contemporary sculptures. Visit the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum to view her most important works, and then brunch at Dolina Bakery & Cafe or dine at the Spanish-inspired La Boca. Share a cozy casita at the stunning Bishop Lodge and explore the Santa Fe National Forest. Day trips: Drive about an hour to O’Keefe’s home and Ghost Ranch, a stunning education center nestled near the red and yellow cliffs of the Piedra Lumbre. Take a drive along the scenic Turquoise Trail, which links Albuquerque and Santa Fe, and catch a breathtaking view from atop Sandia Crest (stop through the mining towns of Golden and Madrid too).

Stargaze in Bryce Canyon

Book an unforgettable adventure in Utah’s red rock country. Known for its stunning red, orange, and white hoodoos, ortowering rock formations, Bryce Canyon National Park is a photographer and nature lover’s dream. Start with Sunrise Point for breathtaking views and explore trails like the Navajo Loop or Queen’s Garden, which take you up close to these geological wonders. For a panoramic experience, drive along Scenic Byway 12 or visit Bryce Point at sunset. Stargazing here is awe-inspiring, with some of the darkest skies in the U.S.

Visit The Southernmost Point of the U.S.

Key West, once home to literary legends like Ernest Hemingway, Tennessee Williams, Elizabeth Bishop, and Robert Frost, as well as musician Jimmy Buffett, feels like a nostalgic journey to the past. Stroll along palm-lined streets and admire the pastel-hued, Victorian-era gingerbread houses and tin-roofed conch-style homes. Enjoy live music and sip Hurricane cocktails at outdoor bars, and explore its vibrant coral reefs just 90 miles north of Cuba.

Spot Wild Horses In The Outer Banks

One of the most magical experiences is seeing the wild horses, believed to be descendants of Spanish Mustangs, that roam freely along the shores of the Outer Banks in North Carolina. Head to the upscale Corolla or Shackleford Banks, where guided tours give you the chance to witness these beautiful creatures in their natural habitat. Pair this with visits to landmarks like the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse or a drive along the scenic Highway 12.

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.

1. Actually Use Your Planner In 2025

We're not buying pretty planners just so they can collect dust on our desks or coffee tables anymore. Corry Frazier and Melissa Pepin want you to get serious because they feel "it starts with planning." They don't mean the kind you eventually flake on either.

"Effective planning is key to maintaining balance and reducing burnout. Whether you're mapping out tasks, meetings, or events, dedicated time for preparation ensures focus and reduces stress," they say. In other words, "the more intentional you are in planning, the more productive you'll be," according to them.

Ever since I've been blocking out my tasks by hour in planner, I've been able to get more done without feeling overwhelmed by splitting my time between writing and being in mommy mode. Frazier and Pepin suggest that you "set weekly planning sessions" that consist of "30-60 minutes each weekend to map out your upcoming week."

This eventually "reduces decision fatigue, fosters a sense of control, and helps you start Monday with clarity and purpose," they add. Yes, this is a sign that you'll be breaking up with the dreaded 'Sunday scaries' if you follow their advice. "You'll feel proactive and grounded rather than reacting to the week as it unfolds," they agree.

2. Embrace A "Fake Commute" When Working From Home

One of Kayla Baum's tips is to switch up your routine if you're a remote worker. Rolling out of the bed at the last minute before logging on for work sounds appealing until you realize you're uninspired by your days. But, what is a "fake commute?"

"It mimics the structure of a traditional commute to establish a boundary between work and personal life. This could mean taking a walk around the block, doing a 10-minute guided meditation, or even just changing clothes at the end of the day," Baum mentions.

Based on her experience, she's found that "it works because it provides a psychological buffer, helping to separate work and home life." She feels it's "crucial for positive mental health and boosting productivity at work (and at home)."

You can also create a separate work space that's not in your bedroom to get work done! That's helped me tremendously so I'm not sleeping and working in the same area.

3. Focus On High-Impact Tasks

Similar to planning your work days as best as you can, Frazier and Pepin want you to "prioritize the tasks that align with your goals." To minimize distractions, they want you to ask yourself:

• What is the most effective use of my time right now?

4. Stop Making Daily Decisions Hard

Tasks like your morning routine or figuring out what you'll eat don't have to take up a chunk of your time anymore. "Use productivity hacks, such as pre-planning meals or laying out weekly outfits," suggest Frazier and Pepin. They feel that "small routines like this eliminate unnecessary choices" to "make mornings smoother."

According to them, it's "especially helpful for families juggling multiple schedules." I couldn't agree more because I've spent so many frazzled mornings trying to make decisions about what myself and my toddler would wear or eat instead of planning them. With the help of my fiancé, we've cut so much time in half by being prepared ahead of time instead of 'winging it' before work.

5. Understand What Your Boundaries Are And Set Them

Worried that you'll be considered 'mean' if you tell your manager or coworkers what your boundaries are at work? Depending on your environment, it's 100% understandable. However, you're human and there's no reason you should be over-performing to your detriment. Frazier and Pepin say, "Set boundaries and communicate clearly. Adopt Brené Brown's mantra: 'To be clear is to be kind.'"

They encourage you to not only "be upfront about your schedule to manage others' expectations," but it's also so you can "avoid over-commitment." Say it with me: I will not make false promises just to appease others. Why?

Frazier and Pepin say, "Don't be afraid to say no to side projects or anything that doesn't align with your goals."

6. Ignore Emails Sent After Your Work Hours

I've been guilty of sending an email after work to acknowledge that I saw something, but I never expect other people to feel obligated to respond until the next business day. On the flip side, I've felt pressured to answer something that feels timely and I've gone to sleep thinking about the sender's potential follow-up email.

"Just because a coworker chooses to work late at night doesn't mean you must answer. One helpful trick is to include your working days and hours in your signature, explaining that responses may be delayed outside of those times," Frazier and Pepin say. They even have a prompt you can use if you're not sure what to type:

• "My working hours are [Your Working Hours, e.g., 9 AM - 4 PM ET]. Please note that these may differ from your local time zone. I appreciate your understanding and will respond to emails during my working hours."

I can't wait to start utilizing this...for research purposes only 👀.

7. Please, log off from work when it's time.

Unless you're scheduled to work late, take the time to log off from work and not think about it until the next day. Baum says, "Commit to fully logging off once the workday ends—no 'quick email replies' or sneaking in work over the weekend." I'm eyeing you Ms. "I just need to send a quick email" while you're on vacation or spending time with your significant other.

Baum says creating this separation works because "fully disconnecting allows your mind to reset and recharge" which ends up "making you more efficient, creative, and focused during actual work hours." According to her, you'll eventually "improve personal well-being" and "enhance long-term work performance."

As soon as my work day is over, I make a beeline for the shower so I can decompress. After that, I take my time with my skincare routine and keep my phone out of reach so I'm not tempted to look at anything work-related. I'm not always successful, but I've noticed a difference in my mood since making this shift.

8. Speak Up When You're Feeling Overwhelmed

And if you're 100% drained because you've been trying to tackle work tasks during and after hours, Frazier and Pepin want you to speak up. "If you're feeling overwhelmed with your workload, approach your manager with honesty and a focus on solutions," they suggest. Here's another prompt of theirs you can use:

• "I've been noticing that my workload has extended beyond regular hours, and maintaining balance is becoming challenging. Could we discuss prioritizing tasks or adjusting expectations to ensure I can deliver quality work without compromising my well-being?"