By Islam El-Sakka
Travel expert Mary Novakovich recommends a range of destinations for the Christmas and New Year period, from ski slopes in Italy to winter sun in The Gambia and cultural breaks in Estonia.
Sauze d’Oulx, Italy
The Italian-French Via Lattea ski domain offers 400km of slopes. SNO holidays has reduced a week’s ski package departing 27 December to £859 per person, including Eurostar travel from St Pancras, transfers and seven nights’ half-board at Hotel Villa Cary.
The Gambia
For winter sun, The Gambia Experience offers a week at Kairaba Beach Hotel in Kololi from £649 per person, down from £1,109. Departures on 1 or 5 December include flights, transfers and breakfast.
North Norfolk, England
Wells-next-the-Sea provides a historic coastal setting. Norfolk Cottages lists a seven-night stay from 21 December at Smugglers Retreat for £1,179, reduced from £1,836.
Panama to Costa Rica Tall Ship Cruise
Star Clippers operates a week-long cruise from Panama to Costa Rica departing 19 December, visiting San Jose Island, Coiba National Park and Costa Rican coastal stops. Prices start at £2,185 per person including full board and port charges, excluding flights.
Tallinn, Estonia
Regent Holidays offers a four-day December break to Tallinn from £775 per person, including flights, transfers, breakfast, a city pass and a snowshoe hike. The Christmas market runs until 6 January.
Scottish Borders, Scotland
Branxholme Castle’s East Wing near Hawick sleeps eight with a games room and hot tub. A week’s self-catering from 11 December costs £1,349, rising to £2,649 for Christmas week. Up to two dogs allowed.
New Zealand Highlights Tour
A 14-night group tour covering both islands, including Franz Josef Glacier, Waitomo Glowworm Caves and Mount Cook National Park, starts at £5,449 per person with flights, transport, breakfast and excursions.
Mekong River Cruise, Cambodia and Vietnam
Experience Travel Group tailors a 16-night journey from Siem Reap and Angkor Wat through the Mekong to Ho Chi Minh City and Mui Ne. Prices start at £5,500 per person including flights, guides, meals and gratuities.
