Christmas is a magical time full of excitement and wonder, no matter what age you are. One thing that can make it even more special and memorable is a holiday to somewhere you've always wanted to visit or a specific place you love to return to at this time of year. From romantic getaways that remove you from the usual festive routine to enchanting family trips to European Christmas markets, a break of this kind is an ideal way to end the year or start a new one.

One of the most popular things to do around Christmas is visit some of the dazzling Christmas markets that pop up in cities around Europe. Surrounded by twinkling lights, traditional stalls and jovial locals, you can't fail to feel the Yuletide spirit wash over you. Every town has its own authentic wares to tempt you with and there are plenty of opportunities to see the unique ways Christmas is celebrated there.

There's also the option to see in the New Year in a new and exciting location. Perhaps the previous year has been an important one or maybe the coming months bring with them a special occasion. Either way, we have some fantastic ways for you to ring out the old and ring in the new in style. Many of these come in the form of a cruise, on board which you can join New Year's Eve parties with hundreds of others and watch the sun rise on a brand new year. There may even be the opportunity to countdown to midnight twice in one night, as you sail across the international date line and back into the past.

If you would rather have a relaxing festive period, perhaps some winter sun can tempt you to the beautiful Canary Islands. The Hotel Jardín Tecina is a picturesque resort on the island of La Gomera, where you can unwind in the midst of nature and enjoy a few cocktails by the pool on Christmas Day.

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