There’s something special about New York City at Christmas. The streets sparkle with holiday lights, department store windows become works of art, and festive markets pop up throughout the city. Whether it's your first visit or you've experienced the city during the holidays before, Christmas in New York is truly magical.

When planning a holiday trip, I love including a mix of iconic Christmas displays, festive markets, and experiences that let you see the city from a different perspective. Here are some of my favorites!

Explore the Holiday Markets

New York's holiday markets are a must, offering unique gifts, handmade goods, seasonal treats, and plenty of festive atmosphere.

Bryant Park Winter Village is one of my favorite stops, with its European-inspired market, outdoor ice skating rink, and charming holiday atmosphere surrounded by the Manhattan skyline.

Columbus Circle Holiday Market, located at the entrance to Central Park, is another favorite. Browse the festive vendor booths and enjoy the seasonal treats before heading into the park for a winter stroll.

See the City from Above at SUMMIT One Vanderbilt

For a different perspective of New York, add SUMMIT One Vanderbilt to your itinerary. This immersive observation experience features incredible skyline views, mirrored rooms, and unique art installations. It's especially beautiful around sunset, when you can watch the city transition from daylight to its sparkling nighttime skyline.

Admire the Fifth Avenue Holiday Windows

A stroll along Fifth Avenue is a Christmas tradition. Department stores like Saks Fifth Avenue and Bergdorf Goodman create elaborate holiday window displays that are worth taking the time to see.

I recommend walking this stretch both during the day and after dark. The intricate details are beautiful in daylight, but the illuminated displays and decorated storefronts make the entire street feel magical at night.

Visit the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree

No Christmas trip to New York is complete without seeing the iconic Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree! The enormous illuminated tree, surrounding decorations, and famous ice skating rink make this one of the city's most memorable holiday stops.

If your schedule allows, visit during the day and again at night. It's a completely different experience once the lights come on!

Experience the Hudson Yards Holiday Lights

Hudson Yards is another favorite during the holidays. The shopping center and surrounding spaces are transformed with thousands of twinkling lights and festive displays. It's a beautiful place for an evening stroll and a fun way to explore another part of Manhattan.

You can also combine your visit with the Vessel or a walk along the nearby High Line.

Don't Just See New York at Night!

One of my biggest recommendations is to experience New York's Christmas decorations at different times of day. It's tempting to save all your holiday sightseeing for after dark, but the displays, trees, and storefront decorations are worth seeing in daylight, too.

Plan to revisit some of your favorite spots after sunset. The city takes on an entirely different feel once the lights come on, and you'll get two very different experiences from the same locations.

Planning Your Christmas Trip to New York

Christmas is one of the most popular times to visit New York, so planning ahead is important. Allow at least three to four days to enjoy the holiday attractions without feeling rushed. Grouping experiences by neighborhood will also help you make the most of your time.

And leave a little room for the unexpected! Some of the best holiday memories come from wandering decorated streets, discovering a cozy café, or stumbling upon a festive display.

Thinking about a Christmas trip to New York?

I'd love to help you plan a holiday getaway filled with the city's best Christmas experiences, along with the attractions, dining, and neighborhoods you'd most enjoy. There's no shortage of holiday magic to discover in New York City!

Castles, Highlands & Isle of Skye: Planning an Unforgettable Scotland Trip

Scotland is a destination filled with dramatic landscapes, historic castles, charming villages, and cities steeped in history. From exploring Edinburgh's cobblestone streets to driving through the Highlands and discovering the rugged beauty of the Isle of Skye, there's so much to experience.

When planning a Scotland trip, I focus on finding the right balance between iconic sights, scenic drives, and enough time to enjoy each destination without feeling rushed. Here are some of the highlights I'd consider when putting together your Scottish adventure.

Edinburgh: History & City Charm

Edinburgh is the perfect starting point for a Scotland itinerary. Its medieval Old Town, elegant architecture, and lively neighborhoods offer plenty to explore.

• Edinburgh Castle: Perched atop Castle Rock, this iconic fortress offers incredible city views and a fascinating look into Scotland's royal history. I'll plan ahead for tickets and allow plenty of time to explore.


• Victoria Street: With its colorful storefronts, independent shops, and curved streetscape, Victoria Street is one of the city's most photogenic spots. It's also a fun stop for Harry Potter fans.


• Dean Village: Just outside the busy city center, this picturesque neighborhood offers historic stone buildings and peaceful riverside scenery. I'll often include it for a quieter side of Edinburgh.


• The Royal Yacht Britannia: Located in Leith, this former royal yacht provides a unique glimpse into royal life at sea and makes a great addition for history enthusiasts.

I typically recommend at least two full days in Edinburgh, grouping nearby attractions together to make the most of your time.

Stirling: A Castle Worth the Stop

Located between Edinburgh and the Highlands, Stirling is an excellent addition to a Scotland road trip.

Stirling Castle played an important role in Scottish history and was home to several Scottish monarchs. With its grand interiors, fascinating exhibits, and sweeping views, it's well worth exploring.

When planning the drive north, I'll consider whether Stirling works best as a stop along the way or as a separate excursion, depending on the overall itinerary.

The Scottish Highlands: Castles & Legendary Lochs

The Highlands are where Scotland's scenery really shines. Expect rugged mountains, winding roads, peaceful lochs, and breathtaking views around nearly every corner.

Eilean Donan Castle is a standout stop on the way to the Isle of Skye. Set on a small island where three sea lochs meet, it's one of Scotland's most recognizable castles. I'll build in time to enjoy the setting and explore inside when it's open.

Depending on your route, I'll also consider adding one of Scotland's famous lochs:

• Loch Ness: Best paired with a route through Inverness, Loch Ness offers beautiful scenery, the legend of Nessie, and the dramatic ruins of Urquhart Castle overlooking the water.


• Loch Lomond: Located in Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park, this beautiful loch is a great option for exploring the western Highlands or traveling between the Glasgow area and farther north.

Both are beautiful, but they fit different routes. I'll help determine which makes the most sense based on your available time and the destinations you want to see.

Isle of Skye: Scotland at Its Most Dramatic

The Isle of Skye is often a highlight of a Scotland trip, with rugged coastlines, striking mountain formations, and charming villages. I recommend spending at least two nights here whenever possible so there's time to enjoy the island without rushing.

Portree is the island's largest town and a convenient base, with colorful waterfront buildings, restaurants, and shops. I'll often start my accommodation search here because of its location and amenities.

Uig, on Skye's northern coast, offers beautiful coastal scenery and a quieter atmosphere. It's also the ferry port for connections to the Outer Hebrides, which I'll consider if island-hopping is part of the plan.

Beyond the villages, I'll look at highlights such as the Old Man of Storr, the Quiraing, and the Fairy Pools, depending on your interests and the time available. Weather, walking distances, and parking all factor into how much I recommend fitting into a day.

My approach is to prioritize a few memorable experiences rather than squeeze every attraction into an exhausting schedule.

Planning Your Scotland Itinerary

For a first trip covering Edinburgh, Stirling, the Highlands, and Skye, I generally recommend 7–10 days, depending on your pace and route.

A possible itinerary could include:

• Days 1–3: Explore Edinburgh and its historic neighborhoods.


• Day 4: Visit Stirling Castle while traveling north.


• Day 5: Explore the Highlands and visit Eilean Donan Castle.


• Days 6–7: Discover the Isle of Skye, using Portree as a base.


• Days 8–10: Explore additional Highland scenery, include Loch Ness or Loch Lomond where the route allows, and return for your departure.

I'll tailor the route to your arrival and departure airports, preferred accommodations, and must-see experiences.

For exploring the Highlands and Skye, a rental car often provides the most flexibility. I'll account for driving on the left, narrow rural roads, realistic travel times, and overnight stops that make the journey more enjoyable.

Late spring through early autumn is a popular time to visit. Regardless of when you travel, I'll factor in seasonal opening hours and accommodation availability, especially on Skye, where lodging can book up well in advance.

Let's Plan Your Scotland Adventure

Whether you're dreaming of historic castles, scenic Highland drives, legendary lochs, or the unforgettable landscapes of the Isle of Skye, Scotland offers an incredible mix of experiences.

As your travel advisor, I'll help bring all the pieces together — from choosing the right route and accommodations to planning experiences that fit your interests and travel style.

Ready to explore Scotland? Let's start planning your adventure!

London is one of my favorite cities to visit during the holiday season. Between the incredible Christmas lights, iconic department stores and festive markets, there is so much to see and do. If you’re planning a London Christmas getaway, here are a few experiences I recommend adding to your itinerary.

🎄 See the Christmas Lights by Bus
A Christmas lights bus tour is a great way to see many of London’s festive displays in one evening — especially if it’s your first visit. Sit back, stay warm and enjoy the lights along some of the city’s most famous streets.

✨ Explore the Lights on Foot
I also recommend setting aside time for a Christmas lights walk. During the day, explore Harrods, Fortnum & Mason and Liberty London, then return after dark to see areas like Regent Street, Oxford Street, Carnaby Street and Covent Garden illuminated.

🎭 Explore Covent Garden & Neal’s Yard
Covent Garden is especially magical at Christmas, with its famous Christmas tree, festive decorations, market stalls and beautifully decorated shops and restaurants. Take some time to wander beyond the main piazza and explore the surrounding streets, including colorful Neal’s Yard, Seven Dials and the boutiques around Long Acre. This is an area I recommend exploring without a strict agenda — there are plenty of charming shops, restaurants and photo-worthy spots to discover along the way.

🪄 Visit Hogwarts in the Snow
For Harry Potter fans, Hogwarts in the Snow at Warner Bros. Studio Tour London is a must. The studios are transformed for the holidays, including a beautifully decorated Great Hall and snowy Hogwarts Castle.

🎁 Visit Fortnum & Mason
Even if you aren’t looking to shop, make time for Fortnum & Mason. Its iconic Christmas display and beautifully decorated interior make it one of my favorite festive stops in London.

🛍️ Shop London’s Iconic Department Stores
Christmas shopping is part of the experience! Visit Harrods, Liberty London and Fortnum & Mason for unique gifts, holiday decorations and plenty of British favorites to bring home.

🎄 Visit Winter by the River
For a festive experience with a view, head to Winter by the River at London Bridge City. Browse the Christmas market, grab something warm and enjoy the views of the Thames and Tower Bridge.

⚡ Add Battersea Power Station
Battersea Power Station is another area I recommend adding to your itinerary. With shops, restaurants, riverside views and seasonal events, it’s a fun way to experience a different side of London during the holidays.

Planning a London Christmas trip? I can help you put together an itinerary that balances the must-see sights with festive experiences, great restaurants and plenty of time to enjoy the city without feeling rushed.