Six reasons you should not feel guilty for taking a vacation during the holidays!

By Melissa Mantia and Laura Tracy for The Travel Exchange

What are your expectations for what you will have on your plate this holiday season? We all have them, expectations and obligations to visit family, buy presents, and put on a happy face no matter how stressed we are. Well, over the years, families have started turning holiday traditions upside down! Here is why you should not feel guilty about taking the opportunity to have some unexpected fun this holiday season!

6. OFF SEASON DISCOUNTS / DEALS:

One of the biggest worries and stressors during the season is having enough money for all of the travel, gifts, and parties.  Taking a trip during the holiday season will actually save money because you are able to take advantage of off season deals for many destinations.  From all-inclusive getaways to discounts on airfare, you can use the savings to bring back lovely Caribbean themed gifts for family and friends. Everyone wins!

5. ESCAPE THE HOLIDAY SEASON MADNESS:

Instead of spending your time off of work on prepping for the holiday parties and watching that same old ball drop, you can spend that time ringing in the New Year with a bang!  The possibilities are endless!  Make your resolutions to try something new like snorkeling, scuba diving, or parasailing.  You can ring in the New Year with a nice hot stone massage or even have a midnight toast on the beach with an island Piña Colada instead of a glass of snooty champagne.

---

4. TRADE IN THE SNOW BOOTS FOR FLIP FLOPS:

It is a well-known fact that cabin fever can lead to depression.  Escape the foot of snow outside your door and trade it in for crystal clear water and white sandy beaches.  Engage in activities that the whole family can enjoy and make new holiday traditions that will create lasting memories. Everyone will agree; flip flop and shorts instead of snow shoes and sweaters will make for a lively family holiday photo!

3. A GREAT OPPORTUNITY FOR FAMILY BONDING:

Instead of worrying about getting that shopping done or waking up at 5am for those last minute deals, you can give the best gift of all, a vacation!  With one click of a button, all of your shopping is done!  Your children won’t be disappointed with this gift; in fact, you can use this opportunity for some family bonding. By heading somewhere fun for the holidays, everyone can truly relax and all of that holiday stress will melt away.

2. SIT ON A BEACH INSTEAD OF IN A CAR:

No one wants to deal with those long drives or airport delays during the holiday season. Not only is the traffic horrendous, but fear of not getting to your destination on time will add unnecessary stress to what is supposed to be a joyous gathering.  Going on a vacation during this time of year, is a great way to escape those unnecessary stresses.  Spend the fifty dollars that would fill your tank on a new bathing suit, flip flops, or sunscreen.  Reading a book on a white sandy beach is definitely better than being stuck in transit!

---

1. IT’S YOUR VACATION TIME, USE IT HOW YOU WANT: 

Studies show that taking vacations leads to employees returning to work stronger and sharper.  Escaping to somewhere new and relaxing can give you that push you need to come back to work and get that promotion and make you feel rejuvenated. Also, much needed sleep will give your brain the rest it needs to kick those problem solving skills back into gear!

Clearly there is a theme in this post, but it doesn’t just have to apply to taking a vacation during the holidays. The more important message is to take a vacation! Getaway with your loved ones to relax and spend quality time together. After some rest, your relationships will be stronger, your tolerance for nonsense will be higher, and your mind will be sharper. So, what are you waiting for? Reach out to your travel agent today! =)


NEXT POST COMING 8/14/15: "Group Travel: How to Effectively Herd Cats"