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The holidays are the merriest time of year. The air is getting cooler, the lights are being strung, and homes begin to smell of pine and cinnamon. It is a great time of year for many. Most people choose to spend the holidays at home with family and friends. And others go away for the holidays to somewhere new and fun. Have you ever thought about getting away from it all and seeing how other places celebrate the holidays? Maybe it’s time for you to make your own traditions with friends and loved ones. Whatever your reason, this season is the perfect time to go somewhere new.

Where to go

The most popular places to visit may be obvious, or not. Families as well as singles love to go to Disney World during the holidays. With four incredible parks there is a lot of holiday cheer to go around. Enjoy watching the Christmas Day Parade, Cinderella’s Holiday Wish stage Show, the Castle Dream Lights (the entire castle is strung with tiny lights), Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party 2008, and Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party 2008. Over at Epcot the whole park celebrates Christmas around the world. In the evening the “lights of winter” showcase transforms into a musical display. In Animal Kingdom Mickey’s Jingle Jungle Expeditions is always a good time. There’s a fun and interactive parade here too.

What is the holidays without New York City?

Go ice skating in Rockefeller Center. There is also the gorgeously large tree. Barney’s, Bloomingdales, Lord & Taylor, Bergdof Goodman, and of course Saks do spectacular window displays. Times Square is the best place only rivaled by Rockefeller Center. This is where you will see the hoards of people on New Years watching the ball drop. Times Square is also a great place to see lights displays and do a little last minute shopping. The Met and New York City Theater constantly have events going on throughout the holiday season.

Looking for a traditional white Christmas holiday getaway?

Colorado has been attracting visitors for the holidays for years. It is perfect because the air is crisp and the ski trails are coated in powdery snow. Durango is a nice town in Colorado that offers a more homey traditional feeling. The famous Aspen Lodge offers a decorative light display, horse drawn carriage rides, and champagne breakfasts. As far as skiing is concerned, Breckenridge, Copper Mountain, and Keystone are incredible. There are plenty of local events, craft fairs, the Colorado Symphony Orchestra, and shopping to keep you occupied and happy.

Looking to spend a little extra?

Europe is incredible in the winter. The Swiss Alps are stunning. The skiing conditions are perfect and the resorts will spoil you all week long. Paris is the city of love. And it will surely show you love during the holidays. See the Eiffel tower all lit up and dazzling and stop by a cafe for a cappuccino or espresso. Iceland, Belgium, and Germany also have incredible events and light shows. The food and drinks will keep you toasty against the winter weather and you can catch up on some international shopping. Look at StudentUniverse’s city guides to learn about all you can see and do in these great cities.

When to Plan

Now is the best time to get your plans in order. The holiday season is fast approaching. Studentuniverse.com has great deals on airfare and hotels for college students and faculty who are looking to get away. They have competitive prices and the best deals for any of your vacation desires.