Open to suggestions - end of year trip

[WillTravel]

This is sort of a wide open question, as I haven't decided for sure whether to go. But due to how my work is, we typically get extra days off after Christmas, so it seems a shame not to plan a trip for the time period from just after Christmas into early-mid January. I would use Aeroplan points for a flight, so the cost of a flight is not the problem (although availability can be), and open-jaw is likely possible.

So I'm thinking Latin America somewhere again (which is probably the cheapest choice), but maybe southern Europe instead. For Europe, I'm thinking of one of these choices:

* Southern Spain
* Rome, Naples, Pompeii, maybe another spot or two
* Portugal
* Greece
* ?or a combination

I can do more research, of course, and will, but I'd be curious to hear your input as to what places you would choose.

[Eagle]

WT,

I've never travelled to Europe at that time of year, but have seen comments from others and they seemed to have a great time. However, at that time of year I'd probably stay away from northern Europe, having seen some of the storms and related problems they had last winter.

In terms of destinations, Rome and south would probably be fine, but also southern Spain and especially the Algarve region of Portugal. I'd probably avoid Greece at that time of year, especially the islands as they virtually shut down in the winter.

Cheers!

[madamtrashheap]

Will, based on your previous trips and the time of year, if you do choose Europe I'd also suggest Southern Spain and Portugal. You'd get to use your Spanish and the weather at that time of year is a little more bearable and conducive to travel in that region.

The south of Italy at that time of year is also doable, but I'd still be inclined to visit Spain - there's just something that appeals about it at that time of year. I'm sure you will, but as a reminder there are also public holidays at that time of year to factor in to plans: esp Epiphany (6th Jan).

Like Eagle, I'd avoid Greece at that time of year if you were thinking of the islands, but the mainland is still a good place to visit in December/January.

Keep us posted on your final decision.

[WillTravel]

Thanks, these are good suggestions. I'm now also considering Israel and/or Turkey. If doing this on airline points, I really should make some sort of decision soon, but I'm considering a lot of factors, and it's hard to figure out the best choice.

[Eagle]

WT,

Of the two locations, Turkey would probably provide a more rewarding travel experience. A well-known U.S. European tour firm have reported that Turkey is their second most popular tour destination after Italy.

For travel to Turkey, a Visa is required but this can be obtained at the airport on arrival. Payment for the Visa must be in exact change (preferably in U.S. dollars) so it would be a good idea to include those in your packing list. I believe for Canadians, the fee is US$60?

Cheers!

[herrbert]

For the south of Spain, you just need to realise, that if you include Granada, it will be cold there, as it is located in the mountains.

Reyes (6th of january) is for most kids here a second (or first) Christmas, as that is the days they receive the gifts. Note that it's an official holiday, on which most museums and sights are closed.

[WillTravel]

I just happened to find a really good combination on Aeroplan, with low taxes and good times, so I decided on Istanbul (4 nights) and Israel (11 nights). I know Turkey deserves a lot more time, and I sort of wanted to put an extra week in to this trip, but the costs will add up quickly.

[madamtrashheap]

Will, great to see you've decided on your trip destinations, and that you were able to include Turkey as well as Israel. If you want any information on Instanbul, just let me know and I can PM you a tome! It's a great city, so much to do/see/eat/smell! Mind you, it's a chilly old place in winter, so pack that Canadian coat.