Liberty Travel | Connect Fall 2019

CONNECT SEPTEMBER – DECEMBER 2019

Inspiration for the Traveler in You

HOLIDAY ADVENTURES

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CRUISING THROUGH THE

HOLIDAYS

CELEBRATE

NEW YEAR’S EVE LIKE A CELEBRITY

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OF EUROPE’S MOST ENCHANTING CHRISTMAS MARKETS

IN THIS ISSUE

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Where in the World?

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Discover the destinations our expert travel consultants have recently experienced.

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5 Days in St. Kitts & Nevis Here’s the perfect way to spend five days on these unspoiled, dual-nation Caribbean islands.

11 Europe’s 5 Most Enchanting Christmas Markets We’ve narrowed down the long list of European Christmas markets to find the most charming.

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21 The World’s Most Festive Cities From the culture of France to the energy of America, these cities go all out for the holidays.

24 Is Self-Care Your New Year’s Resolution?

Try these rituals and retreats on vacation and start your 2020 off with self-care in mind.

30 Celebrate New Year’s Eve Like a Celebrity at these Hotels From Vegas to NYC, these hotels turn up the VIP treatment for New Year’s Eve revelers.

14 Cruising through the Holidays See how three top ocean cruise lines have redefined holiday celebrations while at sea.

18 Holiday Sweets Around the World — and Where to Get Them Traveling this holiday season and looking for a traditional dessert? We’ve got you covered.

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ON THE COVER Church of Ramsau, Bavaria, Germany

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DEAR TRAVELER, The weather has started to change, our children have headed back to school, and a long winter lies ahead for most of us. This time of year often leaves me longing for the more laidback lifestyle that summer affords. And yet, I always fondly anticipate and often count down the days to the upcoming holiday season.

If your family is anything like mine, you have holiday traditions that seem to have been around forever. An annual outing to see the Christmas lights, trimming the tree — which is often accompanied by Hanukkah latkes in my blended home — and a seven fishes dinner on Christmas Eve.

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EXPLORE THE WORLD

We connect you with the right person to get you there.

REAL PEOPLE

More than a travel agent, your consultant is a fellow traveler with a passion to help you see the world.

A holiday-season vacation is another tradition that so many of our customers look forward to all year. If it’s not one of your traditions, I encourage you to give it a try!

What better time to escape the cold and travel with loved ones than during the season that so many already consider their favorite of the year.

In this issue of Connect, we explore some of the best places and ways to travel to experience the holiday season and traditions away from home. Christmas markets in many towns across central Europe provide a glimpse into a time gone by. Finish up all the shopping on your list at these enchanting markets — which showcase local crafts and holiday décor. And once that shopping list is complete, enjoy traditional holiday food and drinks local to each town.

Do your holiday dreams include sunshine, beaches, and the open seas? A holiday cruise can be the perfect way to take a break from all the preparation and cooking that goes into spending the holidays at home! We highlight three cruise lines that are perfect for creating new holiday traditions with your family.

Is a city break more your speed? Don’t miss our list of 11 of the world’s most festive cities to spend the holidays.

Whether a quick drive away or on the other side of the world, these cities are serious about the festive season and are ready to impress every one of their visitors.

However you chose to spend this holiday season, let me be the first to wish you the very best for a magical celebration!

And if your holiday season does include travel, Liberty Travel wants to help you make new memories and traditions while experiencing one of the incredible vacation destinations across our beautiful world. .

PERFECT MATCH

We connect you with the right consultant who will craft your ideal travel experience.

CRAFTED VACATIONS

Dive deeper into your destination with unique services, local guides, and exclusive experiences.

Christina Pedroni Senior Vice President, Liberty Travel

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WHERE IN THE WORLD Are Our Travel Consultants?

CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA

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Michael Vazquez • Liberty Travel: Eatontown, NJ

It is amazing the varied amount of activities, beautiful sites, and adventures in Cape Town and the surrounding areas that are all within a day’s drive. Cape Town is a very cosmopolitan city that has great restaurants and nightlife along with beautiful beaches and waterfront. There are many hikes that start right from town that will take you up Table Mountain, Lion’s Head and Signal Hill for beautiful views and sunsets. And the gorgeous Stellenbosch wine country is less than an hour away. There are not many other regions in the world where you will not have to travel far to see Africa’s Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, buffalo) and the Marine Big Five (whale, shark, seal, penguin, dolphin). From cage diving with sharks, to hanging on the beach with penguins, to hugging elephants, South Africa is an animal lover’s dream. And if you really want to get your heart racing, drive along the spectacular Garden Route to the highest bridge bungee jump in the world!

VazquezM@LibertyTravel.com 732.544.9404

KRAKOW, POLAND

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Bethany Steves • Liberty Travel: Syracuse, NY (Destiny USA)

My family is very Polish, and it is a heritage that I’ve always been intrigued and curious about. When I had the opportunity to go to Poland, I jumped, and I was so excited, mostly for the food. I did the Krakow Food by Foot tour with Urban Adventures, and I still have dreams about it! The food was to die for, especially the fresh strawberry-filled pierogis. The city itself was like something out of a fairytale, just absolutely gorgeous. One of my favorite things was that you literally have to walk through a park to get into the old town. For me, Krakow is a really underrated city that is a great addition to a European trip for some awesome food and culture. I would highly recommend it for anyone looking for an authentic experience that isn’t over-crowded and/or doesn’t break the bank.

StevesB@LibertyTravel.com 315.422.3027

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When it comes to filling up passport pages, our Liberty Travel consultants are always up for the task.

Using their own collection of passport stamps, they help you dive deeper in your destinations than ever before. From must-eat sweet treats in Europe to secret spots for watching the sunset in Asia, they’re searching the globe for the best insider tips and in-destination know-how to give you more enriching adventures. Take a look at what some of our consultants have to say about a few of the world’s most exciting destinations.

ISLA ISABELA, GALAPAGOS ISLANDS, ECUADOR

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Jane Garfoot • Liberty Travel: Union Square, NY

On Isla Isabela, an absolute must-do is an excursion to Los Tuneles! A truly beautiful and serene natural environment, it’s home to an astounding amount of wildlife and stunning rock formations. The area was created when the ocean formed natural tunnels in the rocks. We were able to walk around the unique rock formations, see blue-footed boobies and then snorkel in the clear waters below where you can see thousands of fish, sting rays, sea horses, sharks, and best of all, giant sea turtles. At one point I was swimming with at least 20 giant turtles. This was one of my favorite days in the Galapagos. Great for all ages with reasonable mobility. Book early, it’s very popular!

GarfootJ@LibertyTravel.com 212.620.3049

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KOH SAMUI, THAILAND

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Megan Guerrierie • Liberty Travel: Brick, NJ

While on a 12-day Vietnam, Thailand, and Cambodia cruise with Norwegian Cruise Line, I had a free day in Koh Samui, Thailand. For most, the option to explore the island’s beautiful beaches, waterfalls, and rainforest was at the top of their bucket lists. For me, the day trip offered by Buffalo Tours to spend the day at an elephant sanctuary fulfilled something at the top of mine. The chance to interact with the beloved animals that I have adored since childhood was something I couldn’t miss. This was a once in a lifetime opportunity to walk with the elephants in their natural habitats while feeding and petting them. I wanted to support a cause that rescued these beautiful creatures and facilitated an environment for safe interactions with humans. I would recommend this experience to anyone traveling to Thailand who is looking for a memory that will last a lifetime.

GuerrierieA@LibertyTravel.com 732.920.3500

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Š 2019 Aruba Tourism Authority

One

escape

Convenient flights to One happy Island From pristine white-sand beaches ready for relaxation, to dramatic coastline cliffs inviting exploration, Aruba has something to make everyone happy. Hop an easy flight to the island with the most sunny days in the Caribbean.

one happy island

St. Kitts & Nevis 5 DAYS IN

Intoxicating natural beauty, sunny skies, warm waters, and sparsely populated beaches combine in the sister islands of St. Kitts and Nevis to make them one of the Caribbean’s most seductive destinations.

The twin islands are separated by a two-mile-wide channel, with ferry services that help visitors easily enjoy them both in a single trip.

The islands are uncrowded, unspoiled, and famous for their excellent preservation of the environment. Nature lovers can tour through lava formations, tropical forest areas, and seaside lagoons. Boating and scuba diving are also favorite activities. Quaint shopping areas and beautiful architecture draw visitors to the small towns. Here’s how to take advantage of it all in five days.

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St. Kitts & Nevis 5 DAYS IN

DAY 1

Transfer from the airport to your hotel. After checking in, explore St. Kitts’ lush interior rainforest from the saddle of a horse on a guided adventure. Ride on trails through cane fields leading into the verdant forest and experience the beauty of the island’s flora and fauna.

Amble over gentle slopes and listen to the chattering and chirping of green vervet monkeys and exotic birds like Royal Terns and Black-whiskered Vireos. From an elevated vantage point, you can enjoy a magnificent view of villages and the Caribbean Ocean on the horizon.

DAY 2 After breakfast at your hotel, hop into a Land Rover and begin a spectacular journey to the “top” of St. Kitts. Upon arriving at the base of Mount Liamuiga — a dormant volcano and the highest point of the island — set off on a vigorous 2½-hour guided hike up the mountain and through the rainforest while observing giant trees, beautiful flowers, and swinging vines, and learning all about the island’s flora and fauna. At the summit, you’ll be able to see the entire island, the sea, and neighboring islands. Later on, head to Serendipity for dinner, where local dishes like creamy conch chowder, Caribbean seafood bouillabaisse, and Cajun sautéed shrimp are served on a hillside terrace restaurant overlooking Basseterre Bay.

DAY 3 Head out early today to discover your favorite among the island’s famous beaches, all of which are public. Palm trees and exotic black sands line Dieppe Bay Beach on St. Kitts, bordered by both the Atlantic Ocean and the Caribbean Sea. A large reef keeps the waters calm for swimming and alluring to divers, and a nearby bar and restaurant are perfect for refueling. Friars Bay lures families with calm, clear waters to what’s considered by many to be the finest beach on St. Kitts.

There’s plenty of room for secluded sunbathing, and water sports gear is available for rental. Food and drink are nearby, as are beach chair rentals. For pure tranquility, head to Turtle Beach on the southeast peninsula. After soaking up the quietude of the sands, don your flippers and go snorkeling amid a kaleidoscope of dazzling fish.

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DAY 4

Today, sail to sister island Nevis today aboard a 52- or 70-foot catamaran, which boasts a full bar that’s open all day. Although smaller than its neighbor, Nevis has plenty of enchanting attractions.

Stop at a calm bay for snorkeling (equipment is available on board), then disembark at romantic Pinneys Beach, where a barbecue lunch will be prepared. Spend a couple of hours soaking up the sun or enjoying the shade under a magnificent coconut palm before your return.

DAY 5 Make this your day to discover the quaint island capital of Basseterre – which just happens to boast one of the world’s most unique Christmas celebrations. In St. Kitts, Carnival takes place over the Christmas and New Year’s holidays, making it one huge party that lasts for weeks, with concerts, feasts, parades, and street parties. It’s everyone’s time to drink rum, dance to calypso music, and savor potent, freshly baked rum cakes. Join in!

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IN MY KINGDOM, FROWNING WOULD BE UNIVERSALLY FROWNED UPON. The FlowRider® Double Wave Simulator. The Awe Spa. The Playroom kids club. Luxurious accommodations.

And impeccable service. Let’s just say it’s very hard to be unhappy here. And to help you make the most of it, we’ll give you up to US $1,500 in Resort Credit toward spa treatments, tours and other amazing experiences.

PLUS KIDS AND TEENS STAY FREE * Moon Palace Jamaica. Larger than life. Better than vacation.

*Requires at least one paying adult to qualify. Must be 17 years old or younger at the time of travel in order to qualify. Additional terms and conditions apply.

Europe’s 5 Most Enchanting

Christmas Markets The holiday spirit comes alive in Europe through the many festive outdoor Christmas markets that begin setting up as early as November. Here, visitors will find everything from traditional sweets to oneof-a-kind gifts, family friendly activities and even visits with jolly old Saint Nick himself. While each market is special in its own way, set against a backdrop of dazzling lights and sparkling Christmas trees, these five are endlessly enchanting. Discover what makes these markets so mesmerizing.

Vienna, Austria

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Europe’s 5 Most Enchanting

Christmas Markets

Nuremberg, Germany

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Christkindlesmarkt

Nuremberg, Germany

Germany is where the first Christmas market opened (in the 1400s!), so visitors here will have their pick of some of the world’s favorite shopping plazas. Head to Main Market Square to discover Nuremberg’s Christkindlesmarkt, one of the most popular, which dates back to the mid-16th century. Here, more than 180 market stands come together to create a magical atmosphere.

Shop for handcrafted toys, teddy bears, music boxes, glass objects, and more special gifts. Warm up with famous Nuremberg grilled pork sausages, seasoned with flavorful spices like cardamom, ginger, and marjoram. Hop aboard the historic, horse-drawn stagecoach for a fun tour of the market while listening to live holiday music played on a golden horn.

Guests waiting to board are kept warm by fluffy blankets.

Why it’s Enchanting: While children will have fun at any Christmas market, Nuremberg’s Christkindlesmarkt goes above and beyond with a dedicated section called the “Kinderweihnacht.”

Located on Hans-Sachs-Platz, there are crafts, a two-tier carousel, steam train, mini Ferris wheel, and a variety of special programs just for children.

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Old Town Square

Prague, Czech Republic

The brightly decorated wooden stalls nestled amongst Prague’s beautiful centuries-old architecture, open for the season towards the end of November in Old Town Square near the Jan Hus Memorial. Grab a mug of hot mulled wine and make your way through the many vendors selling handmade items such as ornaments, embroidered lace, and jewelry.

Sample freshly roasted ham, sausages, and spicy gingerbread.

Carolers and school choirs perform daily on the open-air stage and a petting zoo provides entertainment for the little ones. When you’re ready for a change of scenery, the equally charming market at Wenceslas Square is within walking distance.

Why it’s Enchanting: Like many outdoor holiday celebrations, the Christmas tree lighting at Old Town Square is a top attraction.

But unlike others, this towering tree — brought in from the Liberec region’s forests — plays host to a tree lighting ceremony EVERY afternoon.

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Viennese Dream Christmas Market Vienna, Austria

With Vienna’s spectacular Town Hall glowing brightly in the background, the Viennese Dream Christmas Market gets extra points for its beautiful atmosphere. Set in gorgeous Rathausplatz Square, this Christmas market is BIG, colorful, and busy. So, be prepared to go there with enough time to experience it all. Sip some warm Gluhwein and discover treasures like handpainted nutcrackers, fresh wreaths, and wooden puzzles.

Embrace the wintry weather and take a spin around the outdoor ice-skating rink, lit up beneath the numerous, vibrant light displays.

Why it’s Enchanting: The excitement continues inside. The Town Hall has an area on the first floor just for the littlest market goers, with hands-on holiday programs such as candle making and Christmas cookie baking.

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Hans Christian Andersen Christmas Market Odense, Denmark

Held in the hometown of the world-renowned Danish writer, this Christmas market takes a heaping dose of his classic fairytale magic and sprinkles on a dash of seasonal whimsy. Located in the square near the author’s childhood home and museum, visitors will experience what the holiday season was like in the 19th century. The setting is authentic as it gets, and shoppers will find themselves surrounded by beautiful townhouses and half-timbered houses built long ago.

Though this market is smaller in size, its offerings are just as grand as any of the bigger Christmas markets. Shop for porcelain tableware and knitted scarves, then watch wood workers craft holiday décor right before your eyes.

Why it’s Enchanting: The entertainment is inspired by Andersen’s fairytales.

Jugglers, costumed characters, horse-drawn carriage rides, a carousel, and a goose parade are just some of the merriment visitors may encounter.

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Trento Christmas Market Trento, Italy

Beginning in November, the Italian city of Trento becomes known as Città del Natale, or “Christmas Town.” Located in Italy’s northernmost region, just south of the Dolomites, this Alpine town is rich with Austrian influences, old-world charm, and breathtaking views. The Christmas market is held in two public squares, Piazza Fiera and Piazza Cesare Battisti, where artists and merchants sell handmade gifts, holiday décor, and clothing from behind quaint wooden stalls.

Trento’s shared Italian-Austrian heritage can be witnessed (and tasted!) in the many food and drink offerings at this Christmas market — from the traditional Panettone holiday cake to the fresh apple strudel.

Why it’s Enchanting: This Christmas market is also “green market.” Environmental sustainability has a strong presence and is emphasized through clean energy, local products, and eco-certified paper bags.

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CRUISING THROUGH THE

HOLIDAYS

A holiday cruise is a great way to create new festive family traditions. Instead of toiling over Christmas dinner this year, let professional chefs take care of every detail from appetizers to desserts. Forget the holiday party prep and, instead, invite your family to thrilling adventures at sea. Put away your heavy coat and slip into a bathing suit. Here are three cruise lines that celebrate the holidays in style.

Photo: Princess CruisesÂŽ

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ROYAL CARIBBEAN Create New Christmas and Holiday Memories Travel to the Caribbean and bask on beautiful beaches while enjoying incredible holiday festivities about the ship. Royal Caribbean goes all out for the holidays. Join Santa’s elves on deck for fun-filled activities, story time, and photo opportunities. Best of all, Santa’s sleigh always finds its way to the ship, with goodies and gifts for the kids (and kids at heart).

Take part in a beautiful tree-lighting celebration, and enjoy festive décor throughout the ship. Decorate ornaments and gingerbread cookies, and bring home recipes and Christmas treasures that will remain with your family for years to come. Partake in an “ugly sweater” decorating workshop and then wear your campy creation to the ugly sweater party on the ship. Go caroling with ship musicians, write letters to Santa, or play Christmas-themed games and trivia. Pause to reflect on the spirit of Christmas over Christmas Eve and Christmas Day mass on the ship. Immerse yourself in the spirit of joy, generosity, and peace with Royal Caribbean’s special Christmas sailings.

And then there’s the food and parties. Let Royal Caribbean’s professional chefs craft your delicious holiday-themed meals. Spend New Year’s Eve at sea, where Royal Caribbean will take care of the party planning. Ring in the New Year with a balloon drop on the Promenade, Esplanade, and Centrum. Or, host a private party just for your friends and family at one of the ship’s bars and venues.

Photos: Royal Caribbean Cruise Line®

NORWEGIAN CRUISE LINE Celebrations at Sea Celebrate Thanksgiving, Hanukkah, Christmas, or the new year with Norwegian Cruise Line. With cruises that can take you to spectacular destinations around the world — reconnect with each other, with family, and with loved ones on a special holiday cruise.

For this year’s Thanksgiving, give yourself one more thing for which to be thankful — let Norwegian Cruise Line’s professional chefs craft you an elaborate Thanksgiving feast. Wake in the morning to a delicious Thanksgiving breakfast. With no meal to plan, spend the day at the spa, relaxing by the pool, or exploring your port of call — from the breathtaking Hawaiian islands to the white-washed architecture of Greece, and the pristine beaches of the Caribbean. Norwegian Cruise Line also broadcasts the big game on the big screen in the atrium. Or grab a beer at one of the ship’s many bars and cheer on your team. Instead of fighting the crowds on Black Friday, enjoy some leisurely shopping on the ship or at your port of call.

Celebrate the Festival of Lights with the lighting of the menorah each night and attend holiday services with the onboard rabbi. Best of all, the celebration continues onboard and ashore. Marvel at the Na Pali coast on a Hawaii cruise, bask on a Caribbean beach, or visit a synagogue on a Europe voyage and connect with your Jewish roots.

Say Mele Kalikimaka (Hawaiian for Merry Christmas), and celebrate Christmas with Norwegian Cruise Line in Hawaii.

Trade in your white Christmas, for white-sand beaches.

Holiday meals include delicious Black Forest ham, roasted Maryland Turkey, pumpkin soufflé, and a pear and chestnut torte. Norwegian Cruise Line decks the halls with shimmering lights, poinsettias, Christmas trees, and decked out palm trees. Sing Christmas carols at the piano bar. Best of all, Santa always makes his way onboard for photo opportunities with the kids and the kids at heart.

Photo: Norwegian Cruise Line®

Bring your family and friends to a New Year celebration in Hawaii or the Caribbean. Or, venture further to Thailand, Monte Carlo, or Rome. Kick off 2020 in style — with a celebration of travel.

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CRUISING THROUGH THE HOLIDAYS PRINCESS CRUISES On These Ships, It Snows Want to travel to the Caribbean for the holidays, but still want to partake in all the festivities? On Princess Cruises, it snows in the Atrium. Cruise for Thanksgiving and leave the turkey feast to your onboard culinary team. Celebrate Hanukkah with special kosher meals crafted by the ship’s chefs, including potato latkes and gefilte fish. Sip eggnog by the pool, decorate a gingerbread house, and enjoy a Christmas dinner hand-crafted by professional chefs. Or, ring in the new year with a champagne toast and balloon drop on the ship.

Discover destinations as far-reaching as the Caribbean, the Panama Canal, Australia and New Zealand, South America, and the South Pacific, all while celebrating the holidays with family and loved ones. Whether you need to order a special kosher meal, want to host a New Year’s party on the ship, or would like to give your family the gift of travel for the holidays, Princess Cruises has an itinerary for you.

Give your family the gift of travel this holiday season with a Christmas, Hanukkah, or New Year’s Eve cruise. Royal Caribbean, Norwegian Cruise Line, and Princess Cruises each offer special touches that make celebrating the holidays on a cruise truly special. Cruise itineraries and cabins sell out fast. If you are thinking of cruising over the holidays, contact your travel consultant today to begin planning.

Photos: Princess Cruises®

MSC MERAVIGLIA IS COMING TO NEW YORK! OCTOBER 2019

SAIL MSC MERAVIGLIA FROM NEW YORK NOW Hey New Yorkers, be the first to cruise aboard MSC Meraviglia, the 8 th wonder of the world.

Expect to be amazed by impressive spaces and views, an indoor promenade with the longest LED dome at sea and an exciting amusement park. Indulge in 12 spectacular dining venues and experience 2 unique Cirque du Soleil at Sea shows, SONOR and VIAGGIO, created exclusively for MSC Meraviglia.

Book 3 exciting itineraries from NY: 10/8; 10 nights NY-Canada 10/18; 10 nights NY-New England & Canada 10/28; 13 nights NY-Caribbean

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EXTRAORDINARY MOMENTS, MADE TO KEEP

Holiday Sweets Around the World — and Where to Get Them Nothing says Christmas quite like food, and nothing crowns a festive meal quite like the perfect dessert. Whether you’re traveling this season and are looking for the perfect local bakery or want to bring some new festive traditions to your holiday table, here are seven incredible desserts that will put you in the Christmas spirit.

GERMANY Christmas Stollen Stollen is a fruit bread loaded with nuts, spices, and dried or candied fruit. A properly-made Christmas Stollen takes time. Raisins and nuts must be soaked in rum, and then added to a sweet yeast dough flavored with citrus and spices. The process of proofing the dough takes several days. A perfectly-executed stollen is a mouthful of rum-soaked fruit, held together loosely with delicate cake. To trace the origins of this Christmas dessert and to enjoy it in its classic form, make your way to Dresden’s Christmas Market where you’ll find the cake for sale in the food stalls.

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FRANCE Bûche de Noël In France, Christmas dinner culminates with a bûche de Noël, or Yule log. The cake is designed in the style of the Christmas log that families would burn in the fireplace on Christmas Eve. The dessert’s foundation is simple: sponge cake, coated in pastry cream, rolled up and coated again in chocolate or coffee buttercream. Décor of the bûche de Noël can get rather elaborate, with mushroom-shaped meringues and almond paste leaves. If you’re visiting Paris for Christmas, Pierre Hermé’s eponymous bakery offers several modern interpretations of the French classic. Expect original flavors as well as unconventional ones such as rose-litchi-raspberry or black lemon. Pierre Hermé won the distinction of the World’s Best Pastry Chef, 2016.

GREECE Melomakarona Mediterranean cuisine is known for its health benefits, and Greece’s Christmas dessert gift to the world is no different. Dripping with honey, melomakarona are made with olive oil, orange juice, sugar, cloves, cinnamon, and cognac, creating a sweet, sticky confection coated in almonds and walnuts. For a modern twist on the old recipe, sometimes the cookie is coated in chocolate. Visit Takis Bakery, one of Athens’s most celebrated bakeries for melomakarona, kourabiedes butter cookies, and Christopsomo Christmas bread—and sample the panoply of Greek Christmas dessert traditions.

MEXICO Buñuelos Buñuelos are fried balls of dough or tortillas covered in cinnamon or sugar that are served around Christmas time and New Year’s in many Mexican homes. This dessert is so popular throughout Latin America that there are many variations for you to discover.

Find your favorite buñuelos for sale from street vendors and at the many outdoor holiday festivals throughout Mexico. Follow your nose to the buñuelos and you’ll be in for a real treat.

ITALY Panettone An authentic panettone is nothing like the Christmas loaves sold in supermarkets during the holidays. A properly-executed panettone melts on the tongue, with a texture reminiscent more of cotton candy than bread. The panettone often gets overlooked because it is so easy to get wrong. The starter needs to be just right, the temperature just so, the mixture, perfect. Even the world’s top bakers struggle to pin down the recipe, which requires a perfect ballet of preparation and execution. When the proofing is just right, the great cupola of the panettone rises like the Duomo of Florence. The recipe heralds from Milan, where expert bakers craft breathtaking panettone using time-honored recipes. Stop by Cova in Milan for a coffee and panettone where opera singer Maria Callas once took her coffee, and re-discover this Italian Christmas dessert while sitting in one of Italy’s oldest pastry shops.

UNITED KINGDOM Christmas Pudding “Oh, bring us some figgy pudding…” goes the Christmas Carol, We Wish You A Merry Christmas. If you’re in the United Kingdom for the holidays, a staple of any Christmas feast will be the Christmas pudding. The recipe calls for dried fruit, dark sugar, rum, stout, walnuts, almonds, breadcrumbs, nutmeg, cinnamon, and spice. Interestingly, most traditional recipes don’t specifically call for plums nor for figs. The inclusion of the figs derives from the fact that these words were once used in England to denote any kind of dried fruit.

Christmas puddings date back to medieval England, when many dishes were made in pudding form so that they could be preserved as long as possible. England’s Marks & Spencer sells a 12-month matured vintage Christmas pudding that is not to be missed.

UNITED STATES Pecan Pie For many Americans, pecan pie is a Christmas and Thanksgiving tradition. While pecan pie is more of a southern Christmas delicacy (the pie traces its origins to the American south), you can find it served on Christmas tables across the nation. Pecans are native to North America, making this sweet dessert a true American original. While you can find many versions, head to Baked & Wired in Washington, D.C. for a sticky and sweet pecan pie. Or, visit Tartine Bakery & Café in San Francisco, for a pecan maple pie served with a dash of bourbon for a little holiday cheer.

From the decadent displays of France’s Yule logs to the honey-soaked Greek melomakarona, there’s a Christmas dessert for every destination and taste. If you plan to travel this holiday season, make time to savor these authentic Christmas desserts. When the original recipes of many Christmas classics are put in the hands of local masters, the results are absolutely spectacular.

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www.majestic-resorts.com

DOMINICAN REPUBLIC – PUNTA CANA

Majestic Elegance Playa Mujeres O P E N I N G FA L L 2 0 1 9

THE WORLD’S MOST

Festive Cities Travel can take you on journeys of discovery and help you explore new traditions and cultures. The holiday spirit ties together cities around the world — but each city and country offers its own unique flavor of festive fun. From the spirit of Christmas past in London, to the actual reindeers of Iceland, to New York City’s iconic Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree lighting celebration, travel consultants can help you create new traditions with a Christmas vacation to one of these iconic cities.

LONDON, United Kingdom Visit London to celebrate the spirit of Christmas past, present, and future in the city of Big Ben and Buckingham Palace. Bundle up and walk a mile-long path where more than one million lights illuminate the Royal Botanic Gardens at Kew. The young and young at heart can visit Warner Bros. Studios London to experience Christmas at Hogwarts at the Making of Harry Potter. At Trafalgar Square, admire the Norwegian-style Christmas Tree — a London icon. Then, put on a pair of ice skates and glide in front of the Natural History Museum’s ice rink. Or, celebrate the Christmas spirit with a service at Westminster Abbey for a Christmas carol performance.

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THE WORLD’S MOST

Festive Cities

SYDNEY, Australia Christmas in the southern hemisphere means you get to trade in your snow boots for flip flops. Go to Martin Square to admire the summertime Christmas tree. Or visit the Queen Victoria Building to view the Swarovski Christmas Tree bedazzled with over 80,000 Swarovski crystals. In Sydney, Christmas celebrations can include a swim in the sea or a barbeque at Bondi Beach.

Sing carols by the beach to get into the holiday spirit.

Sydney comes alive with Christmas markets like the Finders Keepers Market known for its handmade crafts and The Big Design Market which highlights Sydney’s local designers.

QUEBEC CITY, Canada Old Quebec’s Christmas Village will make you feel like you’ve stepped into a fairy-tale Christmas story. The city’s breathtaking ornate architecture and snowy streets create an old-world backdrop filling the city with Christmas cheer. From Notre-Dame-des-Victoires Church down to Rue du Petit Champlain, holiday lights and décor offer a romantic atmosphere for your holiday shopping and sightseeing. At the German Christmas Market, enjoy a bite of gingerbread and a sip of mulled wine while listening to carols and meeting Santa. Indulge in a sumptuous holiday meal at the Fairmont Le Château Frontenac. Even if you can’t stay the night, this iconic hotel opens its doors to the city so that all can enjoy its festive display.

NEW YORK, New York New York City transforms into a Christmas wonderland over the holidays, with iconic attractions that are recognized around the world. There’s the Rockefeller Christmas Tree, with its yearly tree-lighting ceremony. Glide under the tree at the iconic Rockefeller Center skating rink.

Admire the famous window displays on 5th Avenue. See the Nutcracker with the New York City Ballet, or marvel at the Radio City Christmas Spectacular with the famous Rockettes. Re-live your own Miracle on 34th Street and visit the big guy at Macy’s 13,000square-foot Santaland. For shopping, if you venture beyond 5th Avenue, you’ll find the Bank of America Winter Village in Bryant Park and the Union Square Holiday Market. Ride a horsedrawn carriage through Central Park. Attend Christmas mass at breathtaking St. Patrick’s Cathedral.

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MÁLAGA, Spain Málaga is celebrated for its festive lights showcase. Tens of thousands of lights illuminate Calle Larios, turning the street into an outdoor cathedral of carols and twinkling colors. The Christmas light show is world-famous, and the display extends throughout the city. Christmas here is a time of light and music, with Christmas carols and flamenco shows. Browse the city’s Christmas markets, go for a stroll by the sea, and enjoy tapas at a local restaurant to celebrate in true Spanish style.

TOKYO, Japan Unlike other parts of the world, in Tokyo most stores and restaurants remain open on Christmas day. In fact, in Tokyo, Christmas is considered a romantic date night, with many of the city’s leading restaurants offering beautiful candlelit dinners. The city decks the halls with stunning Christmas light displays. The areas around Tokyo Station, Harajuku’s Omotesando Street, Roppongi, and Odaiba are considered among the most beautiful. Enjoy Tokyo’s Christmas sales as you browse the shopping areas of Ginza and Shibuya and the city’s Christmas markets.

REYKJAVIK, Iceland Christmas around the world is known for its twinkling lights and artificial reindeers, but there’s no light show on Earth quite as spectacular as Iceland’s Aurora Borealis and there are few places in the world where you might spot a real reindeer along the way.

To see the lights, leave behind Reykjavik and see the wonders of the Golden Circle, including Þingvellir National Park and Gullfoss Waterfall. Hire a guide and venture below Iceland’s glaciers, entering blue glacial caves—but book ahead for this popular experience. Soak in a natural hot spring, or explore Iceland’s Christmas market in Heiðmörk Woods or the Yule Town Christmas Market downtown, where the Yule Lads (Iceland’s 13 mischievous Santas) will be up to no good with their pranks.

NEW ORLEANS, Louisiana From Creole Christmas traditions to modern light spectacles, New Orleans throws a holiday party like no other. LUNA Fête offers a unique interpretation of Christmas lights, inviting installation artists, musical performers, filmmakers, and other artists to create one-of-a-kind light projections and displays that interact with New Orleans’ architecture for the season. Visit the city the Sunday before Christmas to go caroling around the breathtaking spires of St. Louis Cathedral.

The city’s leading restaurants host Réveillon dinners, a Creole tradition of serving a sumptuous meal that could last through Christmas Eve. Dinners are offered throughout December and include meals that span three, four, and even five courses. Catch a jazz show while enjoying a meal that could go all night long.

PARIS, France Paris is known for its romantic ambiance, shopping, art, and food — and Christmas in Paris embodies all these things. Go ice skating in front of the Eiffel Tower. Browse the haute couture shops along the ChampsÉlysées, where designers like Yves-Saint Laurent, Chanel, Dior, and Hermès, deck their shops with Christmas spirit. Pick up a box of homemade chocolates or macaroons at À la Mère de Famille candy store, which has been open since the 1700s. Visit the Louvre and other iconic museums over the holiday season or attend a Christmas service at one of the city’s breathtaking churches.

COLOGNE, Germany Germany is known for its historic Christmas markets, with the city of Cologne having the distinction of being home to some of the most stunning holiday shopping plazas in Europe.

Each Christmas market exudes its own unique style — from the market at Cologne Cathedral with the cathedral as its elegant historic backdrop to the Harbour Christmas Market in front of the Chocolate Museum which unites Christmas and maritime themes. And then there’s the Old Town Christmas Market with its ice-skating rink and food stalls.

BRUGES, Belgium Browse the cobblestone streets of Bruges, exploring the city’s celebrated Christmas markets.

Enjoy a Belgian waffle, have a sip of Belgian beer, and don’t miss some of Europe’s famous Belgian chocolates, all while enjoying a stroll through one of Europe’s most beautiful old towns. Warm up with a mug of rich, hot cocoa while admiring the tinsel and decorations. Or, put on a pair of ice skates and glide around the Christmas tree at Grote Square. With the historic Belfry Tower as your backdrop, you’ll think you’re skating right into a Christmas fairy tale.

LEAVENWORTH, Washington If you don’t want to travel as far as Germany to experience an authentic European Christmas market, visit Leavenworth.

Nestled in the Cascade Mountain, this quaint, Bavarian town comes alive every Christmas with its “Village of Lights” where half a million lights twinkle nightly from Thanksgiving through Valentine’s Day. Visit the celebrated Christkindlmarkt for delicious Bavarian food, Bavarian entertainment, and stalls selling crafts and Christmas gifts. The fun continues after Christmas with the Bavarian Ice Festival. Here, guests can watch live ice carvings and enjoy outdoor winter activities such as snowmobile sled pulling and ice fishing.

Whether you’re looking for a traditional European Christmas celebration or prefer to spend the holidays on the beach, the world’s most festive cities each have their own unique way to celebrate this magical season. It is never too early to begin planning your festive travel celebrations with your travel consultant.

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Is Self-Care Your New Year’s Resolution?

Try These Rituals & Retreats While on Vacation

Photo: Azul Beach Resort, Negril

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Over the holidays, it’s easy to get so busy taking care of work, family responsibilities, and holiday planning, that your own needs keep getting pushed to tomorrow’s “to do list.” December can bring a full social calendar that can include hosting extended family, attending holiday parties, and making sure that the gifts, food, and decorations are just right. Even if you plan to take a vacation and get away from it all this year, it’s important to schedule some time for yourself.

If better self-care is your New Year’s resolution, what better way to get yourself started than with rituals, treatments, and practices at some of the world’s leading hotels and spas? The best part about these practices is that they are based on simple concepts you can carry with you into the new year. Make self-care your New Year’s resolution and start 2020 with inner balance with these six self-care vacation ideas.

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Practice Yoga and Stay Active Yoga can strengthen your core and increase your flexibility, but its benefits extend to your mind as well as your body. Yoga can reduce stress, increase mindfulness, relieve anxiety, and may be able to help those with depression and chronic pain cope better with their symptoms. Want to jump-start your yoga practice for the new year? At Azul Beach Resort Negril, join an accredited yogi on the beach for an energizing, de-stressing, and re-balancing morning yoga session.

Indulge Yourself in a Spa Treatment.

Make a date with yourself over the holidays with a spa treatment at the Quintana Roo, El Dorado Maroma’s Náay Spa Experience. The Náay Spa incorporates ancient Mayan elemental energies into its treatments, infusing its massages and aromatherapy experiences with ancient wisdom.

Enjoy a massage in the Ocean Palapa, and soothe your mind and body to the sound of the sea. Using herbal remedies and elixirs, the simplicity of sea salt, rosemary, mint, and chamomile, and even innovative tequila and melon skin treatments, your massage therapist can guide you on a healing journey, with ideas for skin care, aromatherapy, and relaxation you can carry with you into the new year.

Photo: El Dorado Maroma

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Reconnect with Loved Ones

Is Self-Care Your New Year’s Resolution?

Connecting with loved ones not only improves emotional health, but it can also strengthen your immune system, reduce the risk of developing depression and anxiety, and can even lead to a longer life (social isolation has been known to reduce lifespan). What better way to connect with your partner than by booking a romantic dinner for two at one of the most romantic destinations in the world? At the Four Seasons Bora Bora your romantic dinner begins with a private canoe ride to your own white sand motu where you’ll enjoy a personalized dinner for two as the sun sets and the stars flicker through the dark sky.

At the Four Seasons, escape to your own private stretch of white-sand beach and create a date night that truly inspires.

Photo: Four Seasons

Enjoy a Healthy Meal Nothing says self-care quite like a fresh, healthily-balanced local meal. Eating well-balanced meals of fresh fruits and vegetables not only can increase your energy level, but can also keep you healthy and help you meet your weight loss goals. Avoid breaking your diet over the holiday at Zoetry Agua Punta Cana, where locally-produced organic options await you. Have dietary restrictions or are you looking to find new ways to eat healthier? Let Zoetry’s staff craft you personalized meals that will inspire and tantalize your taste buds.

Photo: Atlantis, Paradise Island

Take a Long Hot Bath Hot baths are not only relaxing, but they are also great for your health. In any given day, we are bombarded by stimuli. Taking a daily bath can be an excellent way to enjoy some much-needed “me” time, while giving your brain time to rest and reset. A warm bath can also soothe a cough or stuffy nose, and ease aches and pains. If you love baths or are just looking to get yourself into the habit, book yourself a night at the Presidential Suite at The Cove at Atlantis Paradise Island. Soak in a bathtub overlooking the sea with beautiful floor-to-ceiling windows. Light a candle and relax under beautiful two-story vaulted ceilings. Get away from it all in a sanctuary overlooking Nassau, the resort, and the breathtaking Atlantic. The Presidential Suite also boasts two master bathrooms and bedrooms, a spacious dining area, and living area, so you’ll feel like you’re in an extravagant home away from home while on vacation.

Photo: Zoetry Agua, Punta Cana

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Try Something New Fear can hold us back from trying new things and from achieving our full potential.

Learning a new skill can inspire, spark your creative side, and help you grow. With Holland America Line, learn new recipes with America’s Test Kitchen’s workshops. With musical performances, onboard educational opportunities, and partnerships with O, the Oprah magazine, Holland America gives you the chance to grow through travel.

The best thing about many of these self-care rituals is that they give you something to take home with you long after your vacation is over.

Bring home some Mayan healing aromatherapies from Quintana Roo. Learn some new moves from a yogi in Negril to expand your yoga practice.

Get some tips for healthier eating in Punta Cana.

Relax with a warm bath in Nassau, reconnect with your partner in Bora Bora, or try something new on a Holland America cruise. When you combine self-care with travel this holiday season, you give yourself the gift that can keep giving.

Photo: Holland America Line®

Your Cure for Vacation Status Envy Enhance your vacation package with My Time, an elevated level of service offering exclusive perks and special amenities at select hotels and cruise ships. Enjoy complimentary extras like:* • Expedited check-in and check-out • Room upgrades • Spa, food and beverage, or resort credits • Cruise excursion discounts • Expedited luggage delivery

Bonus Benefits in Destination We really want you to get the most out of your vacation and truly experience all that your destination has to offer. Through your My Time vacation, you’ll also receive special benefits in select destinations, like a food and beverage voucher in Europe, courtesy gifts from your resort in Hawaii, or spa and resort credits in Mexico and the Caribbean. These little extras can make a big difference.

Contact a Liberty Travel consultant today to up your vacation game. *All My Time offers are provided by our third party suppliers to My Time customers and are subject to availability. My Time and any third party supplier may (in their sole discretion) substitute any of the offers for any other offer that is available for similar or no face value. All offers have no cash value, are not combinable with any other offers and are not transferable. Any offers not used have no surrender value and are not redeemable for cash value.

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Return

to paradise

Wrapped in the forever spirit of Puerto Rico, the ever-iconic Caribe Hilton is making waves again with fresh dining options and sparkling new rooms.

L I V E YOU R A D V E N T U R E i n a g a l a x y f a r , f a r a w a y.

THE ADVENTURE BEGINS Come live your very own Star Wars™ story in a whole new land where a galaxy far, far away unfolds all around you. Welcome to Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge.

Wander the lively market, where you can build your own droid and custom lightsaber† and sample the curious concoctions of the local cantina. Then, gather your crew and take control of the fastest hunk of junk in the galaxy on Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run.

And opening later in the year, find yourself caught in an epic battle between the Resistance and the First Order in Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance—where the incoming laser fire of a towering AT-AT is matched only by the red crackle of Kylo Ren’s lightsaber.

NOW OPEN †Reservations required.

Disney’s Hollywood Studios®, Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge and its experiences are subject to capacity.

Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance is not available at opening and will open later in the year.

©Disney © & TM Lucasfilm Ltd. 968602

Celebrate New Year’s Eve

Like a Celebrity

Photo: The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas

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Celebrities know how to ring in the New Year—whether they’re hitting the club in Miami, performing before thousands in Las Vegas or New York, or enjoying some quiet time with family. At these incredible hotels, you can ring in the new year like a VIP, and maybe even spot a celebrity or two along the way.

THE COSMOPOLITAN OF LAS VEGAS When celebrities want to let loose, many head to Vegas. For New Year’s Eve, the Vegas Strip is closed to traffic, transforming the Strip into a “block party” 300,000 people strong. The casinos join forces to create a fireworks display that ignites the desert sky. Lady Gaga, Celine Dion, Bruno Mars, Gwen Stefani, and Calvin Harris have rung in the new year with star-studded performances from their casino residencies. Roll the dice or try your luck at the tables, and people-watch for celebrities in the VIP section.

For a truly opulent experience, celebrate the New Year from the luxurious Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas. This unique resort is home to several event venues, including The Chelsea, Marquee Nightclub, and Clique Bar & Lounge — which means revelers will have plenty of places to party. Opt to stay in a decadent private terrace studio where you’ll have a perfect view of the Strip and the dazzling fireworks display. The Cosmopolitan has its own casino as well as several dining options, such as the modern supper club “Rose. Rabbit. Lie.”

Photo: The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas

NEW YORK MARRIOTT MARQUIS Every year, New York City throws the most watched New Year’s Eve party in the world. One million people pack Times Square and over a billion people around the world tune in to watch the famous ball drop to ring in the new year. New York City’s New Year’s Eve celebrations feature celebrity guests and world-renowned musical performances. Revelers begin to pack Times Square from the early morning hours to get their spot near the center stage, but if you’d prefer a little elbow room and one of the best seats in New York City, make a reservation at the New York Marriott Marquis’ New Year’s Eve Party at The View Restaurant and Lounge. Party the night away with an open bar, dinner, and live music at one of the top spots to see the ball drop in the city. This eatery is New York City’s only revolving restaurant; wherever you sit, you’re sure to enjoy incredible views.

After midnight, avoid the challenge of fighting the subway crowds or trying to hail a taxi by spending a night right at the New York Marriott Marquis. Enjoy incredible service, spacious accommodations, and all the amenities only Marriott can provide. Inspiring views of Times Square and Broadway blend seamlessly with sophisticated and simple design to create rooms that inspire and relax.

Photos: New York Marriott Marquis

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Celebrate New Year's Eve Like a Celebrity BANYAN TREE MAYAKOBA Celebrities like privacy, and the Banyan Tree Mayakoba in Playa del Carmen, Riviera Maya delivers. Each of the hotel’s 107 private villas is a refuge with its own walled garden, private pool, and sun deck. So, whether you’re looking to escape from the paparazzi or just want to get away from it all, you can find it at Banyan Tree. The hotel is known for its superlatives, from holding the distinction of being a AAA Five Diamond luxury beach resort to being ranked as “Travel & Leisure’s” “Best of the Best” in 2018. The resort is designed around nature, preserving and conserving intact mangrove forests, dunes, lagoons, and coral reefs.

Banyan Tree Mayakoba throws its own yearly New Year’s Eve party, but what sets the resort apart is its seclusion, natural beauty, and sense of escape. Enjoy the party, but when you’re ready to get away from it all, retreat to your private villa and pool, where you can sip champagne and ring in the new year with loved ones and friends, without the crowds.

Need to detox after a night of celebrating? Book a New Year’s Day treatment at the Banyan Tree Spa and start your new year with self-care.

Photos: Banyan Tree Mayakoba

INTERCONTINENTAL MIAMI Warm nights, beautiful art, and hot DJs shape Miami’s nightlife.

Celebrities like Leonardo DiCaprio, the Kardashians, Jennifer Lopez, Pitbull, Paris Hilton, and others have all been spotted partying the night away in the city Will Smith immortalized in a rap song.

It’s no surprise that Miami throws one of the best New Year’s parties in the world. At the leading South Beach clubs, some of the world’s top DJs spin into the wee hours, and crowds spill out onto the beach to watch the fireworks over the sea. In the Wynwood district, join the free block party, surrounded by Miami’s epic street art murals.

Photos: Intercontinental Miami

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Stay at the InterContinental Miami, where the city celebrates its own version of New York’s City’s ball drop—Miami-style. Every year, the city’s own Mr. Neon Orange is custom-built and dropped from the side of the hotel. Leading performers bring Miami’s Latin American flavor to ring in the new year. Overlooking Biscayne Bay, the InterContinental is just a short walk away from the Peréz Art Museum Miami, the American Airlines Arena, and the Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts. South Beach, Wynwood, and the Miami Design District are just a short drive away.

Beautiful rooms bedecked with marble bathrooms and large windows overlooking the Atlantic, Biscayne Bay, and the Port of Miami offer an inviting place to relax and unwind after your late-night revelries.

THE RITZ-CARLTON, LAKE TAHOE Celebrities have always been drawn to Lake Tahoe’s otherworldly blue water, breathtaking Sierra Nevada views, and wintertime ski slopes. The likes of Howard Hughes, Marilyn Monroe, Larry Ellison, Henry Kaiser, Frank Sinatra, Dionne Warwick, and more have made their homes and their reputations in Tahoe. Many celebrities reside in Tahoe, but for those who don’t already call Tahoe home, The Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe is a favorite hotel for A-listers to relax, ski, and unwind for the holidays. Guests enjoy convenient access to the ski slopes of the Northstar California Resort. You just might see a star on the lifts.

Photo: The Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe

After a day on the mountains, ring in the New Year’s at The Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe’s Manzanita restaurant. Sit by the cozy fireplace for an elevated New Year’s après ski experience, fit for a celebrity. Enjoy a special holiday menu, or party the night away later in the evening with Dom Pérignon, specialty cocktails, music, and dancing. Manzanita is a favorite Tahoe restaurant, and the well-heeled can often be spotted sitting beside the dramatic floorto-ceiling windows or taking a peek into the open kitchen where the culinary magic takes place.

Photo: The Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe

Whether you want to catch a live performance, join the party in some of the world’s leading cities, or want to people-watch all night, these hotels put you in the heart of the action. If you plan to celebrate the New Year in popular destinations like New York, Miami, Mexico, Tahoe, or Vegas, now is the time to start planning your New Year’s Eve vacation.

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You do the celebrating.

We’ll do everything else.

Bachelor and Bachelorette Trips, Friends Getaways & Birthday Celebrations CALL 1.888.571.0604 Call 1.888.910.9421 or visit LibertyTravel.com/Group-Travel to learn more.

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Life’s an experience.

Explore the world your way, with peace of mind that you’re covered for the unexpected.

With more than 30 years’ experience, Cover-More will keep you traveling with the right travel protection plan.

Call or visit one of our 100+ store locations nationwide For store locations and hours, visit LibertyTravel.com To speak with a consultant, call: 1.888.571.0604 For more information on Group Travel, call: 1.888.910.9421

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