Holiday Travel Guide: Magical Winter Getaways

The holiday season is a time for joy, celebration, and creating lasting memories with loved ones. Sometimes that means staying close to home; other times it means getting out to explore a new winter destination or visit a familiar favorite.

Whether you dream of glittering city lights or sun-kissed beaches, holiday travel can offer something extra-special for everyone.

We’re spotlighting three exceptional vacation destinations — New York City, London, and Los Cabos — each offering unique experiences that will make your holiday season unforgettable. From festive, local traditions and iconic landmarks to luxurious accommodations, these Equity Estates destinations promise magic, comfort, and adventure during the most wonderful time of the year.

New York City: A Winter Wonderland of Iconic Experiences

Why Visit?
The energy of NYC reaches new heights during the holiday season. The always-bustling city transforms into a glittering winter wonderland, making it a dream destination for festive travelers.

What to See and Do:
• Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree: Witness the world-famous tree, one of NYC’s must-see holiday landmarks. Lit daily from 5am to midnight (except on Christmas Eve when it’s lit for a full 24 hours and New Year’s Eve when it shines from 5am to 9pm), the dazzling tree remains on display from early December through mid-January.
• Ice Skating in Central Park or Bryant Park: Glide through enchanting outdoor rinks surrounded by the city’s skyline. The Wollman Rink in the heart of Central Park is a must-do for skaters of all ages and skill levels. The rink at Bryant Park, located in its seasonal Winter Village, offers free admission, as well as skate rentals, skating shows, and other holiday festivities.
• Holiday Window Displays: Stroll the city sidewalks on and around Fifth Avenue to marvel at intricate, themed storefronts. Starting at Bloomingdales on Lexington Avenue and heading over to and south on Fifth, you’ll pass beautifully creative displays and sparkling lights from Tiffany & Co., Saks Fifth Avenue, Bergdorf Goodman, and more before reaching the multiple holiday windows at Macy’s.
• Santaland at Macy’s Department Store: If you don’t mind the crowds, paying a visit to Macy’s — and particularly Santaland — is an immersive and nostalgic way for kids of all ages to enjoy the holidays, whether you want to admire the decorations, do a little shopping, or get a photo with Santa himself.
• Take in a Holiday Performance: Catch wonderful holiday-themed shows such as “The Nutcracker” at Lincoln Center, “Elf the Musical,” “A Christmas Carol,” and “The Rockettes Christmas Spectacular” at various venues on (and off) Broadway.
• Shop the Holiday Markets: Eat drink, browse, and shop for unique gifts at the fun and festive Union Square, Bryant Park, or Columbus Circle outdoor markets.
• New Year’s Eve at Times Square: For those who want to brave the cold and the crowds to ring in the new year, there’s nothing like New Year’s Eve at Times Square. Stake out your spot in the crowd, enjoy the music and festivities, then watch the iconic ball drop at midnight at this world-famous, annual event.

What Makes it Special?
New York City offers a perfect blend of nostalgia and excitement, creating an unforgettable urban holiday experience.

Equity Estates Residences:
• Midtown East I, New York
• Midtown East II, New York 

London: Timeless Traditions and Cozy Festivities

Why Visit?
London blends historic charm with modern elegance to create an absolutely irresistible holiday atmosphere.

What to See and Do:
• View the City’s Famed Christmas Lights: Walk beneath dazzling light displays illuminating some of the city’s most historic streets — Oxford Street, Regent Street, Bond Street, and more — and enjoy the stunning bells and lights on display at Market Hall in Covent Garden.
• Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park: From the end of November through early January, guests can frolic and play in this festive winter fairground, lit up with magical light displays and featuring an ice slide, ice skating, family-friendly rides, and fabulous holiday shows. Great fun for kids and adults.
• Holiday Shows in the West End: From “A Sherlock Carol” and “The Nutcracker” to “West End Musical Christmas” and the classic “A Christmas Carol” at the Old Vic, there are dozens of holiday productions to choose from each winter and no better place to see them than in London’s famed West End theatre district.
• Christmas Wonderland at Harrods Department Store: Harrods is a must-visit department store anytime you’re in London, but especially so during the Christmas season. Decked out in lights, decorations, and holiday displays, with an entire floor set aside for Christmas goods, it’s like stepping into a holiday wonderland.
• Traditional Afternoon Tea: Indulge in holiday-themed teas and treats at one of London’s iconic hotels or department stores. Afternoon tea at The Ritz; the unique Japanese-inspired tea at Sushisamba in Covent Garden; and Fortnum & Mason’s Diamond Jubilee Tea Salon all make for unforgettable (and elegant) holiday experiences.
• Caroling at Trafalgar Square: Bundle up against the cold and pay a visit to Trafalgar Square for Christmas carols performed by local choral groups. Join in the singing or simply sit back and enjoy the classics beneath the city’s Christmas tree.
• New Year’s Eve Fireworks: Ring in the new year with London’s world-famous fireworks over the Thames. The spectacular display takes place in Westminster, near the London Eye and Big Ben, and can be viewed from a variety of vantage points around the city.

What Make is Special?
The blend of old-world charm, iconic landmarks, and warm traditions makes London an ideal destination for a special winter holiday getaway

Equity Estates Residence:
• London, United Kingdom

Los Cabos: Sun-Kissed Festivities by Sea

Why Visit?
For those who want to trade snow for sun, this Mexican coastal paradise is the perfect spot for a relaxed yet festive holiday.

What to See and Do:
• Whale Watching: Mid-December through March is peak whale-watching season in Los Cabos, making it a unique activity for the holidays. Keep a look-out and spot migrating whales from the comfort of your Equity Estates balcony or take a guided boat tour to see the majestic marine animals up close.
• Beachside Resort Celebrations: Enjoy lavish holiday feasts and special events at some of Cabo’s top resorts. The Montage Los Cabos hosts churros & chocolate gatherings, a Christmas Eve dinner, an evening Hanukkah Menorah lighting ceremony, and a Christmas brunch. The Hilton Los Cabos features Santa’s arrival, a Christmas dinner, a New Year’s Eve party on the beach, and more. And the One&Only Palmilla resort offers a kids-only “Christmas at Laponia” experience, a family-style Christmas Eve dinner, brunch with Santa, and a New Year’s Eve party with fireworks.
• View the Festive Décor in San José del Cabo: Take a leisurely stroll along the narrow streets and sidewalks of downtown San José and explore the shops, restaurants, and colorful holiday decorations in the charming Plaza Mijares.
• Take in the Cabo San Lucas Nautical Christmas Parade: This beloved annual tradition transforms the town’s bay into a stunning showcase of floating lights, colors, and decorations. Boats of all sizes and shapes glide through the water, filling the air with music and the spectacular sights and sounds of the holidays.
• Experience Las Posadas: Immerse yourself in the traditional nine-day Mexican festival that commemorates Mary and Joseph’s journey to Bethlehem. These celebrations are held throughout Cabo December 16-24 and are filled with candlelight processions, music, food, and community spirit.

What Makes it Special?
The contrast of sunny beaches and festive cheer creates a unique, laid-back holiday experience perfect for rest, relaxation, and adventure.

Equity Estates Residences:
• Playa Palmilla I
• Playa Palmilla II
• Playa Palmilla III
• Puerto Los Cabos I
• Puerto Los Cabos II

Your Holiday Adventure Awaits

Whether you crave the excitement of a bustling metropolis or the warmth of sandy beaches our Equity Estates destinations each have something special to offer during the holiday season.

Your Destination Manager will work with you to plan your holiday itinerary before you arrive and make sure your stay is effortless and unforgettable. They can also arrange for holiday decorations, special experiences, and private chefs to come in and cook for you while you’re in your Equity Estates home. Leave the details to us and arrive to a fully stocked kitchen and bar with groceries of your choice. With Equity Estates, comfort and luxury are yours.

If you would like more information about investing with Equity Estates, please reach out to our Investor Relations team at 404.445.8501 or schedule a call. Your magical winter holiday awaits!