As we step into October, the holidays are just around the corner — and for many of us, that means family gatherings, festive chaos, and maybe even a little time to dream about what’s next. I love this time of year because it’s when so many of my clients start thinking ahead — not just to Thanksgiving or Christmas, but to the memories they want to make in the year ahead.
Over the years, I’ve picked up a few travel-inspired holiday traditions from my clients (and created some of my own!) that make this season even more meaningful. Whether you’re gifting travel, reminiscing about past adventures, or planning what’s next, here are a few ideas to spark your own wanderlust-filled traditions
1. Gift Experiences, Not Things
One of my favorite client traditions is “one trip under the tree.” Instead of piling on more stuff, they surprise the family with a vacation reveal — maybe a puzzle that spells out Disney, a photo of a beach, or luggage tags tucked into stockings. The excitement on Christmas morning lasts long after the wrapping paper’s gone.
2. Create a Memory Ornament
Each year, I buy an ornament from one of the places I’ve traveled — whether it’s a handmade trinket from Italy or a seashell from a Caribbean cruise. Decorating the tree becomes a trip down memory lane, literally. I’ve had clients start doing this with their kids too, letting them choose one ornament from every destination.
3. Host a “Travel-Inspired” Dinner
One of my clients hosts a dinner themed around a destination they visited that year. Italian night, Hawaiian luau, Parisian picnic — the creativity is endless. It’s such a fun way to bring travel stories to life (and share photos that don’t live forever on your phone!).
4. Movie Night Around the World
This one’s easy and cozy. Each weekend in December, pick a holiday movie from a different country or a film that transports you somewhere beautiful — The Holiday for England, Letters to Juliet for Italy, or Under the Tuscan Sun(because, of course). Pair it with snacks from that country and you’ve got a travel night in.
5. Create a “Year in Travel” Photo Book
Even if you only took one trip, compile your favorite photos and print a mini photo book. I’ve done this for a few years now, and it’s become something I treasure — flipping through the memories each December reminds me how much adventure a single year can hold.
6. Start a “Where To Next?” Tradition
Every January 1st, my husband and I sit down with coffee (okay, sometimes mimosas) and talk about where we’d love to go that year. It’s become our own little New Year’s ritual — dreaming big, setting goals, and turning inspiration into action.
One of my clients shared that she and her husband do something similar after the holidays. Once the kids are asleep, they pour hot cocoa, cozy up on the couch, and plan a couples’ getaway just for the two of them. She told me it’s their favorite night of the year — a small tradition that keeps them connected and gives them something to look forward to once the holiday chaos winds down.
Even if the trip doesn’t happen right away, having that list (and that moment together) keeps the wanderlust alive all year long.
From My Travel Family to Yours
However you celebrate this season, I hope it’s filled with connection, laughter, and the kind of moments that make you dream about what’s next.
And when you’re ready to start planning that “next,” I’d love to help you make it unforgettable.
-Lisa, Owner & Luxury Travel Advisor
