The festive period means different things to different people, but it almost always involves traditions of some sort, writes Liz Meineck

For lots of people, those traditions would include church services and Christmas carols but for many, it's just about a bit of time to recharge the batteries, spend time with loved ones and eat your body weight in quality street (or is that just me?)

Similarly, New Year can mean writing resolutions you may or may not accomplish, or metaphorically wiping the slate clean and moving into a new year with a fresh perspective and excitement for what the next 12 months may hold. 

Whatever your idea of the perfect festive period, one that that almost everyone enjoys is a bit of time away from home.

My traditional family Christmas is with my family at home, so I've never ventured abroad for Christmas Day (how would Santa even find you??) although we've rented out cottages by the beach once or twice and that's been pretty magical. However, I do know lots of people who love to spend the Big Day on a beach somewhere tropical.  

I've seen the New Year in from various parts of the world over the years and that has been very exciting. Every country has a different way (and sometimes date) of celebrating the New Year, but it's always fun and unique. 

I also love to go somewhere warm early in January, when the sparkly Christmas lights have been switched off, the British weather is doing it's thing and Spring feels a long way off. 

So, what's your favourite type of escape and time to do it? I've talked about Lapland before and that's obviously a popular choice for families. But how about a log cabin with a great view of a snowy wonderland at Christmas?

A nice hotel in a charming UK town with a log fire and hot chocolate in those weird in between days after Christmas, but before New Year? NYE in Sydney on a boat trip watching the fireworks from the harbour – definitely on my bucket list! If you'd like to head off somewhere this December, it's not too late to book! Here's a deal that might suit the sun worshippers looking for a bargain… 

Spend Christmas in Lanzarote - 7 Nights All Inclusive in the HSA Ficus Apartments, Costa Teguise, only £978* per person from 21-28 December 2023! 

The HSA Ficus Apartments pack in all the holiday must-haves, from a chunky pool to an around-the-world buffet restaurant.

This place ticks off all the essentials, from a sizeable pool and a buffet restaurant to regular evening entertainment, including live music and shows. The location's on the money as well – staying here will plant you within 300m of Costa Teguise's sand-swept coastline. It's headlined by a handful of sandy beaches, which are backed by restaurants and bars.  

*Price based on two adults sharing travelling 21 December 2023, subject to availability and change. 

For more information, including the full itinerary, or to discuss alternative options, please contact me… 

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