Whether you’re a turkey traditionalist or a passport-stamping snow chaser, deciding whether to travel during the winter holidays isn’t just about logistics.
For Preston Hollow resident Andrea Moore, staying home for the holidays is still the best option.
“Home means comfort, tradition, and no airport security lines,” she said. “Home-cooked meals and the simplicity of being surrounded by your people — and your stuff — is pretty hard to beat.”
But, for some, even the most beloved routines can feel repetitive during the holidays, and more families are using the break to explore destinations such as the popular Rocky Mountain ski resorts that offer upscale amenities, a family-friendly atmosphere, and beautifully maintained slopes.
“Vail Valley is a favorite escape destination for Dallasites,” said Molly Griffin of Colorado-based Slifer Smith & Frampton Real Estate. “Cool mountain summers bring hiking, biking, and fly fishing, while winter transforms the valley into a world-class ski destination. Add in a thriving cultural scene at the Vilar Performing Arts Center and Gerald R. Ford Amphitheater, and there’s something to enjoy year-round.”
When Dallas residents crave a shift from the flatlands of North Texas but are looking to add a coastline, they often head West — particularly to Santa Barbara and Montecito.
“With ocean breezes and mountain backdrops, (the area) offers a pace that feels both luxurious and restorative,” said Marsha Kotlyar of Marsha Kotlyar Estate Group in Montecito, California.
But, while holiday travel can be fun, it often comes at a premium, especially during peak travel days. Between inflated airfare, crowded airports, and unpredictable weather, even a short getaway can feel like a logistical marathon to some.
Ebby Halliday’s Debbie French offers another option — only a couple hours’ drive from Dallas — to suit both types of holiday revelers.
“A second home nearby provides the best of both worlds: the comfort of a familiar place to spend the holidays and the freedom to get away when you want, on your terms,” said French.
And while interest rates remain a consideration, buyers are still capitalizing on market slowdowns to negotiate better deals, especially in seasonal or vacation-oriented markets.
“Many people think of Cedar Creek Lake as a summer getaway destination, but it is much more than that — it is a year-round retreat that is especially magical during the fall and winter holidays,” said the waterfront property specialist. “Almost every home I show on (the lake) has a closet or attic full of Christmas décor. Being at the lake is so peaceful that you can’t help but slow down, relax, put down the phone, and just enjoy being together.”
For those not ready to take the plunge into second property ownership, renting a vacation home offers a holiday escape minus the worry of upkeep and maintenance.
“Many short-term rental properties on the lake offer fireplaces, hot tubs, firepits, and yards to play the annual Thanksgiving family football game,” said French. “Holidays can be stressful, so booking a rental property is one of the best ways to decompress and focus on spending quality time with family and friends, creating wonderful holiday memories that last a lifetime.”
Jodi Peters, chief marketing officer and broker for Cinnamon Shore, a beach community on the Texas Gulf Coast, shared the sentiment, noting that meeting up on neutral ground for a holiday can lead to lower expectations and shared responsibilities.
“It’s less stress for everyone and more time to enjoy each other,” said Peters. “Memories made around a beach bonfire set up just for your family last a lifetime.”
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