Passport Prep + Winter Getaway Dreams
Switzerland
I don’t know about you but this is the time of year my husband and I start itching to get away! Our kids start school in August and as the routine of it all starts to get super redundant and we are ready to break out. So if you are anything like us, here are some tips to help you decide on a destination and get started with your planning.
Is your passport ready for takeoff?
If you’re planning to travel over the holidays, here’s your gentle reminder: check those expiration dates now.
The U.S. Department of State currently estimates:
Routine renewals: 4–6 weeks
Expedited: around 2–3 weeks (plus mailing time)
*And remember, many countries require at least 6 months of validity beyond your travel dates — so don’t let that small detail derail your big trip.
Visit this link to get more information about renewal time frames.
Where to Wander This Winter
Here are some places on our list! These are perfect if you love winter landscapes, skiing, hot cocoa, and festive charm.
Banff, Alberta (Canada) — alpine town with skiing, ice skating, hot springs — ranked among top winter family vacations
Lake Tahoe, CA / NV — ski, snowshoe, ice-skate, and cozy cabin vibes
Aspen, Colorado — classic winter-sports hub with luxe lodgings. We’ve visited before in the winter without the kids and it was so beautiful
Jackson Hole, Wyoming — dramatic scenery + variety of winter adventures
Finland / Lapland — for those magical “meet Santa, ride a sleigh, northern lights” vibes over the holidays. This one is HIGH on our list but I will tell you, it takes planning really far in advance because the lodging fills up fast. Maybe put it on your list for next year
Warm Winter Escapes. For when “winter break” means escaping the chill altogether. We’ve been to all of these places and you really can’t miss!
Hawaii (especially Oahu / Maui) — a classic warm island retreat during December
Cayman Islands — powder-white beaches, snorkeling, relaxing under palm trees
Bahamas — especially good for families wanting a tropical break close to home
Riviera Maya, Mexico — family-friendly resorts, cenotes, Mayan ruins, good for combining culture + beach time
Costa Rica — jungle, wildlife, rainforests, plus beach time. Warm weather, lots to explore
San Diego, CA — for a U.S. warm-weather option without needing a passport
Orlando / Florida — home for us but a great option for hitting up theme parks + milder temps
