Traveling over the holidays can be extremely rewarding – either with the whole family to celebrate, or as a getaway right after Christmas. On the other hand, this is the busiest travel season all year. Many resorts can also nearly double their prices! Check out my picks below for unique destinations. At each of these hotels you can still indulge in holiday luxury for less than $1,000 per night. 

Rosewood San Miguel de Allende

San Miguel de Allende is a beautiful colonial town a short flight away from Mexico City. It has gotten very popular recently and has so much to see and do – from amazing food to soaking up the local culture. The Rosewood is a fantastic property and the restaurants there are some of the best in town, including a rooftop tapas bar. Take side trips to Guanajuato and Queretaro or wander the colorful markets near the hotel. 

Hacienda Alta Gracia

This GORGEOUS hacienda is set away from it all in the highlands of Costa Rica. Come here to get away and enjoy the hacienda lifestyle. The infinity pool overlooks green valleys and coffee plantations. There are also plenty of activities here to keep you busy for a week – from horseback riding, to cheese making on a local farm, to touring a coffee plantation. Visit Hacienda Alta Gracia, an Auberge resort, to see a different side of Costa Rica.

Banyan Tree Cabo Marques

If you love fantastic views and huge amounts of private space this oasis was made just for you! With many rooms over 2,000 square feet and all boasting private plunge pools, this is the place to go to get away. Though set up in the cliffside, Banyan Tree has a relationship with the beach club down below so you can hit the sand if you like. You can also do fishing excursions and visit the local town. On New Years Eve they’re having a great party too!

L’Auberge de Sedona

If you’re looking to revive yourself over the holidays, Sedona is an excellent choice. I’ve never met anyone who didn’t enjoy their time here. L’Auberge is special because it sits right below downtown Sedona, on a beautiful tree lined creek. You can stay in a creek-side cottage or up high for a view of the red rocks. In either case you’re only steps away from the fun crystal shops of downtown. Make sure to visit a few of the energy vortexes and hike Devils Bridge!

Four Seasons Santa Fe

This gem is set outside of Santa Fe and is perfect for a relaxing spa getaway in the desert. The rooms come with heated floors and cute fireplaces that staff will light for you anytime. The spa is fantastic (one of the best massages of my life!) and you’re in close proximity to Santa Fe and several fantastic archaeological sights.

Morgan’s Rock

Morgan’s Rock, a true oasis, is an eco-lodge set in southern Nicaragua. During the day you can take part in monkey and sloth “safaris” on property, visit the nearby town of San Juan del Sur, hang out on the beach or in your private plunge pool, or visit the working farm and collect milk and eggs for your own breakfast. At night, the property really shines – there are gorgeous lanterns everywhere lighting the paths and down on the beach. On New Year’s Eve they’ll have a bonfire and beach party for guests to enjoy! 

Andaz Mayakoba

If you’ve got beach on the brain, Andaz Mayakoba is an affordable yet nice option for the holidays. While most other luxury properties in the Caribbean are well over $1,000 per night (many double or triple that) – here you can snag an entry level room for much less than that. The décor at the Andaz is trendy and the bars, restaurants, and pool areas are well thought out. The beach within the Mayakoba complex is also your best bet for avoiding seaweed and mosquitos on the Riviera Maya. Check out this post to learn more about the area.

Remember – if you’re booking these or any other luxury properties – you’re almost always better off booking through a quality travel advisor. I have relationships with the teams at each of these hotels and my clients are treated as VIPs. You’ll also score resort credits, free breakfast, and sometimes even an upgrade!

Last but not least, the holidays are the busiest time of the year and each of these hotels only has limited availability left, so get to work on those holiday plans!