Magical Family Pre-Christmas City Breaks: Why New York Should Be on Your List
For families, these are the kinds of memories you treasure forever. A pre-Christmas family city break is the perfect way to capture that magic.
LONDON TAUGHT ME A LESSON
When my daughter (now 27) was just six, we took her to London for New Year’s Eve. She was mesmerised by the lights and loved sitting on her dad’s shoulders watching the fireworks by the London Eye.
But that trip also reminded me that even the best-laid plans can go wrong. A tube strike left us walking home, thank goodness for sturdy shoes and strong shoulders!
The truth is, I cannot stop a tube strike or an airline strike, but I can make sure you are never left stranded alone in an airport. With me, you always have support on hand. That is the reassurance that makes a family city break stress-free.
OUR FIRST LONG-HAUL ADVENTURE
Later that same year, during the Easter holidays, we took her on her first long-haul trip to Disney in Florida. I knew the parks would be at their busiest over the Easter weekend, so I planned downtime with a Disney cruise right in the middle.
It worked perfectly. She met all the characters onboard without hours of queuing, and we returned to the parks refreshed.
What struck me then was how well children often cope with long flights and time differences. She adapted quickly, while we adults were the ones struggling!
JET LAG TIPS FOR NEW YORK AT CHRISTMAS
Plan early activities for the first couple of mornings even teenagers may be awake by 7am Push through and go to bed at local time to reset quickly On your return, allow at least one day at home (two is better) before work or school
WHY TIMING MATTERS FOR A FAMILY CITY BREAK
We waited until my daughter was 14 before finally taking her to New York. And while it was still an exciting trip, it was not quite the same magical experience as when she was younger. Let us just say teenagers see things differently!
That is why I encourage families to go while the magic is still alive. Seeing New York at Christmas through a child’s eyes is unforgettable.
NOW WITH A GRANDDAUGHTER
Fast-forward to today, and I now have a two-year-old granddaughter. For her very first adventure, we are starting closer to home with a short-haul trip to Disneyland Paris, a brilliant option when you are travelling with toddlers.
Some people say little ones are too young for Disney, and it is true they may not remember every detail. But the joy of watching their faces light up, and the memories you make as parents and grandparents, are absolutely unforgettable.
Even for Paris, I am already researching where we can grab quick snacks. Toddlers do not wait for table service when hungry! Knowing in advance exactly where to go means no wasted time trailing around and that is exactly the kind of planning I do for my clients too.
HOW I MAKE YOUR FAMILY CITY BREAK STRESS-FREE
Big cities can be overwhelming and New York is no exception. This is where I step in as your Travel Counsellor.
The right hotel in the right location, close to the action but with calm corners nearby
Flights and private transfers arranged in advance, at family-friendly times
Tourist visas (ESTA) guided step by step
Online check-in completed for you
Full financial protection with ATOL cover on every trip I create
24-hour support from me on WhatsApp, plus Travel Counsellors’ round-the-clock helpline
So there is no Home Alone moment with me you are never left to figure it all out by yourself.
CREATE YOUR OWN MAGICAL MEMORIES
The magic of New York at Christmas is something you do not want to miss. The lights, the music, the atmosphere it is unforgettable. And with the right planning, it can be magical for every member of the family.
And it is not just New York. A pre-Christmas city break in Paris, Vienna, or London can be just as memorable and I can help you plan the perfect one.
Ready to plan your pre-Christmas city break? Call me on 01302 543433, message me on WhatsApp, or get in touch through my website. I will design a trip that is tailor-made for your family, with every detail taken care of.
So all you need to do is enjoy the magic.
