Five International Destinations for a Non-Traditional Thanksgiving

Oct 22, 2021 | Aon

Thanksgiving is quickly approaching, and many people are choosing to travel domestically – whether to reunite with family or to trade in snow for sand. But staying stateside comes with a hefty price tag. In fact, according to a recent report by Hopper, after Halloween, travelers should expect domestic airfare to skyrocket 40% leading up to Thanksgiving week.

With that in mind, if you’re willing to give up your turkey, mashed potatoes and pumpkin pie at home, consider venturing abroad instead this Thanksgiving. Experts say it’s an ideal time to travel – flights and hotel stays are slightly cheaper since it’s the off-season, plus you’ll likely avoid the crowds.

Ready to book your trip? Here are five dreamy international destinations to consider:

Go on a Tranquil Getaway in Tuscany
Anghiari, Italy
Some travelers consider Tuscany one of the most romantic places to visit in Europe, which speaks volumes about its mesmerizing countryside filled with enchanting cities and picturesque farms. Anghiari is a lovely walled town situated on a bluff in the eastern part of the region. Its distinct Medieval feel takes you back in time, and the sweeping scenes of the hillside will leave you speechless. During your journey, you can visit the iconic churches and discover more about the Battle of Anghiari in 1440.

Zipline Through Forest Canopy
Queenstown, New Zealand
Dubbed the adventure capital of the world, Queenstown offers every kind of extreme sport, including bungy-jumping, paragliding and river surfing. Many adrenaline-junkies also claim its ziplines are some of the best on earth. Fortunately, there are courses for every type of zipliner – whether you’re a professional or looking for family-friendly fun. If you’re brave enough to look down on your descent, you’ll spot dramatic views of peaks, treetops and lakes.

Experience Laid-Back Beach Vibes
Santa Teresa, Costa Rica
Nestled in the outer jungle of the country’s Nicoya Peninsula, Santa Teresa provides the perfect mix of culture and relaxation. At one time, it was a quiet, rural fishing village. Now, Santa Teresa’s natural magnificence is no longer a secret. It’s common to spot celebrities and professional athletes enjoying the beach town’s trendy restaurants, white sand and legendary surf breaks. The good news is the weather is almost always perfect. Between year-round sunshine and warm temperatures, Santa Teresa is sure to steal your heart.

Cruise Down the Amazon River
Iquitos, Peru
If you’re seeking unforgettable adventure, it’s time to consider a nature expedition through the massive Amazon River, which some consider to be even longer than the Nile. Along your trek, you’ll be able to take in the magnificent grandeur of the Amazon rainforest and its diverse pool of plants and animals, as well as the vibrant communities that call the region home. Low water season runs from June to November and sees about a quarter less rainfall than high water season, making Thanksgiving an ideal time to visit and embark on the voyage of a lifetime.

Explore Enchanting Waters
Cebu, Philippines
Known as the “Queen City of the South,” people from all around the world flock to Cebu and its more than 150 islands. With greenish blue water that glistens in the sunlight and sprawling mountains that pepper the horizon, it’s easy to understand why so many tourists are captivated by the province’s charm and breathtaking beauty. Luckily, you won’t run out of things to put on your itinerary – the popular destination boasts plenty of unique water activities – from chasing stunning waterfalls to kayaking amid spectacular caves and lush jungles.

The Aon Travel Takeaway? “With travel guidelines constantly evolving, both domestically and internationally, consider purchasing travel insurance. Not only does it offer a layer of protection and peace of mind, but it’s also smart – especially when you’re booking a last-minute trip,” says Beth Godlin, president of the Aon Affinity Travel Practice. “Also, don’t forget that some countries require proof of vaccination or a negative COVID test before entry.”

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