Holiday traditions may be cozy, but sometimes it’s exciting to venture elsewhere to celebrate. And let’s not forget our furry companions – no festivity is truly complete without them. Whether you're itching for a far-flung getaway or prefer to stay closer to home this year, here are 10 enticing holiday destinations to ponder with your pet in tow.
1. New York
Among highly-recommended dog-friendly winter getaways, you’ll find the Big Apple, of course. Soho and Tribeca Grand Hotels – sisters in luxury accommodation – are pooch-friendly as only New York can be.
2. St. Moritz
Or how ‘bout St. Moritz? Jet-setting pets love foreign holiday destinations. And did you know St. Moritz is the town that originally put winter tourism on the map? At the Carlton Hotel, your pooch can join you in one of 60 lake-view rooms, not to mention the ground-floor restaurant and bar.
3. Cotswolds
It’s hard to beat the gorgeous scenery in the Cotswolds, especially in winter, and there are plenty of accommodations waiting with open arms to welcome your pet as well as the humans in your family for a glorious holiday break.
4. Arizona
Where do holiday travelers head if they want to avoid a snowy winter wonderland? Parts of Arizona such as Tucson come to mind, but note that it does snow in some regions of the state.
5. San Diego
The beachy sands of San Diego are another warm choice. The weather is perfect for hanging out with your pet at an outdoor café or enjoying an ice cream cone and a stroll through Old Town. Your dog can lick his own dish of Frosty Paws, a pup-friendly ice cream available at the Lighthouse Ice Cream Shop.
6. Sonoma County
Or head to wine country, anywhere – from Napa to Oregon’s Willamette Valley, France or Italy. Dogs and wineries are a generations-old tradition, so you can be pretty sure your pooch will be welcome to visit with you (minus the actual wine tasting, of course). In fact these days many wineries overtly promote their dog-friendliness. The aptly-named Mutt Lynch Winery in famed Sonoma County, donates money from every bottle sale to local pet rescue groups.
7. Santa Barbara
Even if you don’t celebrate Christmas, you’ll want to memorialize this holiday season with the must-have Photo with Santa – especially if the fee is a donation to your local shelter or rescue group! If your own pet is a rescue herself, you know how grateful she is for her warm and loving life with you. She’ll be happier sitting for her photo, knowing she’s helping some other dog or cat in need.
8. Naples, FL
Naples, Florida, has a plethora of pet-friendly activities ranging from boat rides, parks, shopping and dining.
9. Key West, FL
Key West offers boating and fishing experiences for both you and your furry friend. There's also an aquarium, distillery, and gardens that welcome pets.10. Your Home
Why not make home the ultimate holiday destination? Embrace the cozy tradition of baking with your furry companion by your side. While your dog may be ready for any adventure, your beloved feline likely prefers the familiar comforts of home. Give them the gift of quiet moments together, filled with extra snuggles and affection. And of course, don't forget the treats – catnip and scratchables will surely be met with purrs of approval.
Photo by Brooke Cagle on Unsplash
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