The holiday season has arrived in its full, shimmering glory. That time of year when everything feels touched by a little extra light. Streets glow, kitchens burst with laughter, and communities come alive with traditions that reflect who we are and what we cherish. It’s a season built on connection: the joy of gathering with family, the warmth of reconnecting with friends and the beauty of pausing long enough to savor the moments that shape our lives.
For me, travel has always been the thread that ties these moments together. Whether we journey across the world or simply around the corner, the holidays remind us that joy is rarely found in what we receive — it’s the love we give, the stories we share, and the memories that stay with us long after the trip ends. And in this year’s Traveling with Denella Ri’chard One-Hour Holiday Special, Holiday Hops & Global Stops, we raise a glass to the magic of movement, meaning and togetherness.
This year, my travels swept me through places that stirred my spirit — destinations brimming with character, history, flavor and heart. Over ten unforgettable stops seen throughout the special, we explore destinations that shimmer with festive wonder, resonate with cultural richness and offer the kind of soulful charm that reminds you why exploring the world matters.
Our holiday journey begins in a deeply historic Southern town of Natchez, Mississippi, a place where every street feels like a story and every conversation reminds you of the resilience and pride woven into its community. It’s the kind of destination that reconnects you with the why behind travel — not just to see a place, but to feel it. Strolling through its beautifully preserved neighborhoods, listening to tales passed from generation to generation, you can’t help but be moved. It’s a gentle reminder that some of the most powerful travel experiences aren’t flashy or far-flung ... they’re rooted in authenticity.
From there, we leap into a series of vibrant adventures across the United States and our neighbors to the North. This year reminded me just how extraordinary our own backyard truly is. We explored riverfront cities layered with history, creative hubs where art and innovation collide, and charming destinations that feel delightfully frozen in time. Then, just when the nostalgia settled in, we shifted into the energy of skylines that dazzle with their modern pulse. Whether immersed in the comfort of a small-town escape or swept up in the rhythm of a city that never sleeps, each stop reinforced this truth: adventure is never far — sometimes it’s a tank of gas or a short flight away.
And of course, the holidays aren’t complete without time at sea. Cruising holds its own special kind of enchantment, that incomparable feeling of waking up each morning to a new horizon. This year, I explored sailings that showcase the very best of the industry: itineraries gliding through crystal-clear waters, journeys past Europe’s mesmerizing riverbanks and elevated adults-only voyages that wrap style, ease and indulgence into one seamless experience. Cruising is freedom without the fuss — unpack once, relax deeply and let the world come to you. And with WAVE Season right around the corner, it’s the perfect moment to guide clients toward exceptional fares, upgrades and value-packed offers that can turn their daydreams into real-world adventures.
Of course, when winter settles in, many travelers crave the warmth of somewhere sun-kissed. That’s where our tropical global stops come in — destinations bursting with color, beauty and soul. From jewel-tone waters to lively island cultures, each escape serves as a reminder that paradise is more than scenery; it’s a state of mind. Some highlights this season include a dazzling Indian Ocean oasis, the welcoming charm of beloved Caribbean favorites, the elevated ease of a luxury all-inclusive and an American tropical getaway where the culture is as vibrant as the coastline. Sunshine, rhythm, flavor and joy — the perfect antidote to winter’s chill.
As our journey winds down, Holiday Hops & Global Stops becomes more than a collection of destinations — it transforms into a celebration of togetherness and the shared experiences that make travel meaningful. Quiet reflections. Big adventures. Deep connections. These are the gifts we carry long after our passports are put away.
As you move through the holidays — and into a brand-new year — may you find joy in discovery, comfort in connection and grace in every moment spent with those you hold close.
Travel Agents, this is your time.
Watch the Holiday Hops & Global Stops One-Hour Holiday Special now streaming on VAX. Let it inspire your conversations, excite your clients and spark the unforgettable journeys they’ll cherish for years to come.
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