As summer fades and the days grow shorter, the thought of escaping to somewhere warm—or delightfully festive—becomes more tempting by the day. Whether you’re dreaming of a European Christmas market cruise, a tropical retreat in Southeast Asia, or a cozy chalet in the Alps, now is the time to start planning your winter getaway.
At Scott & Thomas, we believe that travel is about more than just where you go—it’s about how you go. Booking early is one of the simplest ways to elevate your experience, ensuring access to the best accommodations, exclusive excursions, and seamless service from start to finish. Here’s why starting your winter planning now matters more than ever.
1. The Best Experiences Go First
From ocean cruises to luxury villas and festive river journeys, the best experiences sell out long before the holiday season begins. Booking early gives you the advantage of choice—your preferred suite on a Silversea cruise, the perfect overwater bungalow in the Maldives, or a private guided tour through Vienna’s sparkling Christmas markets.
When you work with your Scott & Thomas concierge, early planning unlocks exclusive offers and complimentary upgrades. Winter is one of the busiest times for luxury travel, and by booking early, you’ll have first pick of the most desirable options, not what’s left after everyone else has booked.
2. Better Value and Exclusive Rates
Booking early isn’t just about availability—it’s also about value. Many hotels, cruise lines, and tour operators offer early-booking incentives that can translate into significant savings or complimentary perks.
At Scott & Thomas, we often have access to exclusive rates and upgrades that reward early planners. Whether it’s a suite category enhancement aboard a luxury cruise, onboard credit, or a private excursion at no extra cost, these special offers tend to disappear as the season approaches.
Think of it as rewarding your foresight—those who plan ahead travel not only get the best rooms and itineraries but also enjoy more value for their investment.
3. Peace of Mind During the Busiest Season
The holiday season brings joy and celebration—but it can also bring crowds and logistical challenges. Planning your winter escape early ensures everything runs smoothly, from flights and transfers to accommodations and excursions.
Our concierge team at Scott & Thomas handles all the details so you can relax knowing your itinerary is carefully managed. Early planning also allows time to tailor your trip to your preferences—whether that’s a private chef for your villa stay, a spa day between ski runs, or a customized shore excursion during your ocean cruise.
By the time the first snow falls, you can simply pack your bags and go—no last-minute scrambling, no compromises.
4. Destinations That Shine in Winter
Winter travel offers a world of variety. For some, it’s about finding sunshine and serenity; for others, it’s about embracing the magic of the season.
- Europe’s Christmas Markets: Aboard a river cruise, sail through storybook towns along the Rhine or Danube. Warm up with mulled wine as you stroll through festive markets glowing with lights and music.
- Tropical Escapes: Swap snow for sand with a trip to Thailand, the Maldives, or the Caribbean, where turquoise waters and vibrant culture await.
- Adventure in the Alps: Ski chalets in Switzerland and France book quickly, especially during the holidays. Early reservations mean access to the best slopes, ski-in/ski-out resorts, and fine dining.
- Expedition Voyages: For travelers seeking something extraordinary, winter is an ideal time to explore Antarctica or sail through the Norwegian fjords aboard a boutique cruise ship with all the luxuries included.
Every winter destination has its own rhythm—and early planning allows your Scott & Thomas advisor to match your travel style with the perfect setting.
5. More Time for Personalization
Luxury travel thrives on details. When you book early, your itinerary can evolve over time, allowing for thoughtful touches that make your trip truly one of a kind.
Perhaps you’d like to add a guided walking tour through a medieval city, schedule a spa treatment at the Otium Spa on board your Silversea voyage, or arrange a private wine tasting in the Douro Valley. With more lead time, your concierge can fine-tune every element of your experience.
This flexibility also extends to practical considerations—renewing passports, arranging travel insurance, and managing currency or credit cards for international travel. With everything handled well in advance, your only focus will be enjoying the journey.
6. Avoid the Holiday Rush
By the time November arrives, availability for prime winter itineraries begins to vanish. Ocean cruises, river cruise lines, and top resorts all report full occupancy well before the first snowflake falls.
Booking early means you’re not competing for what’s left—it means you’re choosing from the very best. You can select your ideal suite, plan your shore excursions, and secure flight routes that fit your schedule. Plus, early booking helps you avoid seasonal price surges, last-minute stress, and the disappointment of missing out on a destination you’ve been dreaming about all year.
7. Travel Confidently, Travel Beautifully
At Scott & Thomas, we believe luxury is defined by ease and intention. The journey should feel effortless, the details seamless, and the memories unforgettable.
By booking your winter escape early, you give our team the time and flexibility to craft something remarkable—an itinerary designed around you. Whether that’s a cruise through the Caribbean, a romantic Christmas in Paris, or a wellness retreat tucked into the mountains, we’ll make sure your trip is as polished as it is personal.
So don’t wait for the chill of December to start dreaming. Now is the time to plan your winter escape—and when you travel with Scott & Thomas, the planning is part of the pleasure.
Ready to plan your next winter adventure?
Reach out to your Scott & Thomas travel concierge today to start designing your journey. From exclusive rates to personalized service, we’ll make sure your winter getaway is as extraordinary as the season itself.
