Spending Christmas in the Caribbean

Although many people dream of a white Christmas surrounded by snow, others would prefer to be relaxing on a white-sand beach. A trip to the Caribbean could be your way to enjoy a warm Christmas holiday. If you’re worried you’ll avoid the holiday spirit altogether, many cruise lines and resorts throughout the Caribbean get into the holiday spirit.

Royal Caribbean International offers a four-night Caribbean Christmas cruise departing from Florida on Dec. 23, 2014, and sailing through Haiti. The cruise offers pictures with Santa Claus, a parade, a gingerbread village, cocktail specials and traditional Christmas menus.

For families with kids young and old, Disney Cruise Line offers Very Merrytime Cruises. The ships are decked out with trees, lights, garlands and Disney characters in Christmas garb. The festivities include Deck The Deck Holiday Party, King Triton’s Tree Lighting, visits with Santa Claus, a life-sized gingerbread house, crafts for the kids and holiday storytelling. For teens and tweens, there are age-specific holiday parties, too. Disney’s private island in the Bahamas is decorated as well, with a Christmas tree, roaming Mr. and Mrs. Snowman and a tram with reindeer antlers and a tail.

WIMCO offers information for private villa rentals. Vacation homes are available for the Christmas and New Year holiday in Anguilla, Turks & Caicos, Barbados and more.

If you’re looking for an all-inclusive option, consider Punta Cana. Dreams Punta Cana Resort & Spa offers festive activities surrounding the holiday. The hotel plans to have Christmas décor, a big Santa Claus and other holiday cheer to close out the year.