Three Unique Thanksgiving Holiday Vacations from Christmas Markets to Irish Castles

Late November is one of the best times of the year for an international vacation. Fares may peak for U.S. destinations, but they're typically cheaper everywhere else. In some locations, you don't even have to miss that heavenly Thanksgiving meal. If you have some extra time off this year, here are three excellent international destinations to consider.

Valkenburg, Netherlands

If you'd like to do a little Christmas shopping, and pick up some unique gifts, there is no better place than the Valkenburg Christmas market. The market is the oldest and largest subterranean Christmas market in Europe, set up in a labyrinth of passages of caves that are underneath the town.

The Christmas market opens November 18th this year, and runs through December 23, 2011. The entire town turns into a winter wonderland, and the caves include Santa, as well as his sleigh and reindeer. Beautiful mural paintings can be found in addition to one of a kind gifts, holiday music and a unique 18th century chapel.

The Valkenburg Castle sits on a hill overlooking the medieval town. It's the only elevated castle in all of Netherlands, originally built in 1115. The castle was destroyed in 1329, and rebuilt again in the latter part of the 14th century, which is what remains today. It's a very impressive site to see.

Valkenburg is less than a half an hour from the town of Vaals, Netherlands, which is where three countries intersect; Netherlands, Belgium, and Germany. This makes for a perfect day trip to experience three countries in one, even for those on a short time schedule.

Whistler, British Columbia

It's no coincidence that Whistler Blackcomb Ski Resort in British Columbia will open on Thursday, November 24, this year. Not only is the area one of the most beautiful in the world, it was the location for the 2010 Winter Olympics Alpine Skiing events. The resort has been visited by tourists from all over the world, including some of Britain's royalty. In the spring of 1998, Prince Charles brought his, then, teenage sons, William and Harry, for a ski vacation.

Skiing isn't the only attraction in this scenic mountain region, the village offers shopping, an extensive night life, great restaurants, spas, wine tasting and more. The Ziptrek EcoTour lets you glide through snow covered pines and the peaks of Whistler and Blackcomb mountains. It is truly an amazing experience.

During Thanksgiving weekend, November 25 and 26, Whistler holds the Bizarre Bazaar, an artisan market with a wide array of crafts made from the local Sea to Sky corridor. Find that perfect Christmas gift while you listen to some great live music.

Fly into Vancouver, B.C. and you're less than a two hour scenic drive to Whistler.

Ireland castle stay

Although Ireland does not celebrate the American holiday, several of the Emerald Isle's most magnificent castles offer special Thanksgiving holiday packages. Ashford Castle in County Mayo, overlooking sparkling Lough Corrib, offers five star luxury accommodations.

Ashford's Thanksgiving special includes a free night stay when you purchase two nights lodging. The package includes a full Irish breakfast, dinner for two in the George V dining room - specializing in Irish cuisine, with the second night including a free full Thanksgiving dinner.

In Limerick, the Castle at Adare Manor will host a special American Thanksgiving celebration. Packages of two or three nights luxury accommodations including a traditional four-course Thanksgiving dinner and full Irish breakfast, start at only $320 a person.

Shannon airport is just a five hour flight from New York City, with specials often available through www.aerlingus.com. There is almost nothing that can compare to a Thanksgiving spent in an Irish castle, and with these deals, you don't have to miss your turkey or pumpkin pie.


K.C. Dermody is a freelance writer and a Featured Contributor for Yahoo!Travel. She has traveled to nearly all 50 states, and many countries worldwide, and has a passion for imparting what she has learned from her experiences to others.

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