Why Holiday Tours Are Gaining Momentum
Travelers are embracing the mantra “travel even as you are able,” a sentiment echoed in Collette Vacations’ 2026 holiday itinerary. The idea is simple: health, youth and opportunity are finite, so the urge to explore before life’s pace slows becomes a powerful driver for bookings.
Embracing the “Travel While You Are Able” Philosophy
The phrase appears in the original tour description and resonates with a growing segment of seasoned and first‑time travelers who want to “plan ahead and get excited as you countdown to Departure Day.” This mindset fuels early‑bird bookings and encourages flexible travel plans that can be extended if the season feels right.
Immersive European Christmas Experiences – A Blueprint for Future Tours
Collette’s 2026 holiday package showcases a blend of iconic cities, UNESCO sites and festive markets that set a template for upcoming travel trends:
- Amsterdam (3 nights) – Guests stay at The Manor Amsterdam, a 4.5‑star historic hotel, and enjoy guided city tours plus a free day for Christmas markets and museums.
- Bruges, Belgium (2 nights) – Market Square, medieval canals and chocolate stalls create a “storybook” atmosphere. The itinerary includes a stop at a working windmill in Kinderdijk, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
- Reims, France (2 nights) – Highlights include a Champagne winery tasting, a visit to the 800‑year‑old Notre Dame de Reims and the third‑largest Christmas market in France.
- Paris (2 nights) – A Seine river cruise lunch, a stay near the Tuileries Garden Christmas market, and a dinner inside the Eiffel Tower round out the experience.
These stops illustrate a trend toward seasonal cultural immersion—travelers want authentic holiday traditions, not just sightseeing.
Flexible Extensions and Personalized Upgrades
The tour price of $5,999 per person covers 10 nights of hotel, 16 meals, personal guide services and round‑trip air from Reno. Travelers can upgrade to Premium Economy for an additional $1,590 (subject to availability). The description too encourages extending the stay in Amsterdam or Paris, a clear sign that flexible itineraries are becoming a standard expectation.
Trend Toward Small‑Group, Guided Journeys Over Motorcoach Marathons
The marketing copy proudly states “no all‑day travel is motorcoaches,” signaling a shift toward more comfortable, intimate travel modes. Small‑group tours with personal guides provide a sense of safety and exclusivity, especially during the busy holiday season.
Cultural Stops Like Working Windmills and UNESCO Sites
Including a visit to a working windmill in Kinderdijk (UNESCO) and the medieval city of Bruges (UNESCO) reflects a rising demand for heritage‑focused stops. Travelers are looking for experiences that connect them to history and local craftsmanship.
Digital & Booking Trends: Early Reservations and Premium Options
Collette’s call to “book early” for upgrade opportunities mirrors a broader industry pattern: early‑bird pricing, limited‑time upgrades and online reservation portals are becoming essential tools for tour operators.
Related Resources
Explore more about Collette’s European tours on the official Collette Belgium page. For deeper insight into Bruges’ attractions, visit Visit Bruges. If you prefer to compare guided experiences, check out GetYourGuide’s Bruges tours.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is included in the $5,999 price?
- Ten nights of accommodation, 16 meals, a personal guide, round‑trip air from Reno, airport transfers, and most tours listed in the itinerary.
- Can I extend my stay in any city?
- Yes—travelers may add extra nights in Amsterdam or Paris for an additional cost.
- Is there a motorcoach component?
- The itinerary emphasizes that “no all‑day travel is motorcoaches,” focusing on more comfortable transportation.
- Are there options for a higher‑class flight?
- An upgrade to Premium Economy is available for $1,590, pending availability.
- What other holiday tours does the Carson City Chamber offer?
- They also promote a 4‑day Mayflower New Year’s Package featuring behind‑the‑scenes access to the Rose Parade and a private gala dinner. Details are on the Chamber Travel Club site.
What’s Next?
As travelers continue to prioritize cultural authenticity, flexible scheduling and comfort, holiday tours like Collette’s 2026 Europe itinerary set the stage for the next wave of experiential travel. Preserve an eye on emerging packages that blend festive traditions with personalized upgrades.
Ready to start planning your own Christmas adventure? Contact us for personalized recommendations, share your thoughts in the comments below, or subscribe to our newsletter for the latest travel trends.
