Looking for some holiday travel ideas?
Consider North Carolina, an awesome place I’ve had the pleasure of experiencing for the holidays. According to a press release, Americans leave an average of four vacation days unused every year (Expedia study), and this season North Carolina’s Crystal Coast invites everyone to use the rest of their vacation days, escaping the hustle-and-bustle of seasonal stressors to let imaginations run free along the Southern Outer Banks with affordable attraction and accommodation offerings — representing more than 40 percent off peak season rates. From roaming the streets of Beaufort – recently named one of “America’s Favorite Towns” by Travel + Leisure – to discovering wild Spanish mustangs on Shackleford Banks, exploring countless species at the Aquarium and taking a glimpse back into maritime history, the Crystal Coast remains one of Southeast’s best values. Promising plenty of wallet-friendly adventures for “ kids” of all ages, the 85 miles of silken shoreline bid the perfect backdrop for a wondrous winter escape with a variety of local attractions under $10.
Here are some events going on in the area this month:
• FIRST ANNUAL CHERISHED MOMENTS GINGERBREAD HOUSE COMPETITION- DEC. 5-8
• CORE SOUND WATERFOWL WEEKEND – DEC. 6-8
• MOREHEAD DOWNTOWN ART GALLERY & TREE LIGHTING – DEC. 6
• CRYSTAL COAST CHRISTMAS FLOTILLA – DEC. 7
• “CHRISTMAS BY THE SEA” ATLANTIC BEACH – DEC. 7
• BEAUFORT ART WALK – DEC. 14
• HISTORIC BEAUFORT CANDLELIGHT HOMES TOUR – DEC. 14
• MOREHEAD CITY CHRISTMAS PARADE – DEC. 14
• CRYSTAL COAST COUNTDOWN – DEC. 27 – JAN. 1
After a day spent meandering along the Crystal Coast, travelers looking for a place to rest tired eyes before the next coastal venture find lodging options to suit every lifestyle and budget. From
seaside cottages and massive beach mansions to oceanfront condo accommodations and quaint bed-and-breakfast inns. A sampling of best available starting rates include*:
Atlantis Lodge $55-125/night
Islander Inn & Suites $75 /night
Hampton Inn Morehead City $79/night
Inlet Inn $85 /night
Emerald Isle Realty $550/week
Bluewater Vacation Rentals $599/week
For more information, check out their website.
Happy travelling!
Bon Voyage,
Jenn
Jenn Cox is a Montreal-based freelance journalist. Visit her website or email her at info@wordaddict.ca.
