Last Updated on November 28, 2025 by Daily News Staff

Winter Wonderland: 5 private cabin destinations for your next adventure

(Family Features) As colder temperatures settle in across much of the country, now is a perfect time to start planning your cozy season getaway. Perfect for lovers of the great outdoors, with breathtaking views and amenities like hot tubs, ski lifts, gourmet kitchens, game rooms and more, a cabin retreat can make for a unique and memorable experience.

Specializing in private vacation homes, Vrbo, a seasoned veteran in the vacation rental industry with nearly 30 years of experience, has lodging options available in some of the most popular winter destinations, including these five getaways. Booking these homes, or any others on the platform, can also earn travelers rewards for future trips through the vacation rental industry’s first and only loyalty program, One Key. Plus, the Book with Confidence Guarantee offers comprehensive protection throughout your journey.

To find more winter retreats, visit Vrbo.com or use the app to start earning OneKeyCash with every reservation.

Lone Peak View Fire Lookout Tower – Big Sky, Montana

Situated on more than 60 acres, this one-of-a-kind cabin offers 360-degree views above some of Big Sky’s most beloved wilderness, including the famed Lone Peak and the Madison Range. Ideal for families or smaller groups, the Fire Lookout Tower comfortably sleeps up to eight guests and features a wraparound deck, perfect for taking in beautiful sunrises and sunsets. The home also boasts a floor-to-ceiling stone fireplace, gourmet kitchen and hot tub.

Trestle House – Winter Park, Colorado

Nestled amongst the pines in Winter Park’s most exclusive neighborhood, Trestle House – a  Vrbo 2023 Vacation Home of the Year – boasts showstopping views, a slope-side hot tub and high-end amenities. The open main level offers views of tall pines, meandering ski trails and abounding mountains from the floor-to-ceiling windows. Plus, a full bar and game room cater to all ages and ski-in, ski-out access leads directly to the Winter Park Resort base area.

“The Overlook” Shipping Container – Rockbridge, Ohio

A unique, eco-friendly retreat located just outside Columbus, “The Overlook” is crafted from four 40-foot repurposed shipping containers and sits above the beautiful rolling acres of Hocking Hills, Ohio. Sitting on a total of 75 acres, the property is home to two waterfalls and a plethora of hiking possibilities on-site. Featuring three bedrooms and a hot tub for relaxing after a long day, the transformed cargo containers can accommodate up to eight guests.

Luxury Mountain Lodge with 360 Views – Gatlinburg, Tennessee

Ideally located for whatever adventure you wish to undertake, this luxury cabin offers panoramic Smoky Mountain views and rustic yet modern amenities that are perfect for that ultimate cozy cabin vibe. Designed for relaxation, family time and fun, Heaven’s Mountain Lodge features double-decker decks with unobstructed views, a private hot tub, multiple fire pits, a theater room, a stunning kitchen and a game room that includes pool, shuffleboard, foosball and a poker table.

“Shooting Star” Luxury Teton Village Cabin – Teton County, Wyoming

This classic and elegant cabin is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, surrounded by Grand Teton National Park with sweeping views of the mountains, ski slopes and curves of Shooting Star Jackson Hole Golf Club. With the look of a 19th century homestead, layers of modern and traditional detail are combined to create a cohesive richness and structure. The cabin sleeps eight and includes a stone dining terrace and hot tub, luxurious fireplace and gourmet kitchen.

SOURCE:
Vrbo

This Holiday Season, No Wrapping Required: Give the Gift of Connection

(Family Features) The most thoughtful gift this holiday season might not be something you can unwrap, but rather something you can experience. A travel getaway offers the promise of sunrise hikes, city lights and ocean breezes that create meaningful moments and memories lasting well beyond the holidays. Meaningful experiences are easier to give and receive than ever before. With exclusive holiday offers, you can help your loved ones create unforgettable memories in the destinations that inspire them most, showing them just how much you truly care. An Escape for Everyone From romantic weekends and family getaways to solo retreats and wellness escapes, there’s a world of connections and experiences waiting to be discovered. Whether your next bucket list getaway or a return stay in a beloved destination, World of Hyatt’s 2025 Cyber Offer invites members to start planning one-of-a-kind holiday season getaways or start booking now for 2026 trips. Members receive early access to savings, up to 30% off qualifying stays on trips booked by December 11, 2025 for travel between November 20, 2025-April 30, 2026. With more than 750 hotels and resorts featured in the sale, there’s an adventure for every type of traveler at destinations like: United States

• Hyatt Regency Times Square: Discover legendary theater and culture, renowned restaurants and iconic attractions all within minutes of this historic Broadway neighborhood.
• Caption By Hyatt Downtown Nashville: Enjoy one of Nashville’s most vibrant and walkable neighborhoods with a location just steps from live music, local art, buzzing nightlife and top-rated restaurants.
• Hyatt Studios Mobile/Tillmans Corner: This extended stay hotel concept offers everything you need to live, work and rest well with thoughtful comforts, sleek studio apartment-style rooms and a 24-hour fitness studio.

Caribbean

• Grand Hyatt Baha Mar: Delight in every moment of your stay and make memories that last a lifetime at this stunning resort in Nassau, Bahamas, from authentic service to pristine waters and sugar sand beaches.
• Secrets Tides Punta Cana: Experience a serene seaside retreat along a palm-studded beach, offering over 650 suites designed for relaxation and comfort.

Latin America

• Alila Mayakoba: Set amid tranquil lagoons and tropical forests, this Riviera Maya sanctuary combines modern elegance with a deep connection to its surroundings, inviting guests to unwind, explore and reconnect with nature.
• Hyatt Place Cancún Airport: Perfectly suited for leisure and corporate travelers, discover a launchpad for travel and adventures adjacent to Cancún International Airport and local business parks.
• Andaz Peninsula Papagayo Resort, Costa Rica: Relax, reconnect, stimulate your senses and connect with local culture at this immersive resort that offers multi-bedroom villas with plunge pools, three beaches, adventure programming, world-class golf and more.

Canada

• Park Hyatt Toronto: Blending contemporary sophistication with timeless Canadian character, this urban retreat offers refined design, elevated dining and panoramic city views that capture the spirit of modern Toronto.

Meaningful Moments Wherever the journey leads, Hyatt’s signature care, connection and hospitality can transform the getaway into something greater. Give the gift of travel today and start creating memories at any of the participating properties located across the U.S., Canada, Caribbean and Latin America. For a full list of participating properties and offer details, including terms and conditions, visit hyatt.com/cyber. SOURCE: Hyatt  

Last Updated on November 17, 2025 by Daily News Staff

(Family Features) A trip to visit loved ones or a holiday-themed vacation with your nearest and dearest can create magical memories, but first, you’ve got to get there. If the thought of holiday travel makes you nauseous, rest assured – a little planning and the right resources can help your festive getaway go smoother.

Overcome the hustle and bustle of the busiest travel season of the year with this expert advice.

Protect Yourself from Illnesses
The holidays intertwine with cold and flu season, meaning staying healthy on your trip is a must. Travel can be physically draining, which makes you more susceptible to common illnesses. However, some general health tips can go a long way, such as:

• Wash your hands: Between plane rides, rental cars and hotel rooms, you’re going to handle frequently touched objects in public spaces. Carry hand sanitizer and be sure to thoroughly wash your hands regularly with soap and warm water.
• Pack medications: It’s critical to pack prescribed medications, no doubt, but consider bringing along over-the-counter vitamins and cold medicine so you’re prepared for anything.
• Consult your doctor: Ask your doctor about any vaccinations you may need, especially if traveling internationally. It’s important to get all recommended shots and treatments prior to departure.

Be Prepared for Delays
Spontaneous moments are often the most memorable, but sometimes unplanned events aren’t so welcome. Because it’s nearly impossible for an entire vacation to go as scripted, consider purchasing a travel protection plan from World Nomads that includes the travel inconvenience benefit. This benefit may compensate you for unforeseen circumstances like tarmac delays or ski resort closures. Hang on to receipts that show dates and payments to make the claim process a breeze.

Overcome Jet Lag
Air travel can disrupt sleep patterns, particularly if you’re flying across multiple time zones, causing difficulty sleeping and irritability. Be mindful of caffeine and alcohol intake, which can further impact sleep patterns. Exposure to light at the appropriate times can help reset your circadian rhythm while a low-dose melatonin can produce mild sleepiness if you’re having trouble catching some Z’s.

Traveling west is easiest on your internal clock as you “gain time” heading westward; in contrast, flying east requires shifting the timing of your body clock to make up for the “lost time.” Leading up to eastward travel, try going to bed and waking up earlier.

Have a Backup Plan
You simply can’t predict everything. Standard trip cancellation coverage may only apply to specific events like unexpected illness or injury, or natural disasters. However, the optional Cancel for Any Reason (CFAR) benefit from World Nomads may fill the gaps. As a U.S. resident (except if you live in New York), you can add CFAR coverage when you purchase the Explorer or Epic Plan. CFAR may be particularly useful for expensive travel with non-refundable expenses (like cruises or international trips) or trips taking place during economically or politically volatile times.

For those booking multiple trips in addition to holiday getaways, the Annual Plan from World Nomads means one purchase for an entire year’s worth of protection. Trip cancellation, emergency medical expenses, rental car damage and more are covered to ensure your plans aren’t ruined by the unexpected.

To find more information and a full list of what is and isn’t covered, visit WorldNomads.com and check plan documents for maximums, terms, conditions, limitations and exclusions that may apply.

Photo courtesy of Shutterstock

SOURCE:
World Nomads

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