The holidays make me thankful for the wealth of special, seasonal events and enchanting experiences that present opportunities to savor treasured time with beloved family and friends, enjoy these magical moments, and make lasting memories. Of course, the true meaning of the holidays is not the biggest present or hottest holiday toy under the tree, but my kids aren’t convinced otherwise quite yet. As for where to begin to find the hottest holiday toys without all the hoopla? Start with…

Although we recommend Loire Valley at any time throughout the year, during the holidays, it’s a snow-capped French mecca for castles and holiday festivities. Six of the countless ancient French castles are putting on their own bespoke holiday spectacles this year, many in homage of the 500th Anniversary of the French Renaissance. We’re talking illuminated winter gardens, huge Christmas trees, candy displays, teddy bear workshops, costume tributes, music, dancing, and everything else that your children dream of around Christmastime. And let’s…