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Holiday Houses: The New Travel Trend

  //house-home.news-articles.net/content/2026/02/23/holiday-houses-the-new-travel-trend.html
  Published in House and Home on Monday, February 23rd 2026 at 5:39 GMT by WGN Chicago
      Locales: Vermont, New York, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, UNITED STATES

Monday, February 23rd, 2026 - For decades, the holiday season meant one thing for travel: hotel bookings. But a quiet revolution has been brewing, reshaping how we experience vacations. Increasingly, travelers are opting for the personalized comfort and expanded possibilities of holiday houses, and industry experts predict 2026 will be the year this trend truly takes hold. Yahoo! Life's travel expert, Marcus Sanders, has been at the forefront of this shift, recently curating a list of 'must-see' holiday houses to guide adventurers.

The Rise of the Holiday House: A Shift in Travel Philosophy

So, why the growing appeal? Simply put, holiday houses offer an experience hotels often struggle to replicate. While hotels provide consistency, houses offer immersion. It's about more than just a place to sleep; it's about inhabiting a space, becoming a temporary local, and crafting a vacation around genuine living. The extra space is a major draw, particularly for families or groups traveling together. Cramped hotel rooms often necessitate juggling schedules and sacrificing personal space. A house allows for communal gatherings and individual privacy.

"People are craving authenticity," explains Sanders. "They want to feel connected to the place they're visiting, and a house provides that sense of belonging in a way a hotel rarely can. It's like a mini-vacation within your vacation - the joy of settling in, of making yourself at home."

Sanders' Curated Collection: A House for Every Holiday

Sanders' recent list highlighted a diverse range of properties, catering to a broad spectrum of holiday preferences. These aren't just rentals; they're destinations in themselves.

• The Cozy Cabin (Vermont): This archetype of winter escapes offers a deeply nostalgic experience. Demand for these properties has surged, driven by a desire for 'hygge' and disconnecting from digital life. Beyond the fireplace and snow-dusted views, Vermont cabins are increasingly equipped with high-speed internet for remote workers seeking a 'work-cation.'
• The Luxe Loft (New York City): While seemingly counterintuitive to the 'escape' theme, urban lofts provide a different kind of holiday experience. The demand for stylish, centrally-located apartments has exploded, fueled by travelers seeking immersive city breaks. These lofts offer unparalleled access to holiday markets, shows, and the vibrant energy of a metropolis.
• The Coastal Cottage (Florida): The lure of sunshine during colder months is perennial. However, the Florida coastal cottage isn't just about warmth; it's about a lifestyle. Properties are now catering to active travelers with amenities like kayaks, paddleboards, and beach cruiser bikes.
• The Mountain Retreat (Colorado): From skiing and snowboarding to snowshoeing and hiking, the Colorado mountain retreat caters to outdoor enthusiasts. The rise in eco-tourism has also fueled demand for sustainable cabins and lodges emphasizing responsible travel.
• The Desert Oasis (Arizona): A surprisingly popular option, the Arizona desert oasis offers a unique blend of tranquility and luxury. The growing wellness tourism sector is driving demand for properties with pools, spas, and access to desert activities like stargazing and meditation retreats.

Navigating the Holiday House Market: Sanders' Expert Advice

With increased demand comes increased competition. Sanders offers crucial advice for securing your dream holiday house:

• Book Early: This cannot be stressed enough. Popular properties, especially those with unique features or prime locations, are booked months - even a year - in advance. Sanders suggests starting the search process in early fall for the following winter holidays.
• Be Flexible: A willingness to adjust travel dates by even a few days can significantly impact pricing and availability. Consider mid-week stays or traveling during less popular times.
• Read Reviews - Critically: Online reviews are invaluable, but approach them with a discerning eye. Look for consistent themes in the feedback and pay attention to both positive and negative comments. Verify review authenticity where possible.
• Check Cancellation Policies (and Insurance): Life happens. Ensure you understand the cancellation policy before booking. Consider purchasing travel insurance that covers unexpected events, such as illness or travel disruptions.
• Beyond the Basics: Ask About Extras: Does the property provide essential items like linens, towels, and kitchen supplies? What about Wi-Fi, parking, and access to local amenities? Knowing these details upfront can prevent unexpected costs or inconveniences.

The Future of Holiday Travel

The holiday house trend isn't a fleeting fad; it's a fundamental shift in how we approach travel. As travelers increasingly prioritize experiences over possessions, the demand for authentic, personalized accommodations will only continue to grow. Platforms connecting travelers with unique properties are innovating, offering concierge services, curated local experiences, and even 'house-sitting' opportunities. The future of holiday travel isn't just about where you go, but how you live it.