In recent years, my husband and I started a tradition of going on vacation around Christmastime. Last year we did a friends’ trip to New Orleans. This year we decided on Kansas City, Missouri. My husband went last year, for the Eagles/Chiefs football game, but only spent about 36 hours there and wanted to experience more of the city.
Most people we told about our travel plans asked, “Why Kansas City?” While it may not be the first — or second — destination that comes to mind for a weekend getaway, we both love exploring new places with hidden gems.
We arrived early and immediately drove to Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que. The popular spot is right over the state line in Kansas. I have not traveled much in the Midwest, so I was happy to cross two new states off my list. Since we arrived on Dec. 26, many places throughout the city were still decorated for Christmas, including our hotel, The Raphael Hotel, Autograph Collection.
Other highlights from our trip included exploring the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art, listening to live jazz at the Green Lady Lounge, grabbing some beers at Brewery Emperial and eating barbecue, of course. We packed a lot into our short trip and would definitely visit the city again.
We already started thinking of where we should visit during the holiday season in 2019. I vote for a warm-weather destination. Do you have any suggestions?
— Katie Skrzek, vice president/digital director
Read This Next
Introducing
FX Excursions
FX Excursions offers the chance for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in destinations around the world.
#globility
Insta FeedDaily
Nov 9, 2026Big Sky, Montana, Welcomes Luxury Vacation Rental Management
Making its Montana debut, InvitedHome, vacation rental and property management company, welcomes 10 luxury penthouses and condominiums to Big Sky. This opening marks the brand’s presence in 11 world-class mountain destinations, from Vail and Aspen, Colorado, to Park City and Alta, Utah.
Sponsored Content
Global Traveler Hosted Trip on the Transcend Connect
JOIN GLOBAL TRAVELER ON ITS NEXT TRIP!
November 2026
Nov 9, 2026Versatile and Vibrant, Modern Asti Spumante Is Not the Simple Party Fizz of the Past
I recall attending a New Year’s Eve party in my early 20s during which our host walked around at midnight filling guests’ flutes with celebratory toasts of “Champagne” or Asti Spumante. Now, the former wasn’t actually Champagne, just a cheaply made domestic Brut more suited to the budgets of people just entering the workforce. But those of us who liked our bubbly on the drier side preferred it to what we viewed as a sweet, simple Italian quaffer.
United States
Nov 9, 20266 Reasons to Put Bozeman, Montana, on Your Travel List
It’s time to start dreaming of your next trip. Here’s some destination inspiration for you. Take a visual journey through Bozeman, Montana, with us.
Sponsored Content
Why Japan Is Best Explored by Sea with Princess
Japan is a destination that rewards repeat visits because no two regions — or seasons — feel quite the same. One moment, you’re wandering through centuries-old geisha districts in Kanazawa. The next, you’re watching neon reflections dance across Tokyo streets long after midnight.
Daily
Nov 9, 2026Google to Revitalize Chicago’s Thompson Center
The James R. Thompson Center is a 17‑story, 1.15 million-square-foot, postmodern office building at 100 W. Randolph Street in Chicago’s Loop, bounded by Randolph, Lake, Clark and LaSalle streets. Designed by Helmut Jahn and completed in 1985, it was originally the State of Illinois Center.
November 2026
Nov 5, 2026Review: Casa Gangotena
ARRIVAL/CHECK-IN: Facing one side of San Francisco Plaza in Quito’s Old Town, you’d be forgiven if you, at first, mistook the hotel for a palatial residence or estate, where the fourth or perhaps fifth generation of a family resides. Casa Gangotena, a Relais & Châteaux property, was, in fact, a home for many, built in the 17th century and later home to several presidents. The entrance reminds you you’re on very special grounds, from crown molding ceilings to opulent chandeliers to velvet couches, and staff guided me to check-in, beginning my very own regal stay.
Sponsored Content
An Adults-Only Resort for All the Milestone Moments
On Saturday, Feb.14, Devossion by Live Aqua celebrated its grand opening, marking a significant milestone for Grupo Posadas and the Live Aqua brand. This adults-only resort focuses on celebration, authentic Mexican experiences and elevated hospitality — perfectly situated in the heart of the Riviera Maya.
Daily
Nov 5, 2026Discover a Festive European Fairytale at Rosewood Schloss Fuschl
Rosewood Schloss Fuschl invites guests and locals alike to experience the magic of its holiday season with curated activities, festive celebrations, culinary offerings and other creative workshops. The holiday season arrives Nov. 26 when the resort transforms into a winter wonderland surrounded by the unbelievable Austrian landscape.
ShareThis