Travel Talk Back: Of Birthdays & Christmas Markets
Travel
Audio By Carbonatix
By Kevin McCullough
At That Passport Life, we love nothing more than helping fellow travelers think through those once-in-a-lifetime journeys. This week’s Travel Talk Back brings us two terrific questions—one about an unforgettable milestone birthday abroad, and the other about a festive road trip north for Christmas markets.
Traveler's Question
Bonnie writes:
“My 3 children are giving me a trip anywhere I want to go for my 80th birthday and they’re coming too, making it a party of 6. It will be a week abroad, not counting time getting there. I’m thinking South Africa, The Nile, Cambodia area, or Argentina. (Travel agent came up with a really boring Argentina trip so worry about what’s to see there.) I need to choose one. I’d like kind of an adventure but have to keep a sister-in-law happy with at least one really nice hotel and the group happy with maybe a wine experience?”
Kevin's Answer
Bonnie, what a spectacular gift. The choices you’ve listed are rich with possibility, but let’s sift through them with your wish list in mind.
Kruger National Park, South Africa
South Africa is hard to beat for variety. A week gives you enough time to combine a safari in Kruger or a private reserve (wildlife adventure at its peak) with a few nights in Cape Town. Cape Town delivers luxury hotels that will keep your sister-in-law more than happy, plus day trips to Stellenbosch and Franschhoek wine country—where some of the world’s most scenic vineyards and tastings await. It’s adventure, culture, and indulgence wrapped into one trip.
Nile River, Aswan, Egypt
The Nile promises pure wonder. A river cruise between Luxor and Aswan allows you to step into ancient history at the temples of Karnak, the Valley of the Kings, and Philae. Cruises range from classic to ultra-luxury, so you can easily choose one that delivers the comfort your family wants. The adventure is more historical than active, but unforgettable all the same.
Angkor Wat, Cambodia
Cambodia and Southeast Asia offer a different type of adventure—exotic food, temples like Angkor Wat, bustling markets, and perhaps a side trip into Vietnam or Laos. It’s rich and immersive, but a little more intense in travel logistics, especially for a group spanning generations.
Iguazú Falls, Argentina
Argentina can be wonderful if done right. Think Buenos Aires tango nights, Mendoza’s wine country tucked against the Andes, and perhaps a day trip to Iguazú Falls. If your agent pitched you a bland itinerary, don’t let that sour you—Argentina bursts with adventure when crafted carefully. The wine angle here is particularly strong, and Mendoza’s luxury hotels and vineyard lodges rival anything in Europe.
Cape Town, South Africa
So where does that leave you? If the goal is adventure balanced with comfort and wine, South Africa stands out as the most complete package. A safari, a glamorous Cape Town stay, and a wine country finale give your family multiple “wow” moments, while still keeping the pace manageable. Argentina is a solid runner-up if you want to stay closer and emphasize wine.
Traveler's Question
James writes:
“Heading to Old City Quebec Nov 20 for the Christmas Markets by car from Philadelphia. What do I need to keep in mind most?”
Kevin's Answer
James, you’re in for a magical trip. Quebec City in November looks like a storybook—cobblestone streets, old stone buildings, twinkling lights, and warm cider in hand. Driving from Philadelphia, the biggest thing to keep in mind is winter readiness. By late November, Quebec is cold and can be snowy, so check that your car is equipped with good all-season (or better yet, winter) tires, keep an emergency kit handy, and allow generous travel time, especially north of Albany.
Christmas Market, Québec City, Québec, Canada
Once you arrive, focus on walking shoes with good grip—sidewalks can be slick. Dress in layers: temperatures swing from just above freezing during the day to well below at night. The Christmas markets open around mid-November, so your timing is perfect. Don’t miss the German Christmas Market stalls near City Hall and the illuminated streets of Petit Champlain. Hot mulled wine, gingerbread, and local crafts will keep you in the spirit.
Book your accommodations in Old Quebec itself—you’ll want to walk out the door into the festivities rather than drive back and forth. If you can swing it, the Fairmont Le Château Frontenac is the iconic stay, and even if you’re not lodging there, step inside for a drink or meal.
Above all, keep your schedule flexible. Wandering the narrow streets, stumbling upon choirs, and savoring slow meals in cozy bistros are what make Quebec City at Christmas unforgettable.
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