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If you are thinking about visiting your family for the holidays, think again. More American families spend christmas away from home each year. Spending time with your family is important, and vacations are becoming more popular all the time. If you have your heart set on giving your family a great holiday vacation, read on to learn the best places for just such an activity.

1. The North Pole

The North Pole - in New York that is. The Adirondack Mountains in upstate New York, North Pole is one of the most magical places to visit during your Christmas vacation. Perfect for kids and kids at heart, North Pole is open for five weekends prior to Christmas during November and December. Visitors are offered Christmas vacation packages that include meals, lodging, and admission to Santas workshop. Santas Village features shops where you can find the perfect souvenir from your Christmas vacation. There is often live music to keep the crowds entertained and you and your family can enjoy lots of live shows and performances.

2. Alaska

If the real North Pole seems a bit far, but youre itching for the real thing, why not try a vacation in Alaska? There are speciality Alaska cruises available that will make your family giddy, pampered, and happy beyond measure. The Alaskan North Pole Christmas vacation includes hotel accommodations in nearby Fairbanks and at the Chena Hot Springs Resort. There is also lodging available at the Santaland RV Park.

3. Pennsylvania

A word to the wise about Pennsylvania - as beautiful as it may be there is a smog warning in effect so bringing those with severe asthma along would seem to be an unwise choice. Pennsylvania is the home of chocolate company Hershey's. Over one million christmas lights are put on display and the staff constructs elaborate animated displays for children.

4. Disney

Although some say it is overdone, a disney vacation might be just the thing for the kids, and the holidays are the perfect time. Keep in mind that vacation packages get booked well in advance, so you will want to make plans far ahead of the intended date. Disney puts on special christmas shows in the parks and along their rides. Giant christmas trees are put up and the general motif is a mid-70's era.