Black Friday travel deals for your next getaway

While the true origins of Black Friday are debatable, many people agree that the following anecdote is the most likely origin of this greatly anticipated holiday. The concept dates back to the 1960s when Americans were encouraged to hit the shops the Friday and Saturday after Thanksgiving Thursday. These days marked the start of the Christmas shopping season and the first time in the year when shops began to make profits (black ink). Yet the term Black Friday is said to originate from the Philadelphia traffic police who used the term to describe the terrible traffic conditions. To this day, the phrase has stuck and retailers continue to entice shoppers out of the house with incredible deals on household items, clothing, accessories, and even Black Friday travel deals. Read on to discover our favorite escapes this fall. 

When it comes to catching some rays, there is no better place on Earth than the sun-baked, paper-white shores of the Caribbean. With endless coastlines framed with majestic palms and a heavy dose of island vibes, prepare to be tempted by these swoon-worthy Black Friday travel deals to the Caribbean.   

The Dominican Republic has long been a favorite among those keen to escape the biting cold of winter. Browse the best Black Friday travel deals and head to the warmth of the Caribbean. The golden sand beach resorts of Punta Cana are the star attraction of this Caribbean island and with so much on offer in this part of the island, why go anywhere else? If you are looking for a romantic getaway, the seafront hotels that back onto Bávaro Beach are a must. This stretch of paper white sand has been voted one of the top ten best beaches in the world.

When you are not enjoying the luxurious comforts of the all-inclusive hotel, spend time sunbathing on the beaches, marveling at the incredible coral reef, or enjoying active adventures hiking through caves. There is even a luxury golf course nearby for those eager to try out their hole-in-one skills while on vacation. However, despite the endless list of fantastic things to do, while in Punta Cana the top priority is to relax, unwind, and celebrate being alive.

The Yucatán Peninsula is a must-visit for anyone keen to explore Mexico and the travel deals this Black Friday make it even easier to escape to the sun. This southern region is packed full of adventure, culture, and history as well as offering some of the best gastronomy in the country. The Riviera Maya is one of the top destinations for the Black Friday holidays.

It is a family-friendly destination that offers something of interest to all ages. Dive into the Mayan culture with a refreshing dip in one of the famous cenotes (underground lagoons) before devouring a freshly prepared ceviche at a beachside restaurant in Tulum. Spend the day soaking up the sun on the white sand beaches and for those eager to explore the coral reefs, snorkeling is a fantastic way to get up close to marine life. Families will love Xcaret Adventure Park. And, for those who prefer dry land, you cannot return home without a trip to Chichén Itza, the most famous Mayan temple. If you want to let your hair down, Playa del Carmen hosts a beautiful array of shops, bars, and restaurants as well as a buzzing nightlife scene. And, when you want to rest your weary head, head to the all-inclusive hotels in Cancún for the ultimate relaxing experience. 

Get a taste of the Pura Vida and take advantage of the Black Friday travel deals this year. Head to the natural paradise of Puntarenas and soak up the beauty while lying on the white sand of the idyllic Tambor beach. If surfing is your thing, you will be delighted to find the Doña Ana Beach which is famous for its strong surf. Puntarenas is also home to a lively town center which is full of interesting shops, art galleries, a theatre, and even a rescue center for seahorses, turtles, and crocodiles. Puntarenas is an ideal base for staying in one of Costa Rica’s top all-inclusive hotels or for venturing off and exploring the surrounding landmarks.

The Arenal Volcano and the lake of the same name are two of the most spectacular natural wonders hiding just a 3-hour drive outside the town. The La Fortuna waterfall is also a must-see. 2 hours in the opposite direction from Puntarenas you will find the famous Langosta Beach in Tamarindo. If you fancy extending your trip and discovering more about this colorful country, use this as your base to explore the Guanacaste Province known for its Santa Rosa National Park and its spectacular Pacific Ocean white beaches.

There is nothing like a Caribbean escape to keep spirits high during the long winter months. Aruba is an excellent choice for your Black Friday holidays not just because of its proximity to the USA but because it offers some of the most luxurious ways to rest and do nothing for a few days. Check yourself into a luxury all-inclusive hotel like the Barceló Aruba located on the bank of the picturesque Palm Beach.

Explore local landmarks like the California Lighthouse, soak up the spectacular sunsets, and let your worries melt away thanks to the skilled hands of the spa staff. Aruba is a place to rest and disconnect from the world, a place where the only decision you will need to make is between taking a dip in the pool or the ocean. 

Just a stone’s throw from the resorts of Playa del Carmen lies a little slice of paradise known as Cozumel. This Caribbean island’s proximity to the Mexican mainland means there are many travel opportunities on Black Friday to enjoy Cozumel’s all-inclusive hotels. This island may be small yet it is famous for its amazing scuba diving conditions and world-famous diving sites such as the Mesoamerican Reef system.

This relaxing destination is ideal for those who want to step off the world and forget about their worries. The only tough decisions you will be making here are whether to take a refreshing dip in the pool or the Caribbean Sea. For those wanting to explore further afield than their all-inclusive hotels, Playa Palancar is a fantastic hub for divers. The Isla de Pasión is worth a visit if you want to visit a secluded island and for those interested in the social history of Cozumel, a trip to the Cozumel Museum is a must. Of course, when exploring this beautiful island paradise, don’t pass up the chance to snorkel with starfish at El Cielo, an idyllic oasis in the topaz Caribbean Ocean. 

Curious minds will rejoice at the chance to calm their wanderlust with these Black Friday travel deals to some of Latin America’s best cities. If your dream vacation is museum hopping in between soaking up the local cultural scene, these fall city escapes will be sure to entice you to travel.

Puerto Vallarta, simply known by many as Vallarta is a must-visit vacation spot for those searching for the perfect balance between beach break and city escape. Nestled away in the state of Jalisco, on Mexico’s Pacific coast, this charming destination blends historic charm with modern luxuries. Its stunning beaches, like Mismaloya Beach, offer relaxation and vibrant seaside activities, just a stone’s throw from the beachfront hotels overlooking the stunning Bay of Banderas. 

In the city, the Zona Romántica's cobblestone streets house art galleries and cafes, while the iconic Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe graces the skyline. If you are planning on staying just outside the city in a Nueva Vallarta resort, the surrounding Sierra Madre Mountains provide a playground for outdoor adventures. From zip-lining in the jungle to exploring the Marietas Islands, Vallarta offers a perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and cultural immersion, complemented by the warmth of its friendly locals.

Nestled away in the Valley of Mexico, Mexico City is a sprawling megacity that offers visitors a vibrant blend of ancient Aztec heritage, colonial architecture, and contemporary urban fun. Check the Black Friday travel deals and book into a city center hotel so that you can dive into DF’s historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Here you will stumble across emblematic landmarks such as the massive Metropolitan Cathedral and the Templo Mayor, revealing layers of Mexico's complex past.

When in need of a respite, head to the iconic Chapultepec Park, one of the largest city parks in the world. Explore the tranquil museums, zoo, and viewpoints offering panoramic views of the city. Modern neighborhoods like Polanco and Condesa boast trendy eateries, art galleries, and a pulsating nightlife.

Looking for souvenirs? Mexico City's markets, such as La Merced and Coyoacán are an explosion of colors, sights, sounds, and smells and are the ideal place to source artisan gifts or delicious street food. If you are looking for an exciting city break, Mexico City’s energy is palpable, fueled by a thriving arts scene, and diverse population.

Guadalajara may not seem like an obvious vacation spot. Yet, it is Mexico's second-largest city offering travelers a captivating blend of tradition and modernity in the heart of the Jalisco region. Take advantage of the Black Friday deals on vacations and head to this cultural hotspot. Famous for being the birthplace of mariachi music and tequila, Guadalajara exudes a vibrant cultural spirit. Immerse yourself in the fun and head to the Zapopan district where upscale shops, trendy restaurants, and markets tempt visitors to the city with their cool vibe. Of course, no trip to Guadalajara is complete without seeing the historic city center. Here you can find the majestic Cathedral and the Government Palace with its iconic murals which reflect the city's colonial legacy. The UNESCO-listed Hospicio Cabañas, an 18th-century hospital turned cultural center, showcases murals by Orozco and is a testament to Guadalajara's artistic richness.

Nestled in a mountain valley, Guatemala City is a vibrant capital city that serves as a captivating intersection between its ancient past and burgeoning modern landscape. The intriguing mix of colonial architecture, contemporary design, and the undeniable influence of indigenous cultures makes this a must-visit Latin American destination when browsing vacation Black Friday deals.

Check out the city’s iconic landmarks such as the Metropolitan Cathedral and the National Palace both of which echo the city's colonial past. Yet, if it is an authentic immersion that you are after, a stroll through the lively Central Market treats visitors to a kaleidoscope of colors, flavors, and handmade crafts, providing a glimpse into Guatemala's cultural diversity.

If you are visiting Guatemala City, don’t leave without passing through the Zona Viva with its modern skyline and upmarket dining options. Contrast this with a visit to the city’s museums, such as the Popol Vuh and the Ixchel, which showcase the depth of Mayan heritage. Guatemala City is a cultural, political, and financial hub that invites exploration and welcomes curious minds. 

When browsing the Black Friday travel deals, the Dominican Republic is a destination that offers city escapes and beach vacations. History, culture, and a lively Caribbean spirit converge in the Dominican Republic capital, Santo Domingo. As the oldest European settlement in the Americas, its Zona Colonial, a UNESCO World Heritage site, boasts cobblestone streets lined with well-preserved colonial architecture, including the iconic Alcázar de Colón and the historic Cathedral of Santa María la Menor. Take advantage of Black Friday trip deals and check into one of the city’s luxury hotels and enjoy a relaxing stroll along El Malecón, a scenic ocean boulevard that offers a vibrant blend of local life. Neighborhoods like Piantini offer a modern breath of fresh air to the city with its high-end shopping, trendy eateries, and contemporary architecture. Curious minds will thrive at the Museo de las Casas Reales and once sundown arrives, the city’s lively arts and music scene comes alive showcasing the rhythmic beats of merengue and bachata.