(ARA) – Is it really true that there’s no place like home for the holidays? For a growing number of families, that’s not necessarily the case. A new travel trend is on the rise: going away for the holidays. It’s a little bit about finding good deals, a little bit about cutting down on stress and a lot about having a truly fun and memorable holiday.

When you’re weighing your options of how to spend the holiday vacation, consider whether you want to explore somewhere new or go to a tried-and-true destination. Because it’s a fairly short span of time, you should aim to select a destination that has something to entertain everyone in your family, all in close proximity. With its family-friendly activities and fun atmosphere, Myrtle Beach is a strong contender.

One of the biggest allures of traveling during the holidays is that it falls in what is typically low season for popular destinations. It might mean that the weather is cooler than the heat of summer, but there’s still plenty of sunshine to be had along America’s beaches. The big advantage of low season travel comes in the form of great deals on hotels, entertainment and even dining. You’ll definitely be able to make your dollar stretch further, since businesses will be eager to have you as a customer.

To get the best deals, you can feel confident heading straight to the Internet. Start by visiting sites specifically devoted to one city, like the official visitor’s bureau website for Myrtle Beach at www.VisitMyrtleBeach.com. By going to a site that covers one specific city, you’ll get the most accurate and thorough survey of services in your destination. Many will list specific hotel price discounts or specials, along with the best deals on tickets to events, shows, or even golf packages. Signing up for e-mail alerts that let you know the best deals ahead of time is another good idea. Then, do a little comparison shopping and weigh your options, based on the hotel amenities your family wants and the activities that interest you.

Traveling around the holidays also comes with the bonus of having an even wider variety of events and activities to choose from, many of which would be impossible to find in your home town. In Myrtle Beach, for example, you can treat the whole family to spectacular shows featuring music, dance and visual entertainment. There are plenty of shows throughout the year, but a number of holiday-themed events celebrate the season in exciting style.

Part of the enjoyment of getting away to a warm destination during the winter is enjoying the outdoors. To get a breath of fresh air, take advantage of special events like the Myrtle Beach Holiday Parade, or spend an atmospheric evening at Brookgreen Gardens’ “Night of a Thousand Candles.” The lush gardens will be lit by more than 5,000 candles, and visitors will be treated to the sounds of handbell performances and strolling carolers while they sip warm cider.

Making each holiday season enjoyable is always high on the priority list. By taking a family trip during this festive time of year, you’ll be creating lifelong memories – and maybe even starting a new tradition.