Newcastle face United on Boxing Day with a full week behind them of rest and training.
Howe said, "It's a strange feeling for us because we're in that rhythm of playing and, very quickly, turning that around to prepare for another game almost straight away.
"It's been nice to have a couple of days without that intense feeling that you always have when you're playing, giving the players a chance to come down from what is always a high from playing and the adrenaline that comes with a match.
"It's been a good time but also an important time that we don't lose our rhythm and that we feel regenerated. Since the last international break, bar one performance, I think it's been really positive.
"Hopefully, they (the squad) get some time with their families but we will be in training on Christmas Day."
On United, he also said: "Statistically, they're a lot stronger than last year. They've seen big improvements in their general performances. They've been competitive and, attacking wise, they have some big threats.
"I think it'll be a really good game, a tough game, for us and a good opportunity at Christmas to enjoy the magnitude of these games. The atmosphere will be special but haven't played them previously, I think we expect a slightly different Man United."