travel december 2022

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• Winter Vacations

11 Best Places to Travel in December

These are the best places to visit in December in the U.S. and around the world.

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The end of the year is incredibly busy with gift shopping, decorating for the holidays, and family gatherings. So before you run out of open days, take some time to book that winter vacation — even if it’s just a weekend getaway. Whether you’re looking for a warm-weather escape to end the year or a festive destination brimming with holiday cheer, we’ve got you covered. From ski towns to beach resorts, here are 11 of the best places to travel in December.

Lake Tahoe, California

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Snowfall usually begins in late November in Lake Tahoe, so you can be one of the first to hit the slopes when you visit in December. The destination’s sapphire blue lake, pine forests, and snow-covered peaks are gorgeous this time of year. Stay on the south shore at Edgewood Lake Tahoe , which hosts holiday festivities throughout the month; the resort’s new multi-bedroom Villa Suites are perfect for families or groups. On the north shore, Ritz-Carlton Lake Tahoe features ski-in/ski-out access and a mountainside concierge. Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe and Edgewood Lake Tahoe were both among Travel + Leisure’s Best Resorts in the Western United States in 2022. Nearby Reno Tahoe offers a wide range of winter activities and a convenient airport with flights from many major cities.

Palm Springs, California

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If you’re looking for mild weather, superb restaurants, golf, plush hotels, spas, and great shopping, put Palm Springs on your December must-visit list. And at just two hours from Los Angeles and San Diego, the Greater Palm Springs area is easy to reach. Check the concert and sports events schedule at the new Acrisure Arena , which hosted Cirque du Soleil’s new Corteo this summer — a first for the desert venue. Lodging ranges from expansive resorts like the JW Marriott Desert Springs Resort to boutique and adult-only properties. Stay just steps from downtown Palm Springs in a quiet and historic neighborhood at Auric House ; you’ll feel like a local as you stroll to restaurants, shops, and breakfast at nearby Korakia Pensione .

Charleston, South Carolina

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Charleston topped the T+L World’s Best Awards list this year for favorite cities in the United States, and it’s a perfect destination for the holidays, with gorgeous decorations adorning historic buildings, streets, and neighborhoods. Christmas markets, tree lightings, parades, and seasonal events inspire the holiday spirit during December. The Charleston Place gets decked out for the season, and other popular Charleston hotels include the Emeline , Planters Inn (a Relais & Châteaux property), and The Vendue , Charleston’s art hotel.

Newport Beach, California

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With weather in the 60s and lots of Southern California sunshine, Newport Beach is a great December destination for hiking, cruising the harbor in a Duffy boat, whale watching, visiting Balboa Island, or strolling along the beach. The city celebrates the holiday season with the annual Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade each night from Dec. 13-17, when more than 100 decorated yachts, boats, kayaks, and canoes cruise the waterfront, along with music, fireworks, and glittering lights. Stay near the action at Lido House , an Autograph Collection hotel, or be among the first to stay at the new Pendry Newport Beach . For five-star luxury, two oceanfront golf courses, and stunning views, choose The Resort at Pelican Hill . Accommodation options here include bungalow rooms and suites with fireplaces and private terraces, as well as Mediterranean-style villas with two, three, or four bedrooms.

Branson, Missouri

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In Branson, the two-month-long Ozark Mountain Christmas celebration kicks off in early November, and it’s an incredible way to get into the holiday spirit. Known as “America’s Christmas Tree City” for good reason, Branson features more than 1,500 decorated trees, shows, parades, 6.5 million lights, drive-through displays , and photo opportunities with Santa Claus. Throughout December, there’s caroling by the fire, story times, and a candy village displayed in the lobby of the Chateau on the Lake . At Big Cedar Lodge , guests can sip hot cocoa, see twinkling holiday lights, skate at the Winter Wonderland ice rink, make wreaths, and bake gingerbread — and that’s just a few of the property’s annual Home for the Holidays activities.

Dubai, United Arab Emirates

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December is considered one of the best months to visit Dubai thanks to moderate weather that’s ideal for being outdoors exploring the city. Visitors will find a festive atmosphere and myriad seasonal events , from elaborately decorated Christmas trees and holiday markets to shopping malls decked out for the season. See public art in the Dubai Design District, lounge at the beachfront in La Mer, or visit the historic Al Fahidi District. Stay at the elegant Habtoor Palace , LXR Hotels & Resorts, or the plush Burj Al Arab Jumeirah . Welcoming guests starting Dec. 1, One&Only One Za’abeel is located in the heart of the city near the Dubai World Trade Centre. The Lana , Dorchester Collection, Dubai, will also open in December beside the Dubai Canal.

Riviera Maya, Mexico

Located on the Yucatan Peninsula along the Caribbean, Riviera Maya is 30 minutes south of Cancun and offers calm seas, sandy beaches, sunny weather, and lodging for all tastes, from boutique hotels to lavish resorts. Maya archaeological sites are fascinating to explore, and cenotes — caves or underground holes filled with cool water — are another intriguing feature of the Yucatan. Mayakoba , a private community with nearly 600 acres of lagoons, jungles, and beaches, includes El Camaleón Golf Club , luxury residences, and four resorts: Fairmont Mayakoba , Andaz Mayakoba , Banyan Tree Mayakoba , and Rosewood Mayakoba . Celebrate the new year with legendary Mexican musician Luis Miguel in concert on Dec. 31 at the nearby golf course. Also in Riviera Maya is Maroma , A Belmond Hotel, now open after an extensive renovation and redesign led by Tara Bernerd & Partners . 

Vienna, Austria

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While Vienna is lovely year-round, it is dazzling in December, with holiday decorations, lights, markets, and Christmas trees galore. Delicious Austrian food is part of the celebration, and mugs of Christmas punch (made with rum and/or brandy) keep shoppers warm as they browse or sample wiener schnitzel, sausage, apple strudel, or traditional roasted chestnuts. Or, stop into a café for coffee and Sachertorte, a famous Austrian chocolate cake. T+L readers recently voted for their favorite Vienna hotels , and The Ritz-Carlton, Vienna took the top spot. The Rosewood Vienna , which just opened last year, and The Amauris Vienna , a Relais & Châteaux property, are also fine options. Note that river cruises are a great way to see Europe’s many Christmas markets, and itineraries are offered through several companies, including AmaWaterways , Viking River Cruises , and Uniworld Boutique River Cruises .

Fort Worth, Texas

Think about this lively Texas city for an end-of-year vacation or weekend getaway, when the weather is in the comfortable high 50s and there’s so much to do. The Fort Worth Zoo features holiday decorations, lights, falling snow, and visits from Santa in December. The Fort Worth Stockyards National Historic District , where ranchers once traded cattle and cowboys drove the animals to market, is still in action with a daily longhorn cattle drive, restaurants, rodeo shows, bars, and tours of the original wooden corrals. Stay at Hotel Drover , in the heart of the District, where holiday decor and activities add to the fun. Near the downtown Sundance Square entertainment area, Kimpton Harper Hotel is set in a historic building that was once the tallest in Fort Worth. The Crescent Hotel, Fort Worth opens this autumn and features a Canyon Ranch Wellness Club with a full menu of fitness classes and spa treatments.

U.S. Virgin Islands

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Located in the northeastern Caribbean Sea, St. Croix, St. John, and St. Thomas make up the U.S. Virgin Islands. Whether you travel to the Caribbean for the beaches, water sports, outdoor adventures, shopping, or nightlife, these islands have myriad options. Join the fun at St. Croix’s Crucian Christmas Festival, which begins Dec. 10 and combines Caribbean, African, Spanish, and Dutch influences in traditional carnival events. The closing parade happens on Jan. 6, when thousands of masqueraders fill the streets. Among accommodation options are the waterfront King Christian Hotel in downtown Christiansted, St. Croix and The Ritz-Carlton, St. Thomas , which hosts holiday activities throughout December. Passports are not required for travel to this United States territory.

This sunny island in the eastern Caribbean is a perfect December escape, whether you’re traveling with friends or family or looking for a romantic getaway. From relaxing on the beach or by the pool to active adventures like kitesurfing, diving, or playing golf, there are lots of fun things to do on Anguilla. Places to stay include boutique hotels, resorts, villas, and apartments at a range of prices. Consider the family-friendly Four Seasons Resort & Residences Anguilla , Malliouhana Resort , and Frangipani Beach Resort , where there’s fun for everyone. Cap Juluca, A Belmond Hotel and Altamer offer private villas. Zemi Beach House on Shoal Bay Beach features a spa set in a 306-year-old Thai house.

Related Articles

The 12 Best Places to Travel in December

By Caitlin Morton

When thinking about the best places to travel in December, you may be tempted to view the month through the lens of Christmas—which is understandable, given the wealth of cities that go all out for the holidays . And while we’re always down for a European Christmas market or dazzling lights display, there are plenty of reasons to travel this month outside of the holly and the jolly.

Whether you want to get a jumpstart on ski season or escape the winter doldrums in the Caribbean, here are the 12 best places to travel in December.

This article has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

Miami, Florida

Many people head to Miami in early December for Art Basel Miami Beach , a glittering, four-day confab (scheduled for December 8–10 in 2023) that lures both the fashion and art worlds. The lineup of artists includes 24 first-time participants (out of 277 total) hailing everywhere from New York to Seoul, plus several guest lectures and dining experiences.

There are plenty of reasons to visit Miami beyond the final moments of Art Basel, of course—namely a booming high-end hotel scene. The St. Regis Bal Harbour Resort is an art destination in and of itself, with geometric metal walls and massive sculptures hanging from the lobby ceiling. Other luxurious amenities, like private butlers and a gourmet burger bar, make this the perfect place to celebrate a special occasion. For a beachier (but just as luxurious) stay, head to The Ritz-Carlton Key Biscayne , located about 15 miles from South Beach. Its ocean views and tequila-stocked restaurant are great any time of year, but this December welcomes a slew of holiday-themed perks, like eggnog in the lobby and peppermint pedicures in the spa.

Yellowstone National Park

If you haven’t visited Yellowstone in the dead of winter, you are missing out on one of the most incredible travel experiences out there. Not only will you escape the typical summer hoards that make it nearly impossible to see wildlife and popular sites like Old Faithful—starting in December, the park is closed to cars and will only allow snowcoaches and snowmobiles to enter—but the relative quiet and icy chills of winter make our oldest national park feel even more like a mystical wonderland. Just imagine: sleepy bison with snow-dusted beards, bright blue pools set against a blanket of white, and boardwalks billowing with steam from the surrounding thermal features.

There are only a couple of in-park lodges open in the winter, but luckily they are incredibly cozy and convenient. Located in the heart of Yellowstone, Old Faithful Snow Lodge will get an extra dose of holiday magic this December, with trees set up throughout the hotel, in-room Christmas sweets, cookie decorating stations, and visits from Santa. Guests can also book several outdoor excursions from the lodge, ranging from guided snowshoe tours to wildlife photo safaris.

The Azores, Portugal

This once-overlooked archipelago in the middle of the Atlantic is tailor-made for adventurers—think whale watching, hiking calderas, and rappelling down waterfalls. (The island of Terceira is home to the only volcano in the world where visitors can explore a chimney and secondary magma chamber, sitting side by side.) And while tourism has caught up to the Azores within the past decade, visiting during the winter gives you a glimpse of what Eden once looked like.

December isn’t chilly here, despite the archipelago’s Atlantic location—the Gulf Stream keeps the year-round temperatures surprisingly balmy, with the mercury rarely dropping below 60 degrees or so. The island of Santa Maria generally boasts the warmest climate, though swimming may be off the table in the winter. If you’re craving water time, pay a visit to a geothermally heated hot spring instead.

Salzburg, Austria

Germany tends to get most of the attention when it comes to Christmas markets (for good reason), but neighboring Austria can be just as festive and charming—especially in the city of Salzburg. It’s not a surprise that the UNESCO World Heritage -listed Old City, which served as the backdrop for The Sound of Music, also fills its famed Christkindlmarkt with song.

With roots dating back to the 15th century, the market’s sing-alongs and traditional wind music are as much a part of the festivities as the mulled wine and stands selling ornaments and fluffy socks. We’re not mad about the bauernkrapfen (fried pastries), either. The market earns extra points for being just steps away from Hotel Goldener Hirsch , one of the world’s oldest luxury hotels and a perfect spot to warm up between outdoor shopping sprees.

Lauren Burvill

Scott Laird

Matt Ortile

Shelby Hyde

Just down the Caribbean coast from the Yucatán with a fraction of the tourism, Belize has transformed from a backpacker haven into a luxury destination over the past few years. (Bonus: It’s only a five-hour flight from New York.) Along with world-class reefs for diving and Mayan ruins for exploring, the country is known for its conservation efforts, particularly when it comes to protecting ocean life. Many hotels and resorts have jumped on the eco-friendly bandwagon, including Turneffe Island Resort , which goes to great lengths to support the population of Antillean Manatees in the nearby Turneffe Atoll. Guests may get a chance to spot the gentle giants while staying on the resort’s 14-acre private island, while gift shop purchases go straight to the Belize Manatee Conservation Program.

Aside from offering an indulgent, adults-only stay on a true white-sand beach, Matachica Resort & Spa provides interactive workshops to learn about the Belize Barrier Reef, including guided scuba diving trips and helicopter tours. Given that December 4 marks World Wildlife Conservation Day, we say there’s no better time to pay these forward-thinking hotels a visit.

Switzerland

Switzerland is always one of the world’s most beautiful countries, but it becomes downright magical come winter: city squares dusted with snow and mountainsides transformed into the best ski slopes on the planet. It can be hard to pick just one Swiss destination to visit in December, which is why hopping on the Glacier Express is the perfect introduction to this wintery wonderland.

The Glacier Express is an eight-hour train ride that connects two of Switzerland’s biggest mountain resorts—Zermatt and St. Moritz—but it’s really more about the journey than the destination here. The train passes over 290 bridges, delivering panoramic views of landmarks like the Oberalp Pass and Matterhorn, and it even includes three-course meals to really help you enjoy every second of the ride.

Charleston, South Carolina

If you want an immersive Christmas experience but aren’t a fan of cold weather, Charleston is the perfect destination for you. In fact, we’d argue that winter is one of the best times to visit, when temperatures hover around the 50s and 60s. Holiday attractions this year include the 34th Annual Holiday Festival of Lights (November 10–December 31, 2023), featuring an estimated 2 million twinkling lights, and Holiday Swing (December 2, 2023), a concert of reimagined Christmas carols courtesy of the Charleston Jazz Orchestra.

The city has no shortage of fabulous hotels, but some notable properties go all out for the holidays. The French Quarter Inn , voted one of the best hotels in Charleston by our readers, will be fully decked out with a Christmas tree and free gingerbread cookies in the rotunda, while the Sleigh Bell Suite comes with even more festive amenities: an in-room eggnog bar, freshly-baked cookies served by the fireplace, holiday movie screenings, and a special reading of ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas from Santa himself. Over at The Spectator Hotel , personal butlers assigned to each guest can transform your room with personalized Christmas decorations, plus bring you any treats and drinks you request.

Whistler, Canada

If you’re desperately seeking slopes, you can’t do much better than the largest ski area in North America. With 8,171 acres of skiable terrain and hills ranging in difficulty from green to double-black, the twin peaks of Whistler Blackcomb truly have something for every winter sports enthusiast. Both the Big Red Express lift and Creekside Gondola were reworked a couple of years ago to hold more people, meaning the mountains will feel far less congested and visitors can enjoy even more rounds of powder.

Once you pack up your poles for the day, soak up all the après glory at Whistler Village. Here you’ll find the resort area’s largest concentration of bars and restaurants, ranging from the buzzy high-end seafood restaurant Wild Blue to the upscale yet relaxed Braidwood Tavern . In terms of hotels, the Fairmont Chateau Whistler looks (and feels) like a true fairy tale castle, nestled at the base of Blackcomb.

Santiago, Chile

​​Travelers often overlook Chile’s capital city in favor of splashier South American destinations like Rio or Buenos Aires—but we encourage you not to make that same mistake. Santiago is not only a superb base for outdoor adventure, thanks to its location between the Andes and the Pacific, but it’s an excellent standalone destination for anyone who loves great food, great wine, and plenty of shopping opportunities.

After exploring the city’s coolest neighborhoods, tack on a side trip to Valparaíso—the former seaport home of Pablo Neruda and current headquarters for the Chilean Navy. It’s just a two-hour drive here from Santiago, but you’ll want to plan to stay overnight (and not just because you’ll be drinking a lot of wine). With its colorful hillside houses and abundance of museum-worthy street art, Valparaíso is not an easy place to say goodbye to.

If you’re anything like us, emerging from two years of lockdowns and closed borders has inspired you to finally book that once-in-a-lifetime trip you’ve always dreamed about—like an expedition to Antarctica , for example. The white continent is at its best from December to March, when wildlife is active and the sun shines for nearly 24 hours a day. And while trips like these typically require a lot of advance planning, there’s still time to book a spot on an expedition cruise ship before 2023 wraps up (although you may want to use this time to start researching for next year).

Ponant has about a dozen sailings available through the end of December, with trips ranging from 10 to 15 nights and including stops in South Georgia and the Falkland Islands. Another great option is Quark Expedition’s “Antarctic Explorer: Discovering the 7th Continent” voyage, an 11-day trip with six departure dates within the month of December (plus many in 2024). Each sailing includes the typical stops, but Quark also started offering a majorly cool add-on a few years ago: alpine heli-trekking, in which guests board a helicopter (just imagine those views) and fly to typically inaccessible terrain to enjoy hiking or snowshoeing.

British Virgin Islands

Made up of more than 60 tropical isles, the British Virgin Islands are easily one of the best places to travel in December. The archipelago is the epitome of Caribbean relaxation with white-sand beaches and lush rainforests—not to mention some of the best hotels in the entire region. Richard Branson’s Necker Island is arguably the most famous resort, freshly reconstructed with an emphasis on sustainability. New wind turbines join the existing solar farm so that the resort runs on 90 percent renewable energy. Even the staff uniforms are made from recycled plastic.

Recent years saw the arrival of two new private island resorts, both of which appeared on our 2022 Hot List . Off the northern end of Virgin Gorda, Saba Rock ’s nine-bedroom boutique hotel boasts a bustling rooftop bar, spacious guest rooms, and a seemingly endless supply of water sports. Meanwhile, Branson struck gold again with Moskito Island , located just two miles away from Necker Island. Guests with deep pockets can choose from three private estate rentals, each with its own distinct style. Amenities like private chefs and house managers available to help 24/7—plus the chance of running into Branson himself on the tennis courts—offer a true taste of a billionaire’s vacation.

Paris shines extra bright during the holiday season, from the lights along the Champs-Élysées to store window displays that rival museum art installations. This year is a particularly great time to plan a trip, with inexpensive nonstop flights with French Bee (France’s first low-cost carrier ) and a crop of new hotel openings. Be one of the first to stay at Bulgari Hotel Paris or Hôtel Madame Rêve , housed in a former 24-hour post office—or choose from one of the many established hotels in the city.

For an extra-special holiday experience, book a spot on the “ Paris at the Holidays ” group trip (November 30–December 7) from specialty planning company French Affaires. Curated by France travel expert Elizabeth New Seitz, the trip includes an evening tour of the city’s Christmas lights, a private tour of the Louvre, a Buche de Noel (yule log) cooking class, and French afternoon teas at some of the city’s top palace hotels.

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The best places to visit in December 2023

Oct 20, 2023 • 8 min read

Head to Freiburg in the Black Forest for a taste of Germany in winter © picture alliance / Getty Images

December may mean the year is coming to an end – but that doesn’t mean your travel plans have to. If you’re looking for the best place to visit in December, here are some of Lonely Planet’s top picks, whether you want stunning northern lights, epic beach adventures or cozy Christmas markets. 

Where are the best places to travel to in December for relaxation?

Palawan, Philippines

Why now? Dry skies for wet adventures.

Dubbed “ the Philippines ’ last ecological frontier,” pristine Palawan – the country’s westernmost province – is a Unesco Biosphere Reserve and a haven of biodiversity above and below the water line. There are over 1700 islands here, covered by virgin forest, edged by limestone cliffs and fringed by coral reefs. The diving is varied and spectacular. At El Nido , in the north, there are 20-plus dive sites where exciting sightings range from nudibranchs and seahorses to turtles and huge shoals of snapper. Around Coron Island , there’s thrilling wreck diving, with numerous WWII remnants to explore. There’s also decent diving in easy reach of the capital, Puerto Princesa – sites include walls and pinnacles, a variety of corals, plenty of unusual macro species, colorful reef fish, crustaceans, schooling barracuda and jacks, rays and reef sharks. Puerto Princesa is also the gateway to the Subterranean River National Park , a navigable underground waterway through incredible karst formations.

San Diego, California 

Why now? For city life, winter sun, Santa and cetaceans.

Winter is relative in southern California . In San Diego rain is more likely but days remain mild (average highs: 66°F/19°C). It’s certainly still warm enough to wander the city’s village-like neighborhoods – fancy La Jolla , surfy Encinitas, alternative Ocean Beach , foodie Little Italy, the lively, bar-packed Gaslamp Quarter – and to lose yourself in enormous Balboa Park , with its museums (Air & Space, Art, Natural History) and world-famous zoo . For further wildlife encounters, book a boat tour or head to the cliff-top trails of Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve in the hope of spotting dolphins and migrating gray whales, which pass along the coast here between December and March. 

Where are the best places to travel to in December for wildlife and nature?

Central Kalahari, Botswana

Why now? For cheaper prices and greater game.

In this immense wildlife reserve, covering 50,000 sq km (19,305 sq miles) and one of the largest in the world, rain does not stop play. Indeed, it positively encourages it. While December marks the start of the rainy season in Botswana , it’s the best time to visit the semi-arid Central Kalahari . In the northernmost areas, around Northern Deception Valley in particular, the flush of wildflowers and grasses attracts great gatherings of grazers, which in turn attract predators – large numbers of hyena, leopard and the reserve’s famed black-maned lions are all found here. This is also the best time for birding, as many species are wearing their breeding plumage and migrants are around. Roads may become trickier to navigate but the payoff is excellent wildlife viewing and, at times, soul-stirringly stormy skies. There are opportunities to engage with the San people too.

Arctic Sweden

Why now? Sleep on ice beneath the Northern Lights.

At the Swedish village of Jukkasjärvi, one degree of latitude north of the Arctic Circle, the sun never rises in the last three weeks of the year. In December, darkness is the dominant state – perfect for watching the Aurora Borealis . Jukkasjärvi is the home of the original Icehotel, where you can spend a night in a bed made of ice. The area is also a base for cross-country skiing, husky sledding, snowmobiling, sleigh rides, meeting reindeer and learning about traditional Sámi culture – magical for kids and grown-ups alike. Some 100km (62 miles) to the northwest, Abisko National Park is even further removed from the light, an otherworldly landscape offering arguably the world’s best aurora-watching. 

Where are the best places to travel to in December for culture?

Martinique 

Why now? To sing carols with a Creole twist.

December doesn’t just mean Christmas in the French Caribbean. It means Chanté-Nwel. One of Martinique ’s biggest annual festivities, held across the island from November to Christmas Day, it sees people gather to sing carols to Creole rhythms (a practice dating back to the days of slavery) and feast on local favorites including yams, pâtés, boudin créole (blood sausage), yule logs and potent shrubb – a Christmas cocktail crafted from dried orange peel, sugarcane syrup and white rum. Very festive. All that’s missing is the snow: with sunny skies and average highs of 82.4°F (28°C), this is perfect beach weather; chill out on the vast sweep of white sand at Les Salines or the black sand of Anse Noire . 

Chhattisgarh & Odisha, India 

Why now? For cultural encounters in milder weather.

The neighboring states of Odisha ( Orissa ) and Chhattisgarh (a breakaway chunk of Madhya Pradesh) offer perhaps the most authentic insight into rural India . These regions are largely neglected by tourists, perhaps due to their lack of “big” sights. But the appeal here is in getting away from the cities and meeting the people, such as the majority Gond (famed for their vibrant art), the tattooed Kutia Kondh, the Indigenous groups of the jungles around Jeypore, the bead-wearing Bonda or the cultural melee of a haat bazaar (weekly market), where many tribal groups gather to haggle over everything from butter and salt to clothes and jewelry. The Bastar region of Chhattisgarh is a good place to start – visit markets, hike between village homestays and witness tribal festivals: the Madai Festival, which moves around the communities of Bastar, Kanker and Dantewada, is celebrated from December to March (when temperatures are mild, too).

Where are the best places to travel to in December for food and drink? 

Black Forest, Germany 

Why now? For a touch of Teutonic magic.

The Black Forest is Germany ’s most romantic, fairy-tale-laced region. And never more so than in December, when its rolling hills and dense-packed evergreens might be sprinkled with snow and when everywhere is sprinkled with Christmas. The lively university town of Freiburg is a fine festive choice.

Its medieval center of cobbled lanes and gabled houses is lovely to wander at any time, but now smells of Glühwein  (mulled wine) and gingerbread; browse the Christmas market, where you can make your own candles and cookies, ride the Ferris wheel and feast on raclette and wurst. Further afield, take the train or bus to nearby Hinterzarten for the striking Ravennaschlucht market, where traditional stalls cluster in a gorge beneath the Devil’s Valley Railway viaduct. 

Puerto Rico 

Why now? For a never-ending Noel.

Twelve days of Christmas? Pah! Sunny and spirited Puerto Rico stretches it to 60 days, starting with Thanksgiving (this is a US “unincorporated territory,” after all) and not finishing until mid-January. Visit in December and you’ll likely come across shops stacked with festive trinkets, late-night parrandas (carol singing in the streets), church Masses filled with aguinaldos (Christmas songs) and the hearty consumption of festive feasts: lechón (suckling pig), arroz con gandules (rice with pigeon peas), pork-and-potato pasteles (steamed plantain tamales) and coquet (sweet spiced coconut drink). The Día de los Inocentes (28 December) is particularly fun, akin to April Fool’s Day, when people play tricks on each other – head to Hatillo for the best high-jinks.

Season’s greetings aside, the weather is wonderful right now for exploring this proudly Latino Caribbean idyll. Wander the bright alleys of Old San Juan (founded 1521) and lively second-city Ponce ; venture into El Yunque for rainforest hikes; check out the surf at Rincón ; and consider sailing over to the islands of Vieques and Culebra for quieter sands and dazzling after-dark kayaking in Bioluminescent Bay.

Where are the best places to travel to in December for adventure?

Why now? Crowd-lite, multi-sport, fairytale snow fun.

While snug-sized Slovenia  can’t compete with Europe’s winter-sports big boys, the country is still splendid when the snow starts to fall. There is good skiing, albeit on a smaller scale.

Resorts such as lively Kranjska Gora, reliable Krvavec and family-friendly Vogel aren’t huge but also aren’t as busy as other Alpine hubs. But where the country really excels is in multi-activity winter breaks, combining downhilling and snowboarding with cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, snow-hiking, ice-climbing or even igloo-building and night tobogganing. The landscapes are thrilling, too, with most resorts located in and around handsome Triglav National Park . Photographers will love the high peaks, frozen waterfalls, snowy forests, beautiful Lake Bohinj and magical Lake Bled , with its lake isle and castle shimmering in the frost. 

Vancouver Island, Canada 

Why now? For really wild times.

As winter arrives, the restive region where Arctic and subtropical air collides shifts south, and low-pressure systems build in the Gulf of Alaska. This equals stupendous storms, which thwack the Pacific coast of Vancouver Island , stirring up gigantic swells, roaring winds and epic skies. It’s Mother Nature at her most marvelously unhinged and cinematic – and it’s worth braving a bit of weather for front-row seats. On the edge of Pacific Rim National Park, the little town of Ucluelet (meaning “people of the safe harbor”) is a great place to watch the action unfold. 

Want more expert recommendations for every month of the year? Check out the brand-new edition of  Where to Go When . 

This article was first published Sep 29, 2019 and updated Oct 20, 2023.

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The 10 best places to visit in December

In December, the world transforms. The Northern Hemisphere sees winter's touch with snow and chill, while the Southern Hemisphere basks in summer's warmth.

Travelers can choose anything from snow-capped landscapes ideal for winter sports to sunlit beaches for relaxation. As the year-end approaches, many places come alive with holiday preparations, each offering unique cultural experiences.

Whether it's the allure of festive markets , the thrill of outdoor adventures, or simply exploring new terrains, December provides something for every traveler.

But where should you go? Here are the 10 best destinations to visit in December.

Breckenridge, Colorado

Imagine a place where the winter comes alive — that's Breckenridge in December. Picture world-class ski slopes, cozy family sleigh rides and thrilling snowmobile adventures. Not to mention, the history here is captivating. December's Ullr Fest is also a special treat for travelers. The festival is a local favorite held in honor of Ullr, the Norse god of snow. (We're hoping he blesses us with plenty of powder.)

There's also plenty to explore in nearby towns like Frisco and Leadville; less than an hour away, you can take a rejuvenating dip at Indian Hot Springs. Or, weather permitting, head to Rocky Mountain National Park to marvel at its natural beauty.

Related: The best ski resorts in the US for your next trip to the slopes

If you're still in Breckenridge come January, you're in for a spectacle. During the International Snow Sculpture Championships, artists carve massive snow blocks into stunning creations.

TPG tip : Hyatt Vacation Club at The Ranahan offers a spectacular Rocky Mountain retreat with premium skiing, winter escapades, boating, mountain biking and year-round family-friendly outdoor activities. It's available for about $205 in December, or 21,000 World of Hyatt Points per night.

Truckee, California

Of all the best places to visit in December in the USA, Truckee is one that tops our list. Come wintertime, the destination transforms into a snow-draped haven. From peaceful snowshoe treks to exciting family sledding spots, there's something for everyone here. For skiing enthusiasts, some of the region's best slopes await. Beyond winter sports, the stunning beauty of nearby Lake Tahoe is a must-see.

After a day in the snow, explore downtown Truckee. It offers museums full of rich local history, and its numerous breweries and eateries provide a taste of the town's culture. You can even opt for a guided tour of the town.

Related: From hidden gems to big names: Here are 11 of California's best ski resorts

TPG tip : Book a stay at SpringHill Suites Truckee for about 37,000 Marriott Bonvoy points or $282 per night.

Dorado, Puerto Rico

Seeking a warm winter getaway? Dorado sits on Puerto Rico 's stunning Caribbean coastline, and it boasts white-sand beaches perfect for surfing, swimming and many family-friendly adventures.

A short drive away, San Juan immerses you in a vibrant blend of culture, music and culinary delights. Here, you can experience cultural festivities throughout the year, savor delicious local dishes and sway to the rhythms of salsa, bomba and plena echoing from the city's picturesque squares.

Beyond that, the region offers thrilling activities like hang gliding and paragliding. For those keen to explore, guided tours can lead you to hidden beaches and lush tropical paths. Don't miss out on the YuYu Cave — a captivating and educational spot for young adventurers who love nature.

TPG tip : Dorado Beach, A Ritz-Carlton Reserve is a great home base for exploring the area and is available from $1,645 or 215,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night.

During the holidays, Zurich becomes a festive paradise. Streets shimmer with lights, and Christmas markets spring to life. Highlights include Burkliplatz's candle dipping, the enchanting "Marlitram" fairy tale tram and the singing choirs at Werdmuhleplatz, accompanied by its famed "Singing Christmas Tree."

Christkindlimarkt at Zurich Main Station, one of Europe's largest indoor Christmas markets, boasts a radiant tree adorned with Swarovski crystals. The nostalgic Dorfli market in Old Town offers a vintage charm with fondue and artisanal goods.

For a warm treat, stop by Cafe Felix and choose from a medley of hot chocolate iterations. Or, savor history at the luxury confectioner Sprungli, which has been in operation since 1836. For elevated dining, Restaurant Felsenegg provides fondue with a stunning city view.

Beyond these, visitors can skate, toboggan or take a scenic fondue eTukTuk ride. Zurich's thermal baths and saunas overlooking Lake Zurich promise relaxation. For artsy souls, the "Herzebaracke" floating theater offers diverse performances by the lake from Nov. 1, 2023, to March 10, 2024.

TPG tip : Stay near the heart of town at Crowne Plaza Zurich for around $146 or 30,000 IHG rewards points per night.

In December, Japan lights up in celebration, offering visitors a magical experience. From Tokyo's Omotesando Illuminations, aglow with around 900,000 lights, to Ashikaga Flower Park's radiant 5-million-light display, the country is a spectacle. Mie Prefecture's Nabana no Sato Winter Illumination lets guests immerse themselves in LED light fields and explore captivating light tunnels.

Meanwhile, Kobe's touching Luminarie shines in remembrance of the 1995 Great Hanshin Earthquake victims. December also welcomes ski enthusiasts as Japan's winter sports season begins.

From the breathtaking views at Shiga Kogen Ski Area in Nagano — with its Olympic-endorsed slopes — to the sought-after resorts in Niigata — easily accessible from Tokyo — skiing here is a dream. But there's more to Niigata than just skiing: Indulge in its renowned hot springs and savor its exquisite seafood, rice and sake.

TPG tip : Book a room at the Conrad Tokyo for $389 or 95,000 Hilton Honors points per night.

Dubai in December is a whole different vibe. The scorching heat takes a backseat, making way for cooler days. This means beach picnics, outdoor adventures and late-night strolls become even more inviting. And then there's the festive buzz. Everywhere you look, from the towering skyscrapers to the cozy lanes, Dubai sparkles with holiday decorations.

It's not just about twinkling lights, though. The city pulses with events — think bustling markets, lively performances and the aroma of seasonal treats filling the air. Against the backdrop of the vast desert and the iconic skyline, the festive cheer feels even more special. So, if you're dreaming of a mix of relaxation, retail therapy and rich culture, Dubai is your go-to.

TPG tip : Book a room at La Ville Hotel & Suites City Walk for $586 or 70,000 Marriott Bonvoy points, or stay at the lavish Atlantis The Royal .

The Bahamas

Traveling to the Bahamas becomes a breeze this December, thanks to several new flight routes. Delta Air Lines is launching a direct flight from New York's LaGuardia Airport (LGA) to Nassau. For travelers on the West Coast, there's good news, too: American Airlines is rolling out direct flights from Los Angeles and Seattle to Nassau.

Not to be left out, JetBlue is introducing a weekly nonstop service from LA. Once you touch down, the Bahamas offers a plethora of experiences. Dive into the clear waters, explore the world's third-largest coral reef or swim with the wild pigs.

And if you're into sailing, December is the prime time to visit. Events like The National Family Island Regatta showcase the region's rich maritime heritage.

TPG tip : Book a room at the French Leave Resort for $749 or 80,000 Marriott Bonvoy points. Or, for sheer indulgence, opt for the luxurious Rosewood Baha Mar , where rates start from $715 per night.

Morristown, Arizona

Just a quick 50-minute drive from Phoenix, Morristown is the perfect desert escape in December. The weather's a treat with comfy temperatures in the 60s and 70s — a lovely switch from Arizona's intense summer and the cold weather of other destinations.

If you love the outdoors, you'll be in your element. Morristown's desert beauty is a big draw, with opportunities to go hiking or 4x4 riding.

At night, the town's clear December skies, away from bright city glows, offer some top-notch stargazing. Witness the breathtaking Geminids and Ursids Meteor Showers, peaking on Dec. 14-15 and 22-23, respectively. And there's more to the celestial show: Mark your calendar for the New Moon on Dec. 13, the Winter Solstice on Dec. 22, and the Full Moon on Dec. 27.

TPG tip : Book a stay at Castle Hot Springs , which is an American Express Fine Hotels + Resort partner. Platinum cardholders receive 12 p.m. check-in (when available), room upgrade at check-in (when available), daily breakfast for two, $100 property credit to be used during the stay, complimentary Wi-Fi and 4 p.m. checkout guaranteed.

New York City

New York City in December is an enchanting experience. Imagine skating below the gleaming Rockefeller Center tree, surrounded by the city's sparkling skyline. Fifth Avenue transforms into a festive paradise, with its department stores showcasing captivating holiday window displays.

Brooklyn's Dyker Heights is a must-visit for those who admire festive lights. The neighborhood's homes are grandly decorated for the holidays, and dedicated bus tours guide visitors through the most brilliantly lit blocks.

But the magic doesn't stop there. You can also catch a classic holiday show at Radio City Music Hall, wander through the winter markets at Bryant Park or Central Park, and marvel at the giant holiday ornaments scattered throughout the city.

TPG tip : Book a stay at the Park South Hotel for $480 or 23,000 Hyatt World points, or check out TPG's favorite hotels in New York City .

December is the perfect month to explore Uganda. The landscapes are at their greenest, yet the weather stays dry. This combination is ideal for gorilla tracking, an experience you won't forget. Boat safaris also shine in December. As water sources become a focal point in the dry terrain, spotting the Big Five becomes even more thrilling.

While Uganda is gaining attention, it's still a quieter East African destination. Venture beyond the natural wonders, too. The capital, Kampala, is a city full of surprises. From the lively Equator Bar in the Sheraton to the unique crocodile tail delicacy at The Lawns, there's much to savor. And if you're into art, the Afriart Gallery showcases contemporary pieces.

TPG tip : Book a stay at Hilton Garden Inn Kampala for $170 or 37,000 Hilton Honors points.

Related reading:

• Key travel tips you need to know — whether you're a beginner or expert traveler
• The best travel credit cards
• The 18 best places to travel in 2023
• 6 real-life strategies you can use when your flight is canceled or delayed
• 8 of the best credit cards for general travel purchases
• 13 must-have items the TPG team can't travel without

20 Best Places to Visit in December, According to Travel Experts

Check out these top destinations for a winter wonderland or warm-weather retreat.

Holiday tourism is hot . Christmas markets, Santa-themed attractions, hotels that give off hygge vibes, light shows and festivals are popping up everywhere. In fact, according to a new report by PricewaterhouseCoopers , 47% of Americans are expected to travel this holiday season, and travel-related spending is expected to increase 12% over last year.

We plowed through a blizzard of options to land on these holiday-inspired places to visit in December, and then we added a couple of beachy, warm-weather spots in case that's more your vibe. Our picks are truly next level: Some long weekend locales will blow your kids' minds and cement their belief in Santa, while others are cozy couple's retreats where you can act out your Hallmark movie fantasies. A few even perfectly align with the brilliant trend of vacationing somewhere over the holidays rather than exchanging presents.

While tickets and rooms are still widely available now, it's likely that many of these places will sell out, so dash off to request your PTO!

Hotel del Coronado, San Diego

Ice skating with an ocean view? Not only is it a thing, it's an epic holiday tradition at Hotel del Coronado, winner of a 2022 Good Housekeeping Family Travel Award. Skating by the Sea returns to the historic property from November 17 to January 7. After your 90-minute skating sesh, reserve seating with firepits (mmm, s'mores) at the Frostbite Lounge. Other holiday happenings at The Del include a light show and beachside igloos.

Old Edwards Inn & Spa, Highlands, North Carolina

Give yourself an early holiday present — the gift of a couple's or girlfriend's getaway to Old Edwards Inn & Spa. The adults-only destination in the Blue Ridge Mountains oozes cozy vibes. For a special deal, book its Comfort & Joy package, available Sunday to Thursday, November 1-17 and November 28-December 15.

It includes two nights of lodging, a three-course dinner for two and two 50-minute spa treatments. Lodging options range from an intimate historic room to a two-bedroom suite (perfection for the girls' trip).

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Santa Barbara, California

Not only does Santa Barbara get decked out for the holidays, it's also whale-watching season! Migrating Pacific gray whales pass through the Santa Barbara Channel as they head back to Baja California. Visitors can spot them on one of the town's many whale-watching tours. Fortunately, you won't feel too frosty on the boat or at the city's 37th Annual Parade of Lights on December 10.

Stay at The Steward , an all-suite property offering guests a secret hideaway tucked between the ocean and mountains on California's idyllic central coast. Not only does it boast a heated outdoor pool and sweet porch swings, but the hotel also offers many sustainable touches like solar-powered lights and water-filling stations.

Fort Worth Stockyards, Fort Worth, Texas

Everything is bigger in Texas, including the Christmas celebrations. In its 22nd year, Christmas in the Stockyards on December 3 spreads cheer with a massive ice skating rink, photos with Cowboy Santa, strolling carolers and a holiday parade. Even if you can't make it that day, most of the activities (minus the parade) are available throughout the rest of the season. Stay at the nearby Hotel Drover , which will also be decked out for the holidays.

Nashville, Tennessee

The holiday season really makes the Music City sing. Both the iconic Ryman Auditorium and Grand Ole Opry feature festive concerts with superstar performers like LeAnn Rimes, Amy Grant and Vince Gill. As you explore Nashville's neighborhoods, one million twinkling lights can't help but put you in the holiday spirit.

If you're bringing the kids, stay at the Gaylord Opryland Resort , home to an elaborate Polar Express-themed ICE! attraction where kids can zoom down frozen slides. For a more grown-up adventure, stay at the Bobby Hotel. After a show, indulge in warm craft cocktails at the Rooftop Lounge where you can rent a heated igloo while taking in an incredible view of downtown Nashville from 14 stories up.

Salt Lake City, Utah

With spectacular mountain views at every turn, Salt Lake City wows winter sports enthusiasts and foodies alike and has incredible seasonal events to boot. Throughout December, visitors can stop by the holiday art market at Alta Ski Resort , hop on a full moon lift ride at Snowbird or take a self-guided tour of the ten striking murals by some of Salt Lake’s most renowned local artists.

Restaurants like downtown's SLC Eatery and White Horse have imaginative menus. Stay nearby at Le Méridien or Element downtown. "The two hotels are under one roof and we enjoyed them both," says a Good Housekeeping staffer who recently visited. "The Element is more kid-friendly and includes free breakfast while Le Méridien is high-end and has a rooftop bar."

Biddeford, Maine

A hidden gem about a half hour south of Portland, Biddeford's downtown gives off Hallmark movie vibes. Come for the annual Holiday Festival on December 1, which includes a tree and menorah lighting, caroling and even free desserts prepared by the local cultural center. Make it a weekend with a stay at The Lincoln Hotel , which fills its lobby with Christmas trees and has gas fireplaces in every room. Don't forget to stop for lunch at the Palace Diner in a vintage railcar and the oldest diner in Maine.

Tucked away in the Eastern Caribbean, Anguilla is known for its magnificent beaches and easygoing atmosphere. With 33 beaches, most boasting soft, white sand, it's an undeniable paradise in December. From fun family activities like glass floor boat rides to romantic beachside dinners, the island has something for everyone.

Visitors can stay at the Frangipani Beach Resort , a luxury boutique resort set in the middle of Meads Bay, one of Anguilla’s most renowned beaches. Featuring 23 rooms and suites, travelers can take advantage of the plentiful amenities like beach and poolside service and complimentary water sports such as tubing and kayaking.

Tulum, Mexico

There’s more to Mexico than burritos and mojitos. Tulum's legendary ruins are a historic wonder and the third-most visited site in Mexico. What's more, Tulum’s breathtaking flora and fauna make it a prime destination for those who appreciate natural beauty.

Stay at an all-inclusive beach resort that appeals to all ages: the Hilton Tulum Riviera Maya All-Inclusive Resort . With eight pools, 13 restaurants and bars, a luxury spa and an exclusive Family Zone, it has everything you need to be a home away from home. A Good Housekeeping staffer who recently visited with her family said, "The resort is beautiful and there are nice nightlife things for parents to do while the kids are in the kids club."

Snowflake Lane, Bellevue, Washington

Pick up gifts for everyone on your list and see a magical nighttime parade all in one place! That's multi-tasking at its finest. Every night from November 24 to December 24, a holiday parade with nearly 200 performers, floats and faux snow transforms this shopping and entertainment mecca near Seattle into a veritable winter wonderland. You can even stay overnight in the heart of the festivities at the Hyatt Regency Bellevue , which has an indoor pool and an amazing breakfast buffet.

Sydney, Australia

With summer heating up in the Southern Hemisphere, December is the perfect month to take a trip down under. For travelers who enjoy nature and wildlife, take an immersive walking tour with knowledgeable, indigenous guides to explore the city’s living world.

During your trek, visitors might get a glimpse of cute koalas sitting in treetops, spot a hopping kangaroo or experience other unforgettable creature encounters. For those who’d rather relax, the city has plenty of brilliant beaches to lounge on and sunbathe.

Beyond nature, Sydney is teeming with iconic sights and cultural attractions like the Sydney Harbour Bridge and the Opera House, which offers kids' programming throughout the month.

Charleston Place, South Carolina

Visions of sugar plum fairies will be dancing in your kids' heads if you stay at the Charleston Place, which is embracing the Nutcracker as its holiday decor and programming theme for 2023. To say that the hotel goes all out for Christmas is an understatement: Decorations include more than 100 wreaths, 139 trees (including one that's 41 feet tall) and 10,000 ornaments. Local ballet companies even put on mini performances in the lobby. Sweet dreams are practically guaranteed.

Hersheypark, Hershey, Pennsylvania

Oh, what fun it is to ride at Hersheypark! Families can take a spin on select rides and attractions, including the newest coaster, at Christmas Candylane on select dates from November 10 to January. Santa and his nine reindeer also make special appearances at the park. Make it a weekend by staying at Hotel Hershey or Hershey Lodge , which also have a lineup of holiday-themed activities. Many involve chocolate, of course!

The Logan Hotel, Philadelphia

Celebrating the holidays in Philly? Book a suite that's already decked out for the season. The Logan Hotel's Holiday Lodge Suite will get you in the spirit with its twinkling lights, seasonal bedding and fully decorated tree. Room service is also included — a cart with hot chocolate and eggnog is rolled right into your suite, so your family can customize their own beverages. While you're in town, be sure to check out the Reading Terminal Market and the Christmas Light Show at Macy's.

Alexandria, Virginia

This historic town just outside of Washington, D.C. packs in the festivities all month long. It'll be tough deciding when to go — a Holiday Boat Parade of Lights takes place on December 2, while Christmas Illuminations with fireworks at George Washington's Mount Vernon light up the skies on December 15 and 16. Stay at a hotel in the Old Town area so you'll be near many locally owned shops and restaurants. The Alexandrian boasts a great location and an indoor pool.

It's never a bad time to visit Belize, but escaping the bustle of the holiday season for a place with pristine jungles, rainforests and exhilarating adventures sounds like a dream. Stay at Cayo Espanto , a private island that's an enchanting escape. With villas equipped with a personal butler, private dock area and customized meals, guests won’t soon forget the experience. To get in the holiday spirit, the resort even offers a holiday photoshoot for couples or families. Say, cheese!

Little America Hotel North Pole Experience, Flagstaff, Arizona

If it's possible to get your kids even more hyped for the holidays, the North Pole Experience will do it. The attraction transports families through a "magical portal" to the North Pole where they'll feast their eyes on Santa's Workshop, a Toy Hall of Fame, the North Pole mailroom and even the famous sleigh. It's about an hour and forty minutes of pure magic! Stay at the Little America Hotel in Flagstaff, where the magical portal opens (via trolley service) for the journey "up North" on select days from November 17 to December 24.

Walt Disney World, Orlando, Florida

If you're not sure what to get the kids for the holidays this year, may we suggest a trip to Disney? Instead of spending money on more stuff, put it toward a trip over the holidays where you can make lots of memories.

Float the idea by the kids to see if they're on board, and, if it's a go, start planning your trip, including tickets to Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party (shown), which runs through December 22. Other holiday must-sees including the gingerbread display (and cookies to purchase!) at Disney's Grand Floridian Resort and the Epcot International Festival of Lights (running through December 30.)

Brussels, Belgium

European holiday markets are a bucket-list experience — and wouldn't it be marvelous to stop at several without schlepping your luggage (and souvenirs!) all around? The solution: Uniworld Boutique River Cruises is launching a luxury river cruise from Brussels that includes stops at five holiday markets, plus chocolate tastings, cave tours and more. The boutique cruise line also offers options starting in Germany and Switzerland.

Great Wolf Lodge

This indoor waterpark chain with 20+ locations goes big for the holidays with storytimes, nightly snowfalls, crafts, Santa visits and decorations galore. The location in the Pocono Mountains of Pennsylvania recently opened stylish woodland villas — a first for the brand and a boon for mult-gen families.

The villas can sleep 8 to 20 guests and have bunk-bed rooms for kids. Other thoughtful touches include hooks in the bathroom to hang wet bathing suits and outdoor tables that double as tic-tac-toe boards. The table idea is the brainchild of designer Nate Berkus, who masterminded the outdoor space.

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The best holiday destinations in December

By Sarah James

Forget summertime: December just might be the best time of year to travel. There are the Christmas classics: the scent of mulled wine and freshly fallen snow wafting from NYC to Berlin , or salty-aired, sun-kissed treats such as St Barth’s. Off-season surprises include Fiji and Madagascar; for a limited time only, these are a (relative) bargain. And with the sunny season in full swing Down Under, it’s an ideal time to discover Australia’s most unlikely success story. Plus, our tips on how to do it all as sustainably as possible.

Scotland, UK

Temperature in December: 7°C high; 2°C low Season: winter Flight time from London: 1 hour 15 minutes Time difference: GMT+0

Sure, when the sun shines on Scotland , it’s sublime. But there’s also a lot to love about this raw and rugged land in the cold. Nothing is cosier than a few wee drams by a roaring fire after a busy day out in the elements – be that fat-biking East Lothian beaches, or tracking red deer across the Cairngorms’ snow-dusted slopes. Edinburgh in December is, of course, raucously festive, and winter’s a great time to appreciate the hearty fare of the city's best restaurants. Top of the list should be Tom Kitchin’s Michelin-starred Leith restaurant, The Kitchin, celebrating Scottish produce, followed by his elevated pub grub at Stockbridge’s The Scran and Scallie.

Sustainable travel tip: Road-tripping around Scotland’s vast wilderness is tempting, but consider a railway holiday instead. Chugging along the West Highland Line, you’ll be on one of the UK's most scenic train journeys .

Where to stay: Gleneagles Townhouse is the latest newcomer to the thriving Edinburgh hotel scene, and a modern relative to the beloved Gleneagles in Perthshire. For a private stay with a cracking location, this cosy city-centre loft overlooks the Royal Mile, and is one of our favourite Airbnbs in Edinburgh .

Temperature in December: 30ºC high; 25ºC low Season: Dry season Flight time from UK: 10 hours Time difference: GMT +5

If tropical indolence is what you seek then the Maldives is, let’s face it, heaven at any time of year. But December, which marks the start of the dry season, sees the islands at their best: low rainfall, low humidity, a lovely dry heat, lots of sunshine… You can go swimming with whale sharks and manta rays (at South Ari and the western edges of the atolls). Plus in December (until March) there’s the bonus of a direct flight from the UK to Malé with British Airways, transporting you from cold, dark Britain to the heat and light of the Indian Ocean in as little as 10 hours, and giving you as much as an extra day of beach time.

Sustainable travel tip: While flying to the Maldives presents unavoidable carbon issues, you can minimise your footprint by choosing a resort that has real sustainability practices . Read up thoroughly to check it’s not just paying lip service. Choose dives and day trips with responsible outfits, which contribute to conservation – and be sure not to touch corals or living creatures.

Where to stay: Where indeed. There's plenty to love within our list of the best hotels in the Maldives . For somewhere shiny and new, Alila Kothaifaru Maldives is the latest addition to the archipelago, with 80 villas split between over water (sunrise or sunset) and beach (properly hidden from each other by leafy vegetation) as well as two restaurants. For a classic crowd pleaser, Gili Lankanfushi Maldives has a hard to beat location, with only over water villa accommodation ensuring the island stays wild and the beaches are on full dazzling display.

New York City, USA

Temperature in December: 8°C high; -3°C low Season: winter Flight time from UK: 8 hours Time difference: GMT-5

Christmas in New York City is a no-brainer. The scene is cinematically festive, from ice-skating under the Rockefeller Center tree to theatrical window displays in Fifth Avenue department stores. And if you thought your neighbours tried to outdo you every year with the Christmas lights, spare a thought for the residents of Brooklyn ’s Dyker Heights. The houses here are so extravagantly bedecked, there’s an official bus tour of the most outrageous blocks. Better still, New York's best hotels serve warming nips by a crackling lobby fire: plump for The Ludlow’s Pigalle cocktail, with bourbon and ancho chile.

Sustainable travel tip: New York traffic is notorious, but thanks to the Manhattan Waterfront Greenway – a 31-mile bicycle route around the island – you can navigate the Big Apple by bike-share scheme ( Citi Bike stations are found all over town).

Where to stay: It's now possible to find a slice of serenity in midtown thanks to the newly opened Aman New York . Not only is it a great location for a quick trip, but ideal in winter too – all suites come with working fireplaces. For a classic Christmas stay, book a sort-after room at The Plaza , which enjoys beautiful views over Central Park.

Venice, Italy

Temperature in December: 7ºC high; 0ºC low Season: winter Flight time from UK: 2 hours 15 minutes Time difference: GMT +1

The Floating City could be the most beautiful place in Italy , but it’s difficult to know for sure, given its gorgeous visage is always crawling with tourists. Apart from in December, that is, when no one thinks to go. You might imagine the lagoons are best when sparkling under a summer sun, but that, friend, just shows a lack of imagination: watching an icy fog curl spookily from the water’s surface is really quite something. You might even get super-lucky and see snow. Better than that, you can walk through St Mark’s without landing a selfie stick in the eye.

Sustainable travel tip: Visiting out of season is a good start. But one of the biggest problems with over-tourism in Venice is that a lot of people tend to come just for the day, hitting up only the major, over-stuffed sights, and thus bringing little benefit to locals. Instead, spend a few nights in the city, slowly exploring its hidden corners, eating at neighbourhood restaurants and shopping in small, independent stores. It’s not just better for the city, it makes for a much better holiday, too.

Where to stay: Ca'di Dio has knockout lagoon views and chic interiors. For a lively dining scene, Il Palazzo Experimental is the place to be at aperitivo hour. See our pick of the best hotels in Venice for more.

St Barth's, Caribbean

Temperature in December: 30°C high; 24°C low Season: cool Flight time from UK: 12 hours 10 minutes Time difference: GMT-5

Simply everyone is in St Barth's in December. Partly because the island is the original discreet-A-lister's sunny paradise of choice with the world's most perfect beaches, restaurants, hotels and villas, and partly because everyone else is. The super-rich, the super-famous, the beautiful and the blessed. Fail to book your December holiday here and you've only got yourself to blame for off-the-charts FOMO as you sit looking out at the rain and scrolling through shots of simply everyone else laughing through perfect teeth on the world's most perfect beaches.

Sustainable travel tip: Hotel Manapany is powered by solar panels. This chic beachside retreat also has an onsite vegetable garden and orchard, sources its seafood from local fishermen, and even offers electric-car rentals.

Where to stay: Hôtel Barrière Le Carl Gustaf offers a chic and easy French beach house stay. Another highlight is Cheval Blanc St-Barth Isle de France , an elegant grande dame of St Barth’s sprawled along Flamands beach. See our guide to the best hotels in St Barth's for more.

Zermatt, Swiss Alps

Temperature in December: 2°C high; -6°C low Season: winter Flight time from UK: 1 hour 40 minutes Time difference: GMT+1

The sort of snowy-mountain scene that dream Christmases are made of. Horse-drawn sleighs, twinkling trees, glühwein stalls, a pretty village aglow in a lovely little valley beneath the Matterhorn. And, importantly, snow-sure slopes – 200 astoundingly pretty kilometres of them – from the start of December. All of which makes Zermatt one of Europe's best ski resort .

Sustainable travel tip: What better way to arrive at a car-free resort than by train? Plus, the last leg of the journey features a ride through the stunning valley of Mattertal on a narrow-gauge railway. Hop off the Eurostar from London in Paris (2.5 hours) and catch a high-speed TGV to Lausanne (3.5 hours). From here, at least two trains per hour whisk you to Visp in 90 minutes, and then it’s the narrow-gauge ride to Zermatt (just over an hour).

Where to stay: Zermatt's oldest hotel, the Monte Rosa , sits in a picture-perfect property with amazing views.

Above: Skiers and snowboarders on the Matterhorn.

Temperature in December: 26ºC high; 16ºC low Season: dry Flight time from UK: 6 hours 55 minutes Time difference: GMT +4

For a winter-sun tinselfest, nobody does it bigger and brighter and sparklier than Dubai. From November to January the weather cools to a more bearable 19-25ºC and the sun shines practically all the time; and in December there's the Rugby Sevens and a film festival, pre-Christmas designer sales and record-breaking Christmas trees groaning under the weight of lights and Swarovski crystals, for those who like that kind of thing. Everyone says they don't, then they go to Dubai and find that they kind of do.

Sustainable travel tip: Visit the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding, set among the wind-tower architecture of the Al Fahidi Historic District, by Dubai Creek. Here, share a traditional lunch with Emirati hosts and ask anything you’re curious to know about local culture, attitudes and Islam. The centre’s tagline: ‘Open doors. Open minds’.

Where to stay: For low-key luxe rooms and a private island setting, check in to the understated Bulgari Resort Dubai . If you're here to indulge in the beach and restaurant scene, Mandarin Oriental Dubai has both plus a high-achieving spa. For more options, see our pick of the best hotels in Dubai .

Milan, Italy

Temperature in December: 7°C high; 1°C low Season: winter Flight time from UK: 2 hours Time difference: GMT+1

You might think Italy’s fashion capital too cool to care about Christmas, but Milan is actually one of Europe’s most festive cities this time of year. Early December marks a unique Milanese tradition, the feast of the patron saint, Sant’Ambrogio, wherein an irresistibly twinkly market sets up in the grounds of red-brick fortress Castello Sforzesco. Shop for local foodie treats and handmade trinkets, then reward yourself with mulled wine and castagnaccio (a chestnut and pine-kernel cake). After a sashay around the famous fashion quarter, head to newly cool Zona Tortona: best for Milan’s up-and-coming galleries and design studios (not to mention brunch-time tuna tacos at God Save The Food).

Sustainable travel tip: Getting to Milan by train is super-easy: take the Eurostar from London to Paris (2.5 hours), followed by a high-speed TGV train to Milan (7 hours).

Where to stay: Mandarin Oriental is one of the hottest stays in the city, with a Michelin-star restaurant and a buzzing hotel bar. If you're here to embrace the grandeur, Four Seasons Milano is housed in a beautifully preserved 15th-century convent. See our guide to the best hotels in Milan for more.

Connor Sturges

Anita Bhagwandas

Charlotte Davey

Sarah James

Temperature in December: 27ºC high; 18ºC low Season: Summer Flight time from UK : 11 hours and 15 minutes Time difference: GMT+6

It’s the most peaceful and easygoing country in Central America, but Costa Rica still has bags of excitement and exoticism. Its Pacific coast draws surfers and bohemians practising yoga on its wave-crashed beaches in groovy little beach towns such as Nosara, while its gentle Caribbean shores and islands bring in backpackers and those looking for castaway escapism on its islands. In its interior: jungles, wildlife and volcanoes, with adrenaline kicks in the form of ziplining through the cloud-forest canopy, white-water rafting, hiking up volcanoes and tracking big cats in Corcovado National Park. December is prime beach weather in Costa Rica, and it’s also when humpback whales start to arrive, heading south in search of warmer waters – this is one of the best places in the world to spot them.

Sustainable travel tip: Costa Rica has a strong line in eco-lodges, from the beach to the jungle, and staying in them helps give back to local communities and conservation projects.

Where to stay: The Harmony Hotel is a Nosara institution, with its own Healing Centre (for wellness perks ranging from beach yoga classes to post-surf massages) and a lovely palm-shrouded pool.

Strasbourg, France

Temperature in December: 5ºC high; 0ºC low Season: Winter Journey time from UK: around five hours by train via Paris Time difference: GMT +1

We have Strasbourg to thank for the Christmas market . It was here that the first-ever Market of the Infant Christ took place in the 16th century. The capital of hearty-eating, wine-drinking, once-German Alsace also claims to be The Capital of Christmas. In its medieval Grande Ile – the whole historic city, with its preposterously pretty half-timbered houses, designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site – rosy-cheeked Alsatians glide around an ice rink, besides market stalls selling toys and trinkets, mulled wine and hot sausage. The tradition endures, though the gifts have been updated – it seems unlikely that they sold scented candles then, though those pretty houses would have benefitted from them after so many helpings of choucroute (French sauerkraut and the Strasbourg speciality, of fermented cabbage and sausage).

If you’re not making the journey just for the Christmas market – and many do – December is a good time to come for the food, in the city and beyond. Alsatian food and wine – full-bodied reds, piles of potatoes, pork in many forms, all very Germanic – is fortifying against the cold, and December is the region’s snowiest month.

Sustainable travel tip: Take the train from London instead of flying – and pack your reusable mug for takeaway gluhweins and chocolat chauds at the market, to limit throwaway cup usage.

Where to stay: In a set of half-timbered buildings, galleried around a cobbled courtyard, the Cour du Corbeau is as old and charming as the Christmas market. Top-floor suites look out across the medieval rooftops.

Sao Paulo, Brazil

Temperature in December: 27ºC high; 18ºC low Season: Spring Flight time from UK : 11 hours 45 minutes Time difference: GMT -4

While showgirl Rio steals the limelight and the tourists, style capital Sao Paulo has a more savvy, insider feel. Its dynamic inhabitants are making waves in art and architecture, food and fashion – this is the place to shop for swimwear and homeware, then eat at Brazil’s most innovative restaurants. December brings warm, dry spring days, with temperatures on the rise, and there’s a real buzz about the city with lots going on (including São Paulo Art Biennial every other year) before residents decamp en masse to Trancoso or Buzios for the holiday beach parties.

Sustainable travel tip: Cool Pinheiros harbours the small and homegrown. Insecta is one of them – a sustainably-driven shoe shop selling vegan footwear locally made out of old clothes and soled with recycled rubber, and bags made from plastic bottles.

Where to stay: Sitting in 26 green acres of forested parkland in the elegant Morumbi neighbourhood, Pálacio Tangará is the city’s grandest dame. It opened in 2017, joining Hotel du Cap, Eden Rock and Le Bristol Paris as part of the Oetker Collection.

Temperature in December :24ºC high; 19ºC low Season: Winter Journey time from UK: 10 hours Time difference: GMT -5

It may be winter, but December is Miami ’s driest month, with daytime temperatures a beach-ready 24ºC. December is also party time – and this is a city that knows how to party. And it’s not just festive fiestas, but also Art Basel Miami Beach, which means parties, launches, shows and happenings all over the place – art has never been sexier – swiftly followed by Art Gaysel, the world’s Queerest Art Fair. Even those who don’t give a fig for art can get involved in the buzz of Miami Design District. Don’t miss murals and music at Basel House .

Sustainable travel tip: Asian restaurant Kyu , which serves up zingy, elegantly plated dishes in Wynwood, supports local partnerships as well as donating trees to African countries to offset the wood they burn to grill their cauliflower, octopus and wagyu beef.

Where to stay: In the last few years a bunch of all-star design hotels have opened in Miami Beach, but Faena endures as one of the funkiest and best.

Canouan, The Grenadines

Temperature in December: 28ºC high; 21ºC low Season: dry Flight time from UK: 12 hours 50 minutes Time difference: GMT -4

It’s the month to see and be seen in the Caribbean . But if you’d rather run away and hide, Canouan makes a fine place to fly under the radar. While everyone else swans around St Barth’s, you can feel smug about Canouan’s tag: ‘The place where billionaires go to get away from millionaires’. Though, thankfully, you don’t need to make ten figures to stay at this tiny island’s Mandarin Oriental , the first in the region, where an Oceanview Suite will set you back a cool four figures instead.

Sustainable travel tip: Canouan is one of only a small number of islands from which you can access Tobago Cays. The Cays are a protected archipelago of small, uninhabited islands and pristine coral reefs. They’re the major government-owned attraction in St Vincent and the Grenadines, so many local vendors and guides depend on them.

Bogota, Colombia

Temperature in December: 20ºC high; 5ºC low Season: dry Flight time from UK: 11h 10min Time difference: GMT -5

Cartagena hogs all the column inches with its Caribbean-side colonial charms, but for a contemporary sense of Colombia and its creative energies, capital Bogota is the country’s vital – and seriously overlooked – heart. The city’s reputation for rain abates in December, the beginning of the dry season, when the usually chilly climate clings pleasantly to the 20ºCs. Understandably, most make a beeline for La Candelaria, an irresistible mash-up of colonial buildings, cobbles, on-point restaurants and street art, but quietly cool Chapinero Alto is also making a name for itself: think cocktails and vinyl nights at Rin Rin, or a mansion turned multi-level boutique shopping mall, Trama Casa de Creadores. The best views? At the top of 10,000ft Cerro de Monserrate, easily reached by cable car. In December, the peak is decorated with Christmas lights, a fabulous follow-up to sunset.

Sustainable travel tip: An hour or two’s drive outside of Bogota, Chingaza National Natural Park protects residents including the rare spectacled bear, jaguars, toucans and Andean condors. The best way to see it is to book a day hike with a local guide.

Where to stay: The hushed Four Seasons Hotel Casa Medina Bogota feels like a stately home. A sympathetic renovation has enshrined the historical vibe while kicking in smart contemporary elements.

Uganda, Africa

Temperature in December: 28°C high; 16°C low Season: dry Flight time from UK: 10 hours 20 minutes Time difference: GMT+2

It’s a busy month for tourism to Uganda for good reason: landscapes are lush, but the weather is dry, making the conditions ideal for gorilla tracking. December is also a fine time for boat safaris in search of the Big Five, as animals are drawn from dry land to water sources. Still, as it is a more under-the-radar East African destination, ‘busy’ here is a relative term. Our top tip? Pair wildlife adventures with a trek into the urban jungle. The capital city Kampala is surprisingly charming, between boozy nights at the Sheraton’s well-loved Equator Bar, two-hour-roasted crocodile tail at barbecue restaurant The Lawns, and contemporary shows at Afriart Gallery.

Sustainable travel tip: Check out the Batwa Experience , which offers rainforest hikes with guides from the Batwa tribe, during which you can learn about their history and culture. The Batwa people were evicted from their homeland, Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, to create the national park that protects the area’s endangered gorillas; these tours are the only chance they have to revisit their home territory.

Where to stay: At Gorilla Forest Camp , the most established lodge in the region and the only place to stay in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. And thanks to an ongoing process of habituation and protection, it is possible to track one of four gorilla families living in the area from here.

Yellowstone, USA

Temperature in December: -4°C high; -15°C low Season: winter Flight time from UK: 11 hours Time difference: GMT-7

The world’s first national park is packed pretty much every season outside of winter – but the crowds on those geyser-skimming boardwalks are missing a trick. December is an excellent time for wildlife-spotting, as everything from brown bears to bison pad through thick powder to hot springs for warmth. Snowcoach tours take you to all the main draws – Old Faithful, Grand Canyon of Yellowstone – and you can even ski or snowshoe to sights that you’ll likely have to yourself. Even better, the contrast between the serene snow scene and Yellowstone’s violent volcanic landscape (bubbling mud-pots, steaming rivers) is something you’ll never forget.

Sustainable travel tip: Consider staying in one of the national park’s winter lodges . They’ve done a lot of work on sustainability, including comprehensive recycling, composting, and energy and water conservation; farm-to-fork food; and fuel-efficient tour vehicles.

Fiji, South Pacific 

Temperature in December: 31°C high; 22°C low Season: wet Flight time from UK: 24 hours Time difference: GMT+11

There’s nowhere like Fiji to make UK -in-December gloom seem like a distant memory. Tuck your toes into its dazzling-white sands and you’re officially on Fiji time. When friendly, frangipani-decorated locals say ‘no hurries, no worries’, it’s less a catchphrase, more a way of life. December falls early in the rainy season, meaning occasional, short bursts of afternoon showers relieve the midday heat. Following 2016’s devastating Cyclone Winston, more eco-friendly, culturally aware hotels are popping up to challenge the decadent, mega-honeymoon properties: a Six Senses – set where Tom Hanks filmed Cast Away – runs on Tesla batteries and cooks using organic, locally foraged finds.

Sustainable travel tip: Getting off the beach and out of the hotel is the best way to interact with and contribute to local communities. It’s possible to take multi-day hiking trips into Fiji’s jungles and mountains, which include sleeping in homestays, visiting tribal villages and learning about authentic island life from a local guide. Check out Responsible Travel for more.

Where to stay: Nowhere is the welcoming song as heartfelt as at Likuliku Lagoon Resort . The 10 overwater bungalows here are the only ones in Fiji.

Kyoto, Japan

Temperature in December: 11°C high; 2°C low Season: winter Flight time from UK: 14 hours Time difference: GMT+8

Japan ’s favourite holiday is New Year (or Oshogatsu). And where better to join in the festivities than its former imperial capital and keeper of ancient traditions? The whole month of December sees Kyoto filled with markets and festivals: Kobo-san and Tenjin-san fleas are big favourites, held around the temples of the same name, and packed with Japanese antiques, kimonos and food carts. Held in early December, Arashiyama Hanatouro is a magical lantern festival that illuminates the famous Arashiyama bamboo forest. Don’t miss the nightly temple illuminations, either: if you get lucky, it might even snow.

Sustainable travel tip: Kyoto is one of the best bicycling cities in Asia, and many of the major temples and museums offer bicycle parking. Note, though, that it’s illegal to park a bike anywhere other than a designated area.

Where to stay: Aman Kyoto is a secret woodland treasure, with hilly woodland, sculptural paving stones, a tranquil onsen and giant wooden bathtubs.

Madagascar, Indian Ocean

Temperature in December: 30°C high; 24°C low Season: wet Flight time from UK: 12 hours Time difference: GMT+2

Desperate to feel a world away from dark, damp December streets? Madagascar will do the trick. The primordial island is, of course, best known for lemurs, wildly coloured chameleons and implausible creatures such as the giraffe weevil (go on, Google it). But there’s more to Madagascar’s otherworldliness than rich rainforests. Don’t miss the southern deserts’ spiny woodlands, or the near-impenetrable limestone karst warren of Tsingy de Bemaraha Strict Nature Reserve. Early December is a good, off-season time to visit, before heavier rains move in later in the month. Private island Miavana , on the east coast’s Nosy Ankao, has an audacious collection of mid-century-modern, stone-cut villas, and might just be the smartest castaway escape in the world.

Sustainable travel tip: More than 70 per cent of people in Madagascar live below the poverty line, so supporting initiatives that benefit local communities here is vital. Check out initiatives such as Anja Community Reserve, a protected forest home to ring-tailed lemurs, which is managed by the people of Anja village.

Where to stay: At sensationally beautiful private-island hotel Miavana .

Krakow, Poland

Temperature in December: 3°C high; -4°C low Season: winter Flight time from UK: 2 hours 30 minutes Time difference: GMT+1

Krakow in December looks like a Christmas card. The Old Town’s medieval main square, Rynek Główny, is all cobblestones, horse-and-carriage rides, and Christmas markets dishing up dumplings and pork knuckles. Load up on artisan baubles from the stalls, then duck into one of the district’s snug cellar bars for a restorative nip of flavoured vodka (the ubiquitous cherry is fantastic). Unlike many stag-do-spoiled parts of Eastern Europe, Poland ’s second city also packs a sophisticated nightlife buzz. Tytano, an old tobacco factory, is now a complex of cool bars and restaurants (go for craft cocktails at Lastriko), while the Jewish quarter, Kazimierz, has seen its decrepit tenement buildings given new life by numerous shabby-chic bars.

Sustainable travel tip: Add an extra day to your itinerary and travel to Krakow via a scenic train journey. First, take the Eurostar from London to Brussels (about two hours), followed by a high-speed ICE3 to Cologne (2 hours) then a high-speed ICE2 to Berlin (about four hours). Next morning, catch a EuroCity train to Warsaw (about six hours), then an InterCity to Krakow (2.5 hours).

Where to stay: Bedding down in the sleek and stylish Puro Hotel places you in the heart of the Old Town.

Tasmania, Australia

Temperature in December: 23°C high; 11°C low Season: summer Flight time from UK: 30 hours Time difference: GMT+9

‘Tassie’ has officially made the leap from bogan to buzzing. And it’s all because of eccentric, multi-millionaire David Walsh, whose irreverent Museum of Old and New Art made headlines when it opened in 2011, due to its risqué pieces, including a plaster wall of vulvas. Now, it’s widely regarded as Australia’s best museum. With that, an edgy crowd are taking over the island and the capital, Hobart, has been transformed. Designer digs such as the sandstone Henry Jones Art Hotel are de rigueur. Revered restaurants including Franklin serve Tasmanian produce: wood-roasted octopus, raw wallaby. The island’s sparkling wine has been raking in global acclaim over the past few years, too. Drink it all at the annual Taste of Tasmania festival, which kicks off in late December, taking rich pickings from the abundant Australian summer.

Sustainable travel tip: One of the best things about Tassie is its untamed wilderness, conserved by both the Parks and Wildlife Service and its Aboriginal peoples. Don’t underestimate the Aussie bush, though: it’s best explored with local operators. The likes of Tasmanian Expeditions take care to use locally owned accommodation, local food producers and local activity suppliers, as well as protecting places of natural, historic and Aboriginal value.

Where to stay: Pumphouse Point , a decommissioned hydro-electric power station on Lake St Clair, has 180-degree views of the lake.

Berlin, Germany

Temperature in December: 4°C high; 0°C low Season: winter Flight time from UK: 2 hours Time difference: GMT+1

There is no bad time to visit Berlin . We love the city in summer, mooching around its kooky-krazy hangouts of creative weirdness – but what a place to party in December! More kookiness in its clubs and bars and the underground haunts of its cool-as-you-like neighbourhoods; and Berlin is one of the best places to spend New Year's Eve in the world, when they throw a city-wide street party with gigs and celebrations all along the Party Mile.

Sustainable travel tip: Trust cutting-edge Berlin to have a thriving sustainable food scene. At vegan FREA, dishes are made using produce from local organic farmers, and the restaurant’s food waste is then composted and returned to those suppliers for use on their crops. For a smart ethical supper, try a 10-course tasting menu of Berlin-grown fare at Nobelhart & Schmutzig in Kreuzberg.

Where to stay: Restored Art Nouveau gem Hotel Am Steinplatz has Moorish arched windows, ornate stucco work and marble flooring.

Temperature in December: 33°C high; 22°C low Season: cool Flight time from UK: 12 hours Time difference: GMT+4:30

Goa is love-it crazy in December. Every palm tree strung with tinsel and fairy lights, every beach bar rocking with the most beautiful happy-go-lucky just-found-themselves travellers dancing like loons, night and day. The weather is just perfect, and the parties reach fever pitch. Christmas is cause for great celebration throughout India – no more so than in Goa, garlanded and lit up with fireworks, Christmas trees and Santa hats incongruous in the heat and dust. This all rolls into New Year's Eve celebrations, with parties and raves on the beaches and bars (Goa is India's most liberal state). It gets busy, so book ahead. Avoid staying too long in Anjuna, unless you're a hardcore raver – dance til the sun comes up, then head to a quieter spot (we love Arambol, Mandrem, Palolem, all utterly dreamy) for a different kind of sunrise.

Sustainable travel tip: There’s a decent crop of hippie hangouts here serving all-organic vegetarian meals and extolling the virtues of harmony with nature. Yogamagic Eco Retreat , just inland from Anjuna, has both glamping tents and main-house rooms built from reclaimed materials (old haveli doors, furniture made from recycled teak wood or railway sleepers), the showers are solar-heated, and vegetarian and vegan meals are homegrown and locally sourced.

Where to stay: Ahilya by the Sea overlooks a bay of fishing boats in Nerul, and has an airy, beach-house vibe.

Cambodia and Laos

Temperature in December: Around 30°C high; 20°C low Season: dry Flight time from UK: Around 15 hours Time difference: GMT+6

South-East Asia is wonderful in December, the climate just right - which does mean that yes, everyone else wants to visit then, too. But why come when it is wet and unbearably hot? Come in December, and embrace the holiday season, when places to eat and drink are buzzing, when Laos 's beautiful colonial towns (we adore Luang Prabang ) have a happy bustle to them, when Siem Reap is at its liveliest. Cambodia and Laos are big and largely empty countries, where it is always possible to find some space to yourself, even at Angkor Wat (go for sunrise, wherever possible). Yes, it might take a bit more planning and booking ahead, but there if you want to be spontaneous there is always a room in a charming teak house to be found, where birds sing in the banana trees beside the verandah.

Sustainable travel tip : Cambodia’s social-enterprise restaurants are a great way to support local communities in a long-term way, as they offer free hospitality training to young, underprivileged people, helping them forge sustainable careers. In Siem Reap, Sala Baï is a riverside restaurant created by French NGO APLC; capital Phnom Penh has Romdeng, set in a gorgeous colonial building and run by local NGO Mith Samlanh.

Where to stay: Set on a private island, Six Senses Krabey Island has 40 villas and a vast spa.

Surely nowhere is prettier in the snow than Prague . Those perfectly preserved ancient streets, like a fairytale (with a real castle!); those cinnamon-scented Christmas markets where mulled wine makes us buy weird presents and too many Christmas decorations. Pretty, yes, but Prague is also cold as hell in December, which only serves to make its richly-patterned restaurants all the cosier and justify its just-as-rich and fortifying cuisine. Sit in its Art Nouveau gilded interiors, or its underground bars, and warm yourself with roast game and booze.

Sustainable travel tip: Arriving in Prague by train entails a few quick transfers and a bonus night in Brussels. Take the Eurostar from London to the Belgian capital (two hours), stay the night, then catch a morning ICE train to Frankfurt (about three hours). Here, change onto a regional train to Cheb in the Czech Republic (4.5 hours), and then it’s a Czech express train to Prague (about three hours). You’ll arrive in time for a hearty supper and a beer.

Where to stay: The Augustine Hotel is set in a medieval astrological tower, with 360-degree views, and a suite that is at eye-level with Prague Castle.

Temperature in December: 28°C high; 16°C low Season: summer Flight time from UK: 16 hours 20 minutes Time difference: GMT-4

The South American beach break with a difference. Most of Uruguay 's neverending white-sand beaches are practically empty even in high season. That high season lasts just a few weeks, in December, and if you like things lively ( Ibiza , Mykonos , Trancoso style), that's when you want to come. You can still find a beach pretty much to yourself, around hippy little José Ignacio , La Barra and Punta del Este . But December is when the wooden-shack restaurants and beach bars and artsy little hotels open their shutters for the Buenos Aires party crowd who hop across the River Plate for Christmas and New Year fun.

Sustainable travel tip: Local studio MAPA Architects designed eco-boutique Sacromonte , a complex of cabins made from regionally sourced wood and stone, tucked into 250 acres of mountain landscape less than an hour from coastal town José Ignacio. It has a vineyard, two organic gardens and onsite wastewater bio-digesters, and offers guided hiking and horseback rides through the surrounding sierras.

Where to stay: Casa Anna , from Argentine chef Francis Mallman, transformed the tiny hamlet of Garzon.

The Arctic Circle

Temperature in December: -3°C high; -9°Clow Season: winter Flight time from UK: 6 hours Time difference : GMT+2

What better time to visit the North Pole than December, for Christmas? When a sleigh ride through Lapland, pulled by reindeer or huskies, is surely most unforgettable, when the glittering frozen Narnia landscapes of the Arctic Circle are most magical. And when the lightshow in the skies, the Northern Lights, playing all the colours of the spectrum over Iceland , Finland , Norway and Sweden , is at its brightest and best.

Sustainable travel tip: Experiences with the indigenous Sami people of Lapland are becoming ever-more popular, but be sure that the operator is providing a genuine connection with their culture (rather than a ‘show’). Done right, this kind of tourism helps boost a local economy that can only rely on a lucrative revenue stream – tourism – a few months of the year. Magnetic North Travel , for example, organises time with genuine reindeer herders and their families, so you get a real sense of their way of life.

Where to stay: In Swedish Lapland, check out Treehotel , where rooms are not on the ground but above it, in the trees.

Above: Icebergs floating in the Illulisat Icefjord, one of the northernmost UNESCO World Heritage sites.

Temperature in December: 29°C high; 20°C low Season: summer Flight time from UK: 11 hours 50 minutes Time difference: GMT+3

About 1,200 miles off the coast of Madagascar, on the east coast of Africa, Mauritius is an island nation that punches well above its weight. Often spoken about in the same breath as the Maldives, Mauritius dances to the rhythm of its own drum. The natural landscape here is some of the most beautiful in the world, with lush trails and astonishing birdlife and untouched beaches. December is summer in Mauritius, and one of the best times to visit for your own castaway adventure.

Where to stay: At the island’s most lauded hotel, LUX* Grand Baie , or old timer One&Only Le Saint Géran . See our round up of the best hotels in Mauritius for more ideas.

Temperature in December: 29°C high; 23°C low Season: summer Flight time from UK: 8 hours 30 minutes Time difference: GMT -5

Pristine beaches, staggering piton peaks, glimmering waterfalls, swooping wildlife and lush rainforests – the Caribbean island of St Lucia is one of the loveliest. Dry season is from December to April, and the weather is breezier and less humid as the year draws to its close. December also sees a handful of festivals take over the island; such as the feast day of St Lucy of Syracuse, a festival of lights.

Where to stay: At palm-fringed Sugar Beach in your choice of beachfront bungalows or hillside villas. See our edit of the best hotels in St Lucia for more inspiration.

Temperature in December: 31°C high; 24°C low Season: dry Flight time from UK: 10 hours 35 minutes Time difference: GMT +4.5

The teardrop island has it all: gorgeous beaches, astonishing ancient ruins, lush hill country and sprawling national parks where you can embark on a safari to see elephants and leopards, oh my. This is a destination for foodies, too – as this restaurant critic's search for the best food in Sri Lanka shows. Cosmopolitan capital Colombo is buzzing, while Yala National Park is the place-to-be for animal lovers. And in December, you can expect hours of sunshine and dry days for exploring.

Where to stay: Among the best Sri Lanka hotels are chic safari lodge Wild Coast Tented Lodge and 300-year-old grand dame Amangalla .

14 Best Places to Visit in December

Written by Joni Sweet and Meagan Drillinger Updated Apr 25, 2022 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

After summer, December is one of the busiest times of year to travel. People are flying home or to exotic locales for the holidays. Others are getting a jumpstart on ski season. And wanderlusting workaholics are making the most of their time off work to squeeze in one last trip before the end of the year.

But despite the crowds, December is a magnificent time to take a vacation. Christmas markets abound in Europe, especially in Nuremberg and Strasbourg . St. Lucia proves to be the perfect tropical getaway for snow birds up north. December brings some of the best weather of the year to Patagonia. And there's nowhere like New York City for the holidays.

For more ideas on winter travel, check out our list of the best places to visit in December.

1. Nuremberg, Germany

2. bangkok, thailand, 3. new york city, 4. strasbourg, france, 5. hokkaido, japan, 6. st. lucia, 7. london, england, 8. banff, alberta, 9. jackson hole, wyoming, 10. maldives, 11. patagonia, chile, 12. cape town, south africa, 13. costa rica, 14. jukkasjärvi, sweden, 15. big island, hawaii, 17. dubai, united arab emirates, map of places to visit in december.

The Christmas markets of Europe are one of the biggest attractions in the world in December, and no other city decks the halls quite like Nuremberg. The small Bavarian city is home to one of Germany's oldest Christmas markets, which has been an annual event at the Hauptmarkt since at least the 1500s.

If you can swing it, try to arrive in Germany in late November, so you can see the highly anticipated Nuremberg Christkind (a gift-giving sprite from German Christmas fables) deliver a prologue in the Main Market Square to mark the opening of the market on the Friday before the first Sunday of Advent.

But even if you miss that event, you'll still be able to enjoy all the charm of the Nuremberg Christmas market during the month of December. Chow down on the city's signature bratwurst and gingerbread, shop for traditional wooden toys and knit hats, and collect a few ornaments for your Christmas tree. There's also a delightful carousel for little ones (and the young at heart).

• Read More: Top-Rated Christmas Markets in Germany

December is the best time of year to visit Bangkok. The monsoon downpours taper off in November, bringing about relatively cool, dry weather to the Thai capital the following month. Expect evening temperatures in the low 20s Celsius, with the mercury hitting 32 degrees Celsius at its highest point during the day.

Take advantage of the pleasant sightseeing weather to explore some of Bangkok's top things to do . The Grand Palace is a must-visit. The nearly 250-year-old palace served as the home for many Thai kings and their royal courts, and features astoundingly ornate architecture. It also houses the sacred Emerald Buddha.

Head just south of the royal compound to see Wat Pho, the oldest temple in Bangkok, where you can marvel at the famous 45-meter-long reclining Buddha statue.

After seeing the attractions, soak up the atmosphere of this bustling city. The backpacker district of Khao San Road is a swirl of color and action, with blaring music, street vendors hawking souvenirs, and guesthouses galore. You can also find the best street food in Bangkok in this area. Don't miss the mango sticky rice.

• Read More: Best Temples in Bangkok

There's no other place like New York City in December. The glass-and-concrete metropolis takes on a winter wonderland feel when the trees are draped in twinkle lights and there's a dusting of snow on the sidewalk.

One of the quintessential things to do in New York City this time of year is visit Rockefeller Center . It's home to the Big Apple's iconic Christmas tree and a seasonal ice-skating rink that's been an annual tradition since 1936. At nearby Radio City Music Hall , you can watch more than 140 members of the world-famous Rockettes perform their high kicks in unison during the Christmas Spectacular holiday stage show.

Shopping in New York hits its peak in December, as well. Stroll down Fifth Avenue to see the festive holiday window displays in storefronts, and visit department stores like Bloomingdale's and Macy's to pick up gifts for all your loved ones.

Just over the border from Germany in France, tourists can find another one of the best places to visit in December: Strasbourg. Like its neighbors in the Black Forest , this historic city also throws a renowned Christmas market that swirls with both French and German traditions.

The destination's half-timbered buildings along pristine waterways serve as a fairy-tale-like backdrop for the annual Christkindelsmärik , one of the oldest markets in the city. Shopping from international vendors and sipping on a warm drink while snowflakes dance down on the twinkling market is an experience you'll never forget.

Continue your yuletide sightseeing at Place Kléber , where you'll find the Great Christmas Tree. The massive arbor towers at least 30 meters over the city and features some seven kilometers of twinkling lights, 240 illuminated cherubs and 400 baubles. It's sure to get you into the holiday spirit.

• Read More: Best Attractions & Places to Visit in Strasbourg

If you're looking to visit legendary ski slopes in December, head to Hokkaido. The northernmost island in Japan, Hokkaido has become one of the world's ultimate places for snow. And this isn't just any snow - it's a special kind of dry, fluffy snow called "Ja-pow" that's earned a cult-following among powder hounds. Ski season kicks off in mid-December, potentially earlier if the weather is right.

You've got plenty of ski resorts on Hokkaido to choose from for your December ski vacation. Ever-popular Niseko gets over 1,500 centimeters of snow every year. Sahoro caters well to international guests and has great tree skiing. Those looking to go off-the-beaten-path might consider Tomamu , which exudes kitschy Japanese culture.

One of the most attractive islands in the world, St. Lucia is an incredible escape from the cold climates up north in December. Simply relaxing at one of the destination's resorts, like Windjammer Resort & Beach Club , will prove to be a memorable way to wind down before the New Year. Spend your days lounging on the beach, taking part in water sports, and going on excursions before settling in and watching the rainbow-streaked sunsets.

St. Lucia also has plenty of things to do for more active travelers looking for some action on their December getaway. Experienced hikers could embark on a challenging trek of the soaring Pitons (although most tourists will simply want to admire their beauty from afar). You could also dive along the Anse Chastanet coral reef, check out views of Martinique and St. Vincent on the Tet Paul Nature Trail, and go sightseeing in the chilled-out fishing village of Soufrière .

No matter how tight your schedule is, make sure you reserve an hour to take a mud bath at Sulphur Springs. Your skin will thank you.

London sparkles in December – literally. The entire city, especially Oxford Street, Regent Street, and Covent Garden , is decked out in twinkle lights and decorations for the holidays, giving it a romantic, almost magical feel. But it's the packed events calendar that makes London one of the best places to visit in December.

On the first Thursday of December, tourists can watch the Trafalgar Square Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony . Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park is a favorite experience among locals and tourists alike for its observation wheel, amusement park rides, ice-skating, and gift market.

Stroll a mile-long trail that's illuminated by more than a million lights for Christmas at Kew at the Royal Botanical Gardens. And of course, the city hosts its famous New Year's Eve Fireworks on Dec. 31 at the London Eye. Book tickets well in advance to make sure you get a great view.

• Read More: Top Attractions & Places to Visit in London

Even if you dread winter now, you'll learn to love it after a trip to Banff in December. This glorious mountain town offers wondrous ice-skating on Lake Louise and some of the best skiing and snowboarding in Canada , along with a lively après ski scene .

But winter activities in Banff don't stop there. Tourists can also go mushing with a rambunctious team of huskies in the Rockies and trek from hut to hut across the Wapta Icefields.

If all that time zooming down and hiking through the mountains has you feeling sore, you can restore your aching joints and muscles in the famous Banff Hot Springs. Cap off your trip with a stay at the historic Banff Springs Hotel .

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions & Things to Do in Banff National Park

Equal parts luxe and rugged, Jackson Hole is the place for snow bunnies in the winter. Ski season starts in mid-December, giving tourists the chance to tackle some of the most celebrated ski trails in North America. However, it's not all black diamond runs – Jackson Hole Mountain Resort also has a newly refreshed beginner's hub, where world-class instructors offer engaging lessons to first-timers.

No matter your skill level, you'll be able to appreciate the stunning views of the entire Teton Range and Yellowstone National Park on clear days – along with a soak in your hotel's outdoor hot tub.

Accommodation: Top-Rated Places to Stay in Jackson Hole

• Read More: Best Attractions & Places to Visit in Jackson Hole, WY

The Maldives are among the most beautiful islands in the world , especially in December, when there's ample sunshine, warm temperatures, and little rain. This honeymooner's paradise is known for its high-end resorts and hotels. If you've ever dreamed of staying in an underwater suite or a private overwater bungalow with a plunge pool, you can make it happen (for a price!) at one of the Maldives' 26 natural atolls.

One of the top things to do in the Maldives is go diving and snorkeling . The aquamarine waters surrounding these islands are filled with a vibrant array of sea life and reefs. The dry December weather will give you excellent visibility on your underwater excursion.

If your ideal December vacation has you reconnecting with nature in one of the most incredible landscapes on Earth, head to Chilean Patagonia. This untouched natural expanse will impress even the most experienced adventurers. Picture windswept steppes, azure glaciers, twinkling emerald lakes, and Andean peaks that kiss the sky.

December falls right in the middle of the South American summer, and the weather is perfect for exploring places like Tierra del Fuego, Cape Horn, Perito Moreno, and Torres del Paine National Park. Make reservations with outfitters and guides well in advance, as this is high season.

• Read More: Top-Rated Hiking Trails in Patagonia

Tourists from all around the world flock to Cape Town in December, and for good reason: the Southern Hemisphere's summertime brings perfect sightseeing weather to the city - not too hot, not too cold, and virtually no rain whatsoever. You'll want to make your arrangements well in advance if you want to go to South Africa during high season, though.

While in the destination, take the aerial cableway to the top of Table Mountain for the most epic views of Cape Town and the sea. You can also head to Boulders Beach to see the resident penguins, get up close to around 7,000 indigenous plant species at the Kirstenbosch National Botanical Gardens , and snap selfies in front of the candy-colored houses of Bo-Kaap.

• Read More: Top Attractions & Places to Visit in Cape Town

Want to experience Costa Rica at its very best? Plan to touch down in the Central American country in mid-December, just after the wet season has ended. The landscape will be lush, and waterfalls will still surge from the downpours of the previous months, but you'll have little chance of rain and ideal temperatures for exploring the diverse terrain.

You have a few options for vacation varieties in Costa Rica. Beach aficionados can enjoy palm-fringed stretches of golden sand on the Nicoya Peninsula. Hikers should stay near the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve for easy access to nature. And wildlife lovers will feel right at home among the birds at the Caño Negro Wildlife Refuge or the howler monkeys at Corcovado National Park . For a combination of wildlife and beaches, head to Manuel Antonio National Park .

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Costa Rica

You won't find much sunshine in Jukkasjärvi, Sweden, this time of year - and that's part of its appeal. The village, which is located 200 kilometers north of the Arctic Circle , is an amazing place to see the aurora borealis .

It's also home to the original Ice Hotel , where you can spend the night in a room made entirely of ice. Don't leave without checking out the Jukkasjärvi Kyrka - the wooden church is one of the oldest in the area, and a celebrated landmark of the town.

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Sweden

December seems like the perfect time to hit any island in the Hawaiian archipelago, but the Big Island is particularly unique. Often glossed over in favor of other islands like Maui, Kauai, and Oahu, the Big Island is just as deliciously warm and tropical, but with far fewer crowds.

Here, you'll find those mysterious black-sand beaches, lofty peaks, thick rainforests, and apocalyptic lava deserts. You'll certainly be feeling the adventurous, prehistoric vibe on this volcanic island. In fact, the island is home to the still active Kilauea volcano. You're coming to the Big Island if you've got a sense of adventure, a taste for striking natural beauty, and are fine with skipping the mega beachfront resorts.

Hiking, exploring, and lounging on beaches surrounded by vast, thick jungles are what you're going to find on this unique island getaway.

Read More: Top Tourist Attractions on the Big Island of Hawaii

The idyllic, far-away South Pacific is actually much closer to home than you may think. To get to the tropical paradise of Fiji is only about a 10-hour flight from the west coast of North America. The archipelago nation has more than 300 islands in its chain, each one more mind-blowingly beautiful than the last.

December is the very beginning of the rainy season in Fiji, meaning you'll trade the high season prices for more reasonable ones, with the caveat that you may see short bursts of showers in the afternoon. It's a small price to pay for seeing stunning beachscapes from the deck of your overwater bungalow.

The mountains of Fiji's islands beckon hikers to take to the trails. The jungle-webbed mountainsides are peppered with small villages, which make for fantastic places to learn about local life. Fiji's islands are also home to some of the best resorts in the world , so staying in style is never an issue in this part of the world.

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Fiji

Dubai is big and bright no matter what time of year you visit. But Dubai certainly does it up right during the winter months. From November to January, the temperature in Dubai is almost mild, ranging anywhere between 19 and 26 degrees Celsius. It's also a season of festivals, from film festivals to the Rugby Sevens, and the blinding glitter of thousands of Swarovski crystals during the holiday season.

Dubai is all about the superlatives. It is known for its biggest and best everything, and the winter season, December in particular, is a wow-worthy time to visit this UAE gem. Sunbathe along the Persian Gulf shoreline, delight in its culinary jewels, and make time for the mind-blowing attractions that top charts around the world. You can even partake in ski season with a visit to the indoor slope at Ski Dubai.

Still, despite its modern marvels, Dubai holds on to its roots as an old-world port town, complete with traditional wooden boats, traditional gold and spice souks, and traditional kitchens serving up centuries-old recipes. Find that mesmerizing juxtaposition of ancient world and fast-paced future when you make a visit to Dubai.

Read More: Best Attractions & Places to Visit in Dubai

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Where to travel in December

Whether you go for an all-out winter wonderland experience or head off in search of seasonal sun, there are plenty of incredible adventures to entice you to explore.

As nights linger and the cold closes in on the Northern Hemisphere, the itchy footed can either escape south to sun-lathered landscapes or wrap up warm for winter fun. Frosty Christmas festivities spread their cheer across Europe in December, from German-style markets pouring steamy mugs of mulled wine to carol singers on cathedral steps.

The month is also ideal for polar play with the midnight sun illuminating days for wildlife spotting in Antarctica, while the Northern Lights dance across clear skies around the Arctic Circle and fresh powder heralds the opening of the slopes in ski resorts across North America and Europe.

December goes out with a bang as countries across the globe celebrate New Year’s Eve. Choose from a sky of fireworks in Sydney, beach fun in Rio de Janeiro, the multiday Hogmanay festivities across Scotland, the ball drop in Times Square, New York, or Miami for bottle-popping parties.

1. Edinburgh, Scotland

The Scottish capital is riotously cheerful in the run-up to Christmas and New Year’s Eve. Days may be darker, but Edinburgh is alight with a sprinkling of fairy lights and a series of eye-widening displays throughout its honeyed streets. Crowning an extinct volcano in the city centre, Edinburgh Castle rings in the season with Castle of Light, an after-dark trail of stunning projections on its stone walls. Meanwhile, at the Royal Botanic Garden, you’ll find illuminated canopies, a laser garden, a one-mile path shimmering with more than a million ethereal lights — and plenty more themed spectacles. The German-style Christmas Market in East Princes Street Gardens is lined with stalls selling mulled Irn Bru and festive kitsch, plus free-wheeling rides in Santa Land. Come for Christmas, but stay for New Year’s Eve. Hogmanay’s three days of revelry include a torchlight procession, street parties with performances, a firework display over the castle and a frigid dip in the Firth of Forth.

Sustainable travel tip: Scotland birthed the Green Tourism awards , which grants classification to hotels, attractions, tour operators and restaurants that champion sustainable practices.

Cuba’s patchwork pastel hues and palm-fringed streets are the stuff of dreams in dark December. The month marks the beginning of the dry season, meaning reliably warm days and scant rain, ideal for sun-soaked south coast beaches; hiking the hills across western Viñales and Pinares de Mayarí; watching seasonal birds in spots like Parque Nacional Ciénga de Zapata as they head to Cuba’s wetlands and forests; and sightseeing in musical Havana or Trinidad, where the Spanish colonial architecture is pristinely preserved.

Cuba also celebrates with a slew of festivals in December. The Havana Film Festival showcases pictures from Spanish-language filmmakers, while the art-laden Havana Biennial often runs this month. Things get a little wilder at Las Parrandas firework competition in Remedios (and smaller villages across Villa Clara), which also features parade float processions and street parties with rumba percussion ensembles. Snag a ticket to the New Year’s Eve al fresco cabaret show and dinner at Cathedral Plaza in atmospheric Old Havana for a classy celebration.

Sustainable travel tip:   Contribute to the local economy by staying at casas particulares, eating at informal paladares restaurants and supporting fair-wage employers such as social enterprise Cuba Libro   — Havana’s English-language bookshop — and tour operator Cuba Candela .  

3. Finnish Lapland

Finland’s frosty weather facilitates multiple seasonal activities. Stay cool in an ice hotel, such as the forest-ringed Arctic SnowHotel, which is rebuilt by hand every winter. Adrenaline levels can be raised by snowmobiling, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, Arctic swimming or skating on frozen lakes. And when you start to shiver, slip into a steamy sauna, as is Finnish tradition. December is also a prime month for the Northern Lights, which dance across clear Arctic Circle skies, where the frequency and intensity of the Aurora Borealis is at its peak.

More twinkling lights can be seen at Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi, where the man in red apparently lives. Head here with tiny tots in the run up to Christmas for a magical meeting with Father Christmas in his hometown. Visitors can also send a card with an Arctic Circle stamp from Santa’s post office and head to artisan workshops for handcrafted knives and souvenirs made from northern materials, including birch, reindeer leather and juniper.

Sustainable travel tip:   The semi-nomadic Sámi people have called the upper reaches of Lapland home since the last Ice Age and remain the only Indigenous people in the EU. But now, economic development in their homeland, such as logging and mining, is threatening their livelihoods. Support them by visiting communities, hiring Sámi guides and purchasing goods (the Duodji label indicates traditional Sámi handicrafts). The Siida Visitor Centre in Inari provides information on the Sámis’ traditional lifestyle, ancient customs and the challenges facing them today.

( Six places to see the Northern Lights in Europe . )

4. Antarctica

This world of white comprises mountains, valleys and plains blanketed beneath a thick sheet of ice. At its fragile edges are thousands of glaciers extending towards an iceberg-peppered sea. For most of the year, this frozen continent is inaccessible to travellers, but sea ice has retreated enough by December to welcome back expedition ships, which traverse these waters until March. Travel earlier in the month for peak benefits with shoulder season prices.

In December, temperatures increase to 0C and the sun never sets — Antarctica is the only southern spot that witnesses this phenomenon. These longer, warmer days result in more wildlife encounters. The rookeries clustered along the coast are bursting with the first hatching penguin chicks, while hungry humpbacks are returning home from tropical waters. Seals of the Weddell, crabeater and leopard variety steal away for downtime on ice floes, while pups parade the beaches of South Georgia island. The breeding season for seabirds, such as albatross, cormorants and petrels, is also in full swing as chicks emerge and learn how to live in this remote wilderness.

Sustainable travel tip: The White Continent is registering record temperatures that are increasing three times faster than the global average. Book with one of the pioneering companies that are focusing on reducing carbon emissions. Some of the world’s first hybrid-electric cruise ships have recently set sail south. Ensure your operator is registered with the International Association of Antarctic Tour Operators (IAATO), which advocates responsible travel to the area.

Seek out the slopes before the snow-crazed crowds. Early December is the start of Europe’s ski season, but the masses won’t arrive on the mountains until the middle of the month. Austria is snow-sure compared to surrounding countries, and you can be sure of fresh powder at loftier peaks, including glacial Hintertux, Obergurgl or Ischgl, which have reliable snow records due to their elevation. Family-friendly Kitzbühel, St Anton am Arlberg and Lech Zürs are also reliable, with dreamy mountain towns that serve steamy pots of feelgood fondue.

And if snowy peaks aren’t scenic enough, a dusting of lights and seasonal Christmas markets give Austria that festive feeling. Market booths across the country groan under the weight of wooden toys, hand-blown glass ornaments, gingerbread biscuits and vats of warming glühwein.

Sustainable travel tip:   There’s been a night-train resurgence in Europe, spurred in part by Austrian sleeper ÖBB NightJet. New routes have made it a cinch to travel to Austria from the UK, by linking the Eurostar to Nightjet services. And if going by rail isn’t eco-friendly enough, ÖBB uses 100% renewable energy to power its lines within Austria.

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The 10 best places to travel in December 2023

The most wonderful time of the year? Our list of the best places to travel in December covers more than Christmas.

The most wonderful time of the year? That is all opinion, of course, but there is something undeniably magic about December. Yes, the weather can be a bit chilly, and the whole ‘lack of light’ thing is no fun, but then there is Christmas, family, excitement and all the food. All of it. Where are the best places to travel in December? That depends on what you want. If you are looking for the wintriest, most festive places to visit , there are plenty of brilliant places to choose from. If you’d like to escape the cold and spend your December in a tropical paradise , you can do that too. The end of the year is here, and you deserve to spend it wherever you please.

RECOMMENDED:

☀️ The world’s best places for winter sun 🎄 Amazing  Christmas towns to visit around the world 🎁 The   best Christmas markets to visit in Europe   and worldwide 🎊 The world’s best places to celebrate New Year ❄️️ The  best places to travel in January 🗺 Our full guide to the best places to travel every month

An email you’ll actually love

Best places to travel in December

1.  Austria

December is when Austria really sparkles. Soak up the festive vibes (and the glühwein) at the spiritual HQ of Christmas markets,  Vienna . The most iconic is held in front of the illuminated, baroque Schönbrunn Palace, with crafts, gingerbread and an enormous tree, while Art Advent on Karlsplatz has live music and an all-organic policy on the food. And while Vienna may be very good,  Salzburg ’s a bit subversive, too: at its folkloric Krampus parades in early December, goat-demon characters run riot through the streets. Less scarily, it’s also home to the uniquely Christmassy Salzburg Advent Singing, featuring traditionally dressed Alpine folk choirs and festive markets—the Christkindlmarkt is one of the world’s oldest.

Discover the best  things to do in Vienna

2.  Finland

This picturesque Nordic nation is a perennial award winner in annual travel gongs, not to mention eco-centric ones, and it makes sense: Finland is big on conservation, with 39 national parks and nearly three-quarters of its land covered in forest. All kinds of cold-weather dwelling creatures live here, from arctic foxes to lynxes, wolverines and snow hares—but go in December to see Rudolph and his chums in the snowy winter paradise that is Finnish Lapland. Where, of course, you’ll also find Santa—this is the home of Christmas, after all.

3.  Cambodia

For memorable travel moments, Cambodia’s Angkor Wat at sunrise has to be up there. So, how about Cambodia’s Angkor Wat at sunrise, amped up and ready to run a half-marathon? Every December (December 5, to be exact), thousands of runners peg it through the grounds of the 900-year-old Hindu temple, a UNESCO site, in support of Cambodian charities. It’s  totally  what Indiana Jones and Lara Croft would want (both  Temple of Doom  and  Tomb Raider  were filmed in the complex). Afterwards, head out to one of Cambodia’s quieter tropical beaches for well-deserved lounging: Koh Rong Samloem’s Lazy Beach should fit the bill.

Discover the best  things to do in Cambodia

4.  Miami

For an arty party in the city, it has to be  Art Basel  in Miami. In December, the Swiss-born contemporary art fair arrives in Miami to exhibit and sell the work of established international artists. But you don’t have to be in the industry, or uber-rich, to get in on the action: plenty of fringe events happen outside the main convention centre at  Miami Beach  that same week. Check out the public sculpture and the many pop-ups, gallery events and installations that have led this to be dubbed ‘Art Week’ by locals. Welcome to Miami!

Discover the best  things to do in Miami

5.  Kerala, India

It’s easy to see why tourism in  India ’s serene southwestern state is flourishing, with palm-fringed beaches, tranquil tea plantations, and tiger-spotting opportunities,  and  it’s also one of India’s more eco enclaves. In forward-looking Kochi, heritage meets hip, between colonial ruins and cutting-edge galleries. Then there is the fabulous Kochi-Muziris Biennale, India’s biggest contemporary art event. Galleries, disused buildings, public spaces and heritage sites across the city are filled with sculpture, film, painting, installations and performance art. Still, that counts as teasing, so best head this way to enjoy India's magical south.

Discover the best  places to visit in India

6.  Northern Patagonia

Because of its vast dark skies, Northern Patagonia is an epic stargazing spot at any time of year, but with a meteor shower and a total eclipse coming up, this December’s the time to go. The sky with be illuminated with cosmic debris for the Geminids meteor shower (it’s a big’un) on 14 and 15 December. Fly into  Buenos Aires ,  Argentina , a few days before for steak, street art and sexy tango vibes before basing yourself in San Martin de los Andes for the main event—it’s on the banks of a glacial lake and right at the edge of forested Lanín National Park, at the foot of the Andes. 

Discover the best  things to do in Buenos Aires

7.  Costa Rica

In case you haven't heard, nature immersion and eco-tourism are big, and Costa Rica might be the most eco of them all. It is well on its way to hitting its target of being the first carbon-neutral country, and a quarter of the country is made up of unspoilt conservation land. Expect fascinating nature, from vividly hued birds and tree frogs to blissed-out sloths. Eco-lodge-hop your way from the cloud forest at San Gerardo de Dota to the whale’s tail-shaped Marino Ballena National Park to surf spot Santa Teresa.

Discover the best  things to do in Costa Rica

8.  Berlin

Brave the harsh Berlin winter and reap the rewards: the run-up to Christmas is when the city is at its most charming. Get a round of glühwein while exploring a Christmas market (at Bröhan Museum market products are handmade by locals, while Spandau’s market is all old-Europe vibes). Alexanderplatz’s funfair will be in full swing, while Berlin’s Botanical Garden becomes an illuminated wonderland with twinkling fairy lights and glowing sculptures every December, with an ice rink to slip and slide around. Warm up after a spin by the fire pit with more hot booze.

Discover the best  things to do in Berlin

9.  Mexico City

With the rainy season and the summer crowds out of the way, December is a great time to hit up Mexico City. Go for the street tacos, tamales and tlacoyos, the Templo Mayor Aztec ruins, and the Frida Kahlo Museum. Then get stuck in to hip neighbourhood Juarez where there are more new design restaurants and bar openings than you can shake a margarita at (if you can find Hanky Panky Cocktail Bar speakeasy, it’ll be worth the hunt). And if you happen to be in the city for New Year’s Eve, make for the nearby Angel of Independence on Reforma Avenue for the street party and fireworks at midnight.

Discover the best  things to do in Mexico City

10.  Las Vegas

As the names of artists now getting residencies in Las Vegas get bigger and more relevant (like Lady Gaga and Bruno Mars), so does Sin City’s credibility as an entertainment destination. So do catch a  show  while you’re there, but since temperatures are pleasantly cool this time of year, now is also the perfect time for exploring off-strip. Want geological beauty? Head to rouge-tinted Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area. Street art? Go downtown. Mafia stuff? Don’t miss the Mob Museum, with an in-house distillery.

Discover the best  things to do in Las Vegas

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Best places to visit in december 2024.

Planning a vacation in December can feel overwhelming alongside holiday shopping and year-end festivities. But you'll thank yourself later if you squeeze in time for a trip before the new year. U.S. News considered prices, events, accessibility and seasonal crowds to decide the best places to visit in December. Whether you're seeking a warm-weather hideaway or want to experience the holiday spirit in a snow-covered town, you'll find it in these destinations. Vote for your favorite spot below to help decide next year's list.

London, England

U.s. virgin islands, french alps, torres del paine national park, hawaii - the big island, new york city, rio de janeiro, quebec city.

London is abuzz with holiday-themed activities in December. Holiday pop-ups transform attractions like Hyde Park and the London Zoo, while Christmas ballets and concerts take over the city's legendary entertainment scene. What's more, "Harry Potter" fans can opt for a festive tour during the Hogwarts in the Snow event at Warner Bros. Studio Tour London. Chilly temperatures in the 40s and rainy conditions mean it's the perfect time to don your coziest jumper. Plus, London's rainy day standbys like the Tower of London and the British Museum are typically less crowded at this time of year.

If you're seeking palm-fringed festivities without the need for a passport, look no further than the U.S. Virgin Islands. December is the start of the dry season in this Caribbean island chain, and average temperatures in the 70s and 80s are perfect for lounging on beautiful white sand beaches like Magens Bay or snorkeling in Virgin Islands National Park. Plus, you'll get a taste of the islands' vibrant culture during the Crucian Christmas Festival, which takes place on St. Croix at the end of the month. Partake in the merriment with parades, music competitions and more.

Snow-capped mountains, quaint villages and mouthwatering cuisine (much of which involves some form of melted cheese) make the French Alps a classic winter getaway. Most ski resorts open by early December, so you can get an early start on the slopes for the season, or just take part in the lively après-ski experience in iconic destinations like Val d'Isère and Chamonix. What's more, many villages like the châteaux-studded Annecy amp up the charm with cozy Christmas markets throughout the month. Winter in the Alps is never cheap, but try visiting earlier in the month before school holidays for the best room rates.

Make the trek to the Finnish Lapland for the ultimate Arctic experience. Finland's northernmost region promises a deep layer of snow all winter, perfect for skiing or sledding down the longest toboggan run in Europe. Most flights to this region land in Rovaniemi, home to Santa Claus Village, where you can meet the man in red, step across the Arctic Circle or embark on a reindeer sleigh ride. Though you'll only see about four hours of daylight, this makes for prime conditions to view the dazzling aurora borealis from the comfort of one of the glass hotels in the region.

December is one of the most popular months to visit the Bahamas – and for good reason. By the time this month rolls around, the threat of hurricanes has passed, making it terrific time to enjoy the outdoors. Spend your days lounging on one of the Bahamas' many beaches, snorkeling or diving in the crystal-clear water or taking a boat tour to a private island . What's more, if you're visiting around the holidays, you'll catch the travel-worthy Junkanoo festival , which celebrates Bahamian culture with parades and festivities on Boxing Day and New Year's Day.

Although Phuket, Thailand, offers a consistently warm climate year-round, its dry weather and calm water in December make this month a great time to visit. Plan on spending most of your time sunbathing, swimming, scuba diving and more at beautiful beaches like Nai Harn and Kata Noi. But remember, December falls within Phuket's peak tourist season, so you won't find many deals for flights and accommodations during this month. Avoid a holiday visit in late December for slightly better rates.

Located in the eastern Himalayas, Bhutan is a backpacker's dream due to its breathtaking landscapes and unmatched preservation. The remote kingdom's focus on cultural and environmental sustainability means heritage sites like the cliff-clinging Paro Taktsang and the riverside Punakha Dzong are never overcrowded. But cooler winter temperatures (averages range from the 30s to the 60s, depending on elevation) mean you'll encounter even fewer tourists. While a trip to this intriguing destination won't be cheap, a low-season visit can drive down the price of lodging and tours.

Nestled in southern Chilean Patagonia, this national park offers travelers a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Hailed among hikers as one of the most scenic destinations in the world, the park is home to turquoise lakes and dense forests, plus massive Grey Glacier and the towering granite of Cuernos del Paine. December offers up to 17 hours of daylight, allowing plenty of time for extensive hikes. But even though December is part of Patagonia's peak summer season, temperatures drop dramatically after nightfall, so visitors will want to pack layers.

This Hawaiian paradise is the perfect place to escape winter's onset. Weary travelers can thaw on colorful beaches like Punalu'u Beach (which has beautiful black sand ) and Papakolea Beach (a unique green sand option), while more adventurous types can go for a hike in 'Akaka Falls State Park or catch a glimpse of the more than 4,000-foot-tall Kilauea volcano at Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park. You'll likely contend with other snowbirds in December, but you'll find that hotel prices on the Big Island are still consistently lower than those on neighboring isles.

If Old Man Winter has you dreaming of warming things up, consider a trip to the Spice Island. Grenada, a tiny island in the Caribbean known for its aromatic spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, boasts steady temps in the 80s. And since December sits just between the rainy season and high tourism season, it's the perfect time to catch some rays without the crowds (or cost) of the months to come. Spend your days lounging on Grand Anse Beach or sampling the island's rich flavors at local markets or the House of Chocolate.

It's not surprising that dozens of holiday movies are set in New York. Dazzling sights like the iconic Christmas tree and ice skating rink at Rockefeller Center, decked-out window displays at Macy's and horse-drawn carriages in Central Park conjure up holiday cheer throughout the city. And while this metropolis offers plenty to do throughout the year, festive shows, Christmas-themed pop-up experiences and even the nip in the air make December one of New York's most magical months. Just be prepared for a bit of sticker shock; the holiday season is also one of the most popular (and expensive) times of year to visit.

If you're willing to brave the cold, travel to Prague for a fun and festive winter vacation. The city turns into a winter wonderland in December, with snow-dusted buildings and Christmas markets selling everything from locally made jewelry to toys to Christmas ornaments. Those with little ones in tow should try to arrive in early December when the annual St. Nicholas Eve event takes place. During this traditional celebration, you'll see Czechia's version of St. Nick, along with his angel and devil guides, hand out candy and other treats as they walk around the city.

While the Northern Hemisphere transitions to winter in December, Rio de Janeiro enters its peak summer season. And although this is one of the wettest times of the year here, you'll still enjoy optimal warmth and mostly sunny conditions. As such, there will be plenty of opportunities to see must-visit sights like the Christ the Redeemer statue or Sugarloaf Mountain. If you're keen on experiencing Rio's lively party scene during your visit, be sure to time your trip around Réveillon. This popular New Year's Eve celebration on Copacabana Beach draws millions of people annually with its music, dancing and fireworks.

The holiday season in Germany's fourth largest city can only be described as magical. Cologne hosts a handful of Christmas markets, including the popular Advent village at Cologne Cathedral, which boasts 150 stalls. When you're not taking in the city's imposing architecture or getting into the jovial spirit with a glass of Kölsch beer (a Cologne original), pop into Museum Ludwig to view modern art or the Chocolate Museum for tasty samples. Combat the dreary weather – average highs are in the low 40s and rain is common – by soaking away the chill at a thermal spa such as Neptunbad or Claudius Therme.

It's easy to fall in love with this Canadian destination, especially when it's covered in fresh snow. You'll be enchanted by Old Québec's sights and sounds as it transforms into a Christmas village. Shop for gifts (or for yourself) in Quartier Petit-Champlain, home to one of the oldest shopping streets in North America. Plus, with its 17th- and 18th-century architecture, French-speaking Quebec City allows you to soak up European culture without dropping the cash for a flight across the pond. Just be sure to bundle up; temperatures can drop to the single digits in December.

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The 17 best places to visit in December 2023

With the holiday season just around the corner, December is the perfect time of the year to travel and explore the world.

The best places to visit in December will depend largely on your personal preferences– are you a winter head or do you like the sun? December is the best time to visit cities draped in Christmas cheer but also an excellent opportunity to soak up some sun before the long winter.

Hot places in December can be reasonably busy as everyone tries to cram in a few more precious days in the sun. However, there are still plenty of amazing places to check out, so take a look at our list of the top places to visit in December for some inspiration to plan your next trip.

Best places to visit in December in the World

Places to visit in december in asia.

• Penang, Malaysia – For food and culture
• Hong Kong – For shopping
• Taipei, Taiwan – For the best of both worlds
• Dubai, United Arab Emirates – For the modern traveller
• Bali, Indonesia – For a beach getaway

Places to visit in December in the US and the Americas

• Tulum, Mexico – For the beaches
• Barbados, Central America – For exploring caves and canyons
• New York, USA – For culture and entertainment
• Puerto Williams, Chile to Antarctica – For snow and hiking

Places to visit in December in Europe

• Dresden, Germany – For Christmas
• Budapest, Hungary – For a cultural experience
• Venice, Italy – For the city’s unique charm
• Ljubljana, Slovenia – For a winter wonderland experience

Places to visit in December in Africa

• Aswan, Egypt – For a historic adventure
• Cape Town, South Africa – For a unique sunny vacation

Places to visit in December in Oceania

• Auckland, New Zealand – For great weather and hiking
• Gold Coast, Australia – For sunny skies and beaches

Best places to visit in December in Asia

Penang, malaysia, for the ultimate food and cultural experience.

I spent Christmas and New Year’s in Penang a few years back and had a great time. If you keep asking yourself, where is hot in December, Penang ticks that box.

I recommend checking out the UNESCO World Heritage Site, George Town , during the day and then exploring Little India at night for some local cuisine that will blow you away.

I’d say that the Kek Lok Si Temple is probably one of the most beautiful religious edifices I have ever visited and an absolute must-see on your trip.

READ MORE: Discover our complete Malaysia Travel Guide

Hong Kong, SAR

Shopping, shopping and more shopping.

December is one of the most popular months to visit Hong Kong. With its own Time Square lit with bright Christmas decorations and lights, this city sure knows how to ring in the holidays.

Hong Kong is also one of the best places to shop as stores are plastered with sale sign boards and discounts. For luxury and high-end fashion, head to shopping districts like Tsim Sha Tsui and Central. If you’re looking for a good bargain, Causeway Bay and Mongkok are the places to be.

For extra Christmas cheer, you can stay at the Disneyland hotels and experience their daily parades and festivities. It gets very crowded during this season, so plan ahead and book your tickets early.

READ MORE: Learn all about Hong Kong in our special Hong Kong Travel Guide

Taipei, Taiwan

The perfect blend of small towns and skyscrapers.

With the heat of summer and frequent monsoons long gone, December is one of the best times to travel to Taipei. The winter air calls for a day trip to Jiufen and Shifen, a tourist favourite. Visit the teahouse from the popular Japanese film Spirited Away and write your new year’s wishes on a lantern and let them fly high and away.

I’d also recommend a day trip to the Taroko National Park for its spectacular view of the Taroko Gorge, an 18km marbled gorge with mountains and canyons stretching along the Liwu River.

New Year’s Eve is commemorated at Taipei 101 , similar to New York’s ball drop where fireworks are set off from the building and locals and tourists alike gather to celebrate.

READ MORE: Discover the most famous cities for New Year’s Eve celebrations

Dubai, United Arab Emirates

The ideal destination for the modern traveller.

Dubai is the perfect definition of glamourous, and the holidays see many tourists there for vacation or passing by on a long layover.

When most places are experiencing winter during this time, Dubai provides a warm and sunny escape. This destination guarantees luxury and extravaganza.

Some fun activities in this cosmopolitan city include driving down the desert safari, shopping at one of the world’s largest shopping malls and visiting the Palm Islands.

If you have time, travel 2 hours to Abu Dhabi to check out The Louvre for some seriously interesting displays and marvel at the beauty of the Sheikh Zayed Mosque .

READ MORE: Dubai is home to one of the best underwater hotels in the world

Bali, Indonesia

The place for island hoppers and beachgoers.

If you’re looking for an adventurous getaway to explore some islands and beaches, Bali’s the place to be. Hop on a boat to the Nusa Islands or Menjangan Island to swim among the fishes, or check out the many gorgeous waterfalls scattered around the island.

The island is also filled with aesthetic, Instagrammable cafes for those who wish to fill their feed with some colourful and visually appealing meals. My personal favourites are Sisterfields, Kynd Community and Revolver Espressos.

Best places to visit in December in the US and the Americas

Tulum, mexico, ideal for a beach vacation.

For those seeking an ideal tropical break that doesn’t involve a lot of partying and late nights, Tulum is the perfect spot. Located on the Caribbean coastline of Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula, the entire place has a chilled vibe about it.

You can indulge in some morning yoga on one of the many beautiful beaches, including Playa Paraíso and enjoy a mindful relaxing holiday here. You can also tour the many Cenotes or natural sinkholes that feature crystal clear waters in the flooded cave system.

With an average temperature of around 24°C in the month of December, taking a trip to the Tulum Mayan ruins and exploring the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve is comfortable at this time of year.

READ MORE: We have selected Tulum in our list of the most beautiful beaches in the world

Barbados, Central America

Ideal for adventurers and thrill-seekers.

Of all of the hot places in December, Barbados has to be one of my favourites. The small island has it all—from lively beaches and buzzing nightlife at Rockley to the tranquil escape of Holetown, there is something for everyone!

It is undoubtedly the best place to visit in December if you’re seeking some adventure. The Blue Hole lagoon alongside the vast array of canyons and caves will leave you speechless. Make sure to also spend some time in Zona Colonial — a UNESCO-protected area that is great for exploring the culture.

READ MORE: Find out what are the best places to scuba dive in the world

New York, USA

The place to be for the holidays.

New York comes alive in the holiday season and is one of the best places to visit in December for those wanting a winter shopping spree. Many of the city’s parks also open up for revellers to enjoy some ice skating action.

If you arrive on the first of the month, you can also be part of the iconic Rockefeller tree lighting . Either way, I’d recommend taking a trip down to Rockefeller Plaza to see it.

READ MORE: New York is definitely one of the best cities in the world to visit

Puerto Williams, Chile to Antarctica

Check it off your bucket list.

Ticking off Antarctica is a dream most people never get to realise, but it’s easily doable in December. It brings about the only window of time it is properly accessible to tourists as the warmth breathes some life into the region.

You can witness penguin chicks hatching and marvel as humpback whales swoon around the surrounding waters. Your best bet to get there is to have a trip organised that departs from Puerto Williams, Chile which has a host of its own beautiful hiking trails to explore.

READ MORE: Here’s our list of the best places to visit before you die

Best places to visit in December in Europe

Dresden, germany, a place filled to the brim with christmas spirit.

If it is Christmas cheer you seek, then you can’t go wrong with a trip to Dresden. The Christmas markets are filled to the brim with mulled wine, funfair rides, quirky stalls, and even stollenload , a traditional German fruit bread.

Besides Christmas celebrations, Dresden is also famous for museums, castles and churches for those looking to learn about the city’s history. The Frauenkirche and Schönfeld Castle are among some of the most beautiful churches and castles in Dresden. Be sure to pay a visit to admire the picturesque architecture and unique artefacts.

With an average temperature of around 3°C, you’ll need to bring a good jacket. However, the temperature is bearable enough to explore the rich history of a city once almost destroyed in World War II.

READ MORE: Planning a holiday? Here are the best apps to plan your trip

Budapest, Hungary

To immerse yourself in culture and history.

Food stalls, handcrafted goods, folklore-theme plays, and cinnamon-flavoured cake can be found in abundance on the streets of Vörösmarty Square.

While its Bavarian cousin often overshadows Hungarian Christmas markets, Budapest is one of the top places to visit in December if you are looking for a bargain. Things are considerably cheaper than at German markets, and the city has a rich history to explore, including the Buda Castle .

READ MORE: Budapest features in this year’s best places to visit

Venice, Italy

Every wanderlust’s dream city.

The canals of Venice are a magical place at the end of the year. The large crowds of tourists will start to fade now and you can truly be captivated by its old antique charm.

For cost-savvy wanderlusts, consider visiting Italy in December as there are more cheap flights and deals for hotels. Even without a proper itinerary, simply exploring the canals and bridges filled with dreamy colours and Venetian history can be transfixing.

READ MORE: Not surprisingly, Venice is also one of the most romantic holiday destinations in the world

Ljubljana, Slovenia

A fairytale, winter wonderland.

Tucked between Austria and Italy, Slovenia’s a country of rich culture and unique heritage. In the winter, the country transforms into a true winter wonderland with breathtaking snow-covered views and festive Christmas markets marking the jolly season.

Enjoy the frozen wonderland by skiing, sledging, or snowshoeing in the majestic Julian Alps For those up for an adventure, try climbing up the frozen waterfall with ice hacks at the Mlačca Gorge.

Lake Bled is one of the most magical places to visit during the winter season. You can travel to the Bled island by a manual row boat or opt for a ride on a traditional pletna boat. Another charming destination is the Bled Castle, where you can visit the museums and exhibitions within the castle walls while enjoying the best views of the lake from above.

Best places to visit in December in Africa

Aswan, egypt, ideal for exploring numerous historical sites.

This desert country has surprisingly low temperatures in December. Ranging from 12 to 25 degrees celsius while still remaining dry and sunny.

The city of Aswan, set on the River Nile, presents many archaeological areas in it. The Philae Temple and the Quebbet El – Hawa are some interesting historical sites to check out while you’re there. I’d recommend taking a felucca ride on the River Nile to get the best views of the beautiful city.

Explore the ancient country of Pharaohs while shopping for silk, lamps, and other cool souvenirs.

READ MORE: Can you name the seven wonders of the world ?

Cape Town, South Africa

For both the beach and the mountains.

South Africa is one of the best places to visit if you can’t decide between a bush and beach holiday. December’s the perfect time to visit Cape town to busk on the sunny beaches, hike up the scenic mountains or try wine tasting at any of the 148 wine farms across the landscape.

If you have time, I’d also recommend getting on a safari tour at the Aquila Private Game Reserve or the Sanbona Wildlife Reserve for some of the best Big 5 game views.

Auckland, New Zealand

The best place for adventure and hiking.

I rented a campervan in Auckland a few years back and spent six weeks driving the length of the country. If you’re seeking a winter adventure, it’s one of the best places to visit in December.

This time of year brings about some beautiful weather and makes it perfect for exploring the country’s surfing scene and a wide variety of vineyards on the South Island.

It’s also a hikers’ paradise. I recommend Tongariro National Park and some of the smaller tracks like those around Wanaka.

READ MORE: New Zealand is always at the top of the list of the safest countries to visit

Gold Coast, Australia

For a unique christmas experience.

Australia is one of my favourite places to travel to at the end of the year to escape the rain as temperatures are high during the summer.

Pack lightly as you will probably only need clothes for walking on sand and lounging on beach chairs. Check out the theme parks such as Dreamworld or Paradise Country, and celebrate Christmas in the sun for a change.

READ MORE: Check out our list of the world’s best amusement parks

Plan a trip to one of the best places to visit in December and give yourself a well-deserved break with your loved ones as you welcome the new year.

We hope our December travel guide will help you prepare for your vacations in a planned manner. Happy planning and happier holidays!

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14 Amazing Places to Visit in December in the USA

Whether you are looking for beautiful warm winter sunshine, snowy mountain adventures, or just oodles of Christmas magic, there is the perfect place to discover.

To help you choose and from my time traveling around in the holiday season, here are my favorite spots to explore…

1. Leavenworth, Washington 

Nestled in the snowy peaks of The Cascade Mountains, just over a hundred miles north of Seattle , is the stunning little town of Leavenworth. 

I love that it’s a perfect replica of a Bavarian town, complete with German beer, Bavarian cuisine, reindeer, Christmas markets , and a unique Nutcracker Museum . I personally think it’s super cute, especially this time of year!

The town offers many activities all year round, but this month, it turns into a magical wonderland with snowmobiling and skiing. If you love kitsch, I think you’ll love this picturesque little town, especially during the snowy winter months of this month, January and February . 

• Average temperatures in December – from 1°C to -6°C
• Visitor’s center address: 940 US Hwy 2 STE B, Leavenworth, WA 98826

My favorite highlights…

• Gong for fun beginner snowboarding lessons!
• Dining on a vegan hot dog and sauerkraut at München Haus.

2. Avila Beach, California

If you’re craving a dose of Vitamin D during the winter months, look no further than the charming beach resort town of Avila Beach in California!

It offers some of the warmest temperatures this month, averaging around a pleasant 18 degrees, and I love coming here to soak up the warm sun and unwind. It’s too cool to swim, but I watch the surfers, explore the scenic hiking trails, take leisurely bike rides, and go paddleboarding.  

I recommend visiting the iconic lighthouse or indulging in a wine-tasting adventure at nearby vineyards for those seeking a more relaxed pace.

• Average temperature  – 18 degrees
• Location: San Luis Obispo Bay, 160 miles northwest of Los Angeles.

My highlights…

• Staying in a suite at the super cute boutique inn Avila La Fonda Hotel , complete with a large hot tub and a microwave with popcorn.
• Shopping for unique seasonal gifts and local produce at Avila Valley Barn.

3. Durango, Colorado

Durango, steeped in Wild West charm and framed by the rugged San Juan Mountains, is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts seeking adventure amidst breathtaking scenery.

This month, it’s a snowy haven that caters to skiers of all levels and abilities. After a day on the slopes, I love soaking up picturesque views and sampling craft brews from one of Durango’s six esteemed brewing companies.

In my opinion, the biggest draw is the magical historic steam train that passes stunning snow-clad landscapes! 

• Average temperatures – 5 to -10 degrees
• Visitor Center Address: 802 Main Ave, Durango, CO 81301, United States

My personal highlights…

• Dining on hearty local cuisine at the fabulous Seasons of Durango.
• Going on a scenic round-trip journey on a restored steam train that offered scenic and dining on homemade black bean burgers along the way.

4. Waikiki, Hawaii

Waikiki is a beautiful option for those seeking a warm and enchanting winter getaway. With daytime temperatures averaging a balmy 28 degrees, affordable prices and fewer crowds (until the holiday rush starts), it’s a great time to visit, particularly at the beginning of this month.

Alternatively, spend the seasonal holidays here and enjoy a beautiful, warm Christmas vacation surrounded by paradise-like scenery.

I love its pristine beaches, excellent surfing, dreamy resorts, boutique-dotted vibrant neighborhoods, and chic waterfront areas with cocktail bars and upscale dining experiences. I also recommend visiting a captivating hula show, an experience that genuinely encapsulates the islands’ spirit! 

• The average temperature – 28 degrees
• Visitors Center Address: 159 Kaʻiulani Ave # 102, Honolulu, HI 96815
• Going snorkelling at Sans Souci Beach and spotting a super-cute sea turtle.
• Going for a dip in the hot tub and sipping on cocktails at the rooftop Na Lani Sky Lounge at Hokulani Waikiki.

5. New York

There’s an undeniable magic in New York City during the Christmas season, beginning in November and extending through this month. One of my favorite seasonal rituals is indulging in hot apple cider at Bryant Park, followed by a nostalgic twirl on the city’s free ice rink, and then embarking on a serene snowy stroll through the enchanting pathways of Central Park.

I also make sure to fit in a visit to the iconic Christmas Tree at Rockefeller Center, take a pilgrimage to Santaland at Macy’s, venture into the historic Meatpacking District for eclectic shopping experiences, and then explore cozy bars and cafes in the vibrant East Village. Christmas perfection! 

• Average temperature – 7 degrees
• Visitors Center Address: 810 Seventh Avenue,between 52nd & 53rd Streets, New York City, NY 10019. 
• Trying the incredible plant burgers at   Superiority Burger.
• Going ice skating at the iconic Rockefeller Center and then warming up with an eggnog oat milk latte at Cafe Grumpy. 

6. Siesta Key, Florida

For a delightful winter escape filled with warmth and sunshine, Siesta Key, Florida, is an excellent choice within the US.

This picturesque barrier island, nestled along the Gulf of Mexico, exudes a unique charm and boasts a stunning public beach that has earned the prestigious title of the best in America—not once, but twice!

Ideal for a family vacation, I’m a huge fan of its charming ambience, a fine array of shops and cafes in Siesta Key Village and family-friendly amenities such as shallow waters perfect for paddling, playgrounds, and tennis courts. 

While the water may be swimmable for those brave enough to take a dip, the occasional hot day will bring more comfortable temperatures.

• Average temperature – 23 degrees
• Tourist Office Address: 5223 Avenida Navarra, Siesta Key, FL 34242
• Going for happy hour cocktails at the fun Gilligan’s Island Bar & Grill.
• Snorkeling at the Point of Rocks, an incredible series of unique limestone rock formations.

7. Williamsburg, Virginia

Williamsburg holds immense historical significance. In 1776, George Wythe affixed his signature to the American Declaration of Independence.  

What truly captivates me about Williamsburg is its transformation into a living history museum within its historic center. Here, old colonial buildings stand proudly restored, costumed interpreters bring the past to life in shops and cafes, and I feel immersed in a journey into America’s colonial era.

During the Christmas season, Williamsburg emerges as a picture-perfect town adorned with twinkling lights and festive decorations, casting a magical spell over its streets. Blanketed in a layer of powdery snow, I personally think it resembles a scene from a fairytale!  

• The average temperature – 12 degrees
• Tourist Office Address: 421 N Boundary Street | Williamsburg, VA 23185
• Dining on hearty Uruguayan cuisine at the rustic chic Tabaré Williamsburg Uruguayan.
• Going on a fun pub crawl combined with a ghost tour! 

8. Gaylord Opryland Resort, Nashville

If you’re seeking a festive Christmas extravaganza that goes all out, look no further than Gaylord Opryland Resort in Nashville, Tennessee—it’s an absolute gem!

During Christmas, the resort undergoes a breathtaking transformation, adorned with over 3 million twinkling lights, enchanting ice tunnels, an indoor ice skating rink, whimsical grottos, and even festive scavenger hunts.  

I also love venturing into Nashville to soak up the vibrant energy of the legendary ‘Music City’. At this time of year,  its streets are adorned with twinkling lights and an array of festive activities to suit every taste.

• The average temperature – 11 degrees
• Address: 2800 Opryland Dr, Nashville, TN 37214
• Going for a hearty buffet breakfast at Cascades American Cafe compete with waffles and home fries.
• Going for a hot stone massage at the European-inspired Relâche Spa. 

9. Aspen, Colorado

Aspen shines as one of the most prestigious winter resorts in the country, captivating celebrities and travelers alike with its snowy allure.  

I adore the cozy log cabins adorned with twinkling lights, where the air is infused with the aroma of hot toddies, and the streets are filled with festive trimmings and the sound of Christmas carols.

With skiing opportunities catering to all abilities, along with options for snowboarding, cross-country skiing, and enchanting outdoor ice skating rinks, Aspen offers a range of snowy delights.  

Don’t miss the chance to embark on a snowplough tour, indulge in culinary delights at esteemed restaurants and bars, and discover the chic boutiques that line the streets. 

• The average temperature  – 2 to -12 degrees
• Aspen Chamber Resort Association Address: 425 Rio Grande Place 81611 Aspen
• Having a fun evening out at the lively Hooch Craft Cocktail Bar.  
• Trying tubing at The Meadows at Elk Camp on Snowmass.

10. Crystal Beach, Texas

For a low-key, warm getaway, Crystal Beach is an excellent choice! With temperatures averaging a comfortable 18 degrees during the day this month, it offers pleasant warmth without the scorching heat, and it’s notably less crowded than some of Texas’s more popular beach resorts.

Known for its strong commitment to eco-friendliness, Crystal Beach appeals to the discerning traveler seeking sustainability alongside relaxation. Here, expansive open spaces, breathtaking views, a great range of accommodation options, and sightings of seagulls and dolphins await.

My favorite highlights include the pristine sandy coastline, indulging in delectable dining experiences at local restaurants and soaking up the laid-back coastal vibes!

While the water may not be warm enough for comfortable swimming this time of year, I recommend soaking up the sun’s rays on the beach and enjoying a leisurely paddle along the shoreline. With a ferry departing from Galveston to Crystal Beach around the clock, accessibility to this idyllic destination is effortless year-round.

• The average temperature – 18 degrees
• Visitors Center Address: 2275 TX-87 Suite 10 #2621, Crystal Beach, TX 77650
• Watching live country music at Old Quarter Acoustic Cafe.  
• Playing a round of miniature golf at The Gulf Range.

11. Biltmore Estate, Asheville

The first Christmas celebrations at the breathtaking Biltmore Estate in historic Asheville occurred on Christmas Eve in 1895, and today , the festivities kick off in early November with the grand raising of a massive Christmas tree. This marks the beginning of a spectacular display throughout the house and grounds, and over 100 hand-decorated trees and twinkling lights transform the estate into a magical wonderland.

I love that thousands of poinsettias and fresh evergreen garlands adorn the grand hallways, creating a cozy vibe accompanied by live musicians singing festive carols.

Amidst the festive atmosphere, Asheville’s cafes and restaurants offer delectable seasonal fare that perfectly complements the holiday spirit. I highly recommend a visit to Antler Village Winery. Here, as it unveils its annual sparkling white, the winery transforms into a dazzling festival of illumination.

For those seeking a hands-on experience, workshops offer the chance to craft your decorations. At the same time, candlelit evening tours provide a magical opportunity to wander freely through the house, aglow with the warm light of candles and crackling log fires. 

• The average temperature  – 10 degrees
• Address: 1 Lodge St, Asheville, NC 28803
• Seeing the beautiful twinkling Christmas tree display adorned with hundreds of lights.
• Going for a hearty English-style meal at cozy Cedric’s Tavern with a side dish of warm homemade pretzel rolls.

12. Vermont

I mmortalized by films like ‘White Christmas,’ Vermont rightfully earns its fame for its stunning winter landscapes. This month, Vermont’s quaint villages and historic towns are adorned with wreaths, trees and homes are illuminated, town squares swish with ice skaters, and The Polar Express sounds its horn! 

To me, Vermont resembles a scene straight out of a Christmas card, with picturesque towns nestled amidst snow-laden spruces. I love that the state buzzes in the joyous spirit of the season through shared meals, festive drinks, and merry gatherings.

The charming town of Woodstock hosts the Annual Wassail Weekend, an enchanting celebration with carol singers, craft workshops, and open houses. There are also plenty of skiing opportunities, and I love the exhilarating Ice Skating Trail at Lake Moray.

If you feel like you’ve lost the Christmas Magic, I recommend a trip to Vermont as the perfect antidote!  

• Average temperature  – 3.5 degrees
• Visitors Center Address: 680 North Main St., Route 2. Alburgh, VT 05440
• Trying Fat Biking at The Stowe Recreation Path.
• Hunting for artisan seasonal gifs at Vermont Holiday Market.

13. Solvang, California

Founded by Danish immigrants in 1911, Solvang offers a charming glimpse of Nordic life in the heart of Santa Barbara County, California.

From its modest origins, this themed town has blossomed into a beloved destination, drawing visitors far and wide. In my view, the Julefest celebrations, spanning November to December, exude a warmth that can thaw even the iciest of hearts! 

I love the quaint Danish-style buildings that drip with festive decorations, the cute bakeries, the cosy cafes that give off ‘hygge’ vibes, and the charming boutique shops. 

My favorite seasonal highlights include the Christmas markets, candlelight tours, and enchanting caroling sessions that infuse the streets with joy. Don’t miss the magical tree lighting ceremony and the grand Julefest Parade, where Christmas floats glide through the town.  

• Average temperature – 20 degrees
• Visitor Center Address: 1637-1639 Copenhagen Dr, Solvang, CA 93463
• Paying a visit to the super-cute Christmas store Jule Hus, the blown glass ornaments were gorgeous.
• Having an organic, gluten-free lunch at the quaint Actor’s Corner Cafe.’

14. Bethlehem, Pennsylvania 

What could be more fitting than spending this month in Bethlehem?

This charming town is aglow with twinkling lights and festive decorations each year, casting a magical spell over its historic snowy streets. I’m particularly fond of the Christmas huts lining the streets, offering artisanal treasures, and the renowned Christkindlmarkt—a sprawling indoor market brimming with unique gifts.

One of Bethlehem’s most charming traditions is The Living Advent Calendar, a daily event held at 5:30 pm at The Goundie House. I suggest experiencing this enchanting tradition firsthand!

Beyond the holiday splendor, Bethlehem is home to The Moravian Bookstore, the oldest continuously operating bookstore in the country. Founded in 1745, this literary haven is nestled in the heart of Bethlehem’s historic district, and when I visit, it’s hard to tear myself away! 

• Average temperature  – 5 degrees
• Visitors Center Address: 505 Main St. Bethlehem, PA 18018.
• Warming up with an authentic German Glühwein at the local Christkindlmarkt.
• Searching for unique Christmas presents at the trendy Domaci shop.

Beth Pinches - writer and photographer Beth was born under a wandering star, with drama in her veins and ink in her pen. After stints studying theatre in Dublin and Utrecht she used her creative streak to see as much of the world as she could on as little money. She toured Italian Schools with a children’s theatre troop, lived as an au pair in both Rome and Washington DC, explored the British countryside, worked her way through much of Europe, Salsa danced in Cuba and road-tripped down America’s west coast where she discovered her spiritual home; Portland, Oregon. Other places she loves include Croatia, Finland, Japan and India. In between adventures, travel writing and performing she resides peacefully with her family, cats and ukulele. Find Beth on Linkedin or  Facebook . Hotel Reviewing Experience - Asked by many tourist boards and many high-profile travel brands to formally review hotels including Visit Jersey , Visit Sweden , and Israel Tourist Board. Also travelled around the world scouting out and reviewing all the most unique hotels in the world, check out our Instagram page for photos . Listed as a top UK travel journalist . Portland Reviewing Experience - Lived in Portland for 6 months and spent many months scouting out all the coolest spots.

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The top 8 destinations to travel to (and give back to) in December 2024

Editor’s note: Last updated in January 2024.

December would usually see us sipping mulled wine in winter markets across Europe or dipping our toes in the Pacific Ocean, and while you can definitely still do that, our yearly travel round up is going in a different direction. 

In this round up, we’re still going to be suggesting where you should be travelling to in December, but we’re also going to take a look at what the locals will be up to and share some details of The Intrepid Foundation’s projects in various corners of the globe.

Founded in 2002, The Intrepid Foundation was established to give travellers a way to support trustworthy organisations and give back to the communities they’ve visited. Since its creation, The Intrepid Foundation has raised over AU $10 million for over 130 non-government organisations around the world for projects that tackle major issues like climate change, conservation, wildlife protection, education and child protection.

1. Tanzania

December in Tanzania is a lively and colourful time of year. It’s tradition to gift children with new clothes around Christmas time, often hand-sewn from bright patterned fabric more eye catching than any Christmas tree. Tanzanians love their beer, or “bia” in Swahili, and many villages brew their own. The beer is cracked open on Christmas Eve and clicked together over tasty chapati and spicy meat with rice.

On Mount Kilimanjaro , porters work tirelessly throughout the year to ensure the safety and comfort of trekkers. It’s a competitive job, and many tour companies offer low pay and poor working conditions. The Kilimanjaro Porters Assistance Project’s important mission is to improve the working conditions on Mount Kilimanjaro by helping travel companies implement procedures that ensure the fair and ethical treatment of porters.

Top trips: 

• 8-Day Serengeti Trail 
• 13-Day Cycle Tanzania
• 27-Day Gorillas, Game Parks & Beaches 

In the Andean communities of the Cusco region, reading coca leaves can give a glimpse of the year ahead. This spiritual practice has taken place since before Incan times, and has helped people make important decisions regarding their families and futures. Throwing the leaves in the air and observing the way they land on the ground is said to display signs and omens of events that are yet to happen (we wish they’d warned us about the early 2020s).

In the city of Cusco, the Manos Unidas Café provides those with intellectual disabilities vocational training and practical work experience to help with future employment. The friendly staff serve up some of the best food and coffee in Cusco, while the café offers community workshops for locals on job rights, personal empowerment and other valuable life skills.

• 7-Day Inca Trail Express
• 9-Day Premium Peru
• 20-Day Peru Encompassed

Related: Five of the best Christmas foods from around the world

3. Antarctica

While its neighbouring continents are experiencing scorching summers, Antarctic temperatures peak at a cool zero, and fascinating and magical things begin to take place. As the days grow longer and temperatures gently rise, the sound of ice falling from giant glaciers reverberates through the vast landscapes, and humpback whales return from tropical waters. Seal pups are born, tiny penguins begin to hatch, and it’s courting season for seabirds.

In the twentieth century, over two million whales were hunted for commercial use, with some species nearing extinction. The WWF project “Protecting Antarctic Giants” focuses on protecting Antarctic habitats and the species that live in them. By collecting crucial data to inform policy plans, by 2030 the WWF hope to designate a third of the Southern Ocean as a marine protected area to safeguard the environment for future generations of whales.

• 11-Day Best of Antarctica
• 14-Day Best of Antarctica in Depth (Ocean Endeavour)

A sultry samba beat is the soundtrack to Brazil’s endless summer days. The sun is hot, the sea is warm and the closest thing they’re getting to snow is dreamy white sand beaches. Plastic pine trees are covered in tinsel and lights, and Christmas dinner is a reflection of Brazil’s fusion of cultures. Across the country locals will be tucking into Portuguese cod, German stollen, and Italian panettone.

In Rio de Janeiro you’ll find Gastromotiva , a zero-waste cooking school and restaurant which allows students experiencing socioeconomic disadvantage the opportunity to learn how to prepare amazing food in a sustainable way. After six months of training, students are placed in local restaurants, providing them with employment and the chance to spread an important zero-waste message.

• 4-Day Rio de Janeiro Short Break
• 8-Day Best of Brazil
• 15-Day Premium Chile, Argentina & Brazil

Related: Unusual Christmas traditions from around the world

Despite being a predominantly Buddhist country, Christmas is widely celebrated across Vietnam , with families coming together to throw confetti, share food and exchange gifts. Throngs of motorbikes in Ho Chi Minh City zip under impressive light displays that would rival London’s Oxford Street. In Hanoi, locals’ shop for scarves and winter clothes in the Old Quarter before warming up with hearty bowls of Pho and rich egg coffee.

KOTO – Know One, Teach One is a social enterprise that trains and empowers at-risk and disadvantaged youth in Vietnam. The two-year training program not only teaches trainees skills in hospitality and the culinary arts, but also offers on-site psychological counselling, meditation exercises and workshops for personal development. Since KOTO’s inception in 1999, nearly a thousand graduates have completed the program with an internationally recognised qualification, all successfully finding employment post-training.

• 8-Day Treasures of Vietnam
• 10-Day Vietnam Express Northbound
• 18-Day Best of Vietnam & Cambodia

It’s winter in Morocco , and the nights in the desert are growing long and cold, while inhabitants of its humming cities welcome a break from the dry heat that engulfs the country for much of the year. A bright side to the shorter days is the incredible sunrises which can be appreciated without an early wakeup call, and the snow-capped Atlas Mountains make a beautiful backdrop for December in Morocco.

As many as 80% of girls in rural areas of Morocco are estimated to be illiterate. The cost of transport and accommodation for secondary school is unaffordable for many families, meaning few girls are able to continue their education after primary school. Education for All build and run boarding houses that allow girls to attend secondary school, while providing three meals a day, access to computers and support with their studies.

• 9-Day North Morocco Adventure
• 13-Day Morocco Uncovered
• 18-Day Morocco Encompassed

7. Sri Lanka

December’s full moon marks the beginning of the Adam’s Peak pilgrimage season, which sees visitors from across the country ascending Sri Lanka’s holiest mountain to view a sacred footprint. Buddhists, Hindus, Christians and Muslims have differing opinions on the origin of the footprint yet climb together in harmony to pay their respects. Locals will enjoy mild weather in the south of the country, and spend free time surfing, playing volleyball and backyard cricket.

Human and elephant conflict is an ongoing problem in Sri Lanka. Humans destroy elephants’ habitats to cultivate agricultural land, and the elephants in turn raid the crops and destroy farmers’ homes. The Sri Lanka Wildlife Conservation Society developed Project Orange Elephant, which encourages farmers to grow oranges, a crop that elephants aren’t attracted to, thus keeping the elephants safe while supporting the livelihood of local communities.

• 8-Day Simply Sri Lanka
• 12-Day Sri Lanka Family Holiday
• 14-Day Cycle Sri Lanka

Related: Our guide to central Europe’s Christmas markets

Turkey is buzzing in the lead up to New Year’s Eve, one of the biggest holidays in the country. If you’re looking for luck, prosperity and health in the coming year, there are a few Turkish traditions you can try out as the clock ticks over. Smash a pomegranate on the street, throw salt on your doorstep, or wear red underwear for your best chance at a fruitful year ahead.

At Small Projects Istanbul , refugee women who have been displaced from their homes by conflict are given access to educational material and taught language, leadership and computer skills. They also learn how to craft sellable products like unique and beautiful clothing and jewellery. Children are offered childcare, language and psychosocial support to help them adapt to their new schools.

• 8-Day Turkey Highlights
• 4-Day Cappadocia Short Break
• 2-Day Gallipoli Pilgrimage

Looking for a worthy cause to support this festive season? Lend a hand to Communities in Crisis around the world.

Not looking to travel in December? No worries. Check out our guides for the rest of the year:

• October 

Hero image via Shutterstock.

Feeling inspired?

Intrepid Travel

Intrepid has been leading small group adventures for over 30 years. We’re a certified B Corp, which means we want to be the best travel company not just in the world, but for the world. To create positive change through the joy of travel. You can read our latest adventures right here.

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• 46 Places To Visit In December In The World In 2024

23 Mar 2023

Wouldn’t it be nice, if the year finished with a memorable vacation at any of the best December destinations in the world that has been on your bucket list for long? To help you realize that grand ending to this year, check out some of the best places to visit in December in the world .

The month of December, preceded by the Indian festival and marriage season, marks the beginning of a late surge of tourists scampering across the globe in search of a delightful holidaying end to their year. Therefore, all eyes go towards all the spectacular beaches, cities, and mountains that form an irresistible list of best places to visit in December in the world .

46 Best Places To Visit In December In The World In 2024

The temptation of sneaking in a week’s worth of sun at a tropical paradise during the cold and harsh winter months is definitely irresistible at some of the best places to visit in December in the world. Luckily, the planet’s weather system allows that during any given month of the year, there will be multiple best places to visit in December in the world that you can pick to visit.

• Krabi: A tropical paradise
• Cape Town: True beauty
• Cancun: Mexican Pina Coladas
• Maldives: Honeymooners Shangri La
• Langkawi: For one-stop entertainment
• La Romana: Charming coastal city
• Goa: Party and beaches
• Siargao Island: Tear-drop island
• Bali: For an idyllic holiday
• Mauritius: For endless beaches
• Cusco: Historical charm
• Rio De Janeiro: For peppy drum beats
• Miami: Premier partying spot
• Dubai: Futuristic city
• Singapore: The melting pot of Asia
• Sydney: Christmas on a beach
• Madrid: Spanish capital of celebrations
• Jamaica: For a Carribean vacation
• Aswan: For a ferry cruise
• Buenos Aires: Blend of Latin and European
• Mexico City: For its glorious history
• Cartagena: An Old Town beauty
• Cairo: The Egyptian capital
• Philippines: For the love of islands
• Costa Rica: For sandy beaches and adventure
• Chile: Enjoy the scenic landscapes
• Laos: A backpacker’s paradise
• Cambodia: The Land of beautiful temples
• Vietnam: A lost paradise
• Belize: Surrounded by the blue ocean
• Guatemala: For the taste of adventure and nature
• Fiji: Tropical heaven on earth
• New Zealand: Into the wild
• Cuba: For the Latino charm
• Tasmania: Wild and crazy adventures
• Spain: For young and free souls
• South Africa: Old world charm
• Greece: Boundless beauty
• Hawaii: Best beaches
• Italy: A slice of medieval life
• Sri Lanka: The tear-drop gem
• Bhutan: The Land of Thunder Dragon
• Czech Republic: The architectural marvel
• Hong Kong: The shopaholics paradise
• Peru: For adventure-loving couple
• Uruguay: Best of South America

1. Krabi – A Tropical Paradise

One of the first destinations that come to mind of any traveller recollecting the best places to go in December in the world would be Thailand. Rarely do you see a country around the world as diverse, rich, and dynamic as this one.

Krabi is one such scenic province located on the southwest coast of Thailand that is littered with gorgeous limestone mounds, white sand beaches, and aqua-blue waters. The area is very famous for honeymooners, family travellers, luxury travellers, and explorers.

Places to visit in Krabi : Phi Phi Islands, Ao Nang, Ko Phi Phi Don, Ko Lanta Things to shop: Elephant pants, soap carvings, Thai tribal handicrafts Things to do In Krabi : Phi Phi Islands, Railay Beach , Ko Lanta Yai, and Ko Poda Weather in December: The weather in Krabi in December is cool with temperatures around 30 degrees Celsius. How to reach: Take a flight to Bangkok from New Delhi, Mumbai or Bangalore. You could either take a ferry or a connecting flight to Krabi.

Must Read: Darjeeling In December

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2. Cape Town – True Beauty

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Known as the Southernmost city of Africa, Cape Town has historic significance to the growth and development of trade between Europe and Asia. If you’re a fan of panoramic beaches, white sandy banks, and a vibrant nightlife scene it is the right place for experiencing one of the best places to visit in December in the world. It is one of the best places to visit in December for couples .

Places to visit in Cape Town : Table Mountain, National Botanical Garden, Robben Island, Two Oceans Aquarium, and Castle of Good Hope Things to shop: Diamonds, leather handbags, Ardmore ceramic art, beadwork craft Things to do In Cape Town : beach hopping, hiking to Table Mountain, wine tasting, visit Robben Island Weather in December: Even though the temperature is around 30 degrees Celsius, it rains like crazy How to reach: Qatar Airways and Ethiopian Airlines have flights from New Delhi to Cape Town with minimum layovers.

3. Cancun – Mexican Pina Coladas

Image Credit: Mariamichelle for Pixabay

Often underlined for its parties and luxurious resorts, Cancun has the capacity to surprise travellers and present a case for it being one of the best places to travel in December on a budget. Due to its close proximity to the United States, Cancun has long been the favourite and the best destination to visit in December in world among the younger generation of students and travellers that lie below the age of 30.

Places to visit in Cancun : Xcaret Park, Coba, Xel Ha Park, and Cancun Underwater Museum Things to shop: Sombrero, Mayan jewellery, silverware, weaved baskets Things to do In Cancun : Beach hopping, swimming in an underground river, zip-lining, visiting Chichen Itza, ATV rides Weather in December: The weather is pleasant with temperatures ranging between 20 to 28 degrees Celsius. How to reach:  Lufthansa and Air Canada have flights from New Delhi to Cancun with stoppage on the way.

Suggested Read: 7 Must-Try Cruises In New Zealand

4. Maldives – Honeymooners Shangri La

A swansong for honeymooners and travellers in search of a romantic vacation, Maldives has carved an undeniable for itself in luxury travel. The small islets, incredible resorts, aqua blue water, and pristine beaches make the Maldives as a strong contender for the best places to visit in the winter in the world.

Places to visit in Maldives : Male, Maafushi, Addu City, Fulhadhoo, Fulidhoo Things to shop for: miniature boats, soap and bathing products, mats, Things to do: Snorkeling, Overnight stay in a water villa and dine at an underwater restaurant . Weather in December: The temperature lies between 25 to 30 degrees Celsius but it is also the rainiest month in the Maldives. How to reach: You can take a direct flight from New Delhi to Maldives.

5. Langkawi – For One-stop Entertainment

A scenic archipelago of 104 islands, Langkawi is Malaysia’s answer to Las Vegas and Macau. Despite receiving a huge number of tourists of all ages, gender, and nationality- there is a universal agreement among travellers for a fact that adventure and luxury combined can be experienced best in Langkawi which happens to be the top countries to visit in December.

Places to visit in Langkawi : Langkawi Cable Car, Payar Island, Art Paradise in Langkawi, and Pantai Cenang Beach Things to shop for: jewelry, cosmetics, handbags, electronic items Weather in December: The temperature in Langkawi in December lies between 25 to 30 degrees Celsius. How to reach:  Malaysia Airlines, and Singapore Airlines have flights from New Delhi with stoppage in Kuala Lumpur.

Suggested Read: Italy In December

6. La Romana – Charming Coastal City

Image Credit: violetta for Pixabay

La Romana is one of the best cities to visit in December in the world on the Caribbean coast of the Dominican Republic. The place is known for its picturesque and affordable beaches. The natural beauty of this place and the amazing weather during the last month of the year make it one of the best places to visit in December in the world with family. The weather during this time is moderate. La Romana is a great place to shop on the island, especially for crafts work.

Places to visit in La Romana: Altos de Chavón, Teeth of the Dog, Dye Fore Golf Course of Casa de Campo, Playa Caleta Things to shop: Dominican coffee, Amber and Larimar jewels, faceless doll ornaments Weather in December: The temperature ranges between 19 to 30 degrees Celsius making it an apt time to plan a trip to La Romana in December. How to reach: There are no direct flights from India to La Romana or any other airport in the Dominican Republic.

7. Goa – Party And Beaches

Goa experiences moderate weather conditions during the month of December. The average temperatures range from 22 to 33 degrees. Also, this is the month when the biggest festival, the Sunburn Festival is organized in Goa. Make sure you visit the ‘Queen of Beaches’ in Goa, Calangute Beach. Also, visit Palolem Beach which is one of the most popular beaches among tourists.

Places to visit in Goa : Palolem Beach, Patnem Beach, Colomb Beach, Aguada Fort, Basilica of Bom Jesus Things to shop: Sarongs, pheni, cashew nut, spices, kokam Weather in December: December is the perfect time to take a trip to Goa as the weather is amazing. How to reach: Goa has flights from all the major cities in India.

Suggested Read: 20 Places To Visit In Kerala In December

8. Siargao Island – Tear-Drop Island

This is one of the most beautiful places in the world to visit in December. Siargao Island in the Philippine Sea has is the unique shape of a tear-drop. The island is about 437 square kilometres long. Enjoy pristine sand beaches and azure waters on this island. The weather in the region during December is dry, but good enough to explore this lovely island. Much loved destination by surfers, enjoy this water adventure sport on the popular wave ‘cloud-9’. If you are looking for the best place for honeymoon, this destination is one of the best places to visit in December in world for honeymoon.

Places to visit in Siargao Island: Guyam Island, Daku Island, Cloud 9 Surfing Area, Dedon Island Siargao Inc. Things to shop: Chocnut, Pulvoron (a local sweet), Weather in December: 24 out of 31 days experience rainfall while the rest seven remain dry. How to reach:  To reach manila, you will have to take a connecting flight from Singapore or Kuala Lumpur. Manage your transport to the island from Manila.

9. Bali – For An Idyllic Holiday

Bali, as they say isn’t a destination but a state of mind, and a pretty great one indeed. Bali, an island in Indonesia is one of the best December destinations in the world and if you are wondering about when to visit, then December is a great month to head to this paradise. The luxurious beach resorts and romantic villas make it an ideal honeymoon destination. An island to both relax and have an adventure, Bali is a complete package in itself, and one of the top countries to visit in December.

Places to visit in Bali : Ubud, Kuta, Nusa Dua Things to shop: Bali batik, coffee and chocolates, wood figures and handicrafts, woven bags Weather in December: The best time to go to Bali is in December are the weather is amazing How to reach: Bali has regular flights from various cities in India.

Suggested Read: Bali In January

10. Mauritius – For Endless Beaches

Another top honeymoon destination of the world , Mauritius is known for its pristine beaches. An island nation in East Africa, Mauritius is the epitome of beauty and what makes it one of the places to go in December in world is the complete holiday experience. Mauritius has a lot of luxurious resorts and hotels for accommodation. The sandy beaches with turquoise clear waters, make Mauritius one of the best and safe places to travel in December.

Places to visit in Mauritius : Black River Gorges National Park, le aux Cerfs, Seven Colored Earth Things to shop: Phoenix beer, rum, dodo artefacts, colored earth Weather in December: The month of December is the best time to take a trip to Mauritius and enjoy open skies and sunshine How to reach: There are regular flights from New Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore to Mauritius.

11. Rio De Janeiro – For Peppy Drum Beats

Rio De Janeiro, the capital city of Brazil, is arguably the most vivid, colorful, and energetic city of the world. Indulge yourself in the ever-present carnival aura that the city is made of. Along with your loved one, you can experience some of the best sightseeing places at the heart of samba land. It is one of the best places to visit in December outside India.

Places to visit in Río De Janeiro: Christ the Redeemer, Copacabana Beach, Sugarloaf mountain, Maracaibo, and Ipanema Beach Things to shop: beachwear, hammocks, dry-cure cigars, Brazilian ceramics Weather in December: The temperature lies between 23 to 29 degrees Celsius How to reach:  Air India and Ethopian have connecting flights from New Delhi to Rio de Janeiro with multiple stops on the way.

Suggested Read: 31 Places To Visit Near Delhi In December

12. Miami – Party Central

In the list of places to visit in December in the world, they don’t come more iconic and well-known than Miami. Hundreds of songs, movies, and TV shows have sung praises of the palm trees, evergreen weather, eccentric people, and lavish lifestyle that is no less than a dream for a common man. It is one of the best warm places to visit in December in the world. It is one of the best places to visit in December in Europe .

Places to visit in Miami : Miami Seaquarium, Vizcaya Museum and Gardens, Lincoln Road, and Coral Castle Things to shop: Cigars, local jams, keylime products Weather in December: The temperature in Miami is between 19 to 23 degrees Celsius How to reach: You could take a connecting flight to Miami from Delhi or Mumbai.

13. Dubai – Futuristic City

A classic story of an oasis in the desert can be seen realized in Dubai. In a desert that stretches endlessly for thousands of miles, there has been an ultra-futuristic city like Dubai built to flex the financial muscle of the royal Arab sheikhs. Home to the world’s tallest building, the fastest Rollercoaster, and the world’s biggest water park, Dubai is an irresistible dream vacation for all travellers who love adventure.

Places to visit in Dubai : Burj Khalifa, Desert Safari, Gold Souk, Palm Jumeirah, and Wild Wadi Waterpark. Things to shop: Perfumes, oudh, dates, pashmina gold, and electronics Weather in December: The temperature in Dubai lies between 16 to 26 degrees Celsius. How to reach: There are direct flights to Dubai from major cities in India.

Suggested Read: 22 Best Places To Visit In South India In December

14. Singapore – The Melting Pot Of Asia

If ever someone had to summarize Asia in one city, it had to be Singapore. The roots of the city originate from an amalgamation of cultures from all over Asia to morph into a modern society. It is one of the best places to visit in December in Asia .

Travelers can enjoy a host of entertainment parks, theme parks, sounds and lights, shopping areas, and delicious cuisines from all around the world.

Places to visit in Singapore: Sentosa Island, Gardens by the Bay, Merlin’s fountain, and Little India. Things to shop: orchid perfumes, minitaure Merlions, coconut jam, laksa paste Weather in December: The weather is pleasant with temperatures lying between 25 to 31 degrees Celsius How to reach: You will find multiple airlines flying on the route to Singapore and India.

15. Sydney – Christmas On A Beach

Image Credit: Squirrel_photos for Pixabay

One advantage of travelling to Australia in the month of December is that you get to experience this beautiful summertime weather. With a thriving immigrant population, Sydney adds a tinge of cultural dynamism and a cosmopolitan vibe to its society. Visit some iconic monuments, world-class restaurants, and scenic sightseeing places that will vindicate your decision to head to one of the best places to visit in December out of India .

Places to visit in Sydney : Sydney Harbor Bridge , Opera House, Bondi Beach, and Taronga Zoo. Things to shop: Emu oils, opla, Ugg boots, Macadamia nuts Weather in December: It is not as hot as other parts in Australia with temperatures between 18 to 25 degrees Celsius How to reach: There are direct flights from New Delhi and Mumbai to Sydney.

Suggested Read: 5 Places To Visit In Europe In December

16. Madrid – Spanish Capital Of Celebrations

Imagine the signature brick streets the capital city, Madrid, illuminated and decorated to ooze festive vibes. Madrid is a city full of madness and spirit. Famous for its Royal Palace, Prado Museum, medieval castles, cheesy – herby cuisine and carnivals, there is no chance of falling short of plans. December is a great time to be here because the temperatures get cooler, unlike the hot weather that prevails throughout the year.

Places to visit in Madrid : Plaza Mayor, Central Madrid, Museo Nacional Del Prado, Buen Retiro Park are some of the most popular places to visit Things to shop: Churros, Shawls, thimbles, Majórica Pearls Weather in December: It gets cold in Madrid in December with temperatures between 4 to 10 degrees Celsius. How to reach:  New Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore have direct flights to Madrid, Spain.

17. Jamaica – For A Carribean Vacation

If you are in the mood for a tropical beach holiday, there is no better place than Jamaica. Sip pina coladas and margaritas by the beaches in Jamaica and enjoy reggae music. It is best known for adventure, nightlife, and wondrous flora and fauna. Plus the weather in December is warm and sunny making it perfect to escape the winter chill in India. Do not forget to visit the Nergil Beach which is like a jewel to its crown. Enjoy the bamboo raft ride and lush vegetation of the country.

Places to visit in Jamaica : Doctor’s Cave Beach, Montego Bay Cruise Port, Rastafari Indigenous Village Things to shop: Blue mountain coffee, white rum, wooden bowls, wooden carvings Weather in December: December is the time when Jamaica receives the least rainfall making it a great time to plan your trip How to reach:  You will have to take a cruise ride from the neighbouring countries to reach Jamaica.

Suggested Read: France In December

18. Aswan – For A Ferry Cruise

Egypt, being a desert country, the weather during December will remain dry, sunny and warm. But the temperatures are not in extremes and which makes it one of the best places to visit in December around the world. Aswan is a beautiful city located in this ancient country of Pharaohs. Set on the River Nile, this place has many archaeological sites within its boundaries. December is a great time for a ferry ride that happens to be ine of the best things to do in Aswan and enjoy the charming views of the city.

Places to visit in Aswan: Unfinished Obelisk, Nubian Museum, Mausoleum of Aga Khan Things to shop: Nubian skullcaps, Aswan silk, lamps Weather in December: The temperature lies between 12 to 25 degrees Celsius How to reach: AirIndia and EgyptAir have connecting flights to Aswan from New Delhi as cheap as INR 60,000. Prices are subject to change.

19. Cusco – Historical Charm

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This city in Peruvian Andes is known for its archaeological remains from the Inca Empire to which it served as a capital. Cusco is also popular for the marvelous Spanish colonial architecture. This UNESCO World Heritage Site has fascinating streets through which you can take walking tours to explore the city. Visit Cusco during December will bring you the chance of witnessing its beauty enhanced by the wet season. This is what puts Cusco among the places to visit in December around the world.

Places to visit in Cusco: Sacred Valley, Saqsaywaman, Qorikancha, Tambomachay Things to shop: Chullo, Alpaca clothing, paintings Weather in December: The temperature lies between 7 to 20 degrees Celsius with 13 days of rainfall. How to reach: There are multiple airlines offering connecting flights to Cusco from New Delhi.

Suggested Read: 31 Best Places In The World To Celebrate New Year

20. Buenos Aires – Blend Of Latin And European

The capital city of Argentina is another city destination to visit in December. With a beautiful blend of Latin with European, it is quite a touristy town. This cosmopolitan hub often comes across as a concrete jungle, but if delved deeper, it has its own share of history and charm. Walk down the streets of the city and marvel at the beautiful old buildings here.

Places to visit in Buenos Aires: Recoleta Cemetery, Casa Rosada, Teatro Colón Things to shop: Dulce de Leche, knives, Mate set Weather in December: The temperature lies between 19 to 28 degrees Celsius with 8 days of rainfall How to reach:  There are multiple flights from New Delhi to Buenos Aires with layover in one or sometimes two cities.

21. Mexico City – For Its Glorious History

If one is looking for city destinations, then another amazing place to visit in the world in December is the capital of Mexico, Mexico City. Mexico City is mesmerizing for not just one, but for reasons too many. Known for its scenic beauty, it has both pristine beaches and glorious heritage. December is a great time to head here as the weather is both dry and mild. The coastal areas are comparatively warmer than inland areas.

Places to visit in Mexico City : Chapultepec Park, Metropolitan Cathedral, and the National Palace Things to shop: coffee, chocolate, Talavera pottery, tequila Weather in December: The weather is pleasant with temperatures between 24 to 28 degrees Celsius How to reach:  You will have to fly to the US and then take a connecting flight to Mexico city.

Suggested Read: 5 Cruises In Mexico

22. Cartagena – An Old Town Beauty

One of the first Spanish colonies on the continent of America, Cartagena has come a long way. Facing the Caribbean Sea, situated on Colombia’s northern coast, it is a touristy town. Pretty crowded during the December holidays, this is when this city sees the most number of tourists. With a number of luxurious hotels and chic cafes, it is a great place to visit in December.

Places to visit in Cartagena: Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas, Palace of Inquisition, Las Bóvedas Things to shop: Mochila Shoulder Bag, Colombian Coffee, rum, beachwear Weather in December: The temperature lies between 25 to 30 degrees Celsius in Cartagena in December. How to reach: Take a connecting flight to Cartagena from New York or Fort Lauderdale.

23. Cairo – The Egyptian Capital

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If you want to escape the biting cold weather in North India, plan a vacation to Egypt. Not only will you get to soak lots of Vitamin D but also get to witness the Pyramids of Giza and River Nile this place is famous for.

Places to visit in Cairo: Giza Necropolis, Khan el-Khalili, Pyramid of Djoser, Egyptian Museum Things to shop: Handcrafted metal works, hookah, incense Things to do In Cairo: Camel safari, scuba diving, adventure sports Weather in December: Egypt remains sunny and dry throughout the year since it is a desert area. How to reach: You will find direct flights from Mumbai to Cairo.

Suggested Read: 11 Things To Do In Cairo

24. Philippines – For The Love Of Islands

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The reason why the Philippines is so popular among tourists is the 7100 islands it has in its kitty. Explore the staggering beauty of this place and immerse in the unique island experiences. Boracay Island in the Philippines are a must-visit on your vacation.

Places to visit in Philippines: Boracay, Chocolate hills, Panglao Islands, Mactan, Siargao Islands Things to shop: Souvenir shirts with tropical prints, dried mangoes, San Miguel beer, traditional accessories Things to do In Philippines : Surfing, island hopping, sunbathing, try delicious island cuisine Weather in December : There are no spells of rainfall. So, the weather is usually dry. How to reach:  You will have to take a connecting flight from Singapore, Bangkok, or Kuala Lumpur to Manila, Philippines.

25. Costa Rica – For Sandy Beaches And Adventure

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A country in Central America, Costa Rica is famous for its sandy beaches, volcanoes, and rich biodiversity. After all, one-fourth of the country is covered with dense jungles that are home to endangered wildlife.

Places to visit in Costa Rica : San Jose, Monteverde, La Fortuna, Tamarindo, Jaco Things to shop: Jewelry, gourmet coffee, handcrafted shoes, natural beauty products, artwork Things to do in Costa Rica : Visit Manuel Antonio National park and Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve, hit the beaches, Weather in December: Costa Rica observes rainfall throughout the year but December is the best time to visit this country How to reach:  There are flights from New Delhi, Ahmedabad, and Mumbai to Costa Rica airports in San Jose and Liberia.

Suggested Read: 10 Costa Rica Travel Tips

26. Chile – Enjoy The Scenic Landscapes

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You may not even think about taking a trip to Chile but you should definitely consider this beautiful Latin American country for the love of the scenic landscapes and unique cultural experiences. Valparaiso and lake District are two of the must-visit places in Chile.

Places to visit in Chile : Santiago, Easter Island, Valparaiso, Torres del Paine National Park Things to shop: Chilean wine, Huaso – Chilean cowboy outfit, Rapanui, Copper art and jewelry Things to do In Chile : Trekking, rafting, sandboarding, shopping, enjoy Chilean food Weather in December: The weather in Chile in December is dry making it a perfect time to visit this place. How to reach:  It is not that easy to reach Chile from India. You will have to make multiple stops before you arrive in Chile.

27. Laos – A Backapcker’s Paradise

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Sharing its borders with Vietnam and Cambodia, Laos is one of the most popular places for backpacking. People generally cover these three destinations together. Laos is famous for laidback life and abundant nature. Luang Prabang is one of the most famous towns in Laos.

Places to visit in Laos : Vientiane, Luang Prabang, Vang Vieng, Pakse, Phonsavan Things to shop: Phaa sin – a traditional Laos skirt, coffee, handicrafts, shawls Things to do in Laos : explore night markets, sunset cruise in the Mekong River, visit Kuang Si Falls Weather in December: the weather in Laos in December is perfect to take a vacation How to reach: There is a direct flight from Kolkata airport to Luang Prabang.

Suggested Read: Shopping In Laos

28. Cambodia – The Land Of Beautiful Temples

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Famous for Angkor Wat, Cambodia is favorite place of backpackers. This southeast Asian country is known for its low-lying planes and historical temples. It is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site because of the history and beauty of these temple relics.

Places to visit in Cambodia : Krong Siem Reap, Phnom Penh, Tonle Sap, Banteay Srei Things to shop: Batik print clothing, woven mats, Cambodian silk, rice paper prints, soaps and candles Things to do in Cambodia : Watch sunrise or sunset at Angkor Wat, pub hopping in Pub street, visit the historic museums, explore the glowing caves in the night Weather in December: It is cool and windy, humidity is low and the temperature remains 25 degrees during the day. How to reach: There are no direct flights but you can take a connecting flight from cities like Ho Chi Minh City, Singapore and Vientiane.

29. Vietnam – A Lost Paradise

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Vietnam, the land of ascending dragon, is about all things lost. You can simply witness the charm of the ancient world and civilization in its architecture and culture. The beautiful Halong Bay is a place to die for. This place is abundant with rich flora and fauna.

Places to visit in Vietnam : Ha Long Bay, Hanoi, Hoi An, Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang, Sa Pa Things to shop: Ao Dai – the national costume of Vietnam, bamboo crafts, conical hats, hand embroidery, pottery items Things to do in Vietnam : Trekking, hiking, discovering waterfalls, caving, exploring floating villages Weather in December: The weather is pleasant to plan a vacation to Vietnam in December How to reach: Bangalore has a 4-hour flight to Vietnam.

Suggested Read: 10 Amazing Things To Do In Sapa

30. Belize – Surrounded By The Blue Ocean

If you are craving a Carribean getaway, then Belize will be perfect in December. The place is profusely rich with flora and fauna. Enjoy sunbathing on the sandy beaches and trek into the dense forests for a taste of adventure.

Places to visit in Belize: Caye Caulker, Great Blue Hole, Ambergris Caye, Xuanatunich, Lamanai Things to shop: Belizean chocolate, mayan basket, conch jewelry, wooden kitchenware, locally grown coffee Things to do: Caving in the world’s most sacred cave, explore mayan ruins with the least crowd, stay at a beachside hotel or resort Weather in December: The bright sunshine and salubrious weather in December makes it the best time to visit Belize. How to reach: Luckily there are direct flights from New Delhi to Philip S. W. Goldson International Airport with stopovers.

31. Guatemala – For The Taste Of Adventure And Nature

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Guatemala is indeed one of the most beautiful places to visit on earth. If you want to have a taste of adventure and nature, there couldn’t be a better place than Guatemala. The charm of colonial buildings and the remnants of earthquakes make a curious case to visit this Central American country.

Places to visit in Guatemala: Tikal, Lake Atitlan, Antigua Gautemala, Coban, Livingston Things to shop: handwoven scarf, jewelry, coffee, pottery Things to do: Visit the Mayan Ruins, Lake Atitlan, Semuc Champey, Pacaya Weather in December: December is the best time to visit Guatemala How to reach: Since there are no direct flights from India, take a connecting flight from Newark, London, or Houston.

Suggested Read: Best Trips: Pick Your Favorite, Pack Your Bags, And Head Right Out

32. Fiji – Tropical Heaven On Earth

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If you have been to Mauritius, then you should take a trip to Fiji this time. A group of 333 picturesque islands, Fiji is no less than a tropical heaven on earth. Enjoy a blissful, dreamy vacation.

Places to visit in Fiji : Nadi, Suva, Yasawa Islands, Viti Levu, Savusavu, Denarau Island, Kadavu Island

Things to shop: Sarong, Carved mask, woven mats & baskets, Tapa cloth Things to do in Fiji : snorkeling, sea cruise, hiking, visit a local village, become part of kava ceremony Weather in December: The weather in Fiji in December is perfect to take a vacation How to reach: Fortunately, there are direct flights from New Delhi, Bangalore, and Mumbai to Fiji Island. It takes about 15 hours via flight.

33. New Zealand – Into The Wild

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When it is winter in Asia, New Zealand enjoys a sunny weather. If you have a taste for adventure, the outbacks of New Zealand are perfect for wild experiences. It is a new place for thrill seekers and adventurists. No wonder it was a great place to shoot Lord of the Rings.

Places to visit in New Zealand : Queenstown, Auckland, Rotorua, Christchurch, Wellington Things to shop: Jade necklace, The One ring, Merino wool, charm bracelet Things to do in New Zealand : sandboarding, kayaking, ziplining, learn about Maori culture, visit Glowworm caves, wine tasting tour Weather in December: It is hot in New Zealand in December . So, if the sun is what you seek, then you should migrate to New Zealand for a month. How to reach:  Take a connecting flight from Singapore to Auckland as there is no direct flight from India.

Suggested Read: 10 Best Places For New Zealand Water Sports

34. Cuba – For The Latino Charm

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Go a little offbeat with your choice of place to travel and escape to Cuba, the land of islands. This place is known for its museums, gardens, and beautiful architecture. La Havana and Santiago de Cuba are two of the must-visit places in Cuba.

Places to visit in Cuba : Havana, Varadera, Trinidad, Vinales, Old Havana, Baracoa Things to shop: Cuban cigars and rum, local coffee, natural products, bean necklaces Things to do: Havana city tour, swim in a cenote, beach hopping, visit Topes National Park, try local cuisine Weather in December: The best time to plan a trip to Cuba is from November to March. How to reach:  Luckily, there are direct flights from India to Havana in Cuba.

35. Tasmania – Wild & Crazy Adventures

Tasmania in Australia is about all things wild. The south coast offers plenty of opportunities to get into the wild and enjoy the raw side of nature. The beaches of Tasmania are some of the most beautiful beaches in Australia .

Places to visit in Tasmania: Mona, Mount Wellington, Cradle Mountain, Mount Field National Things to shop for: organic produce, lavender, baked goods Things to do: Visit the lavender fields and tulip farms, Freycinet National Park, Satellite Island< Weather in December: It gets warm in Tasmania in December How to reach:  Take a connecting flight from Sydney or Melbourne as there are no direct flights from India. You could also take a ferry from these Australian cities.

Suggested Read: 7 Best Indian Restaurants In Hobart

36. Spain – For Young And Free Souls

Spain is one of the most loved destinations among tourists. From Barcelona to Madrid, there are so many interesting places to visit. And during the month of December, it becomes even more happening as it is the time of Christmas. The city celebrates it on a huge level. You will get to see Christmas markets, lit streets and much more, making it one of the best places to visit in December for Christmas.

Places to visit in Spain : Barcelona, Madrid, Seville, Granade, Ibiza, Palma Things to shop: Spanish fan, Olive oil Things to do in Spain : Hike at Camino, visit La Sagrada, take a Flamenco lesson Weather in December: The weather of Spain in December is pleasant. It doesn’t experience much cold How to reach:  Madrid and Barcelona have direct flights from Indian cities like Mumbai, Bangalore, New Delhi.

37. South Africa – Old World Charm

South Africa should be visited in the month of December, the weather is quite pleasant to explore the rugged places and embrace the beauty. The place offers a kind of old-world charm like old cities shown in Hollywood movies. You will definitely love the place.

Places to visit in South Africa : Cape Town, Johannesburg, Durban, Kruger National Park Things to shop: Old World Wine, spoons Things to do In South Africa : Spot wildlife at Kruger National Park Weather in December: The average temperature of South Africa during December is 30 degree celsius. It can rain sometimes. How to reach: Ethiopian Airlines fly on the New-Delhi and South Africa routes.

Suggested Read: 7 Homestays In South Africa

38. Greece – Boundless Beauty

Which is the city with white homes sparkling like stars in the mid-day? Greece, of course. Anybody would love to travel to Greece once in their lives thanks to its unparalleled beauty. It offers a paradisiacal day and a happening night experience. It is also known for its historical monuments.

Places to visit in Greece : Athens, Mykonos, Crete Region, Santorini, Oia, Rhodes Things to shop: Greek Tea Things to do in Greece : Sunbathe at beaches, visit historical monuments, explore white villages Weather In December: The weather of Greece during December is cold and it is advised to carry warm clothes while holidaying there. How to reach: Regular flights from New Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore fly to various international airports in Greece.

39. Hawaii – Best Beaches

In Hawaii, particularly on Kauai, there are some of the most beautiful hikes in the world. Although it is possible to hike throughout the year, autumn is a good choice, usually because there are more hours of daylight and the trails appear to be drier. You will have the most splendid time here.

Places to visit in Hawaii : Hanauma Bay, Diamond Head, Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park Things to shop: Junk Jewellery Things to do In Hawaii : Take a stroll on the beaches and catch the sunset with your loved one. Weather in December: The weather in Hawaii during December is pleasant. It is neither too hot nor too cold. How to reach:  There are no direct flights from India to Honolulu, Hawaii. You may take a connecting flight from Japan, Singapoe, or US.

Suggested Read: 9 Thrilling Things To Do In Honolulu

40. Italy – A Slice Of Medieval Life

During this time, you will be thrilled to find near-empty beaches. The Alba White Truffle Festival and the popular EuroChocolate from Perugia attract a large majority of foodies from all over the world. Make sure to pack a lot of woolen and bring your near and dear ones to this beautiful destination.

Places to visit in Italy : Rome, Venice, Milan, Florence, Naples, Siena, Amalfi Things to shop: Handmade sandals Things to do: Eat deep-dish pizza and pour yourself a glass of wine. Weather in December: It is likely to be raining where it is not snowing. Make sure you carry woolens. How to reach: Take a direct flight from New Delhi to Leonardo da Vinci–Fiumicino Airport in Rome, Italy which takes about 8 hours in the air.

41. Sri Lanka – The Tear-Drop Gem

The most beautiful country much famed for its tear-drop shape, Sri Lanka is one of the best places to visit in December in the world . Considered to be an apt choice for a laid-back vacation, Sri Lanka has a unique aura attached to its surroundings. Be it the beaches, the mountains, the locals, the architecture, or the food, every experience in this country just leaves you wanting more. So for those who are yet to update their bucket list for 2024, make sure you do not miss out on this one.

Places To Visit In Sri Lanka : Sigiriya, Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, Dambulla Royal Cave Temple and Golden Temple, Adam’s Peak, and more. Things To Shop: Handloom items, spices, jewellery, and tea Things To Do In Sri Lanka : Trek atop Sigiriya, go hiking on Adam’s Peak, wildlife safari at Yala National Park, interact with the elephants at Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, walk the sandy shore of Arugam Bay Beach, and more.  Weather In December : The weather in Sri Lanka fluctuates between 22 to 31 degrees celsius on average in the month of December.  How to reach: Sri Lanka has direct flights from New Delhi, Bangalore, and Mumbai through various operators.

Suggested Read: 12 Temples In Sri Lanka

42. Bhutan – The Land of Thunder Dragon

Nestled on the eastern edge of the mighty Himalayas, Bhutan is renowned worldwide as the Land of the Thunder Dragon. Considered to be one of the best places to visit in December in the world , this landlocked gem is a treasure chest of beautiful monasteries, gorgeous valleys, magnificent fortresses, and all good things. With its landscapes being so dramatic in nature, there is no way one could miss out on the Kingdom of Bhutan in 2024.

Places To Visit In Bhutan : Paro Taktsang, Punakha Dzong, Rinpung Dzong, Gangteng Monastery, National Museum of Bhutan, and more Things To Shop: Bhutanese Handicrafts, handwoven textiles, Himalayan beads, and postal stamps Things To Do In Bhutan : Trek to the Tiger’s Nest, visit the Buddhist temple of Kichu Lhakang, explore the National Museum of Bhutan, stay stunned by the Buddha Dordenma, explore Jigme Dorji National Park, and more Weather In December: You might as well want to pack your woollens as the temperature ranges from minus 1 to 13 degree Celsius in Bhutan in December. How to reach:  Indians can either fly to Bhutan or take a road trip. You will require a permit from Phunotshiling in case you are entering via land.

43. Czech Republic – The Architectural Marvel

Landlocked by Slovakia, Germany, Poland, and Austria on the east, west, north, and south respectively, Czechia, as it is popularly referred to, is one of the best places to visit in December in the world by all travellers alike. A historical country famous for its Baroque architecture, it is a strict no-no to miss out on the breweries, magical castles, spa towns, and gorgeous architecture when in the Czech Republic. Try the famous Pilsner beer without fail!

Places To Visit In Czech Republic : Prague Castle, Old Town Square, St. Vitus Cathedral, Dancing House, Petrin Tower, Strahov Monastery, and more Things To Shop: Marionettes (puppets), wooden toys, Bohemian glass, and Mucha posters Things To Do: Go boating under the Charles Bridge, admire the Prague Astronomical Clock, strike a pose near the Lennon Wall, take a guided tour of the Karlštejn Castle, walk down the Golden Lane, and more Weather In December: Get ready to get drenched in snow as the temperature ranges from minus two to 3 degree Celsius in the Czech Republic in December. How to reach:  Take a flight to Prague from India and then plan your onward journey to Czech Republic via air or land.

Suggested Read: Czech Republic Nightlife

44. Hong Kong – The Shopaholics Paradise 

Once a British Colony, Hong Kong is now the global financial hub located in the heart of China, in the southeastern region. Being one of the best places to visit in December in the world , it is also one of the leading urban hubs which is vibrant in nature and features a skyline that is studded with magnificent skyscrapers. Much famed as a major destination for shopping, do not miss out on entertaining yourself at the amazing amusement parks too!

Places To Visit In Hong Kong : Victoria Harbour, Lantau Island, Tian Tan Buddha, Avenue of Stars, Po Lin Monastery, Lamma Island, Repulse Bay, Sik Sik Yuen Wong Tai Sin Temple, and more Things To Shop: Designer handbags, famous labels, jewellery, perfumes, and electronics Things To Do In Hong Kong : Admire the skyline from Victoria Peak, stay amazed at Hong Kong Disneyland, go for thrilling rides at Ocean Park, shop at Tung Choi Street, enjoy the Ngong Ping 360, take the Peak Tram, and more Weather In December: The weather in December is pretty moderate in Hong Kong as the temperature ranges from 15 to 20 degrees Celsius. How to reach: You will find direct flights to Hong Kong from New Delhi, Mumbai, and Kolkata.

45. Peru – For Adventure-Loving Couples

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Peru is one of the best countries to visit in December given its salubrious weather. You could go hiking in Machu Picchu, visit the famous oasis, and climb up the rainbow mountain. Peru is full of surprises and one of the most beautiful countries too. You will also get amazing cultural and food experiences on your vacation.

Places to visit in Peru :  Lima, Cusco, The Sacred Valley of Incas, Machu Picchu Things to shop: Chullos, Andean Flutes and cross jewellery, Kero cups Things to do In Peru : Hiking, sandboarding, surfing Weather in December: Peru in December is sunny, dry, and warm. The temperature is as high as 2 degrees Celsius and as low as 7 degrees. How to reach:  You can take a connecting flight to Lima, Peru’s capital from European and American cities.

Suggested Read: Plan An Exotic Peru Honeymoon

46. Uruguay – Best Of South America

If you are wondering about the best destinations in December, head to Uruguay. The South American country is breathtakingly beautiful with its enticing beaches and attractions influenced by Australian culture. The country is a haven for meat lovers as there is a huge variety of food to explore and savour. The art deco buildings, colonial homes, and waterfront promenade make it a happening place to visit.

Places to visit in Uruguay:  La Paloma, Punta del Diablo, Santa Teresa National Park Things to shop: Minerals and stones, gaucho hat, leather products Things to do: beach hopping, surfing, hiking Weather in December: October to March is the spring season in Uruguay posing as an ideal time to take a trip. How to reach:  There are flights from New Delhi and Amritsar that are in no way cheap. The one-way flight to Uruguay begins from INR 98,000 onwards.

Further Read: 10 Hong Kong Casinos

We hope that this much-needed push will motivate you to travel even more. Therefore, after looking at all these best places to visit in December in the world, you can surely plan a fantastic end to your year by planning an international trip with your loved ones.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Best Places To Visit In December In The World

Which are some of the safest places to visit in December in the world for families with kids?

Some of the safest places to visit in December in the world for families with kids are the following: Finland, UAE, Iceland, Oman, Hong Kong, Singapore, Norway, Switzerland, Rwanda, Qatar, Portugal, Luxembourg, New Zealand, and Austria.

Which are some of the must-visit places in December in the world?

The countries that are known as the best places to go in December are: USA, Czech Republic, Maldives, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Dubai, Hong Kong, and Malaysia. The mentioned places are popular for their exquisite festive vibes during New Year.

Where can I go budget-friendly for Christmas?

Owing to the festivities, traveling can be an expensive affair. However, if you want to travel cheaply during Christmas time, you must consider visiting the places listed below: 1. Punta Cana/Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic 2. Roatán Island, Honduras 3. Puerto Vallarta, México 4. Montego Bay, Jamaica 5. Roatán Island, Honduras 6. San Juan, Puerto Rico

Where can I go over Christmas break?

If you’re looking for some warm and best places to travel in December on a budget from India, visiting Puerto Vallarta in Mexico, Montego Bay in Jamaica and Roatan Island in Honduras are some of the best options to choose from.

What countries are hot in December?

Cancun, Dominican Republic, Barbados, Brisbane, and Cape Verde are some of the warmest places in the world in December that you can head to. You can surely enjoy various activities at these places like snorkeling, scuba diving, and swimming.

Is December a good time to visit Spain?

The best time to explore the Spanish lands varies from city to city in this country. Summers is an ideal time to visit Malaga, Cordoba, and Costa del Sol. In December, which is also the winter season here, you can visit coastal cities like Andalucía.

Is December a good time to visit India?

The best time to visit India is during the months of October and March when the weather is mildly warm and from December to January, there is fog and weather cools down to a minimum temperature of 5 degree Celsius in the north, especially the capital city of Delhi.

Which country is best for tourism 2024?

Although the choice of destinations totally depends on your preference. However, the top countries that are ideal for tourism in 2024 are Japan and New Zealand. Japan is known for its unique culture and landscapes and New Zealand is known for its stunning natural beauty and outdoor activities.

Which country is best to visit in December in Europe?

In Europe, Germany is often considered the best place to travel in December. Its festive Christmas markets, like those in Nuremberg and Munich, offer a magical holiday atmosphere. Additionally, you can enjoy winter sports in the Bavarian Alps or explore charming cities like Berlin and Dresden while experiencing the holiday spirit.

What is the biggest travel trend in 2024?

Here is the list of the biggest travel trends in 2024: Eco-tourism Experiential travel Digital Nomadism Wellness travel Multi-generational travel.

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Air Travel Consumer Report: December 2022, Full Year 2022 Numbers

WASHINGTON – The U.S. Department of Transportation today released its Air Travel Consumer Report (ATCR) on airline operational data compiled for the month of December 2022 and calendar year 2022 for on-time performance, mishandled baggage, and mishandled wheelchairs and scooters. 

The ATCR is designed to assist consumers with information on the quality of services provided by airlines. DOT remains committed to ensuring airline passengers are treated fairly and is concerned about recent flight cancellations and flight disruptions and difficulties families are experiencing in sitting together with no fees. The Department is currently investigating four domestic airlines to ensure that they are not engaging in unrealistic scheduling of flights. Last week, DOT rolled out a new family seating dashboard that highlights the airlines that guarantee fee-free family seating, and those that do not, making it easier for parents to avoid paying junk fees to sit with their children when they fly. 

Also, last summer, the Department announced its new airline customer service dashboard to help travelers determine what services they are owed when a flight is canceled or delayed because of an airline issue. Because of the creation of this dashboard and Secretary Buttigieg urging U.S. airlines to improve their service, the airlines made significant changes to their plans, which are now enforceable. Before DOT pressed airlines, none of them guaranteed meals or hotels when they were the cause of a cancellation or significant flight change. Today, all 10 large U.S. airlines commit to providing meals upon request when a controllable cancellation or delay results in passengers waiting for three hours or more for a new flight. In addition, nine of the 10 large U.S. airlines now promise to provide hotel accommodations upon request for any passenger affected by a controllable overnight delay or cancellation. A controllable cancellation or delay is a delay or cancellation caused by the airline.

DOT uses the data from the ATCR, consumer complaints, and other information it secures from the airlines to inform its enforcement activities and the adequacy of existing rules.

Flight Operations

The 547,134 flights operated in December 2022 were 81.33% of the 672,765 flights operated in pre-pandemic December 2019.  Operated flights in December 2022 were down 3.41% year-over-year from the 566,465 flights operated in December 2021 and down 2.48% month-over-month from 561,067 flights operated in November 2022.

In December 2022, the 10 marketing network carriers reported 578,321 scheduled domestic flights, 31,187 (5.4%) of which were canceled. In December 2021, the same airlines reported 566,465 scheduled domestic flights, 13,773 (2.4%) of which were canceled. In November 2022, airlines scheduled 567,507 domestic flights, of which 6,440 (1.1%) were canceled. In December 2019, airlines scheduled 679,941 domestic flights, of which 7,176 (1.1%) were canceled.

December 2022 On-Time Arrival

In December 2022, reporting marketing carriers posted an on-time arrival rate of 69.0% down from 80.0% in November 2022 and down from 78.2% in pre-pandemic December 2019. The year-to-date on-time arrival rate for 2022 is 76.7%.

Highest Marketing Carrier On-Time Arrival Rates December 2022 (ATCR Table 1)

• Delta Air Lines Network – 77.5%
• American Airlines Network – 73.7%
• United Airlines Network – 71.8% 

Lowest Marketing Carrier On-Time Arrival Rates December 2022 (ATCR Table 1)

• Frontier Airlines – 56.6%
• Allegiant Air – 57.2%
• Hawaiian Airlines – 58.1%

For calendar year 2022, the reporting marketing carriers posted an on-time arrival rate of 76.72% down from 78.97% for the same period in pre-pandemic 2019.

December 2022 Flight Cancellations

In December 2022, reporting marketing carriers canceled 5.4% of their scheduled domestic flights, higher than the rate 1.1% in both November 2022 and in pre-pandemic December 2019.  Of the industry-wide 5.4% cancellation rate in December 2022, 54.51% of the cancellations were attributed to Southwest. Southwest canceled 14,042 flights from December 24 to December 31, which was 72.3% of the total flights that reporting carriers canceled during that time.

Lowest Marketing Carrier Rates of Canceled Flights December 2022 (ATCR Table 6)

• American Airlines Network – 1.8%  
• JetBlue Airways – 1.9%   
• Delta Air Lines Network – 2.9%    

Highest Marketing Carrier Rates of Canceled Flights December 2022 (ATCR Table 6)

• Southwest Airlines – 14.6%    
• Alaska Airlines Network – 7.6%    
• Allegiant Air – 5.3%    

For calendar year 2022, the reporting marketing carriers posted a cancellation rate of 2.7% up from 1.9% for the same period in pre-pandemic 2019.

Complaints About Airline Service

The Department received a high volume of air travel service complaints and inquiries against airlines and ticket agents in December 2022. The Department’s Office of Aviation Consumer Protection is working diligently to process the large number of complaints and inquiries received. Nevertheless, the issuance of the ATCR has been delayed because of the time needed to review and process these consumer complaints. Consumer complaint data for December 2022 and the full year 2022 will be publicly available in its usual format in early April at https://www.transportation.gov/individuals/aviation-consumer-protection/air-travel-consumer-reports.

Tarmac Delays

In December 2022, airlines reported 79 tarmac delays of more than three hours on domestic flights, compared to eight tarmac delays reported in November 2022. In December 2022, airlines reported three tarmac delays of more than four hours on international flights, compared to five tarmac delays reported in November 2022. For calendar year 2022, airlines reported 376 tarmac delays of more than three hours on domestic flights and 21 tarmac delays of more than four hours on international flights. For calendar year 2021, airlines reported 155 tarmac delays of more than three hours on domestic flights and nine tarmac delays of more than four hours on international flights.

Airlines are required to have and adhere to assurances that they will not allow aircraft to remain on the tarmac for more than three hours for domestic flights and four hours for international flights without providing passengers the option to deplane, subject to exceptions related to safety, security, and Air Traffic Control related reasons. An exception also exists for departure delays if the airline begins to return the aircraft to a suitable disembarkation point to deplane passengers by those times.

Extended tarmac delays are investigated by the Department.

Mishandled Baggage

In December 2022, reporting marketing carriers handled 40.4 million bags and posted a mishandled baggage rate of 1.09%, higher than the rate of 0.51% in November 2022 and higher than the rate of 0.66% in pre-pandemic December 2019. Of the industry-wide 1.09% mishandling rate in December 2022, 26.68% of the mishandlings were attributed to Southwest.

For calendar year 2022, the carriers posted a mishandled baggage rate of 0.64%, higher rate than the 2019 rate of 0.59%.

In the previous three calendar year reports (2019 to 2022), the Department calculated the mishandled baggage rate based on the number of mishandled bags per 1,000 checked bags. The Department is now displaying the mishandled baggage data as a percentage (i.e., per 100 bags enplaned). This is consistent with the manner that the mishandled wheelchairs and scooters rate is calculated and displayed.

Mishandled Wheelchairs and Scooters

In December 2022, reporting marketing carriers reported checking 62,086 wheelchairs and scooters and mishandling 1,008 for a rate of 1.62% mishandled wheelchairs and scooters, higher than the rate of 1.48% mishandled in November 2022 and higher than the rate of 1.53% mishandled in pre-pandemic December 2019.

For calendar year 2022, the carriers posted a mishandled wheelchair and scooter rate of 1.54%, equal to the 2019 rate of 1.54%.

Bumping/Oversales

Bumping/oversales data, unlike other air carrier data, are reported quarterly rather than monthly. For the fourth quarter of 2022, the 10 U.S. reporting marketing carriers posted an involuntary denied boarding, or bumping, rate of 0.30 per 10,000 passengers, higher than the rate of 0.23 in the fourth quarter of 2021 and higher than the rate of 0.16 in the fourth quarter of 2019.

For calendar year 2022, the carriers posted a bumping/oversales rate of 0.32 per 10,000 passengers, higher than the pre-pandemic 2019 rate of 0.24.

Incidents Involving Animals

For calendar year 2022, carriers reported seven animal deaths, injuries to one other animal, and one lost animal, for a total of nine incidents, down from the 19 incident reports filed for pre-pandemic calendar year 2019. 

For calendar year 2022, 188,223 animals were transported by airlines, for a rate of 0.48 incidents per 10,000 animals transported. In pre-pandemic 2019, 404,556 animals were transported, for a rate of 0.47 incidents per 10,000 animals transported.

In December 2022, carriers reported no incidents involving the death, injury, or loss of an animal while traveling by air, down from both the one report filed in November 2022 and the two reports filed in pre-pandemic December 2019.

Consumers may file air travel consumer or civil rights complaints online at http://airconsumer.dot.gov/escomplaint/ConsumerForm.cfm or by voicemail at (202) 366-2220, or they may mail a complaint to the Aviation Consumer Protection Division, U.S. Department of Transportation, C-75, W96-432, 1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE, Washington, DC 20590.

The ATCR and other aviation consumer matters of interest to the public can be found at https://www.transportation.gov/airconsumer .

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December 2022 International Air Passenger Travel

• Air Traffic Passenger Enplanements Up 44% YOY in December 2022 and Up 97% for Calendar Year 2022
• Air Passenger Travel Between the United States and Europe up 248% in 2022

Data recently released by the National Travel and Tourism Office (NTTO) show that in 2022 :

U.S.-International air traffic passenger enplanements (APIS/I-92 arrivals + departures) totaled:

• 18.737 million in December 2022, up 44% compared to December 2021, with enplanements reaching 89% of pre-pandemic December 2019 volume.
• 196.682 million in calendar year 2022, up 97% compared to 2021, with enplanements reaching 77% of pre-pandemic 2019 volume.

Originating Non-Stop Air Travel in December 2022 and Calendar Year 2022

• 4.370 million in December 2022, up 48% compared to December 2021 and 78% compared to pre-pandemic December 2019 volume.
• 42.821 million in calendar year 2022, up 108% compared to 2021 and 66% compared to pre-pandemic 2019 volume.

On a related note, overseas visitor arrivals (with stays of 1-night or more in the United States and visiting under certain visa types) (ADIS/ I-94) totaled 2.482 million in December 2022, the fourteenth consecutive month overseas visitor arrivals exceeded 1.0 million. December overseas visitor arrivals reached 71.15% of pre-pandemic December 2019 volume, up from 66.85% in November 2022. For the year 2022, there were a total of 23.953 million overseas visitors, a 161% increase from 2021 and representing 59% of pre-COVID overseas visitor volume in 2019, up from 23% in 2021. ( See December I-94 Advance Release )

• 5.446 million in December 2022, up 43% compared to December 2021 and exceeding December 2019 volume by 3.6%.
• 54.566 million in calendar year 2022, up 88% compared to calendar year 2021 and 90% of pre-pandemic 2019 volume.

World Region Highlights (APIS/I-92 arrivals + departures)

• Mexico 3.20 million (December 2022) and 36.224 million (calendar year 2022)
• Canada 2.21 million and 22.028 million
• United Kingdom 1.43 million and 15.545 million
• Dominican Republic 795,000 and 9.141 million
• Germany 789,000 and 8.850 million
• Europe continued to strengthen throughout 2022, totaling 57.526 million passengers, up 248% from 2021, and down only (-24.2%) compared to pre-pandemic 2019.
• South/Central America/Caribbean totaled 51.872 million in 2022, up 45% over 2021, and was down only (-9%) compared to 2019.
• Asia totaled 12.369 million passengers in 2022, up 206% over 2021, but still down (-68%) compared to 2019.
• Top U.S. ports serving international locations in calendar year 2022 were: New York (JFK) 27.528 million, Miami (MIA) 21.128 million, Los Angeles (LAX) 16.718 million, Newark (EWR) 12.588 million and Chicago (ORD) 11.482 million.
• Top foreign ports serving U.S. locations in 2022 were London Heathrow (LHR) 13.523 million, Cancun (CUN) 12.281 million, Toronto (YYZ) 9.332 million, Mexico City 7.490 million, and Paris (CDG) 6.763 million.

Interested in an interactive data visualization of these statistics? Please visit our APIS/I-92 International Air Passenger Monitor for a more comprehensive and customizable experience.

I-92/APIS International Air Passengers

The APIS/I-92 Program provides information on non-stop international air traffic between the United States and other countries. The data has been collected from the Department of Homeland Security - Customs and Border Protection’s Advance Passenger Information System (APIS) since July 2010. The APIS based “I-92” system provides air traffic data on the following parameters: number of passengers, by country, airport, scheduled or chartered, U.S. Flag, foreign flag, citizens and non-citizens. Visit the APIS/I-92 Data Program home page for more information on airline travel to and from the United States.

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New I-77 exit opens in Rock Hill after failed Panthers project

An interstate exit created to lead Carolina Panthers fans to the now-nonexistent headquarters is officially open.

PREVIOUS: New exit on Interstate 77 in Rock Hill closer to completion

Exit 81 on Interstate 77 will allow visitors access to the BMX World Championships in Rock Hill. They’ll be held at the BMX Supercross track on Riverwalk Parkway.

The new exit was designed and built to serve as a new Panthers headquarters and practice facility.

The team canceled its construction contract two years ago during a dispute with the city. The final remaining parts of the facility were torn down in July 2023.

The city took over the property in December 2022 after a monthslong legal battle in federal bankruptcy court.

(WATCH PREVIOUS: Half-built Panthers facility in Rock Hill to be torn down for new project)

‘Extreme’ solar storm triggers Northern Lights as far south as Florida Friday

Skies across the u.s. lit in a spectacular colorful glow not seen in years to decades as massive solar flares slammed into earth on friday, triggering "extreme" levels of geomagnetic activity. and the show may not be over for a while..

Strongest solar action in a decade impacting Earth right now

Aurora viewers will want to keep their eyes to the sky this weekend as a solar flare from the Sun is impacting Earth right now. Current forecasts indicate this storm will continue into Saturday morning across North America.

Skies across the U.S. were lit in a spectacular, colorful glow at levels not seen in years or decades as massive solar flares slammed into Earth on Friday.

Northern Light displays, typically relegated to states along the Canadian border during a typical geomagnetic storm, reached as far as the Gulf Coast Friday night, with pink, green and purple skies reported in Florida, Texas and Alabama. 

The SWPC says satellites observed conditions that reached level 5 on their 5-point scale of geomagnetic activity on Friday evening, noted as an "extreme" event and the first such storm to reach that level since October 2003.  While conditions have since drifted back to a level 4 storm Saturday morning, more geomagnetic activity is heading Earth's way over the weekend from additional solar flares, possibly lasting into early next week.

NOAA observed yet another massive X-class solar flare released from the Sun on Friday evening, rating it as X5.4 on their scale, among the strongest flares of recent activity. 

10 May 2024, Brandenburg, Sieversdorf: Light green and violet-reddish auroras glow in the night sky in the Oder-Spree district of East Brandenburg. The northern lights (aurora borealis) are produced by a cloud of electrically charged particles from a solar storm in the earth's atmosphere. (Photo by Patrick Pleul/picture alliance via Getty Images)

A brilliant display of the Aurora Australis (aka the "Southern Lights") over New Zealand as a severe geomagnetic storm reaches Earth on May 10, 2024.  (@AndrewDickson13 via X)

Northern Lights from Missoula, Montana during an extreme geomagnetic storm on May 10, 2024. (NWS Missoula)

Northern Lights from Seattle during an extreme geomagnetic storm on May 10, 2024. (NWS Seattle)

Northern Lights from Great Falls, Montana during an extreme geomagnetic storm on May 10, 2024. (NWS Great Falls, Montana)

Northern Lights from Mukilteo, Washington during an extreme geomagnetic storm on May 10, 2024. (Scott Sistek)

10 May 2024, Baden-Württemberg, Freiburg: Northern lights appear over the Dreisamtal valley in the Black Forest near Freiburg. (Photo by Valentin Gensch/picture alliance via Getty Images)

Northern Lights from Shreveport, Louisiana during an extreme geomagnetic storm on May 10, 2024. (NWS Shreveport)

FOX Weather Storm Tracker Mark Sudduth caught a stunning view of the aurora over South Carolina while in a plane. (Mark Sudduth)

View from Concord, N.C. (Jay Caceres)

Outside of the NWS office in Caribou, Maine. ( )

Northern lights or aurora borealis illuminate the night sky over a camper's tent north of San Francisco in Middletown, California on May 11, 2024. The most powerful solar storm in more than two decades struck Earth, triggering spectacular celestial light shows from Tasmania to Britain -- and threatening possible disruptions to satellites and power grids as it persists into the weekend. (Photo by JOSH EDELSON / AFP) (Photo by JOSH EDELSON/AFP via Getty Images) ( )

Northern Lights from Reno, Nevada during an extreme geomagnetic storm on May 10, 2024. (NWS Reno)

Northern Lights from Riverton, Wyoming during an extreme geomagnetic storm on May 10, 2024. (NWS Riverton)

Northern Lights from Great Falls, Montana during an extreme geomagnetic storm on May 10, 2024. ( )

Northern Lights from Hastings, Nebraska during an extreme geomagnetic storm on May 10, 2024. (NWS Hastings)

Forecasters at the NWS office in Calera, AL saw the aurora and the space station. (@NWSBirmingham)

Clear skies led the Northern Lights to be visible in Texas and New Mexico (@NWSElPaso)

The aurora borealis, also known as the northern lights, glow on the horizon over Basingstoke in Hampshire. Picture date: Friday May 10, 2024. (Photo by Patrick Pleul/picture alliance via Getty Images)

SEE MORE: EXTREME GEOMAGNETIC STORM TRIGGERS JAW-DROPPING AURORAS AROUND THE WORLD

Aside from brilliant and widespread displays of the aurora, geomagnetic storms can impact infrastructure in near-Earth orbit and on Earth’s surface, potentially disrupting communications, the electric power grid, navigation, radio and satellite operations, the SWPC says. The last time Earth experienced a Level 5 geomagnetic event, there were power outages in Sweden and damaged transformers in South Africa.

THE HISTORY OF EARTH'S GREATEST SOLAR STORMS

"We have notified all of our infrastructure operators that we coordinate with, such as satellite operators, communication folks, and of course, the power grid here in North America," SWPC coordinator Shawn Dahl said Friday. "So they are able and prepared to take mitigation efforts as much as possible throughout this event if it should unfold to the levels that we currently are anticipating."

SpaceX's Starlink service warned on its website Saturday morning that it was experiencing "degraded service," though it didn't give further details. Yet SpaceX head Elon Musk had earlier posted on X that the Starlink satellites were under a lot of pressure due to the geomagnetic storm and were still holding up.

Massive sunspot 17 times the size of Earth creating multiple flares

Two massive sunspots have recently merged and spit out at least three X-class (largest) and several M-class (second-largest) solar flares . According to NOAA, the explosive acceleration of charged and superheated plasma, known as a coronal mass ejection or CME, speeds through space and expands. 

The new sunspot is 17 times the diameter of the Earth.

"These two sunspot clusters are magnetically complex and much larger than Earth. Together they have been the source of frequent M-class flares (minor to moderate)," stated the Space Weather Prediction Center. "RGN 3664 (the combined sunspot region) continues to grow and increase in magnetic complexity and has evolved into a higher threat of increased solar flare risk."

NASA’s Solar Dynamics Observatory captured these images of the solar flares — as seen in the bright flashes in the left image (May 8 flare) and the right image (May 7 flare). The image shows a subset of extreme ultraviolet light that highlights the extremely hot material in flares and which is colorized in orange.

(NASA/SDO / NOAA)

Amid the multiple solar flares, NOAA space weather forecasters have observed at least seven CMEs from the sun, with the first impacts arriving early Friday afternoon ET. Heightened solar conditions are expected to persist perhaps as long as Sunday.

"This is an unusual and potentially historic event," the SPWC stated.

WHAT IS A GEOMAGNETIC STORM?

Another sunspot also released strong CMEs this week and continues to be active. According to NOAA, the bulk of five CMEs will collide with Earth in a glancing blow as early as midday Friday through Sunday.

How flares can set off geomagnetic storms

"Flares are when the sun brightens, and we see the radiation, and that's kind of the muzzle flash," explained Professor Peter Becker of George Mason University in an earlier interview. "And then the cannon shot is the coronal mass ejection (CME) . So, we can see the flash, but then the coronal mass ejection can go off in some random direction in space, but we can tell when they're actually going to head towards Earth. And that gives us about 18 hours of warning, maybe 24 hours of warning before those particles get to Earth and start messing with Earth's magnetic field." 

SOLAR SUPERSTORM COULD ‘WIPE OUT THE INTERNET’ FOR WEEKS OR MONTHS, SCIENTIST SAYS

An illustration of Earth's magnetic field shielding our planet from solar particles.

(NASA/GSFC/SVS / NASA)

NOAA warns of a wide area blackout of high-frequency radio communications for hours. The geomagnetic storm could also cause widespread voltage irregularities in power systems, which trigger false alarms on security devices, cause drag on low earth orbit satellites preventing them from orienting and cause range errors and a loss-of-lock for GPS systems.

X-class solar flares are the largest explosions in the solar system. According to NASA, the biggest X-class flares can produce as much energy as 1 billion atomic bombs. M-class flares are the second-strongest flares, and they can cause minor radiation storms and harm astronauts.

Solar cycle peaking , making solar storms more plentiful

Tree rings and ice cores are evidence of much larger solar superstorms in the past. 

In 1859, the great Carrington Event, generally regarded as Earth's greatest solar storm in recent history, covered nearly the entire planet in aurora.  About 14,000 years ago, a solar flare, possibly hundreds of times stronger than the Carrington flare, impacted Earth. 

Northern lights visible from Europe

Friday's aurora was visible across much of Europe. NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center classified the event as a G5, the highest level on its geomagnetic storm scale.  

NOAA forecasts the current 11-year solar cycle to peak sometime in 2024 or early 2025, and solar activity is likely to remain active for the next several months or even a few years. 

NOAA PREDICTS STRONGER PEAK OF SOLAR ACTIVITY IN 2024 THAN ORIGINALLY ANTICIPATED

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The best laptop deals right now: Apple, Lenovo, HP, and more

We use laptops for everything from editing video in 4K to answering emails. But, eventually, it becomes time to retire our old machines and upgrade -- a prospect that can be daunting when prices are high. From portable gaming devices to laptops suitable for your home office and remote work setups, we've rounded up deals on some of the best laptops out there so you can find a laptop that you or a family member will love -- while saving some significant cash. 

Also:  The best laptops you can buy

If you see something that looks like a great deal, we recommend adding it to your cart ASAP. Prices tend to change quickly and stocks may vanish quickly if popular models are on sale. 

Best laptop deals 

• Apple MacBook Air 15-inch, M2 chip, 512GB : $1199 (save $300)
• ASUS Vivobook 15.6-inch FHD laptop : $250 (save $80)
• Microsoft Surface laptop 5 : $800 (save $500)
• Dell Inspiron 16 laptop : $450 (save $250)
• Acer Aspire Vero 15.6-inch Full HD laptop : $400 (save $230)
• Lenovo Yoga 6 13-inch hybrid tablet : $530 (save $330)
• HP Spectre x360 2-in-1 laptop : $1100 (save $350)
• ASUS ROG Strix Scar 15 gaming laptop : $1699 (save $300)

Apple MacBook Air

• Current price: $1199
• Original price: $1499

Best Buy often offers discounts on the Apple MacBook range, and one deal we particularly like the look of is for an Apple MacBook Air. If you need a light, portable laptop for travel and work purposes, the $300 discount is attractive. This model has a 15-inch display suitable for all of your work and entertainment needs, an Apple M2 chip, 8GB RAM, and 512GB SSD storage.

HP Envy laptop

• Current price: $810
• Original price: $1280

You can also enjoy a $420 discount on the HP Envy, an excellent option if you want a Windows-based device suitable as a steady workhorse. This laptop offers users a 17.3-inch Full HD display and is powered by an Intel Core i7 processor. 16GB of RAM is included (upgradable to 32GB) alongside 512GB SSD storage. 

Samsung Galaxy Book3

• Current price: $1,000
• Original price: $1,350

This excellent Samsung Galaxy Book3 deal is worth considering. $1,00 is not too much to spend on a robust, future-proof laptop, and if you need a reliable model, there is a substantial $350 discount. The Samsung Galaxy Book3 is a 2-in-1 model sporting a 15.6-inch Full HD AMOLED touchscreen, an Intel i7 processor, 16GB RAM, and 512GB SSD storage. 

HP Stream 14-inch laptop

• Current price: $199
• Original price: $229

Walmart's deal on the HP Stream laptop is worth considering if you need a budget-friendly machine suitable for travel and portability. I particularly like this laptop for its easy parental controls, having set one up recently for a friend who wanted to give their 12-year-old their first laptop in a safe manner.

The HP Stream is a 14-inch Windows 11 laptop with an Intel Celeron processor, 4GB RAM, and 64GB eMMC storage. Sure, it's not the most specification-heavy, but at only $199, this laptop is a steal. 

Lenovo V15 Series laptop

• Current price: $400
• Original price: $480

Another deal we like the look of is $80 off a Lenovo V15 Series laptop. This new model comes with 24GB RAM, 1TB SSD storage, a 15.6-inch Full HD display, an Intel Pentium 4 processor, a variety of connectivity ports, and Windows 11 Home. 

Alternative laptop deals 

Amazon laptop deals, asus chromebook flip c434 2-in-1 laptop deal for $365 (save $140), asus vivobook 15.6-inch fhd laptop deal for $250 (save $80), asus rog strix scar 15 gaming laptop deal for $1699 (save $300), acer nitro 17 gaming laptop deal for $1295 (save $105), walmart laptop deals, asus vivobook 16-inch laptop deal for $499 (save $200), acer nitro 5 gaming laptop deal for $899 (save $100), lenovo ideapad duet 5 chromebook deal for $329 (save $40), asus zenbook 14-inch oled laptop deal for $577 (save $112), best buy laptop deals, hp 14-inch chromebook deal for $159 (save $140), microsoft surface laptop 5 deal for $800 (save $500), acer aspire vero 15.6-inch full hd laptop deal for $400 (save $230), lenovo slim pro 7 laptop deal for $900 (save $300), apple macbook deals, apple macbook air, 13-inch, m2, 256gb deal for $849 (save $250), apple macbook air, 13-inch, m3 chip, 256gb deal for $999 (save $100), apple macbook air, 15-inch, m2 chip, 1tb deal for $1499 (save $400), apple macbook pro, 14-inch, m3 chip, 512gb deal for $1449 (save $150), apple macbook pro, 16-inch, m3 pro, 512gb deal for $2349 (save $150), apple macbook air, 2023, 13.3-inch (refurb) deal for $380 (save $620), how did we choose these laptop deals.

We searched for laptop deals at retailers like Amazon, Walmart, and Best Buy, and also at the websites of leading manufacturers like Lenovo, HP, Dell, Apple, Acer, and Asus. We also used various price trackers to ensure that a claimed deal wasn't spurious.

We have concentrated on quality products from leading vendors, as discounts on these laptops are likely to be most sought-after by potential buyers.

When compiling the list of the best deals, we considered the following:

• Price : Naturally, the price point of our recommended laptops has to include a worthwhile discount. While some discounts are small in relation to an overall price tag - for example, $30 off a $150 device - and other discounts are in the hundreds of dollars, we wanted to ensure that in any case, it's value for money.
• Features : We included a range of laptops with features sure to appeal to you, including different screen sizes, processors, memory options, and storage. Furthermore, these laptops include varying levels of security, parental lock options, and display resolutions.
• Use cases : At ZDNET, we also took into account different use cases. You might be in the market for a budget-friendly, basic laptop for a child, for example, or you may need a future-proof laptop suitable for work. Or, it might be a gaming device you're after. So, we have compiled a set of recommendations based on different purposes. 

What specifications do I need to look for in a laptop?

The right specs depend on your needs and how you intend to use your new laptop -- whether for gaming, studies, video calling, or simply daily internet surfing. We break it down for you below:

• Processing power/CPU:  The processor is the computer's brain and handles the basic programming tasks. Gamers will want a higher processor that can even boost to a higher GHz threshold for AAA games like Death Stranding and Halo Infinite. Higher processor outputs will also apply to content creators who need a laptop to handle editing video software, but if you're using your laptop for general work or just surfing the internet, you can opt for a lower processor. 
• Graphics card/GPU:  Again, gamers and content creators will want a higher graphics card to reflect the beautiful imagery for their gaming. I personally recommend that gamers opt for at least an RTX 3060 at the moment. However, again, internet surfers and workers shouldn't worry too much about the graphics if you're focusing on building out Word documents.
• Storage : For those that focus on lighter laptop use, 256GB of SSD storage will be plenty of space for your laptop. However, if you need more storage for high-resolution photos, videos, or more, you'll want to opt for 512GB of storage or even 1TB.
• RAM : In conjunction with the CPU, RAM is used to help the computer multi-task and is vital to running programs. ZDNET expert Adrian Kingsley-Hughes breaks down RAM needs here , but at minimum, especially for working, you should opt for around 8GB, and gamers will potentially want more.

Do I need a gaming laptop or a "regular" laptop?

Again, it depends on your needs. Those who aren't  gamers can opt for a regular laptop with high specs, but content creators or those who work with heavy editing software should opt for a designer's laptop or a gaming laptop. Not because, of course, you want to have the best gaming specs on the side, but because those laptops come with powerful CPUs, GPUs, and high RAM to handle the heavy requirements that software needs.

How much should I pay for a good laptop?

When you're considering your budget for a new laptop, you have to consider what you want to use the device for. 

If you're a gamer who needs a high-spec laptop with a decent graphics card, top-of-the-range display and high refresh rate, you should expect to pay more than $500 - $600 -- and potentially beyond $1,000. However, if you need a laptop for basic tasks, studying, and streaming, you can easily get away with a basic laptop for a few hundred dollars. 

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