December presents a world of travel opportunities, from snowy landscapes to tropical beaches, vibrant city escapes, exotic adventures, and relaxing wellness retreats. Not sure where to go for the best travel destinations for December? In our guide, we’ll introduce you to destinations perfect for every traveler’s taste. Whether you’re looking for the excitement of winter sports, the calm of a sunny beach, the buzz of a city adventure, the charm of distant lands, or the peace of a spa getaway, we have something for you. Get ready for a December journey that promises unforgettable experiences.
Embracing the Winter Wonderland: Snowy Destinations
For those who delight in the crisp air, powdery snow, and enchanting scenery, embracing a winter wonderland in December is the perfect travel choice. Picture-postcard destinations topped with a blanket of snow offer a range of activities from skiing down alpine slopes to sipping hot chocolate in front of a roaring log fire. Here are some top snowy destinations to consider for your December travels:
Banff National Park, Canada: Renowned for its stunning turquoise lakes and majestic mountains, Banff turns into a winter sports paradise in December. With three world-class ski resorts and the magical Banff Christmas Market, it’s an ideal spot for avid skiers and holiday shoppers alike.
Zermatt, Switzerland: This car-free village offers breathtaking views of the Matterhorn, one of the most iconic mountains in the world. You can enjoy skiing, snowboarding, and après-ski activities in a storybook alpine setting.
Aspen, Colorado, USA: Known for its luxury ski resorts and vibrant nightlife, Aspen is a hotspot for winter sports enthusiasts and celebrities. Christmas in Aspen includes charming markets and festive events throughout the town.
Niseko, Japan: Asia’s premier ski destination promises incredible powder skiing and unique experiences such as night skiing under floodlights. Don’t miss the local onsens — hot springs perfect for relaxation after a day on the slopes.
These destinations not only provide the thrill of winter sports but also the joy of Christmas markets, where you can wander through stalls adorned with festive lights, sample local delicacies, and purchase unique handicrafts. Choosing a snowy landscape for your December travels offers a blend of adventure and cozy relaxation, creating memories that will last a lifetime.
Escaping the Cold: Tropical Getaways in December
December may be synonymous with snow, scarves, and Santa for many, but it’s also the perfect time to escape the cold and bask in the warmth of tropical getaways. Here’s a list of idyllic destinations where the sun kisses your skin, the sand tickles your toes, and relaxation is not just a desire, but a guarantee:
Maldives: With its overwater bungalows, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant marine life, the Maldives promise a serene tropical escape unlike any other. Whether you’re diving with manta rays or lounging on a private beach, relaxation is the order of the day.
Hawaii: Hawaii’s diverse islands offer a rich blend of tropical beaches and volcanic landscapes. Explore the iconic Waikiki Beach in Oahu or the Road to Hana in Maui for a truly warm December retreat.
Thailand: Known for its bustling markets, ornate temples, and delectable cuisine, Thailand also boasts some of the world’s most picturesque beaches. Destinations like Phuket and Ko Samui remain pleasantly warm in December.
Australia’s Gold Coast: Exchange the winter blues for the golden beaches of Australia’s eastern coastline. With plenty of sunshine and surf, it’s the ideal December escape for those seeking both relaxation and adventure.
Bali, Indonesia: Bali’s unique culture, paired with stunning beaches and a warm tropical climate, makes it a perfect December getaway. Indulge in relaxation at a Balinese spa, or enjoy the tranquility of the island’s less-traveled spots like Nusa Penida.
Selecting any of these destinations for your December getaway will enable you to trade in the winter woolens for swimwear, and the hot cocoa for cool cocktails. Each location not only offers a reprieve from the cold but also provides a distinctive experience of sun, sand, and serenity.
Culture and Festivity: City Breaks with a December Twist
As the winter chill sets in, the allure of exploring bustling cities with a festive makeover becomes irresistible. December is a magical time for a city break, brimming with cultural festivals, special events, and holiday cheer. Each city has its unique way of celebrating the end of the year, providing travelers with an unforgettable experience.
For instance, Vienna transforms into a fairytale-like landscape with its famous Christmas markets, offering hand-crafted gifts, spiced mulled wine, and twinkling decorations. It’s an excellent time for city tours as the stunning architecture is draped in festive lights, and the sounds of classical music performances fill the air.
Over in New York City, the holiday spirit is palpable as towering Christmas trees, ice-skating rinks, and the buzz of Broadway shows create an electrifying atmosphere. The city’s cultural diversity means holiday events can range from the traditional, like the lighting of the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree, to the more avant-garde holiday markets and artisan showcases in Brooklyn.
If you’re leaning towards eclectic cultural festivals, Tokyo’s December illuminations are a contemporary and awe-inspiring take on holiday lights. Besides modern festivities, traditional Japanese culture shines through New Year preparation events and sumo wrestling tournaments, offering a blend of experiences.
Of course, one cannot speak of December city breaks without mentioning the historical and cultural celebration that is London during the holiday season. From the Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park to the Charles Dickens-inspired Christmas Carol singalongs, the city is a joyful mix of old-world charm and contemporary holiday fun.
City breaks in December offer an enchanting experience that combines the discovery of local culture with joyous holiday events, making for an extraordinary travel adventure.
Adventure Awaits: Exotic Locations for the Intrepid Traveler
December isn’t just for snowflakes and steaming cups of hot cocoa; it’s also a time for the thrill-seekers and nature enthusiasts to embark on extraordinary adventures in some of the world’s most exotic locations. Imagine waking up to the calls of the wild in the middle of a wildlife safari in the Serengeti or witnessing the awe-inspiring ecosystems of the Amazon rainforest. For those with a penchant for adventure travel, December offers a plethora of destinations that promise to satiate the appetite for adventure while providing a distinct and unforgettable experience.
Serengeti National Park, Tanzania: December marks the start of the migration season for the Serengeti’s wildebeests and zebras, an ideal time for wildlife safaris.
Amazon Rainforest, South America: Explore the largest tropical rainforest in the world and discover its unique flora and fauna while cruising down its vast network of rivers.
Galapagos Islands, Ecuador: Walk amongst giant tortoises and swim with marine iguanas in a place where wildlife dense environments offer unparalleled opportunities for adventure.
Antarctica: Embark on an expedition cruise to the great white continent and witness its majestic icebergs and diverse wildlife including penguins and whales.
Bhutan: Trek to the cliff-hanging Tiger’s Nest Monastery and unravel the mysteries of this secluded Himalayan kingdom known for its unique philosophy of Gross National Happiness.
Each of these destinations offers not just a break from the typical holiday experience but challenges and enlightens, pushing travelers out of their comfort zones and into the wild, untamed arms of nature. December could be the month where stories for the year ahead begin, filled with vibrant memories of landscapes so different from home, and adventures that resonate deep within the intrepid traveler.
Rejuvenation in December: Wellness Retreats and Spa Vacations
December is not just a month for festivities and family gatherings; it’s also a perfect time to unwind, rejuvenate, and pamper yourself before the new year. Wellness retreats and spa vacations are unbeatable travel themes for those looking to relax and revitalize their mind, body, and spirit.
Bali, Indonesia – Known for its tranquil settings and traditional healing practices, Bali offers a serene escape with its luxurious wellness retreats that often include yoga, meditation sessions, and spa treatments amidst lush green landscapes.
The Dead Sea, Jordan/Israel – The mineral-rich waters and mud of the Dead Sea have been a draw for those seeking natural wellness treatments for centuries. The unique climate and the high salt content of the water are reputed to help with various skin conditions and joint issues.
Baden-Baden, Germany – This town is famous for its thermal baths sourced from the depths of the Black Forest, offering a historic and unique European spa experience along with modern wellness centers.
Sedona, Arizona, USA – With its stunning red rock scenery and vortex sites, Sedona is known to be a place of healing and spiritual renewal. It offers various wellness retreats that focus on holistic, personalized experiences.
Kerala, India – Often referred to as ‘God’s own country,’ Kerala’s Ayurvedic spas provide age-old, time-tested wellness treatments that are tailored to individual health needs, all set in a picturesque and peaceful environment.
Whichever destination you choose, a wellness retreat in December is the perfect way to decompress from the year’s stresses and prepare for the challenges and adventures that the new year might bring. So plug in ‘relaxation’ in your travel itinerary, and explore the combination of scenic beauty and spa indulgences that these global destinations offer.
