Despite the fact that December is the last month of the year, you do not have to abandon your trip plans. I have compiled a list of some of the greatest destinations to visit in December for those who are seeking for the best places to visit. Here are some wonderful possibilities that you may include in your travel plans for the month of December, whether you are looking for a view of the northern lights, an experience on a tropical beach, or a visit to a quaint Christmas market.
Where to go in December for animals and nature?
Arctic Sweden
If you want to sleep on ice while seeing the Northern Lights, December is the perfect month to do it.
It is impossible for the sun to rise during the last three weeks of the year in the Swedish settlement of Jukkasjärvi, which is located one degree north of the Arctic Circle.Darkness is the predominant condition throughout the month of December, making it an ideal time to see the Aurora Borealis…
One may spend the night on a bed made of ice in the original Icehotel, which is located in Jukkasjärvi, which is the home of the Icehotel.We consider the yearly migration of reindeer to be one of the seven wonders of winter, and the region is also a base for activities like as cross-country skiing, husky sledding, snowmobiling, sleigh rides, meeting reindeer, and learning about traditional Sámi culture, which is a beautiful experience for both children and adults alike with great potential for enjoyment.I.e.
Abisko National Park, which is located around 100 kilometers (62 miles) to the northwest, is even more distant from the light. It is a landscape that is unearthly and offers what is possibly the greatest aurora-watching in the world.
Santa Fe
People often picture the revered mountains of Aspen and Vail in Colorado when they think of fantastic skiing in North America. Vail and Aspen are located in Colorado. In addition, farther south in the Rocky Mountains, you will find a distinct sort of winter ski experience in and around Santa Fe, which is known as the “City Different.”
Not only may you take pleasure in the breathtakingly beautiful “High Road” that leads to the world-class slopes of Taos, but you can also take pleasure in the fun slopes that are available for skiers of all skill levels at Ski Santa Fe, which is just 26 kilometers (16 miles) away from the town.
In spite of the fact that you may not be interested in skiing, Santa Fe placed you in the center of the most beautiful natural environment in Northern New Mexico. From the visually inspired vistas of Abiquiú to the ancient history at Bandelier National Monument, as well as the local Foothill Trails that go into the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, Santa Fe is home to a multitude of remarkable parks and public areas that are sure to keep you busy.
Central Kalahari
You may save money and play more games if you go during the month of December.
It does not matter whether it rains or not in this enormous wildlife reserve, which is one of the biggest in the world and covers a total area of 50,000 square kilometers (19,305 square miles). It does, in fact, foster it in a favorable way. Although December is the beginning of Botswana’s wet season, it is the ideal time to go to the Central Kalahari, which is characterized by its semi-arid climate.
There are high concentrations of hyena, leopard, and the reserve’s famous black-maned lions that may be seen in the northernmost sections, particularly near Northern Deception Valley. This is because the flush of wildflowers and grasses encourages big gatherings of grazers, which in turn draws predators. In addition, now is the perfect time to go birdwatching since many species are displaying their breeding plumage and there are migrants in the immediate area.
Roads may become difficult to manage but the benefit is fantastic animal viewing and, at times, soul-stirringly gloomy sky. Additionally, there are situations in which one may interact with the San people.
December leisure destinations: where to go?
Palawan
The pristine province of Palawan, which is located in the westernmost part of the Philippines, is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and a source of biodiversity both above and below the sea line. It has been given the nickname “the Philippines’ last ecological frontier.” There are more than 1,700 islands in this area, all of which are surrounded by coral reefs, limestone cliffs, and virgin forests covering their whole surface. The scuba diving is both diverse and breathtaking.
El Nido, located in the northern region, is home to more than twenty dive sites, where divers may see a wide variety of spectacular sights, including nudibranchs, seahorses, turtles, and enormous shoals of snapper. There are various World War II relics that may be explored on Coron Island, which makes wreck diving an exciting activity.
Sites include walls and pinnacles, a diversity of corals, lots of rare macro species, colorful reef fish, crabs, schooling barracuda and jacks, rays, and reef sharks. Additionally, there is great diving that is easily accessible from the capital city of Puerto Princesa. In addition, Puerto Princesa serves as the entrance to the Subterranean River National Park, which is filled with spectacular karst formations and has an underground canal that can be navigated.
San Diego
It may seem to be an unusual choice for a wonderful winter getaway in North America, but pay attention to what we have to say about this intriguing city in California. It is more likely to rain in San Diego, although the days are still rather moderate (the average high temperature is 66 degrees Fahrenheit or 19 degrees Celsius). It is certainly warm enough to stroll through the city’s village-like neighborhoods, such as the upscale La Jolla, the surfy Encinitas, the alternative Ocean Beach, the foodie Little Italy, and the lively, bar-packed Gaslamp Quarter. Additionally, you can immerse yourself in the enormous Balboa Park, which is home to a number of museums, including Air & Space, Art, and Natural History, as well as a world-famous zoo.
Book a boat trip or travel to the cliff-top paths of Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve in the hopes of having the opportunity to see dolphins and gray whales that migrate along the coast here between the months of December and March. Both of these activities are great ways to get up close and personal with nature.
A bar crawl in the hipster-chic neighborhood of North Park or the “coastal cool” neighborhood of Pacific Beach is a great way to experience a different sort of “wild life.” You can also dig straight into the craft beer and cocktail culture in San Diego.
Puerto Vallarta
months of December, This time of year is the best time of the year to enjoy the sun, the beach, and the waves.
Typically, during the month of December, the Bahía de Banderas area, which is located on the Pacific Coast of Mexico, has already entered the dry season. (The rainy season often begins in June and continues until October.) The weather in Puerto Vallarta is just about ideal for spending picture-perfect days at some of Mexico’s most gorgeous beaches, with daytime highs reaching approximately 81 degrees Fahrenheit (or 27 degrees Celsius) and just over an inch (or 33 mm) of rain falling during the whole month.
Drive north to Punta de Mita or Sayulita on the Riviera Nayarit for beaches with outstanding surf breaks, or take a boat journey south to Majahuitas or Yelapa for quiet beaches with distinctively magnificent landscape. If you like being active in the water, you should consider one of these options.
There is a great deal more to discover in Puerto Vallarta than just the beach, which is ideal for individuals who want to have their experiences on land. At Isla Río Cuale, you have the opportunity to explore this beautiful and lush park located in the center of the city, and you can also browse the items that are available at the local artisan market.
A significant number of the city’s most prestigious art galleries and the most vibrant nightlife may be found in the Zona Romántica area, which is located to the south of Río Cuale. In addition, whenever you go in the city, you should keep an eye out for some of the most delicious local eateries and food booths.
December meals & drinks destinations: where to go?
Santiago
At first look, Santiago seems to be an unusual destination to visit during the month of December. Once you take into consideration the fact that Chile is located in the Southern Hemisphere, you will discover that the month of December provides an abundance of warmth and nearly no rain to the capital city of Chile.
Moreover, Santiago is home to a multitude of restaurants that are not only forward-thinking but also revolutionary, such as Boragó and 99 Restaurante, which are worthy of being lavished with money. Even if you are more in the mood for street cuisine, Santiago has you covered with a broad variety of markets and kiosks that provide traditional Chilean hot dogs, empanadas, and local seafood that you just have to try to believe how delicious they are.
It goes without saying that given that you are now in Chile, this is the ideal time for you to go out and discover the wine nation.
Fortunately, wine districts such as the Maipo Valley, San Antonio Valley, and Casablanca Valley are located in close proximity. For something that is even more convenient, you could visit the greatest local wine bars in Santiago.
Black Forest
It is always a good idea to choose the Black Forest as a location for enjoyable winter activities in Europe since it is the most romantic and fairy-tale-like area in Germany. And never more so than in the month of December, when its undulating hills and densely packed evergreens could be covered in snow and when Christmas decorations are abundantly scattered over the whole region. During the holiday season, the vibrant university town of Freiburg is an excellent option.
Its medieval core of cobblestone roads and gabled homes is delightful to walk at any time, but now smells of Glühwein (mulled wine) and gingerbread; peruse the Christmas market, where you can create your own candles and sweets, ride the Ferris wheel and feast on raclette and wurst..
For a more extensive excursion, take the train or bus to Hinterzarten, which is located nearby. There, you will find the remarkable Ravennaschlucht market, which is comprised of traditional booths that are arranged in a ravine under the Devil’s Valley Railway bridge.
Which cultural destinations best in December?
London
When it comes to a Christmas atmosphere that is really unique and cannot be found anywhere else.
It is possible to hear London beckoning at any time of the year; but, there is something that makes a trip to this illustrious British mega-city in December an especially memorable experience.
The Christmas markets in London go above and beyond to bring you into the right holiday atmosphere as you load up on delicious delicacies and attractive presents. It is true that other cities in Europe have their own Christmas markets, but London’s Christmas markets are really exceptional.
In addition to the Christmas markets, you can also anticipate experiencing a great deal of festive happiness at well-known locations like as Kew Gardens, the London Zoo, Hyde Park, and the “Hogwarts in the Snow” Harry Potter experience that is offered at Warner Bros. Studio Tour London.
It is likely that you will not have to be concerned about the weather affecting your travel plans, despite the fact that London is known to have rain and temperatures that are fairly cool throughout the month of December. If anything, now is a fantastic time to take advantage of the (relatively) less number of tourists and cross off more locations on your list of things to do in London.
Martinique
There is more to the month of December in the French Caribbean than simply Christmas. The term Chanté-Nwel is used.People gather to sing carols to Creole rhythms, which is a practice that dates back to the days of slavery, and to feast on local favorites such as yams, pâtés, boudin créole (blood sausage), yule logs, and potent shrubb, which is a Christmas cocktail made from dried orange peel, sugarcane syrup, and white wine. This is one of the most significant annual celebrations that takes place on Martinique. It is held across the entire island from November until Christmas Day. rum.
It is quite joyous. Because of the bright sky and typical high temperatures of 82.4 degrees Fahrenheit (28 degrees Celsius), this is the ideal weather for the beach; you can relax on the expansive stretch of white sand at Les Salines or on the black sand of Anse Noire. The only thing that is lacking is the snow.
Where to go adventuring in December?
Andermatt
in the month of December In this town, you will find the most perfect ski town heaven.
There is little doubt that Andermatt is not nearly as well-known (to people from other countries) as some of Switzerland’s most well-known ski resort towns, such as St. Moritz and Zermatt to name a few. In any case, this is a fantastic incentive to visit this location during the winter season. Even though Andermatt has lately developed into a more sophisticated resort town, it is still primarily a ski town that caters to all types of skiers. In the past, Andermatt was a military station that was quiet and seemed to be concealed.
At the Natschen Mountain, there are locations that have been set up to assist you polish your talents, including a “moving carpet” that you just have to experience for yourself. These areas are available for novices of any age. For skiers with greater experience, Gemsstock is the mountain to ski for next-level experiences, particularly the slope that faces north and receives the most consistent snowfall.
If you continue around town, Andermatt will not let you down when it comes to après-ski entertainment. This is true regardless of where you go to ski (or even if you don’t ski at all). From informal beverages at the village’s traditional pubs to very sophisticated options at The Chedi hotel, Andermatt has something to offer almost everyone.
Slovenia
When it comes to crowd-free, multi-sport, and fairytale-themed snow enjoyment, December is an ideal time to go.
When the snow begins to fall, Slovenia is still a wonderful place to visit, despite the fact that its small size makes it difficult for it to compete with the snow sports giants of Europe. Although it is on a lesser scale, there is superb skiing available.
Resorts such as the vibrant Kranjska Gora, the dependable Krvavec, and the family-friendly Vogel are not only not quite as large as other Alpine centers, but they are also not as crowded. However, the nation really shines when it comes to multi-activity winter vacations, which include activities such as downhill skiing and snowboarding, as well as cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, snowhiking, ice climbing, and even igloo-building and night tobogganing.
The majority of the resorts are situated in and near the stunning Triglav National Park, which is another reason why the landscapes are so exciting. The high hills, frozen waterfalls, snowy woods, stunning Lake Bohinj, and enchanting Lake Bled, with its lake isle and castle glittering in the frost, are all things that photographers will like.
FAQ
Which December vacation spot is best?
In all honesty, the choice is entirely up to you. Nevertheless, if you are still feeling a bit perplexed, here are a few fundamental guidelines that you should bear in mind. If you are looking for a warm getaway to a tropical island, December may be the greatest time of the year to visit the Caribbean and take advantage of the plentiful sunlight and nice temperatures that are available during this time of year.
The European Alps are the ultimate heaven for skiers and snowboarders, so if you want to participate in winter sports activities during the winter season, you might consider going there. More than that, the Rocky Mountains are home to some of the best ski resorts in the United States, particularly in the states of Colorado and New Mexico.
The hottest December destination?
As was said earlier, the Caribbean region has a great deal of warm and bright weather throughout the winter months. In addition, the beach resort towns along Mexico’s Pacific Coast, such as Puerto Vallarta and Los Cabos, have a tendency to maintain a moderate temperature and dryness throughout the month of December.
If you are looking to travel outside of North America, December is a fantastic month to visit the Middle East. You can take advantage of the milder temperatures, which are still pleasant, in cities such as Cairo, Sharm-el-Sheikh, Dubai, and Muscat throughout the month. In addition, for something entirely different, it is important to bear in mind that the beginning of summer in the Southern Hemisphere occurs in the month of December.
In the event that you decide to go to Chile, South Africa, and Australia in December, you will be heading south during the summer holiday season, which is often quite hot.
Where to visit cheaply in December?
During the month of December, you may be thinking where the finest destinations to vacation are that are also affordable. During this most delightful time of the year, people love to flock to a multitude of tropical beach resorts and snowy ski resorts, and unfortunately, December is often the month that marks the peak season at these resorts. Taking all of this into consideration, if you know where to search, you may get some very fantastic offers.
As an instance, you may be able to save money on a beach vacation in the Caribbean by making reservations in advance and taking advantage of all the free activities that are available in Puerto Rico. This is in contrast to the alternative, which is to follow the crowds to the very popular resorts in areas such as Aruba and the Virgin Islands.
When it comes to skiing, however, you might consider visiting lesser underrated mountain communities such as Santa Fe. These towns are likely to be more affordable for you than the major-league ski towns in Colorado, which often fetch top dollar rates throughout the month of December.
Where are December holidays celebrated?
Europe is a continent that is rich with winter wonderlands, so if you favor the notion of winter travel that really allows you to experience the spirit of the season, then you should consider traveling to Europe. Not only can you go to the Alps to see the breathtaking snow-covered mountains and woods, but many towns also have large Christmas markets where you can purchase delicious sweets and stocking stuffers that will warm your heart during the holiday season.
If you would rather celebrate the warm and cozy atmosphere of the winter holidays in genuine warm weather, you have a number of wonderful alternatives available to you across Latin America and the Caribbean. Some of the more notable aspects of Mexico’s Christmas festivities are the almost month-long Posada caroling concerts, the colorful Nochebuena Christmas Eve customs, and the delicious tamales that are available throughout the whole season.
In addition, you shouldn’t overlook Puerto Rico since during the month of December, this United States Caribbean island territory really comes to life with events that are both tremendously touching and incredibly belly-filling.