Places to vacation in December offers a world of options, from snowy mountain escapes to sun-drenched beaches and vibrant city breaks. This guide explores popular and lesser-known destinations, providing insights into weather conditions, activity suggestions, budget considerations, and essential travel tips to help you plan your perfect December getaway. Whether you dream of a cozy cabin nestled in a winter wonderland or a luxurious resort overlooking a turquoise sea, this comprehensive resource will inspire your next adventure.
We delve into the unique charm of each location, highlighting seasonal activities and cultural experiences to create an unforgettable holiday. From budget-friendly escapes to luxury getaways, we cover a range of travel styles and preferences, ensuring there’s something for every traveler. Practical advice on travel documents, visa requirements, and booking strategies completes the guide, leaving you well-prepared for a seamless and enjoyable December vacation.
Popular December Vacation Destinations
December offers a diverse range of appealing vacation options, catering to various preferences and budgets. From sun-drenched beaches to snow-capped mountains, the month presents opportunities for both relaxation and adventure. Choosing the right destination depends on individual preferences for climate and activities.
Obtain access to military discount vacations to private resources that are additional.
Popular December Vacation Destinations by Continent
This table highlights ten popular destinations ideal for December travel, categorized by continent, showcasing their unique climate and typical activities.
| Destination | Continent | Climate Highlights | Typical Activities |
|---|---|---|---|
| Maui, Hawaii | North America | Warm, sunny days; average temperatures in the 70s (°F). | Beach relaxation, snorkeling, surfing, hiking, whale watching. |
| Cancun, Mexico | North America | Warm and sunny with average temperatures around 75°F (24°C). Low chance of rain. | Swimming, sunbathing, exploring Mayan ruins, water sports. |
| Rio de Janeiro, Brazil | South America | Warm and sunny with average temperatures in the 80s (°F). | Beach time, exploring Christ the Redeemer, enjoying the vibrant nightlife. |
| Cape Town, South Africa | Africa | Warm, dry days with average temperatures in the 70s (°F). | Wine tasting, exploring Table Mountain, wildlife safaris. |
| The Maldives | Asia | Warm, sunny weather with average temperatures around 80°F (27°C). | Snorkeling, diving, relaxing on pristine beaches, overwater bungalow stays. |
| Phuket, Thailand | Asia | Warm and humid with average temperatures in the 80s (°F). | Beach relaxation, island hopping, exploring temples, enjoying Thai cuisine. |
| Dubai, UAE | Asia | Mild and sunny with average temperatures in the 70s (°F). | Shopping, exploring modern architecture, desert safaris, visiting theme parks. |
| Sydney, Australia | Oceania | Warm and sunny with average temperatures in the 70s (°F). | Sightseeing, enjoying the beaches, exploring the harbor, visiting the Opera House. |
| Seville, Spain | Europe | Mild and sunny with average temperatures in the 60s (°F). | Exploring historical sites, enjoying tapas, flamenco shows. |
| Zermatt, Switzerland | Europe | Cold and snowy, ideal for winter sports. | Skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, enjoying the mountain scenery. |
Lesser-Known December Vacation Destinations
While popular destinations offer established infrastructure and attractions, exploring lesser-known locations can provide unique experiences. These three destinations offer compelling alternatives for December travel.
Three destinations less frequented in December but offering unique advantages include:
- Cusco, Peru: Cusco, the gateway to Machu Picchu, offers a milder climate in December compared to the peak rainy season. Visitors can explore Inca ruins and experience Peruvian culture with fewer crowds than during peak season. However, some hiking trails may still be affected by rain.
- San Miguel de Allende, Mexico: This charming colonial city provides a more tranquil alternative to the bustling beaches of Cancun. December offers pleasant weather, ideal for exploring the city’s architecture, art scene, and culinary offerings. However, it might be less suitable for those seeking beach vacations.
- Medellín, Colombia: Known as the “City of Eternal Spring,” Medellín boasts pleasant weather year-round, making it a great choice for December. Visitors can explore vibrant neighborhoods, enjoy the city’s rich culture, and experience the surrounding mountainous landscape. However, it might not be the best choice for those seeking traditional winter activities like skiing.
December Weather and Activities: Places To Vacation In December
December offers a diverse range of weather conditions and vacation activities across the globe, making it a popular month for travel. Understanding the typical weather and available activities for your chosen destination is crucial for planning a successful trip. This section details weather patterns and suggests sample three-day itineraries for ten popular December destinations, highlighting the contrasts between tropical, temperate, and snowy climates.
December Weather and Activities in Ten Popular Destinations
The following provides an overview of typical December weather and sample three-day itineraries for ten popular destinations, categorized for clarity. These are averages and actual conditions may vary.
| Destination | Typical December Weather | Three-Day Itinerary |
|---|---|---|
| Hawaii | Warm and sunny, average highs in the 70s-80s°F (20s-30s°C), low humidity. | Day 1: Relax on Waikiki Beach, enjoy sunset cocktails. Day 2: Hike Diamond Head, explore Honolulu. Day 3: Snorkel or scuba dive at Hanauma Bay. |
| Mexico (Riviera Maya) | Warm and sunny, average highs in the 80s°F (20s-30s°C), some rain possible. | Day 1: Explore Mayan ruins at Chichen Itza. Day 2: Relax on the beach, swim in a cenote. Day 3: Go snorkeling or diving on the Mesoamerican Reef. |
| Costa Rica | Warm and humid, average highs in the 80s°F (high 20s-low 30s°C), rain showers possible. | Day 1: Zip-lining through the rainforest canopy. Day 2: White-water rafting on the Pacuare River. Day 3: Visit a wildlife sanctuary and observe sloths, monkeys, and other animals. |
| London, England | Mild and wet, average highs in the 40s°F (5-10°C), frequent rain showers. | Day 1: Visit Buckingham Palace and the Tower of London. Day 2: Explore the British Museum and National Gallery. Day 3: Take a walk along the South Bank and see a West End show. |
| Paris, France | Cold and damp, average highs in the 40s°F (5-10°C), occasional rain or drizzle. | Day 1: Visit the Eiffel Tower and Louvre Museum. Day 2: Explore Montmartre and Sacré-Cœur Basilica. Day 3: Stroll through the Tuileries Garden and shop on the Champs-Élysées. |
| New York City, USA | Cold and potentially snowy, average highs in the 30s-40s°F (0-10°C). | Day 1: Visit Times Square and Rockefeller Center. Day 2: Explore Central Park and the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Day 3: See a Broadway show and enjoy the holiday window displays. |
| Aspen, Colorado, USA | Cold and snowy, average highs in the 20s°F (-5-0°C), significant snowfall expected. | Day 1: Skiing or snowboarding at Aspen Mountain. Day 2: Snowshoeing or cross-country skiing. Day 3: Relax in a hot spring and enjoy the après-ski scene. |
| Banff, Alberta, Canada | Cold and snowy, average highs in the 20s°F (-5-0°C), abundant snowfall. | Day 1: Skiing or snowboarding at Lake Louise Ski Resort. Day 2: Ice skating on the lake and exploring Banff townsite. Day 3: Sightseeing at Moraine Lake and Johnston Canyon. |
| Kyoto, Japan | Cold and crisp, average highs in the 40s°F (5-10°C), some rain possible. | Day 1: Visit Fushimi Inari Shrine and Kiyomizu-dera Temple. Day 2: Explore Arashiyama Bamboo Grove and Tenryu-ji Temple. Day 3: Visit Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) and Ryoan-ji Temple. |
| Sydney, Australia | Warm and sunny, average highs in the 70s°F (20s°C), pleasant temperatures. | Day 1: Visit Bondi Beach and the Sydney Opera House. Day 2: Explore the Royal Botanic Garden and the Rocks district. Day 3: Take a ferry to Manly Beach and enjoy the harbor views. |
Comparison of Climate Zones and Activities, Places to vacation in december
Comparing destinations across different climate zones reveals a wide variety of experiences. Tropical destinations like Hawaii and Costa Rica offer warm temperatures ideal for water sports and exploring lush rainforests. Temperate destinations such as London and Paris provide opportunities for cultural exploration and sightseeing, although the weather can be unpredictable. Snowy destinations like Aspen and Banff are perfect for winter sports enthusiasts.
The contrast between these climates allows for diverse travel experiences depending on personal preferences. For example, while Hawaii offers swimming and sunbathing, Aspen offers skiing and snowboarding; Paris allows for museum visits and historical site explorations while Costa Rica facilitates jungle adventures and wildlife viewing.
Travel Tips and Recommendations for December
Planning a December vacation requires meticulous preparation to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip. Factors such as weather conditions, peak travel season crowds, and potential holiday closures necessitate careful consideration of various aspects, from packing to travel documentation. This section offers essential tips and recommendations to help navigate these challenges and maximize your vacation experience.
Essential Travel Tips for December Vacations
A well-planned trip is the cornerstone of a successful December vacation. The following ten tips address key areas to ensure a seamless travel experience, minimizing potential setbacks and maximizing enjoyment.
- Pack Appropriately: December weather varies drastically depending on your destination. Research your chosen location’s climate and pack accordingly. Layers are crucial, allowing you to adapt to changing temperatures. Consider waterproof outerwear, warm socks, and comfortable walking shoes.
- Purchase Travel Insurance: Travel insurance is a vital safeguard against unexpected events such as flight cancellations, medical emergencies, or lost luggage. Policies vary, so carefully review coverage details before purchasing.
- Check Visa Requirements: Determine the visa requirements for your destination well in advance. Application processes can take time, and delays can jeopardize your travel plans.
- Book Flights and Accommodation Early: December is a peak travel season. Flights and accommodations are often booked months in advance, and prices increase closer to the travel dates. Early booking secures better deals and preferred options.
- Research Local Customs and Etiquette: Familiarize yourself with the local customs and etiquette of your destination. Respecting local traditions enhances your travel experience and avoids unintentional cultural faux pas.
- Make Copies of Important Documents: Create digital and physical copies of your passport, visa, tickets, and other essential documents. Store them separately from the originals to protect against loss or theft.
- Inform Your Bank and Phone Provider: Notify your bank and phone provider of your travel dates and destinations to avoid any issues with card usage or roaming charges.
- Pack Necessary Medications: Carry a sufficient supply of any prescription medications you require, along with a copy of your prescription. Consult your doctor about potential health concerns related to your destination.
- Learn Basic Phrases in the Local Language: Learning a few basic phrases in the local language demonstrates respect and can be helpful in navigating unfamiliar situations.
- Stay Informed About Weather Conditions: Monitor weather forecasts leading up to and during your trip. Be prepared for potential disruptions to your itinerary due to inclement weather.
Necessary Travel Documents and Visa Requirements
Securing the correct travel documents is paramount for a hassle-free journey. The requirements vary significantly based on your nationality and destination. Here’s an overview for three popular December travel destinations:
- United States: US citizens generally require a valid passport for travel to most countries. Specific visa requirements depend on the destination country and the length of stay. Many countries offer visa waivers or visa-on-arrival options for US citizens, but it is crucial to verify this information well in advance through the embassy or consulate of the intended destination.
- United Kingdom: UK citizens also need a valid passport for international travel. Visa requirements vary by destination, with some countries offering visa-free travel for short stays while others require pre-arranged visas. Checking the specific entry requirements for the chosen destination is essential before departure.
- Canada: Canadian citizens require a valid passport for international travel. Visa requirements depend on the country of destination and the purpose of travel. Similar to the US and UK, many countries have visa waiver programs or offer visas on arrival, but confirming this information through official channels is necessary to avoid complications.
Importance of Booking Flights and Accommodation in Advance
December is a peak travel season globally, leading to significantly higher demand for flights and accommodation. Booking well in advance is crucial for several reasons. Firstly, it secures your preferred travel dates and accommodation options. Secondly, early booking often results in lower prices. Airlines and hotels frequently offer discounts for advance bookings.
Lastly, it reduces stress and allows for better planning of your itinerary. Waiting until closer to the travel dates significantly increases the risk of limited availability and higher prices, potentially impacting the overall vacation experience. For instance, popular destinations like the Caribbean or European ski resorts often see a complete sell-out of accommodations months before December.
Illustrative Examples of December Vacations
December offers a diverse range of vacation options, catering to various preferences and budgets. From snowy mountain escapes to sun-drenched beaches and vibrant city breaks, the possibilities are endless. The following examples illustrate the variety of experiences available during this festive month.
A Snowy Mountain Getaway in the Swiss Alps
Imagine a December vacation nestled amidst the breathtaking Swiss Alps. Picture crisp, snow-laden peaks piercing a sky of brilliant blue, the air invigoratingly cold and clean. This trip centers around the charming village of Grindelwald, known for its stunning views of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau mountains. Accommodation would be a cozy chalet, complete with a crackling fireplace and panoramic windows offering uninterrupted mountain vistas.
Activities would include exhilarating skiing or snowboarding down pristine slopes, followed by warming up with traditional Swiss fondue in a rustic restaurant. A snowshoe hike through a silent, snow-covered forest offers a quieter, more contemplative experience, culminating in breathtaking views from a mountaintop vantage point. Evenings could be spent enjoying the village’s festive atmosphere, perhaps attending a local Christmas market, savoring mulled wine, and soaking in the magical ambiance.
A Relaxing Beach Vacation in the Maldives
For a complete sensory escape, consider a December getaway to the Maldives. The sights would be dominated by turquoise waters, fringed by pristine white-sand beaches. The sounds would be the gentle lapping of waves against the shore, punctuated by the cries of exotic birds. The air would be filled with the sweet, salty scent of the ocean, mingled with the fragrant blossoms of tropical flowers.
The taste of fresh seafood, prepared with local spices, would tantalize the palate. The textures would range from the soft, warm sand beneath your feet to the smooth, cool surface of the ocean water. Days would be spent basking in the sun, swimming in the crystal-clear waters, snorkeling amidst vibrant coral reefs, or simply relaxing in an overwater bungalow, enjoying the unparalleled tranquility.
Evenings would offer stunning sunsets, painting the sky with fiery hues, followed by the gentle lull of the ocean as you drift off to sleep.
A Vibrant City Break in London, England
London in December offers a vibrant blend of culture and festive cheer. The sights include iconic landmarks adorned with twinkling lights, bustling Christmas markets overflowing with unique gifts, and the grandeur of Buckingham Palace. The sounds would be the cheerful chatter of shoppers, the festive carols echoing through the streets, and the joyous laughter of families enjoying the season.
The smells would be the rich aroma of roasting chestnuts, the sweet scent of gingerbread, and the intoxicating fragrance of mulled wine. The tastes would include traditional Christmas fare, from mince pies to roast turkey, along with the unique flavors of international cuisine available in London’s diverse culinary scene. The textures would range from the soft, warm wool of a winter scarf to the smooth, cool surface of a handcrafted ornament.
Activities would include visiting world-class museums, attending a performance in the West End, exploring historic neighborhoods, and immersing oneself in the festive atmosphere of numerous Christmas markets. The city’s cultural institutions would be brimming with exhibitions and events, offering a rich tapestry of experiences.
Planning a December vacation requires careful consideration of weather, activities, and budget. By researching destinations, comparing costs, and prioritizing essential travel preparations, you can create a memorable experience tailored to your preferences. Whether you seek adventure in the snow, relaxation on the beach, or cultural immersion in a bustling city, December offers a diverse range of options to satisfy every travel style.
Remember to book flights and accommodations well in advance to secure the best deals and availability.
