Hey there, fellow travelers! December is one of my favorite months to travel. There’s something magical about the holiday season, whether it’s the festive lights, the cozy winter weather, or the excitement of New Year’s Eve celebrations. If you’re thinking about taking a trip this December but aren’t sure where to go, you’re in the right place. Let’s explore some of the best places to travel in December, from winter wonderlands to sunny escapes. Grab a warm drink, settle in, and let’s chat about where to make your December unforgettable!
Winter Wonderland Destinations
New York City, USA
There’s no place like New York City during the holidays. The city transforms into a sparkling winter wonderland, with festive decorations, holiday markets, and the iconic Rockefeller Center Christmas tree. One of my favorite memories is ice skating at the Rockefeller Center, surrounded by twinkling lights and the buzz of holiday cheer.
Things to Do in New York City
- Ice Skating at Rockefeller Center: A must-do activity for anyone visiting NYC in December.
- Holiday Markets: Don’t miss the Bryant Park Winter Village and the Union Square Holiday Market for unique gifts and delicious treats.
- Broadway Shows: Catch a holiday-themed show or a classic performance to get into the festive spirit.
Vienna, Austria
Vienna is another fantastic destination for December travel. The city is famous for its beautiful Christmas markets, classical music concerts, and stunning architecture. I visited Vienna a few years ago, and the Christmas markets were like something out of a fairy tale. The smell of mulled wine and roasted chestnuts filled the air, and there were endless stalls selling handmade crafts and delicious food.
Things to Do in Vienna
- Christmas Markets: Visit the Christkindlmarkt at Rathausplatz and the Schönbrunn Palace Christmas Market.
- Classical Concerts: Enjoy a classical music concert at the Vienna State Opera or the Musikverein.
- Viennese Coffee Houses: Warm up with a cup of traditional Viennese coffee and a slice of Sachertorte at Café Sacher.
Lapland, Finland
For a truly magical winter experience, Lapland in Finland is hard to beat. It’s the perfect destination for those who want to embrace the cold and enjoy snow-covered landscapes. Lapland is also known as the home of Santa Claus, making it an ideal destination for families with kids.
Things to Do in Lapland
- Visit Santa Claus Village: Meet Santa Claus, send postcards from the Arctic Circle, and explore the festive village.
- Northern Lights: December is a great time to see the Northern Lights. Book a tour for the best chance of witnessing this natural wonder.
- Husky Safaris and Reindeer Sleigh Rides: Embrace the winter adventure with a husky safari or a reindeer sleigh ride through the snowy forests.
Warm Weather Escapes
Maui, Hawaii
If you’re looking to escape the cold, Maui in Hawaii offers a perfect warm-weather retreat. December is a great time to visit Maui, as the weather is pleasant, and you can still enjoy the island’s beautiful beaches and outdoor activities.
Things to Do in Maui
- Beach Time: Relax on the stunning beaches of Kaanapali, Wailea, and Makena.
- Whale Watching: December marks the beginning of the humpback whale season. Book a whale-watching tour for an unforgettable experience.
- Road to Hana: Take a scenic drive along the Road to Hana, stopping at waterfalls, beaches, and lookout points along the way.
Sydney, Australia
Sydney is another fantastic destination for those looking to escape winter’s chill. With its sunny weather, beautiful beaches, and vibrant city life, Sydney has something for everyone.
Things to Do in Sydney
- Sydney Opera House: Take a tour of this iconic landmark or catch a performance.
- Bondi Beach: Enjoy the sun, surf, and sand at Sydney’s most famous beach.
- Harbor Cruise: Take a cruise around Sydney Harbor for stunning views of the city skyline and the Sydney Harbour Bridge.
Cancun, Mexico
Cancun is a popular destination for those seeking a tropical getaway. With its beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and all-inclusive resorts, Cancun offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure.
Things to Do in Cancun
- Beach Resorts: Relax at one of Cancun’s many all-inclusive resorts, where you can enjoy everything from water sports to gourmet dining.
- Mayan Ruins: Explore the ancient Mayan ruins of Tulum and Chichen Itza.
- Snorkeling and Diving: Discover the vibrant marine life of the Great Mesoamerican Reef.
Unique December Destinations
Reykjavik, Iceland
For a unique and adventurous December trip, consider visiting Reykjavik, Iceland. The city offers a mix of stunning natural beauty and vibrant culture. I visited Reykjavik in December and was blown away by the winter landscapes and the warmth of the locals.
Things to Do in Reykjavik
- Blue Lagoon: Relax in the geothermal waters of the Blue Lagoon, surrounded by snow-covered lava fields.
- Golden Circle Tour: Explore Iceland’s famous Golden Circle, including Thingvellir National Park, Geysir, and Gullfoss Waterfall.
- Northern Lights: Join a Northern Lights tour for a chance to see this breathtaking phenomenon.
Cape Town, South Africa
Cape Town offers a unique December travel experience with its summer season and stunning landscapes. From beaches to mountains to vineyards, Cape Town has it all.
Things to Do in Cape Town
- Table Mountain: Take a cable car to the top of Table Mountain for panoramic views of the city and coastline.
- Robben Island: Visit the historic Robben Island, where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned.
- Cape Winelands: Explore the vineyards and enjoy wine tasting in the beautiful Cape Winelands.
Tokyo, Japan
Tokyo is a vibrant and bustling city that offers a unique December travel experience. The city is beautifully decorated for the holidays, and there’s a mix of traditional and modern attractions to explore.
Things to Do in Tokyo
- Holiday Illuminations: Enjoy the stunning holiday light displays at places like Roppongi Hills and Shibuya.
- Traditional Festivals: Experience traditional Japanese festivals and New Year’s celebrations.
- Shopping: Explore the bustling shopping districts of Shibuya and Harajuku for unique gifts and fashion finds.
My Personal Travel Tips for December
Plan Ahead
December is a popular travel month, so it’s important to plan ahead. Book your flights and accommodation early to get the best deals and availability. I always start planning my December trips in the summer to ensure I have plenty of options.
Pack Smart
Whether you’re heading to a winter wonderland or a tropical paradise, packing smart is key. For cold destinations, layer up with warm clothing, including thermal wear, hats, gloves, and a good winter coat. For warm destinations, pack light and breathable clothing, swimwear, and plenty of sunscreen.
Embrace the Festive Spirit
December is all about the holiday spirit, so embrace it! Participate in local holiday traditions, enjoy festive foods and drinks, and immerse yourself in the celebrations. During my trip to Vienna, I loved trying traditional holiday treats like Lebkuchen and Glühwein at the Christmas markets.
Be Flexible
While it’s great to have a plan, sometimes the best experiences come from being flexible and spontaneous. Leave some room in your itinerary for unexpected adventures and discoveries. On a trip to Lapland, I ended up joining a last-minute snowshoeing tour that turned out to be one of the highlights of my trip.
Final Thoughts
December is a magical time to travel, whether you’re seeking a winter wonderland, a warm escape, or a unique adventure. From the festive streets of New York City to the sunny beaches of Maui, there’s a destination for everyone. I hope this guide has inspired you to plan your own December getaway. Wherever you decide to go, make sure to soak in the beauty of the season, embrace new experiences, and create unforgettable memories.
References
Feel free to share your own December travel experiences and tips in the comments below. I’d love to hear about the places you’ve discovered and the adventures you’ve had! Happy travels!