
December is a great time to travel, with Christmas classics, off-season surprises, and the sun-soaked treats on offer. If you're looking for a snowy escape, historical adventure, or tropical paradise, there's a place for you.
Asia
For a tropical paradise, Thailand is a sought-after holiday destination, with palm-fringed beaches, vibrant nightlife, ancient temples, and postcard-like surroundings. The Maldives is another great option, with clear blue skies, balmy temperatures, and a gentle transition from the wet to the dry season. Sri Lanka is ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities, with its dry season beginning in December.
Europe
For a Christmas classic, head to Germany, where you'll find enchanting Christmas markets and the scent of mulled wine and freshly fallen snow. Prague is another great option, with its fairy-tale-like Old Town and Christmas markets. If you're looking for a unique European experience, try the Czech Republic, with its gothic and Renaissance architecture, culture, and history.
North America
The USA is a hub of diversity, with breathtaking natural beauty, crowded mega-cities, and peaceful small towns. New York City is a must-visit, with its iconic Christmas tree and festive window displays. For a tropical escape, head to Hawaii or Florida, where beaches and tropical festivities await.
South America
Costa Rica is a great option for sandy beaches and adventure, with its Pacific coast drawing surfers and bohemians, and its Caribbean shores offering castaway escapism. Chile is another great choice, with its scenic landscapes and unique cultural experiences.
Africa
For a safari experience, head to Kenya, where you can witness the Great Migration in Maasai Mara National Reserve. Egypt is another great option, with its ancient pyramids and the River Nile. South Africa is ideal for beach lovers, with its sun-soaked coastlines and abundant wildlife.
Characteristics | Values |
---|---|
Average Temperature | 2°C-31°C |
Season | Dry, Winter, Summer |
Activities | Hiking, Trekking, Snorkelling, Scuba Diving, Shopping, Sightseeing, Sunbathing, Swimming, Wildlife Safari, Water Sports, Skiing, Snowboarding, Bungee Jumping, Jet Boating, Kayaking, Rafting, Ziplining, Rock Climbing |
Attractions | Beaches, Mountains, Water Villas, Temples, Markets, Museums, Castles, Palaces, National Parks, Forests, Deserts, Lakes, Waterfalls, Caves, Islands, Historical Sites, Restaurants, Resorts, Nightclubs, Bars, Cafes, Cinemas, Theatres, Ski Resorts, Theme Parks, Water Parks |
Countries | Sri Lanka, Dubai, France, Egypt, Chile, Singapore, Thailand, Maldives, Czech Republic, USA, New Zealand, Australia, Bhutan, Malaysia, Hong Kong, Mexico, Costa Rica, Greece, Spain, Italy, Laos, Cambodia, Vietnam, Belize, Guatemala, Fiji, Cuba, Tasmania, South Africa, Greece, Hawaii, Peru, Uruguay, Kenya, Barbados, Bahamas, Germany, Austria, India, Philippines, Brazil, Canada, Colombia, China, Switzerland, UK, Morocco, Indonesia, Turkey, UAE, Qatar, Rwanda, Portugal, Luxembourg, Finland, Iceland, Oman, Norway, New Zealand, Nepal, Bulgaria, Jordan, Netherlands, Belgium, Argentina, Dominican Republic, Honduras, Puerto Rico, Rwanda, Qatar, Portugal, Luxembourg, Rwanda, New Zealand, Australia, Ethiopia, Singapore, Japan, Korea, US, France, UK, Canada, India, Bangladesh, Vietnam, Thailand, Cambodia, Laos, Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, Nepal, Bhutan, China, Colombia, Turkey, Egypt, Iran, Kenya, Tanzania, South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Mozambique, Madagascar, Seychelles, Mauritius, Reunion, Maldives, Cape Verde, Tunisia, Algeria, <co: 0>Morocco</co |
What You'll Learn
Tropical Paradise in Thailand: Phuket
Phuket is Thailand's largest island, located in the Andaman Sea to the west of the country. It is a popular destination renowned for its palm-fringed beaches with golden sands, breathtaking scenery, and a wide range of resorts. The island also boasts its own international airport, making it easily accessible for travellers.
December is an excellent time to visit Phuket as it marks the beginning of the dry season, which lasts from November to April. This period offers warm and sunny weather, with comfortable temperatures ranging from 24°C to 31°C. The sea is calm and warm, with an average water temperature of 29°C, making it perfect for swimming, diving, and snorkelling. The underwater visibility is excellent, and the rainfall is minimal, with short tropical showers or light drizzle instead of heavy downpours.
Phuket has a vibrant culture and history, with Sino-Portuguese-style buildings in the urban areas. The island offers a range of attractions, including ancient temples, hidden caves, and iconic cultural sites. One of the most well-known Buddhist temples in Thailand, the Chai Tararam Temple, is located in the Chalong district. The monastery complex features several buildings, including the Chedi, which houses sacred relics.
For beach lovers, Phuket offers a plethora of options, from bustling stretches of sand with trendy bars and water sports to serene spots for solitude. Patong Beach, the busiest beach, offers a vibrant nightlife with nightclubs, restaurants, and bars directly on the waterfront, as well as excellent conditions for diving and water sports. Karon Beach, on the other hand, provides a peaceful atmosphere with a wide stretch of golden sand and clear waters suitable for snorkelling. Kata Beach is ideal for surfing enthusiasts, while Nai Harn Beach is less visited and surrounded by hills and abundant vegetation for those seeking seclusion.
In addition to its beaches, Phuket serves as an excellent base for exploring the stunning islands in the Andaman Sea. Popular excursions include the iconic Koh Phi Phi islands, the paradisiacal Ko He for snorkelling, and the tranquil Koh Yao Noi, which offers a peaceful escape from bustling Phuket. A visit to Phang Nga Bay is also a must, with its famous James Bond Island, sea caves, and limestone formations.
Phuket's Old Town is another fascinating area, known for its charming Sino-Portuguese shophouses, restaurants, cocktail bars, independent cafes, and artisan coffee shops. The town also boasts museums, historic mansions, and elaborate Chinese-style temples that showcase the island's tin-mining past. Every Sunday, Phuket Old Town hosts a vibrant night market on Thalang Road, where you can indulge in street food, shop for unique souvenirs, and soak in the lively atmosphere.
When it comes to accommodation, Phuket offers a variety of options to suit different preferences and budgets. From high-end resorts to self-catering apartments and villas, you can find your ideal place to stay. The island also has a range of culinary delights, with street vendors, local restaurants, and fine dining establishments serving both traditional Phuketian dishes and international cuisine.
Overall, Phuket in December provides the perfect combination of warm weather, stunning natural attractions, cultural experiences, and festive cheer, making it an ideal tropical paradise for travellers seeking sun, sea, and culture.
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Beachside Resort Town in Thailand: Pattaya
Pattaya is a delightful beachside resort town in Thailand, offering stunning temples, vibrant bazaars, picturesque beaches, delectable cuisine, and lively entertainment. Located on the country's east coast, it is a popular destination for travellers seeking a blend of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and exciting activities.
Beaches
Pattaya boasts numerous beaches, each with its unique character and attractions. Here are some of the most popular ones:
- Jomtien Beach is a bustling hub known for its resorts, hotels, and water sports activities. It offers a vibrant atmosphere with plenty of entertainment options.
- Pattaya Beach is perfect for adventurous souls who want to try jet skiing, parasailing, and other water sports. It also features a floating restaurant and street food stalls.
- Wong Amat Beach is ideal for those seeking a quieter atmosphere. It offers a crescent-shaped bay with a stunning view of the coast and thickets of palm trees for relaxation.
- Dong Tan Beach, located north of Jomtien Beach, features pristine sandy shores, deck chairs, and small cafes serving local cuisine.
- Tawaen Beach is known for its shallow, clear waters and a variety of shops, restaurants, and activity centres.
- Bamboo Beach, nestled in the gulf, offers peaceful and shallow waters, clean sands, and quaint cafes.
- Naklua Beach is a quaint beach located in a serene residential area, surrounded by temples, buildings, and green hills. It hosts regular cultural shows and performances.
- Koh Larn Beach on Coral Island is loved for its sprawling coral reefs, ideal for snorkelling and scuba diving.
- Bang Saray Beach is a peaceful stretch of sand with few hotels, providing a tranquil escape from the bustling city.
Weather in December
December is an excellent time to visit Pattaya as it falls within Thailand's dry season. You can expect moderate temperatures ranging from 15°C to 27°C, with no rain and plenty of sunshine. This makes it a perfect month for outdoor activities and water sports, as well as exploring the surrounding islands and enjoying the clear underwater visibility.
Attractions and Activities
In addition to its beaches, Pattaya offers a range of attractions and activities to suit all interests:
- The Sanctuary of Truth is a magnificent wooden construction showcasing Thai craftsmanship and philosophical themes.
- Underwater World Pattaya is the city's first underwater aquarium, featuring a 105-metre-long tunnel, various marine life exhibits, and interactive experiences.
- Art in Paradise is Thailand's first 3D art museum, featuring over 140 interactive paintings that create optical illusions for unique photo opportunities.
- The Pattaya Floating Market offers a unique shopping and dining experience, with vendors selling local crafts and delicious Thai cuisine.
- The Pattaya Dolphinarium is a delightful attraction where you can watch dolphin shows and even swim with these intelligent creatures.
- The Nong Nooch Tropical Botanical Garden is a lush garden space with beautiful landscapes, cultural performances, and elephant shows.
- Ripley's Believe It or Not is a quirky museum featuring unusual exhibits and artefacts from around the world.
- The Alcazar Cabaret Show and Tiffany's Show Pattaya offer vibrant cabaret performances, including music, dance, and colourful costumes.
- The Pattaya Dolphin World allows you to get up close and personal with dolphins and other marine animals.
- The Sriracha Tiger Zoo is home to tigers, crocodiles, and other exotic animals, offering an educational and thrilling experience.
- The Pattaya Shooting Park provides a safe and exciting environment to try your hand at shooting and improve your marksmanship.
Accommodation
Pattaya has a range of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences, including:
- Centara Grand Mirage Beach Resort Pattaya - Located on Naklua and Wong Amat Beach, this resort offers pools, luxury accommodations, and easy access to a private beach.
- Avani Pattaya Resort - A green, plant-filled property within walking distance of Pattaya Beach, featuring rooms with stunning sea views.
- Veranda Resort Pattaya Na Jomtien - MGallery - This resort offers rooms with sea views and easy access to the beach.
- Holiday Inn Pattaya - A beachfront hotel with newly refurbished rooms, family-friendly facilities, and a variety of dining options.
- Hard Rock Hotel Pattaya - Located on the beach road, offering easy access to restaurants and massage parlours, with improved beach conditions.
- Dusit Thani Pattaya - A timeless resort that offers traditional Thai experiences, cultural programmes, and beautiful ocean views.
- Royal Wing Suites & Spa Pattaya - A luxurious beachfront resort with suites, an infinity pool, and a private beach.
- Cape Dara Resort - Features an infinity pool, posh rooms, poolside bars, and an in-house spa for a premium experience.
- Pullman Pattaya - A 5-star beachfront resort with extravagant cabaret shows and stunning sea views.
- Hilton Pattaya - A premium beach resort with an infinity pool, suites, and world-class service.
So, if you're looking for a vibrant and exciting beach holiday in December, Pattaya, Thailand, is definitely worth considering! With its stunning beaches, cultural attractions, and lively entertainment, it has something for everyone.
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Ultramodern Desert City in the UAE: Dubai
Dubai is a city of superlatives, boasting the world's tallest building, the second-largest shopping mall, and the largest indoor aquarium. It has transformed itself from a small fishing village into a glamorous cosmopolitan city in less than 50 years. This ultramodern city, with its rich cultural and historical sites, attracts millions of tourists every year.
Weather
December is one of the best months to visit Dubai, with mild weather and a lot of events. The average temperature ranges from 18-26°C, making it ideal for outdoor activities. The seawater is around 24°C, perfect for swimming and water sports. The evenings are pleasantly cool, providing a soothing atmosphere to explore the city.
Attractions
Dubai offers a mix of modern living and traditional Arabic culture. Here are some attractions to visit:
- Burj Khalifa: This 825-metre-high engineering marvel provides a panoramic view of the city. On New Year's Eve, it hosts a grand light and sound show.
- La Perle Show: Designed by Franco Dragone, this visually stunning show features over 60 world-class performers and amazing stunts.
- Dhow Cruise: Explore the cityscape by sailing along the Dubai Creek in a traditional wooden Arab Dhow.
- Skydiving: For adrenaline junkies, skydiving offers a thrilling experience, diving from a height of 14,000 feet.
- Desert Safari: Experience the vast Arabian Desert with activities like sandbashing, sandboarding, quad biking, and camel riding. You can also stay overnight in Bedouin tents, enjoying traditional songs, belly dancing, and local cuisine.
- Dubai Miracle Garden: A flower park featuring Disney characters, cartoon princesses, and an Emirates airline plane, all made from flowers.
- Dubai Marina: A family-friendly district with beaches, opulent nightlife, and a beautiful waterfront.
- Al Fahidi: A historic neighbourhood showcasing what a typical seaside district of Dubai looked like a century ago.
Festivities
Dubai is gorgeously lit with fairy lights and fireworks during December, especially on the 25th and 31st. The light and sound show at the Burj Khalifa, lively parties, street festivals, and live entertainment create a blend of modern and traditional celebrations.
There are also events unique to this month, such as the Dubai International Film Festival, Dubai Shopping Festival, and the UAE National Day Festival.
Accommodation
When choosing a neighbourhood to stay in, consider the following:
- Downtown Dubai: The city centre, with the highest concentration of architectural marvels, but lacking nearby beaches and expensive.
- Dubai Marina: Family-friendly, located near the sea, with a mix of beaches and nightlife.
- The Palm Jumeirah: Exclusive and expensive, with its own beaches and a man-made island.
- Deira: Budget-friendly, conveniently located near the airport, with easy access to the metro and a nearby beach.
- Bur Dubai: One of the oldest districts, with historic architecture and a vibrant atmosphere.
- Al Barsha: A budget-conscious option close to the city centre, with free transfers to the beach offered by many hotels.
Some recommended hotels include:
- Atlantis The Royal: A luxurious and exclusive destination, with rooms starting at $1,900 per night.
- Jumeirah Beach Hotel: A wave-shaped hotel on Jumeirah Beach, with rooms starting at $1,700 per night.
- Golden Sands-Dubai Creek: A budget-friendly five-star hotel with a waterfront location, spacious rooms, and a rooftop pool, starting at $400 per night.
- 25hours Hotel Dubai One Central: A creative hub with co-working spaces and a rooftop pool, starting at $250 per night.
Travel Tips
- December is a turbulent month price-wise, with expenses skyrocketing during the holiday season. Booking several months in advance can save you money.
- Carry sunscreen and light clothing, but also pack layers for the pleasantly cool evenings.
- Dubai has dress code restrictions; avoid wearing bikinis and crop tops. Pack long dresses, loose-fitting tops, and pants.
- Use a tracker like Kiwi.com to monitor flight price fluctuations and snag tickets at their cheapest.
- There is a 10% hotel tax and a 10% service charge in Dubai, which may not be reflected in the initial price.
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Stunning Tropical Getaway: The Maldives
The Maldives is a tropical paradise that lures all types of travellers, from solo adventurers to honeymooners and families. With its white sandy beaches, turquoise waters, majestic islands, and rich marine life, it is the perfect destination for a tranquil vacation in the vast Indian Ocean.
Weather
The Maldives in December marks the transition from the wet to the dry season, with clear blue skies, balmy temperatures, and low rainfall and humidity. The average daily maximum temperature is 31°C, while the average daily minimum is 27°C. The sea is calm and clear, making it ideal for sunbathing and snorkelling.
Things to Do
The Maldives offers a range of activities for all interests. Here are some suggestions:
- Diving and snorkelling at Banana Reef, one of the best diving sites in the world, with its rich marine life, thrilling cliffs, overhangs, and vast corals.
- Wind and kite surfing at some of the best resorts, such as Baros and Meedhupparu.
- A traditional Dhoni sunset cruise, where you can enjoy breathtaking sunset views and spot hundreds of dolphins spinning in the ocean waters.
- A submarine ride to witness the majestic aquatic life without getting wet.
- Fishing, an important part of the Maldivian economy, with its thriving aquatic life spread across 1,192 coral islands.
- Rejuvenating spa sessions with a variety of therapies like Ayurveda, Swedish Massage, and reflexology.
- Exploring the history of the islands at the National Museum, which houses archaeological artefacts, Buddha heads, royal sunshades, costumes, ornaments, arms, and armour.
Where to Stay
The Maldives has a range of accommodation options to suit different budgets:
- Jumeirah Vittaveli Maldives: Located near Male, this resort offers luxury amenities, including a swimming pool, wellness centre, and a private beach, with prices starting from INR 70,000 per night.
- Paradise Island Resort: Set on the tranquil Lankanfinolhu Island, this 4-star property offers comfortable rooms, a swimming pool, multi-cuisine restaurants, and spa centres, with prices starting from INR 26,000 per night.
- Biyadhoo Island Resort: Situated on Biyadhoo Island, this resort is just a stone's throw from the beach and offers sophisticated rooms, a restaurant, bar, wellness centre, and thrilling diving experiences, with prices starting from INR 7,500 per night.
Where to Eat
The Maldives also boasts a variety of dining options, including:
- Ithaa Underwater Aquarium Restaurant: This award-winning restaurant, located 16 feet below sea level, serves European cuisine and offers panoramic views of the surrounding colourful corals.
- Baraabaru Restaurant: Located in the Four Seasons Resort, this restaurant serves Indian delicacies in a traditional Kerala-inspired setting.
- Reef Club Restaurant: Dine by the ocean and savour authentic Italian cuisine at this restaurant in the Four Seasons Resort.
Getting There
The Maldives is easily accessible, with most airlines flying to and from the Male International Airport. Travelling by air is the fastest and most economical way to reach the islands. It is recommended to book flights in advance to avoid higher fares and unavailability, especially during the peak season around Christmas and New Year.
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Fun-Packed Beach Destination in Sri Lanka: Bentota
If you're looking for a fun-packed beach destination in December, look no further than Bentota in Sri Lanka. With its golden beaches, swaying palms, delicious food, and plenty of activities, Bentota is the perfect place for a holiday. Located on the west coast of the island, Bentota is a planned tourist development with a long, broad, sandy beach. The best time to visit is during the dry season from December to April, with pleasant weather, moderate temperatures, and minimal rainfall.
Bentota has something for everyone, from swimming and water sports to sightseeing and cultural experiences. The beach is safe for swimming, although red warning flags indicate when currents are too strong. There are also fine beachside hotels with swimming pools, as well as guest houses to suit all budgets. All the amenities a visitor could need are available, including banks, a post office, tourist shops, and restaurants. The area has an atmosphere of respectability, and guests can enjoy evening entertainment in the beachside hotels.
For day tours, cruise on the Bentota River, visit the private gardens of Brief and Lunuganga, or explore the nearby town of Beruwela, known for its rich cultural heritage and water sports. If you're looking for a lively beach resort, Unawatuna is just a short distance away.
December is the perfect time to visit Bentota as it marks the beginning of the dry season. The temperatures range from 27°C to 30°C, with warm days and cooler nights. It's a busy and expensive time due to the festive season, but it's an excellent opportunity to indulge in water sports and other activities. So, if you're looking for a fun-packed beach holiday in December, Bentota in Sri Lanka is the ideal choice!
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Frequently asked questions
Some of the best places to visit in December in Asia are Thailand, the Maldives, Vietnam, Bhutan, Sri Lanka, Japan, India, and Cambodia.
The Czech Republic, Germany, Finland, Austria, Italy, and Switzerland are some of the best places to visit in December in Europe.
Australia, Chile, Mexico, New Zealand, Egypt, and Kenya are some of the best countries to visit in December outside of Asia and Europe.