With best places to visit in December at the forefront, this article takes you on a journey to explore the most enchanting destinations around the world that come alive during the holiday season. From snow-covered mountains to warm sandy beaches, December is the perfect time to experience the magic of various cultures, festivals, and traditions.
Whether you’re looking for a winter wonderland, a cultural immersion, or a relaxing getaway, this article provides you with an insider’s guide to the best places to visit in December. Get ready to be captivated by the charm of the following destinations, ranging from snowy ski resorts to warm weather escapes.
Cultural Celebrations in December
December is a month of vibrant cultural celebrations around the world. Among the numerous festivals and traditions observed, some of the most significant and widely recognized include Hanukkah, Christmas, and Kwanzaa. These celebrations not only showcase the diverse cultural heritage of different communities but also bring people together, fostering a sense of unity and togetherness.
Hanukkah, an eight-day Jewish festival, commemorates the rededication of the Temple in Jerusalem during the Maccabean Revolt in the 2nd century BCE. It is observed in late November or early December, with families and communities gathering to light the menorah, exchange gifts, and enjoy traditional foods such as latkes and sufganiyot.
- The first Hanukkah candle is lit on the first night, followed by the addition of one candle each subsequent night, culminating in the lighting of all eight candles on the final night.
- Traditional Hanukkah foods include latkes, which are potato pancakes fried in oil, and sufganiyot, or jelly-filled doughnuts.
- Gifts are exchanged among family members and friends during Hanukkah, with children often receiving small gifts or money.
Christmas, which falls on December 25, is a Christian holiday commemorating the birth of Jesus Christ. It is observed by millions of people around the world, with many countries and cultures adding their unique traditions and customs to the celebration. Christmas is a time for family, friends, and community gatherings, often marked by the exchange of gifts, decoration of Christmas trees, and the singing of carols.
- Christmas is typically celebrated with the lighting of Advent calendars, the decoration of Christmas trees, and the exchange of gifts on Christmas Eve.
- Traditional Christmas foods include roasted goose, turkey, and ham, as well as sweet treats like Christmas cookies and gingerbread.
- Many countries have their own unique Christmas traditions, such as La Noche Buena in Mexico and the Krampusnacht in Austria and parts of Germany.
Kwanzaa, a week-long celebration from December 26 to January 1, honors the African diasporic heritage and the seven principles, or Nguzo Saba, of the black nationalist movement. It was created in 1966 by Maulana Karenga, an African American scholar and activist, as a way to promote unity and self-determination among African Americans.
- Kwanzaa is celebrated with the lighting of the kinara, a seven-branched candleholder, as well as the exchange of gifts and the singing of traditional songs and chants.
- Traditional Kwanzaa foods include jollof rice, fufu, and peanut stew, which are all staple dishes in African cuisine.
- Communities and families come together to celebrate Kwanzaa, often with feasts, storytelling, and other activities that promote family and community bonding.
Warm Weather Escapes
December is the perfect time to escape the chill and head to a warm and sunny destination. If you’re a beach vacationer or a sun-seeker, you’re in luck! Many popular destinations offer ideal weather conditions in December, making it an excellent time to soak up the sun and enjoy various activities.
Top Warm Weather Destinations in December
Some of the top warm weather destinations in December include the Caribbean, Southeast Asia, and the Middle East. These regions offer a mix of beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant cultures.
- Maldives: Known for its stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters, the Maldives is a paradise for beach lovers. In December, the average temperature is around 28°C (82°F), making it an ideal time to enjoy snorkelling, diving, and relaxing on the beach.
- Bali, Indonesia: With its beautiful beaches, temples, and vibrant culture, Bali is a popular destination for tourists. In December, the average temperature is around 26°C (79°F), making it a great time to explore the island, enjoy water sports, and relax in the sun.
- Dubai, UAE: If you’re looking for a city break with warm weather, Dubai is a great option. In December, the average temperature is around 24°C (75°F), making it a great time to explore the city, visit the Dubai Mall, and enjoy the city’s vibrant nightlife.
Each of these destinations offers a unique experience, so be sure to do your research and choose the one that best suits your preferences. Whether you’re looking for relaxation, adventure, or cultural experiences, these destinations are sure to deliver.
Best Beaches to Visit in December, Best places to visit in december
If you’re looking for the best beaches to visit in December, here are some top picks:
- El Nido, Philippines: El Nido is known for its stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters. In December, the average temperature is around 28°C (82°F), making it an ideal time to enjoy snorkelling, diving, and relaxing on the beach.
- The Great Barrier Reef, Australia: The Great Barrier Reef is one of the most famous snorkelling and diving spots in the world. In December, the average temperature is around 26°C (79°F), making it a great time to explore the reef and enjoy the beautiful coral and marine life.
- The Maldives: As mentioned earlier, the Maldives is a paradise for beach lovers. In December, the average temperature is around 28°C (82°F), making it an ideal time to enjoy snorkelling, diving, and relaxing on the beach.
Each of these beaches offers a unique experience, so be sure to do your research and choose the one that best suits your preferences.
Unique Activities and Attractions
In addition to enjoying the beautiful beaches and warm weather, there are plenty of unique activities and attractions to explore in these destinations. Here are a few ideas:
- Snorkelling and diving: The clear waters of the Maldives and the Philippines offer a chance to see an incredible array of marine life, including colourful fish, coral, and even sharks.
- Island-hopping: The Maldives and the Philippines offer a chance to explore multiple islands and experience different cultures and landscapes.
- Temple visits: Bali is home to many beautiful temples, including the famous Tanah Lot temple, which is perched on a rocky outcrop overlooking the sea.
Each of these destinations offers a unique experience, so be sure to do your research and choose the one that best suits your preferences.
City Breaks with Holiday Magic: Best Places To Visit In December
As the holiday season approaches, many cities around the world transform into winter wonderlands, attracting millions of visitors looking for a festive and magical experience. From the snow-covered streets of Europe to the twinkling lights of North America and the vibrant markets of Asia, city breaks during December are a treat for the senses. In this article, we’ll explore some of the most enchanting destinations that come alive during the holiday season.
Cities like Vienna, Austria, and Paris, France, are synonymous with holiday magic. Their historic architecture, cultural events, and festive markets create a captivating atmosphere that’s perfect for a city break.
Notable Holiday Markets
Many cities boast impressive holiday markets that showcase local crafts, food, and drinks. Here are some of the most famous ones:
- Vienna Christmas Market (Austria): This market, situated in front of Vienna City Hall, offers a wide range of traditional Austrian goods, including handmade decorations, candles, and festive treats.
- Strasbourg Christmas Market (France): Considered one of the oldest and largest Christmas markets in the world, it features over 300 stalls selling festive goods, food, and drinks.
- Winter Village at Bryant Park (New York City, USA): This outdoor ice skating rink is surrounded by over 175 holiday shops, offering a variety of gifts, decorations, and seasonal treats.
- Tokyo Winter Illuminations (Japan): Experience the city’s vibrant winter lights, featuring beautifully designed illuminations at popular spots like Shibuya, Shinjuku, and Tokyo Skytree.
When visiting these markets, be sure to try the local specialties, such as glühwein (mulled wine) in Germany, hot chocolate in France, or steaming bowls of ramen in Japan.
Impressive Holiday Displays
Some cities go to great lengths to create breathtaking holiday displays, making them a must-visit destination during the festive season. Here are a few examples:
- Brookfield Place (New York City, USA): This iconic shopping mall is transformed into a winter wonderland with over a million LED lights, creating a stunning display.
- La Défense Christmas Tree (Paris, France): The tallest Christmas tree in Europe, standing at 115 feet, is adorned with thousands of sparkling lights and offers a breathtaking view from the Eiffel Tower.
- Tokyo Tower Christmas Lighting (Japan): This iconic tower is illuminated with over 150,000 lights, creating a magical atmosphere in the heart of the city.
These displays are often accompanied by festive events, such as ice skating rinks, live music performances, and holiday-themed parades.
Cultural and Culinary Delights
Each city has its unique cultural and culinary offerings, making your holiday break even more special. For example:
- Vancouver, Canada: Experience the city’s diverse cultural scene, with festivals like the Vancouver Christmas Market, which features traditional Canadian food, drinks, and crafts.
- Barcelona, Spain: Discover the city’s rich culinary heritage, with traditional Christmas dishes like paella and tapas, and visit the festive markets at La Rambla and Passeig de Gracia.
- Seoul, South Korea: Immerse yourself in the city’s vibrant food culture, with popular street foods like kimchi and hotteok, and visit the Seoul Christmas Market at Jongno-gu.
In conclusion, a city break during December is the perfect way to experience the magic of the holiday season. From festive markets to impressive holiday displays, cultural and culinary delights, and holiday-themed events, each destination offers a unique and unforgettable experience.
Natural Wonders in Winter
As the winter months bring a serene and mystical atmosphere to the natural world, many breathtaking landscapes and attractions become even more breathtakingly beautiful. From the ethereal Northern Lights to the majestic ice caves and frozen waterfalls, this is the perfect time to witness the awe-inspiring beauty of nature.
Winter months provide the perfect setting for a truly enchanting experience as natural wonders take the stage. The unique conditions that allow for these spectacular displays can be attributed to the cold temperatures, shorter days, and low-angle sunlight.
The Northern Lights
One of the most spectacular natural phenomena that can be witnessed during winter is the Northern Lights, also known as the Aurora Borealis. This breathtaking display of colorful lights dancing across the night sky occurs when charged particles from the sun interact with the Earth’s magnetic field.
– The Northern Lights typically occur in the Northern Hemisphere, predominantly in countries such as Norway, Sweden, Finland, and Iceland, between the months of September and April, with the peak season being December to March.
– The ideal locations for witnessing the Northern Lights include areas with minimal light pollution, high-latitude environments, and a clear view of the night sky.
– Some of the most popular destinations for seeing the Northern Lights include:
* Tromsø, Norway – Known for its excellent viewing opportunities, Tromsø is one of the best places to witness the Northern Lights.
* Lapland, Finland – Experience the magic of the Northern Lights amidst the serene beauty of Lapland’s snow-covered landscapes.
* Yellowknife, Canada – Located in the Northwest Territories, Yellowknife offers a unique and unforgettable experience for witnessing the Northern Lights.
Ice Caves
Ice caves are another breathtaking natural wonder that can be observed during winter. These caves are formed when the weight of snow and ice melts, creating a frozen tunnel that is both fragile and beautiful. The unique conditions required to form ice caves include extreme cold temperatures, minimal sunlight, and a specific type of rock formation.
– The best locations for witnessing ice caves include countries with significant glaciated areas, such as Iceland, Alaska, and Canada.
– Some of the most notable locations for seeing ice caves include:
* Vatnajökull Glacier in Iceland – Explore the majestic and breathtakingly beautiful crystal-clear ice caves of Vatnajökull Glacier.
* Blue Lake Glacier in Alaska, USA – Witness the ethereal beauty of the Blue Lake Glacier ice caves, which offer an unparalleled experience amidst the serenity of nature.
* Milne Ice Shelf in Canada – Experience the awe-inspiring magnificence of the Milne Ice Shelf ice caves, a testament to the natural world’s ability to shape itself in magnificent ways.
Frozen Waterfalls
Frozen waterfalls are another breathtaking natural wonder that can be observed during winter. Formed when the water flowing over a waterfall freezes due to the cold temperatures, creating a majestic and surreal display. The unique conditions required to form frozen waterfalls include extreme cold temperatures, low humidity, and a specific type of waterfall formation.
– The best locations for witnessing frozen waterfalls include countries with significant snowfall and cold climates, such as Norway, Canada, and the US.
– Some of the most notable locations for seeing frozen waterfalls include:
* Plitvice Lakes National Park in Croatia – Witness the breathtaking beauty of the Plitvice Lakes National Park frozen waterfalls, a surreal display that creates an unforgettable experience.
* Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon in Iceland – Explore the majestic and enchanting frozen waterfalls of Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, an experience that will leave you in awe.
* Columbia Icefield in Alberta, Canada – Experience the awe-inspiring magnificence of the Columbia Icefield frozen waterfalls, an incredible phenomenon that offers an unforgettable experience.
Historical Sites and Museums
December is a great time to explore historical sites and museums around the world, as many of these institutions offer special exhibitions, events, or extended hours during the holiday season. This is a perfect opportunity to delve into the rich history of a particular region or culture, and get a glimpse into the past through artifacts, art, and other historical relics.
Detailed Exhibitions and Events
Many museums and historical sites offer special exhibitions and events during December, featuring a wide range of topics and themes. Some examples of special exhibitions and events that might be of interest include:
- Christmas markets and festivals, which offer a glimpse into traditional holiday celebrations and customs
- Special exhibitions on the history of Christmas or other winter holidays, which provide a deeper understanding of the cultural significance of these celebrations
- Events and reenactments that bring history to life, such as historical reenactments of battles or other significant events
- Special exhibitions on the art and culture of a particular region or time period, which offer a unique perspective on the past
Special Museums and Historical Sites
Some museums and historical sites are particularly relevant to the month of December, and offer a unique perspective on the holiday season or other winter traditions. Some examples of these institutions include:
- The British Museum’s Winter Solstice exhibition, which explores the history and cultural significance of the winter solstice
- The Museum of the City of New York’s Christmas exhibit, which delves into the history and cultural significance of Christmas in New York City
- The Smithsonian’s National Museum of American History’s exhibit on Christmas traditions in America, which explores the cultural and historical significance of Christmas in the United States
Unique Art, Artifacts, and Antiques
Many historical sites and museums offer a glimpse into the art, artifacts, and antiques of a particular region or culture, and December is a great time to explore these exhibits. Some examples of unique art, artifacts, and antiques that might be of interest include:
- Works of art created during the Renaissance or other historical periods, which offer a glimpse into the artistic and cultural traditions of the time
- Historical artifacts such as ancient pottery, jewelry, or other objects, which offer a glimpse into daily life and culture in the past
- Antiques and collectibles, which offer a glimpse into the history and cultural significance of a particular object or item
Special Reenactments and Events
Some historical sites and museums offer special reenactments and events during December, which bring history to life and provide a unique perspective on the past. Some examples of special reenactments and events that might be of interest include:
- Historical reenactments of battles or other significant events
- Living history events, in which actors and reenactors bring history to life through their characters and actions
- Special events and lectures, which offer a glimpse into the history and cultural significance of a particular topic or theme
Wrap-Up
In conclusion, December is a magical time to travel and experience the world’s diverse cultures, landscapes, and traditions. The destinations mentioned in this article offer a range of activities, festivals, and events that are sure to make your holiday season unforgettable. So, start planning your December trip today and get ready to create lifelong memories!
Top FAQs
What is the best time to visit snowy ski resorts in December?
The best time to visit snowy ski resorts in December is during the peak season, which typically occurs between mid-December and mid-January. However, if you’re looking for cheaper options and smaller crowds, consider visiting in the early or late part of the month.
Which destinations in December offer the best holiday magic?
Some of the top destinations for holiday magic in December include New York City, Tokyo, and Paris. These cities come alive with festive lights, markets, and events that are sure to get you in the holiday spirit.
What are some popular cultural celebrations in December?
December is a significant month for various cultural celebrations, including Hanukkah, Christmas, and Kwanzaa. Each of these celebrations comes with unique customs, traditions, and practices that are worth exploring.
Which warm weather destinations are suitable for a December vacation?
The Maldives, Hawaii, and Bali are some of the top warm weather destinations in December that offer perfect conditions for beach vacationers and sun-seekers.
