When it comes to winter getaways, it’s not all about cosying up by the fire, drinking hot chocolate and playing in the snow. Sure, Christmas markets are amazing but it’s also nice to escape to the heat! With that in mind, we’ve rounded up the very best places to travel in December.
The Best Places to Travel in DecemberHow do these rankings work?
1. Whistler, Canada
Just two hours away from Vancouver lies this famous mountain hotspot. This top ranked destination ski resort draws skiers from all over the world for downhill and heli-skiing, with cross-country trails located close by.
Snuggle up in a chalet with some hot chocolate and relax in front of a fire after a long day on the slopes. Whistler is perfect for a winter getaway you’ll never forget.
2. Bali, Indonesia
Indonesia is a Southeast Asian nation made up of thousands of volcanic islands, such as the beautiful island of Bali. You’ll find beaches, volcanoes, Komodo dragons and jungles sheltering elephants, orangutans and tigers.
Basically, it’s paradise. It’s likely you’ve seen an image of Bali on social media at least once in the past seven days, as it’s such a popular spot.
3. Dubai, UAE
The high-flying city of the U.A.E, Dubai is one of the most glamourous destinations you’ll ever visit, and is particularly popular with Big 7 Travel readers.
Burj Khalifa, an 830m-tall tower, dominates the skyscraper-filled skyline, while traditional mosques are must-sees. Balmy temperatures make it one of the top places to travel in December.
4. London, England
Pretty pink restaurants, futuristic space-age toilets and jungle skyline views are just some of our favourite things about London. And of course, all the classics: Big Ben, red phone boxes and world-class museums and galleries.
The city is all lit up with festive lights through December, with choir singers and plenty of Christmas events taking place throughout the city.
5. Barbados, Caribbean
Barbados is one of those magical holiday destinations that everybody dreams about visiting. Who wouldn’t put this on their winter bucket list?!
Nestled in the south of the Caribbean, it offers stunning beauty and wonderful local culture and is the perfect place to unwind.
6. Miami, Florida, USA
Miami is a laid-back beach town during the day and a feverish party town at night. If you’re researching winter vacations ideas then we bet this city will pop up again and again! For good reason too, as there’s plenty to love about Miami.
With its bright colours, wonderful weather, high end restaurants and party vibes, this is one of the greatest American cities to spend some time in. The balmy weather will make you forget it’s even winter.
7. Budapest, Hungary
The capital city of Hungary, Budapest is a fairytale city in Eastern Europe. The city itself is separated by the 19th-century Chain Bridge that connects the hilly Buda district with flat Pest – hence the name Budapest!
In December there’s a beautiful Christmas Market on Vorosmarty Square. Feast on typical Hungarian dishes such as sausages and stews, as well as sweet funnel cakes and drinks. There’s over 100 stalls in the square, with local trinkets, craft workshops, children’s puppet shows and much more to explore.