December is a huge travel month for teachers and families alike. With a few weeks off, there are many options that are some of the best countries to visit in December. The following post goes over some of the more unique options on where to travel in December.
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Best Countries to Visit in December: Asia
United Arab Emirates
By Monica from This Rare Earth
The United Arab Emirates is one of the best countries to visit in December, offering the perfect weather, as temperatures drop to a pleasant 68-77°F. Visitors can comfortably enjoy a variety of both indoor and outdoor activities at this time of year.
While Dubai’s iconic attractions continue to allure tourists with the likes of the Burj Khalifa and Palm Jumeirah, December brings a special charm to the UAE, with lots of winter activities in Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
Check out attractions like the impressive ice sculptures at Zabeel Park, or the holiday markets at the Dubai Marina. Those truly missing snow can even ski inside of the Mall of the Emirates. And of course, winter is one of the best times to experience the desert, since the triple digits are well out of sight. Abu Dhabi also offers a festive atmosphere filled with holiday lights and winter charm, albeit more understated than Dubai.
Dubai has a reputation for being a luxury destination, but you’d be surprised to learn that it is easy to travel cheap here.
When booking accommodations, consider staying in the heart of Old Dubai. It’s an affordable area, providing budget-conscious travelers cheaper rooms next to bustling night markets, where you’ll find cuisine from around the world, live music, and games.
Also, you’ll find easy and efficient public transport without the need to rent a car. Dubai has an easy-to-use metro system, and an abundance of convenient rideshare apps and taxis. Navigating between attractions is seamless.
Depending on how much time you have to explore, planning a 4–7-day itinerary allows a mix of bucket-list sites, holiday attractions, a trip to the desert, and more. No matter what style of travel you prefer, the UAE in December is an underrated getaway perfect for all types of travelers.
Sri Lanka
By Shweta of Zest in a Tote
The more developed southwest parts of Sri Lanka get monsoons between May and September. The tourist season begins in November and continues until March, so December is a great month to visit this compact country.
I would recommend a 10-day Sri Lanka itinerary that includes UNESCO heritage sites, like Sigiriya, national parks, like Yala and Kaudulla, sandy beaches on the southern coast, misty hills and tea plantations in Nuwara Eliya, and even car-free colonial fortresses like Galle to roam around in.
Colombo, the capital city would be likely your entry and exit point in Sri Lanka. But for travel within the country, it is best to hire a car with a driver. Or manage via buses / trains for long distances and taxis for shorter ones. There is no domestic flight network in the country.
For culture and history, the popular route is to cover the rock citadel in Sigiriya, cultural places in Polonnaruwa, and Dambulla Temple in the central part of the country. If you are looking for a beach vacation in a tropical country, Sri Lanka offers plenty of options. The southwest coast has Unawatuna and Mirissa, both with fine beaches. Sri Lanka wildlife safaris to see animals and marine life in its natural habitat is a great reason to visit this country. The central highlands are filled with stirring mountains and lush green tea gardens.
Sri Lanka offers both high-end luxury and budget options to stay. Transport, food, and activities are much more budget-friendly than western countries. Sri Lanka is one of the best countries to visit in December.
Qatar
By Paola of Paola Everywhere
December is an ideal time to plan a trip to Qatar for several reasons. The weather during this period is pleasant, with cooler temperatures making outdoor activities such as desert safaris, dune bashing, walking in the parks, or beach outings more enjoyable.
Additionally, Qatar hosts the Qatar National Day celebrations in December, providing a fantastic opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture and traditions. It really makes for one of the best countries to visit in December.
Doha, the capital of Qatar, is a modern city that offers a perfect blend of traditional and contemporary experiences. You can explore the city and take day trips to the north and south areas to discover public art, forts, and deserts. Doha itself is home to various museums and galleries that showcase Qatar’s unique heritage, including the world-famous Museum of Islamic Art and the National Museum of Qatar.
In Doha, you can easily get around the city using its excellent public transportation network, which includes metro, tram, buses, taxis, and ride-sharing services. About where to stay, Doha boasts a variety of beautiful hotels with swimming pools and fitness centers to choose from. These range from seaside resorts to luxurious downtown hotels, and they are often more affordable than those in Europe!
India
By Melissa of Mountains and Mahals
India is one of the best countries to visit in December. It is ideal because the weather across the country is generally at its best for travel. It brings relief from the scorching heat of summer, when it can be uncomfortable to sight-see and walk around monuments with little shade. It’s also after monsoon season, when the torrential rains can seem never-ending and impede on tourist activities.
Start your trip off by landing in one of India’s largest cities, Delhi or Mumbai, which are the two biggest international airport hubs in the country. After spending a day or two in the bustling city, you can fly or take a train to other smaller cities and even venture to more rural places to get a true taste of India.
India is a vast country with many destinations worth visiting including the royal cities of Rajasthan, the rolling green hills of Kerala, the sweeping beaches of Goa, the Himalayan mountains of Himachal Pradesh, and more! To make the trip worthwhile and have the opportunity to explore at least a couple different places, you should stay for at least 10 days with 2 full weeks being the best for a well-rounded trip.
There is no shortage of activities in India, from visiting historical forts and palaces to exploring busy markets, cruising through Kerala’s backwaters, or hiking in the Himalayas. December is also a great month for wildlife safaris in national parks like Ranthambore and Jim Corbett.
While a trip to India might be a bit longer than your typical vacation, the good news is that it’s a very budget-friendly travel destination, offering a wide range of affordable experiences without compromising on richness. From low-cost accommodation options, like guesthouses, to cheap yet delicious street food, travelers can enjoy authentic Indian culture without breaking the bank. Even luxury experiences, like staying in a palace hotel, can be relatively inexpensive compared to other countries.
Vietnam
By Caitlin of The Country Jumper
December is one of the best times to visit Vietnam. There are a few reasons: the rainy season has mostly dissipated, sunshine can be counted on throughout almost all of every day, but it’s also not so brutally hot as the summertime is.
And, perhaps surprisingly, the Vietnamese go all out for both Christmas and New Year’s Eve — in their own style, but I recommend getting heavily involved in the festivities!
The south, where Ho Chi Minh City is located is sunny and warm in December, but the weather varies a lot from the north. If you want to visit the whole country (or at least parts of all of it) you should plan to give yourself several weeks. At minimum, my recommendation would be to go for two weeks. But note that Hanoi in December will be much chillier and feel much more like a northern hemisphere winter than down south.
I’d recommend spending some time in both of the major cities, Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh. If you want to get more summery vibes, head south from there and go to Phu Quoc Island. However, if you want to experience the mountains and cooler temperatures, go north and enjoy Sapa. Getting from place to place in Vietnam can be done by train or bus. It can also be done by self-drive motorbike. But keep in mind that understanding how to drive a scooter in Vietnam is not for the faint of heart.
Vietnam is a very affordable country and one of the best countries to visit in December. If you avoid the fancier bars and restaurants that have popped up in recent years you could easily get by on around $20 per day — even including a cheap hostel. But being more realistic and splurging on some experiences here and there you should expect to spend around $35-45 per day of your trip.
Japan
By Emma from Emma Jane Explores
Japan is a fabulous choice for a December trip as the madness of the Autumn foliage season will have subsided and the peak tourist rush is over. The country has some of the best and busiest cities in the world, such as the megalopolis of Tokyo and the gritty foodie haven that is Osaka, and these cities are brilliant to visit at any time.
In addition, the colder months like December allow you to make excellent use of the luxurious Japanese hot springs that exist in towns such as Nagano, Beppu, Matsuyama and Hakone. Nagano is also home to the famous snow monkeys who often come to bathe in the hot springs and is a great destination for snow sport enthusiasts.
Another great destination in Japan during December is the traditional city of Kyoto. This temple-rich city is the former capital of Japan, and it is a far cry from the modernity of cities like Tokyo. December is the low season here, and there’s something very magical about wandering the cobblestone laneways of Gion in the chilly winter air. Kyoto is a great jumping off point to visit the remarkable Arashiyama Bamboo Grove and surrounding UNESCO World Heritage Listed temples and shrines in the area.
Japan is one of the best countries to visit in December because the train system is so brilliantly reliable. There is no need for a car here. A common itinerary within the country includes 4 days in Tokyo, 3 days in Kyoto and 3 days in Osaka – all perfectly accessible by rail. The Japanese Yen is currently quite weak against the dollar, so whilst not a cheap country to visit, the value you will get for your money is at an all-time high.
Cambodia
By Abbie & Jack of A Couple’s Calling
Cambodia is undoubtedly one of the best countries to visit in December. First of all, you’ll be traveling during the dry season, where you can expect average high temperatures of around 86°F (30°C). In the north, temperatures tend to be even cooler, and you’ll experience lower humidity levels.
Cambodia also has a lively nightlife scene, with Siem Reap being one of the best destinations for this. In this city, you’ll find the iconic ‘Pub Street’, which is a great spot to take in the New Year on the 31st of December (just be aware that the Khmer New Year falls in April). To experience all this country has to offer, you’ll want to allow at least two weeks for your visit. Alternatively, you can see the highlights in just a week.
Many people travel to Cambodia by air, with the two major airports being located in Siem Reap and Phnom Penh. Those already exploring Southeast Asia can also travel overland via bus.
Getting around the country is easy, as there are plenty of bus and minibus routes. Hiring a scooter is another popular way to get around, but the roads are chaotic, so this isn’t recommended if you’re not a confident or experienced driver.
The best place to stay in Cambodia has to be Siem Reap, which is home to one of the world’s most iconic attractions – Angkor Archaeological Park.
While in the country, you can also visit historical sites in Phnom Penh, take a ride on the Bamboo Train in Battambang, or snorkel beneath the waves in Koh Rong. Kampot and Kratie are two other great places to visit.
Cambodia is an extremely budget-friendly destination too, where you can easily get by on $25-$30 per person per day!
Best Countries to Visit in December: Africa
Botswana
By Deb of Introvert with Itchy Feet
If you’re looking for one of the best countries to visit in December, head for Botswana! This Southern African country is an absolute must for anyone who loves nature and wildlife.
It’s packed with some of the best safari spots in the world. In areas like Chobe National Park and the Okavango Delta, you can see elephants, lions, and a myriad of incredible bird species up close. December is prime time for birding, baby animals, and seeing the predators in action.
This is the rainy season in Botswana – the green season. It’s perfect for those memorable safari shots, especially with the crystal-clear atmosphere and dramatic skies.
Plan for at least 10 days here to take it all in – but longer is better. Flights can land right in Maun, and from there, renting a car is your best bet for exploring on your own schedule. But be aware, the road conditions can be unpredictable this time of year, and an organized tour can be the easiest way to go.
Staying in the small town of Maun is ideal since it’s close to those spectacular safari areas. Plus, there’s plenty more to do in the area, from quick trips to see the meerkats in the Makgadikgadi Pan to mokoro canoe rides on the Thamalakane River.
Botswana opts for a high-value, low-impact approach to tourism by providing high end accommodations and activities. The strategy aims to preserve its pristine environments by offering visitors a more exclusive and less crowded experience.
While this tends to mean a more expensive experience, full of luxury, there are many excellent, less costly options to be had. This is especially true if you love camping and eating food cooked in a campfire – which for me is the perfect December in Botswana.
Egypt
By Trisha of Try Wandering More
Egypt, as you may well know, is a fascinating land of ancient temples, mummies, and pyramids that’ll transport you back in time. But that’s not all; Egypt also has stunning landscapes. So, you must also visit to cruise along the Nile, snorkel and dive in the vibrant Red Sea, and see the most insane desert landscapes of the Sahara.
Getting the time of visit right is essential. 96% of Egypt is a desert, so it can get super hot if you visit in the wrong months. Planning a trip to Egypt for December is ideal, as the weather is mildly cool in the cities, and the conditions are perfect for enjoying the waters of the Red Sea.
You need at least 10-12 days to visit all the major cities like Cairo, Aswan, Luxor, and Hurghada or Sharm El Sheikh. You can easily get around by taking flights, trains or buses, as well as enjoy a Nile Cruise between Aswan and Luxor.
While Egypt is a budget destination that can easily be visited by backpackers for less than $50 a day, it is highly recommended not to travel independently and do an organized tour instead. Why? Egypt has a bit of a bad reputation because of the hustle culture with lots of hawkers trying to sell things to you. Hiring a guide will not only enable you to make more sense of all the ancient sites in Egypt but also help avoid touts and scammers. This will help you enjoy your trip a lot more, but will cost you about $100 to $250 a day, depending on the tour you opt for and your travel style.
Best Countries to Visit in December: Europe
Romania
By Cris of LooknWalk
If you’re craving snow, ancient traditions, and the delicious smell of mulled wine, then one of the best countries to visit in December is Romania.
A still rather undiscovered country in Central-Eastern Europe, Romania enjoys four seasons. December falls during winter, and depending on where you visit, chances are you’ll enjoy snow. If you want to ski, Busteni is usually your best bet, with plenty of slopes for every skill level.
Just like everywhere in Europe, December means Christmas traditions. From the ancient ones dating to pre-Christianity to the famous Christmas Markets, you’ll be delighted by the Romanian traditional foods and drinks, as well as carols and various traditions.
Each region in Romania has its own traditions, such as “Viflaim”, in Maramures, which is a nativity scene acted by the locals. In Moldova, locals decorate their houses with aromatic plants, like basil or marjoram, to bring luck.
Christmas Markets are open in almost every major city, with the most popular and beautiful ones being in Sibiu, Cluj Napoca, and Bucharest. They open in late November and last usually until Epiphany. Make sure to try sarmale (meat-filled cabbage rolls), chimney cake (kurtos kalacs), roasted chestnuts, and, of course, mulled wine.
Romania is a big country, so, ideally, you’ll focus on a region or on the capital of Bucharest. That said, a week here would give you enough time to enjoy quite a lot of what a region will offer.
The country is served by plenty of airports, making it easy to get here from any part of Europe. If you fly from another continent, chances are you’ll have to make a stop along the way in Western Europe (typically Amsterdam). You can also get here by train, bus or rental car.
As for exploring the country, while trains and buses link major cities, if you want to venture off the beaten path, you’re better off renting a car.
Ideally, you’d want to establish a base in a major city. For example, stay in Bucharest. You’ll not only explore the capital, but you’ll also be close to the ski areas. Or you can stay in Cluj Napoca, the capital of Transylvania, which is not only a gorgeous city but also offers quick access to ski areas.
While, in general, Romania is still an affordable European country to visit, things change a bit during the high season. From mid-December to mid-January, the winter season hikes up the prices, especially if you plan to go skiing or want to celebrate New Year’s at a high-end restaurant.
Weather in Romania in December can change rapidly and ranges from sunny and mild to snowy, wet, and windy. Layers, thermal undergarments, and windbreakers are your best bet.
Malta
By Lavina of Continent Hop
When other parts of Europe are enveloped in snow, Malta, on the other hand, enjoys warm and sunny days. One of the best countries to visit in December is Malta, with its Mediterranean weather, is the perfect destination to get away from the cold.
December in Malta is not exactly a peak tourist season. So, if you plan your vacation during the holiday season, you might get a chance to enjoy the Maltese tourist places without much crowd. With flights from major European countries and a ferry from Italy, getting here is a breeze.
Want to know how many days in Malta you need? The country has two major islands – Malta and Gozo. Spending at least 4 days in Malta to cover these two islands is recommended. If you have more time to explore this underrated country, consider spending a week in Malta, as it will allow you to visit resort towns like Sliema and traditional fishing villages like Marsaxlokk.
It is recommended to stay in the capital city of Valletta, as there are various accommodation options. You can spend a day in Valletta, Rabat, and Mdina before heading to Gozo on the second day.
The island of Gozo has ancient Cittadella, where several museums and a 17th-century cathedral are located. The UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Ggantija Temples is a must here. You can spend some time lazing around Ramla Beach or Xlendi Bay. The day trip to Comino Island and Blue Lagoon is a must to soak in the natural beauty.
Keep in mind that Malta can be moderately expensive. Even though you may find budget hotels starting from as low as €15 and bus tickets cost €2, tours and activities might be costly. So, plan your Malta trip accordingly.
Iceland
By Marina of Travel Eat Blog
Visiting Iceland in December is a truly magical experience and it truly is one of the best countries to visit in December. The snow-covered landscape transforms into a winter wonderland, setting the perfect backdrop for chasing northern lights, exploring glaciers, or wandering through Reykjavík’s Christmas markets.
I recommend spending at least 5 days to give you enough time to explore Reykjavík and go on outdoor excursions. Must-do experiences include a Northern Lights Tour, which gives you the best chance to see the Aurora Borealis, and the Golden Circle, where you’ll visit Þingvellir National Park, a geothermal area, and Gullfoss waterfall. While in Reykjavík, visit Ingólfstorg Christmas Market, featuring charming wooden stalls with holiday treats and an ice rink. And once you’re ready to relax, spend some time in the iconic Blue Lagoon.
While Reykjavík is easy to explore without a car, you can rent one for traveling to remote areas like the Golden Circle. If you’re not comfortable driving on icy roads, you can take one of the many great bus tours.
Although Iceland can be expensive, especially for food and accommodations, you can save money by booking a vacation package with IcelandAir and finding free activities around Reykjavík. Reykjavík city center is the best place to stay, here you’ll find everything from budget options to luxury hotels and easy access to major attractions.
Weather in December can be unpredictable, so make sure to pack the essentials for winter in Iceland: multiple layers, waterproof clothing, and winter boots will help you stay comfortable and warm.
Best Countries to Visit in December: North America
Costa Rica
By Jane of The Family Conscience
If you’re looking for a guaranteed warm-weather destination to wrap up the end of your year, Costa Rica is a great choice. December is the beginning of the dry season there and, while you might experience the odd bit of rain, you’ll definitely get plenty of beach time too. Plus, since the rainy season has just ended, everything is wonderfully lush and green.
If you’re a wildlife enthusiast, you’re in for a treat with a visit to Costa Rica. Keep a lookout for sloths, hummingbirds, snakes and red-eyed tree frogs. Whether you’re traveling to Costa Rica with kids or taking a solo trip, make sure you add Arenal (for its volcano), Monteverde (for its cloud forest) and one of the beach towns such as Santa Teresa, Montezuma or Manuel Antonio (for surfing) to your itinerary.
If you’re flying in from the United States, you can take a shorter break due to the short flight time – choose one of the locations above and base yourself there for 5 days. If you have longer, or are coming from further afield, combining all three in a two or three-week stay is ideal. Hiring a car while there is preferable, as public transport can be a little unpredictable.
Costa Rica has a wide range of accommodation to suit all budgets: from self-catering to fantastic eco-lodges, treehouses and luxury hotels (such as the famous Springs Resort), there’s something for everyone. While it’s not the cheapest of the central American countries, in terms of what’s on offer for visitors, it can’t be beaten.
There are beautiful beaches, snorkeling, hiking, hanging bridges, wildlife spotting and chocolate and coffee tasting, plus much more. Costa Rica has plenty more to offer than just sunshine and is one of the best countries to visit in December.
Guatemala
By Jess of Uprooted Traveler
If you’re looking for a unique winter getaway, consider visiting the vibrant Central American country of Guatemala. It is one of the best countries to visit in December.
Come December, the country’s skies are clear and sunny, with daily highs in the mid-70s—perfect for exploring its beautiful rainforest, beaches, and volcanoes. There’s so much to see and do in Guatemala that you should spend at least a week (or more!) exploring.
For example, the stunning colonial city of Antigua is the perfect homebase for a few days, including exploring the surrounding area. One of the best excursions from Antigua is hiking to the summit of the Acatenango Volcano, where you can camp at the summit of a 13,000 foot mountain and watch its neighbor, Fuego, erupt every 15-20 minutes.
Another popular destination is Lake Atitlan, with 11 unique Mayan villages perched on its shores. For example, San Marcos is home to the Cerro Tzankujil Nature Reserve, a beloved cliff-jumping spot, and Eagle’s Nest, an Instagram-worthy yoga studio whose platform overlooks the lake and the mountains below. Don’t miss sunrise along the Indian Nose hike, where you’ll climb up to the summit of a mountain and watch the first light of sun peer over the rim of the caldera.
Renting a car in Guatemala is unnecessary—the country has been a popular stop for backpackers for decades, so there’s plenty of tourist shuttles that you can easily use to get around.
Guatemala is fairly budget-friendly, but, given the recent rise in tourism here, is not as affordable as some of its neighbors, like Nicaragua or El Salvador. Still, given the country’s incredible natural beauty and colorful culture, you’ll still get a lot of bang for your buck!
Best Countries to Visit in December: South America
Chile
By Chanelle of Chasing Chanelle
Chile probably isn’t the first country that comes to mind when considering a vacation in December. But Chile is one of the best countries to visit in December to explore this fascinating country and is ideal for anyone looking for a varied and unique adventure.
One of the biggest reasons to visit Chile in December is that it’s the beginning of summer, so you can enjoy beautiful warm weather before the peak summer heat sets in. And, while December is a popular time to visit, it’s not quite the height of the tourist season yet. So, it’s a slightly more budget friendly time than January and February, and there aren’t quite as many crowds.
Something to keep in mind about Chile is that it’s a huge and geographically diverse country – in fact, it’s the longest country in the world! This means that there’s a lot to see and do here, and it’s virtually impossible to do it all in one trip.
But, to get a good taste of what the country has to offer, 2 weeks would be ideal to spend exploring. In 2 weeks, you could visit the capital city of Santiago, to learn about the country’s fascinating history and culture. This is also an ideal place to base yourself, as it’s well-connected is in Santiago, and there are various points of interest within easy reach of the city – either by booking tours or renting a car and driving yourself.
In under 2 hours, you can visit the seaside towns of Vina del Mar and Valparaiso, as well as some of Chile’s best wine regions, including the Maipo and Casablanca Valleys. The city is also surrounded by the Andes mountains, which are accessible for day trips.
But, to truly experience the best of Chile’s mountain landscapes, you’ll want to head south to Patagonia. Here, you can easily spend a whole week exploring and hiking in Chile’s famous Torres del Paine National Park.
Finally, if you have some time left in your itinerary, it’s also worth spending a couple of days in northern Chile to experience the otherworldly landscapes and go stargazing in the Atacama Desert.
Peru
By Sara & Ryan of Across Every Border
Peru is one of the best countries to visit in December. While you might think that the rainy season starting in November ruins the visit, we believe it’s the opposite. We did experience some rainy days, but they weren’t an issue. Most of our time in Peru was dry, and not once did the rain prevent us from going on our adventures.
Plus, there aren’t many tourists, which makes for a more authentic experience!
Peru has much to offer, but top destinations like Machu Picchu and Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain are at high altitudes and take time to reach. Three weeks is ideal to acclimatize and explore some of Peru’s best bucket-list spots.
The easiest way to arrive is by flying into Lima or Cusco, the former capital of the Incan Empire. Once in Peru, buses are the most convenient and budget way to travel around the country.
Cusco, especially around Plaza de Armas, is the best place to stay in December, with its giant Christmas markets and festive atmosphere.
The Fiesta de Concepción Inmaculada from December 8th to 11th is a great chance to experience local culture, with dance competitions and food stalls. On December 24th, the streets light up with fireworks, and New Year’s Eve at Plaza de Armas is a massive celebration with music and drinks.
If you’re not into Christmas, this is also a great time to visit Machu Picchu due to fewer crowds. Peru is budget-friendly, and we spent around $30 per day, including accommodation and transportation.
While Peru is a Spanish-speaking country and not many people speak English, the locals are incredibly friendly and will always help you out. However, try to learn some basic Spanish before you go; you’ll feel more confident, and the locals will appreciate it.
Best Countries to Visit in December: Oceania
Fiji
By Raksha of Solo Passport
Even though December is the beginning of the wet season in Fiji, it is one of the best countries to visit in December, as there are less people, and the country is quieter during the holiday season. The rain usually comes in short, refreshing bursts, leaving plenty of time to enjoy sunny, warm weather. December offers lush green landscapes, vibrant marine life, and opportunities to experience Fiji’s cultural festivals.
Fiji has multiple islands and each one of them has a character of their own. A recommended stay of a week is ideal to explore these islands and enjoy the activities both on land and water. This stay also allows ample time to relax, take part in adventurous activities and soak into the cultural side.
Flying into Fiji is straightforward. Nadi International Airport, the main point of entry into the country, has direct flight connectivity from many countries like Australia, New Zealand and America. To explore other islands, you will need to take domestic flights, ferries or private boats. When exploring Fiji, it is advisable to rent a car. Even though there is public transportation available, they are limited and are not frequent.
Fiji is one of the popular countries in the Pacific to enjoy island life. There are plenty of resorts, homestays and hotels available, catering to all kinds of travelers. Some of the best areas to stay in Fiji are Yasawa Islands, Coral Coast and Denarau Island. For a less touristy place, stay at Yasawa Islands. And if you are looking for luxurious and 5-star resorts, stay at Denarau Island. Do not forget about the capital city of Suva.
Fiji is an adventure paradise, with many land and water activities. Visitors can explore the underwater world with snorkeling and scuba diving, as there are many world-class dive sites around the islands. There are many hiking trails and waterfalls that are perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. If you are into culture and heritage, you can immerse yourself in the local culture by attending the Kava drinking ceremony or Meke dance performances.
Fiji is expensive during the peak season. Since December is off-shoulder season, the costs and budget can be reduced quite a bit. The accommodations at basic hotels and hostels start at $30-$50 a night. The food at local eateries cost around $5-$10 per meal. And the activities and transportation are around $150. Note that the other outer islands are more expensive than Nadi and Suva.
Fijians are very friendly and welcoming people. But do respect the local traditions and dress modestly while visiting the local villages.
New Zealand
By Zi from Craving Adventure
Visiting New Zealand in December is a fantastic choice, as the country is buzzing with summer energy. The warm weather and long days are perfect for outdoor activities, and it’s a unique experience to celebrate Christmas and New Year’s Eve with a BBQ on the beach, enjoying the sun instead of snow. December is a festive month, with holiday events in full swing, making it a fun and lively time to visit.
I recommend spending at least 2 weeks in New Zealand to explore the highlights. A car is highly recommended, as many of New Zealand’s best attractions are off the beaten path. Flights typically land in Auckland or Christchurch, and from there, renting a car or campervan gives you the flexibility to explore the rest of the country.
Make sure to visit the highlights like Queenstown, Rotorua, Mt. Taranaki, the Coromandel Peninsula, Milford Sound and the Bay of Islands. Staying in places like Queenstown or Wanaka gives you access to adventure activities, while Auckland or Wellington provides the comfort of city life with access to nearby beaches and islands.
While New Zealand offers incredible experiences, it’s important to know it’s not a cheap destination. The holiday season drives up prices for accommodation, flights, and tours, as most Kiwis take their summer holidays at the end of the month. So be prepared for higher costs, and book accommodation well in advance, as this is one of the busiest times of the year. And one more thing, even though it is summer, the nights can get quite cold, especially in the South, so bring a sweater! No matter what, New Zealand is one of the best countries to visit in December.
Final Thoughts on the Best Countries to Visit in December
There are so many amazing and best countries to visit in December. You cannot go wrong with wherever you choose. Whether you are eternally chasing summer and head to the Southern Hemisphere with places like Australia and Brazil or want to hit up the Christmas markets in places like Salzburg, every place you visit will be a fun adventure.
