December offers a diverse range of vacation spots, whether you're seeking warm, sunny beaches or a festive winter wonderland.
For Warm Weather Getaways:
- The Caribbean: The hurricane season is over in December, making it an ideal time to visit. The Bahamas are a great choice for families, with calm, warm seas perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Jamaica is another excellent option with average temperatures in the 80s and low rainfall, offering stunning beaches and warm waters. Antigua is also a laid-back Caribbean island perfect for winter sun.
- Hawaii, USA: Maui and the Big Island offer a tropical escape without leaving the US, with average highs around 78°F and plenty of sunshine. December is a great time for snorkeling, hiking, and enjoying the island's natural beauty. You can also witness humpback whales in Lahaina Harbor in Maui during December. Waikiki, Hawaii, also boasts warm and sunny weather with a lively atmosphere.
- Mexico: Cancún offers near-perfect weather in December with long, sunny days and balmy nights, ideal for beaches and nightlife. Mexico also celebrates "Las Posadas" with parades and music during this month.
- Southeast Asia: Thailand is known for its white sand beaches and warm weather, with some of the best scuba diving in the world. Vietnam also has favorable temperatures and is known for its Lantern Festival in Hoi An during December.
- Other Warm Destinations:
- Florida Keys, USA: Enjoy pleasant temperatures in the 70s and dry conditions perfect for exploring coral reefs.
- Puerto Rico: Experience warm and sunny weather in the low 80s, marking the start of the dry season, with a vibrant and festive atmosphere.
- Mauritius: This island in the Indian Ocean offers a tropical climate with cool, dry, and sunny weather from May to December.
- Costa Rica: Enjoy warm, dry weather, perfect for exploring rainforests, beaches, and volcanoes.
- Canary Islands, Spain: Tenerife is particularly warm in December due to its proximity to Africa, offering beaches and volcanic landscapes.
- Australia: Sydney has an average December temperature of 70°F, making it a lovely month to enjoy the coastal capital.
- South Africa: Cape Town and Durban offer warm temperatures as early summer sets in.
For Winter Wonderland Experiences:
- Iceland: Despite its name, Iceland isn't as cold as you might think in December, and it offers a good chance to see the Northern Lights. New Year's Eve is also celebrated with fireworks and parties.
- Finland: Lapland is a Christmas wonderland, offering reindeer safaris, husky sledding, and Santa's Village in Rovaniemi. It's also a great place to spot the Northern Lights.
- Swiss Alps, Switzerland: Enjoy snowy peaks, skiing, and charming towns with Christmas markets.
- USA (Snow Destinations):
- Whitefish, Montana: A premier ski destination with over 3,000 acres of skiable terrain.
- Durango, Colorado: A historic mountain town transformed into a snowy alpine escape with skiing and snowboarding at Purgatory Resort.
- North Pole, Alaska: A small city near Fairbanks with a year-round Christmas theme, snow-covered streets, and the iconic Santa Claus House.
- Vermont: Offers a classic New England winter wonderland experience with twinkling holiday lights, festive charm, and ski resorts.
- Europe (Festive Cities):
- Germany: Stroll around Berlin's fairytale Christmas markets.
- Austria: Transforms into a winter wonderland with renowned Christmas markets in Vienna, Salzburg, and Innsbruck.
- London, UK: Gaze at elegant winter lights.
- Rome, Italy: Join a Christmas service at the Vatican.
- Denmark: Enjoy holiday marketplaces and light shows.
When choosing, consider whether you prefer a hot beach vacation, a festive city break, or a snowy adventure, as December offers excellent options for all.
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