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Where to travel in December

Find holiday inspiration with our guide to the best places to go in December. From the illuminated tree forests of Singapore to Brazil’s wildlife-dense wetlands, December presents an array of travel opportunities for anyone who loves adventure.

Finland

A classic winter choice for the chance to meet Santa and his reindeer, Finland makes for a truly magical December getaway. Of course, there’s the world of Lapland and all the festive joy it promises – and the hype is justified, especially if you have kids in tow who will delight in seeing Santa and his reindeer in storybook winter surroundings.

If you’d like to try something a bit different, however, or you’re on a kid-free sojourn, you’ll find plenty of wintry escapades to pursue. In the wilderness of Lapland, the Riisitunturi National Park offers atmospheric frozen landscapes and crisp, peaceful hiking trails, while Hossa National Park is known for its tall pine trees, clear lakes and ancient rock paintings. Once you’re done exploring, indulge in a traditional Finnish sauna, then stay overnight in a cosy igloo. It’s not often you have the chance of spotting the northern lights from the comfort of your own bed.

Singapore

A uniquely pristine island nation in the midst of southeast Asia, Singapore is a treat in December – the coldest month of the year still comes in at mid-to-late 20s Celsius. With the illuminated forest installations at Supertree Grove and the iconic Marina Bay Sands Hotel, the city is sparkling most of the year; but the festive season ramps the lights and decorations up a notch – Santa statues and beautifully manicured Christmas trees line the streets.

Absorb the holiday atmosphere, Singapore-style, by listening to some live music at Clarke Quay, hunting for bargains at Bugis Street Market, or relaxing in the serenity of the Indoor Cloud Forest. Don’t miss the food – a melting pot of classic southeast Asian flavours is on offer in the buzzing food courts, locally known as hawker centres (Maxwell Food Centre is one of the most popular); or fill up on more authentic fare in Chinatown and Little India.

Discover Singapore

India

India endures scorching summers, so December brings pleasing weather as the winter sets in. Northern highlights such as Delhi, Agra, Jaipur, and Varanasi – home of the epic Golden Triangle sights such as the Amber Fort and the Taj Mahal – are at their peak to explore.

If you’re adventuring in the Himalayan foothills, however, you’ll want to pack some warm clothing – temperatures drop to below freezing overnight. Meanwhile, southern Indian spots Goa and Kerala are warm and sunny, so you can enjoy the relaxed, spiritual energy and hazy tropical beaches without interruption from rain.

For a winter beach getaway, the Andaman Islands of India are the perfect place, seeing fewer visitors than neighbouring Goa. With pristine white sands, colourful coral reefs and clear water for scuba diving or snorkelling, the icy chill of the Northern Hemisphere will seem a world away.

Brazil

December brings various weather across Brazil’s huge landmass – it’s summer in some regions but the rainy season in others, so be sure to check conditions in your desired locations (or ask our locally-based experts in Brazil) before you book.

For wildlife lovers, this is the perfect time to visit the Pantanal. The world’s largest wetland covers around 140,000 to 195,000 sq km (54,000 to 75,000 sq mi), and in the wet season is in its prime condition for wildlife-viewing. Vegetation is lush, water sources are abundant, meaning animals such as jaguars, capybaras, giant otters, caimans, and numerous bird species are everywhere.

Another nature hotspot that flourishes in December is the Lençóis Maranhenses National Park in Maranhão. The naturally-formed sand dunes here contrast with the freshwater lagoons (at their fullest during December’s wet season) and create a sublime, otherworldly landscape.

Cambodia

Winter time in the northern hemisphere is peak dry season in Cambodia, a multi-faceted, historic gem of southeast Asia. The spectacular Khmer ruins make up the former Kingdom of Angkor – complete with Bayon (the temple of many faces), Ta Prohm (the cinematic favourite, covered in tree roots), and magnificent Angkor Wat, the largest religious site in the world. As you’d expect, these highlights attract visitors en masse in peak season. Avert the crowds by visiting in the early morning or evening, or travelling to temples further afield (there are many – try Preah Khan, or the forest-obscured Ta Nei).

For those who want to truly escape however, Cambodia’s lulling sense of relaxation can truly be felt in some of its lesser-trodden spots. Try the paradise island of Koh Rong Sanloem (sister of more popular Koh Rong) for quiet, white-sand beaches and coconuts to drink from; the seaside town of Kep for crumbling colonial buildings and freshly caught crab; or oft-overlooked Battambang for a city with a charming, relaxed energy.

Mural at Preah Vihear temple in Cambodia

Malta

Weather is milder and crowds lesser in Malta’s winter period, making it a refreshing time to visit this historic, scenic and criminally overlooked destination. Malta’s capital Valletta is compact, yet a treasure trove of historic elegance – with stunning examples of Baroque architecture, charming squares, lovely churches, and gardens galore. For a taste of Christmas, wander through the city’s festive markets, brimming with handmade crafts and tasty, locally-made fare. The Valletta Waterfront often hosts a Christmas Village, which is a lot of fun.

Outside of Valletta, the ‘Silent City’ Mdina is one of the most impressively preserved examples of a medieval walled city in Europe, going back over 4,000 years. Wandering this city’s Old Town is a pleasure, and with a Baroque palace housing a museum (Palazzo Vilhena) and an old torture dungeon (Mdina Dungeons), this is one that history buffs will especially enjoy.

Bhutan

Tiny, vibrant Bhutan is a joy in December, defined by crisp temperatures and clear skies to explore the Himalayas. The weather in the capital Thimphu will seem like a British spring or autumn, with temperature hovering at 10-15 degrees Celsius, and colder at night.

This freshness makes hiking to the sublimely peaceful Paro Taktsang (Tiger’s Nest Monastery), which hangs majestically from the cliffside, a true pleasure. Tiger’s Nest is not only beautiful, but a pivotal spot for Bhutanese Buddhism and an iconic cultural treasure.

Indeed, Bhutan is a spiritual place (they even developed their own GNH – Gross Happiness Index) and quieter December lends itself perfectly to introspection, contentment and taking things slow. A glut of monasteries from Gangtey Monastery in the Phobjikha Valley, to Tango Monastery near Thimphu, are the perfect place to learn more about meditation and the simple Bhutanese Buddhist lifestyle.

For birdwatchers, some migratory species will arrive at this time of year – keep a lookout for species such as black-necked cranes, white-bellied herons, and the national bird, the vibrant Himalayan monal.

Morocco

Morocco is a favourite winter getaway for travellers, offering a long-haul experience in only a relatively short flight from most of Europe. In December, the tourists aren’t as heavy as in April’s peak season, and warm temperatures only get chilly in the Atlas Mountains and in the night.

The jewel of Morocco is capital Marrakech, a city to be relished for its stunning fusion architecture and buzzing medinas full of multisensory treats. However, if you want to escape the chaos, you’ll certainly find places to slow things down in. The coastal city of Essaouira is a laid-back treasure, protected by UNESCO for its ancient medina and intriguing arts scene. With a day or two here you can indulge in divine fresh seafood, visit the Skala de la Ville, and breathe in the fresh ocean air as you gaze upon the coastline, adorned with trademark blue boats.

December also brings clarity of scenery in the Atlas Mountains. The temperatures will be chilly, especially at night if you camp – get a local expert to advise you on the best routes and conditions for a more rewarding experience.

Malaysia

The end of the year is peak holiday season in Malaysia, as conditions are just perfect for comfortable exploration. While it’s the dry season in the west in December, the eastern regions experience a rainy season, so prepare for the occasional monsoon if you head that way.

Penang is a highlight in Malaysia and for good reason – Georgetown is a cultural hotspot of charming architecture, vibrant street art, and delicious local food. There’s nothing like eating a bowl of creamy laksa before crumbling colonial buildings as trishaws cycle by – it truly is an ‘Old Asia’ experience. Plenty of festive decorations adorn the streets of Penang at this time of year, as the locals love to go all-in on Christmas.

To get somewhat off-route, head to the cooler Cameron Highlands. Known for their lush tea plantations, verdant views and as an escape from the coastal heat, they’re home to strawberry fields, peaceful cafes, and moss-covered forests to indulge in. Also don’t forget Malaysian Borneo; Kuching city is charming and very accessible. Here you can venture into thriving rainforests, blooming with life in the wet season, or encounter semi-wild orangutans in the Semenggoh Wildlife Reserve.

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