December might just be the ultimate month for travel. Think timeless Christmas charm — the aroma of mulled wine, twinkling lights, and fresh snow drifting through cities from New York to Berlin. Or swap winter chills for sunshine with beachside indulgence in St. Barth’s. For something unexpected, December also unlocks off-season gems like Fiji and Madagascar, where prices dip and adventure soars. Meanwhile, summer is in full swing Down Under, making it the perfect moment to experience Australia’s most surprising success stories. And to top it off, we’ve gathered our best tips for exploring the world this season — without compromising on sustainability.

 

Scotland, UK
Temperature: 7°C high; 2°C low | Season: Winter

When the rare Scottish sun breaks through, it’s glorious — but winter here has its own wild magic. Brisk days are best spent embracing the elements: fat-biking along East Lothian’s beaches, or following red deer across the snow-dusted Cairngorms. Afterwards, nothing beats retreating indoors to thaw out beside a crackling fire, dram in hand.

December transforms Edinburgh into a festival of lights and cheer, while the city’s hearty dining scene comes into its own. Michelin-starred The Kitchin in Leith leads the way with seasonal Scottish produce, while Tom Kitchin’s gastropub The Scran and Scallie serves up comfort food with finesse in Stockbridge.

Sustainable travel tip: Scotland’s sweeping landscapes beg for a road trip, but swap the car for the train. The West Highland Line is not only one of the UK’s most scenic rail journeys — it’s also a greener way to take in the Highlands.

Where to stay: Edinburgh’s hotel scene is buzzing, with the elegant Gleneagles Townhouse making waves as a stylish city outpost of the iconic Perthshire estate. Prefer a more private retreat? This snug Royal Mile loft is one of our favourite Edinburgh Airbnbs, pairing a prime location with cosy character.

 

Maldives
Temperature: 30ºC high; 25ºC low | Season: Dry season

When it comes to barefoot luxury, the Maldives delivers year-round — but December marks the start of its most idyllic season. Expect cloudless skies, low humidity, warm breezes, and endless sunshine. It’s also prime time for unforgettable encounters with whale sharks and manta rays, particularly in South Ari and along the western edges of the atolls. Adding to the appeal, British Airways’ direct flights from London to Malé (December through March) make it possible to swap frosty mornings in the UK for Indian Ocean bliss in just 10 hours — with a bonus of nearly an extra day on the beach.

Sustainable travel tip: Air travel to the Maldives comes with a carbon cost, so balance your footprint by choosing resorts with genuine sustainability credentials. Do your homework to avoid greenwashing, book dives and excursions with conservation-focused operators, and remember — look, don’t touch — when it comes to corals and marine life.

Where to stay: For a fresh arrival, Alila Kothaifaru Maldives blends contemporary design with natural seclusion, offering 80 villas — some overwater with sunrise or sunset views, others hidden amid lush vegetation on the beach. Prefer an icon? Gili Lankanfushi remains a timeless favourite, with its exclusive overwater villas, pristine beaches, and a setting that feels gloriously untouched.

 

 

New York City, USA
Temperature: 8°C high; -3°C low | Season: Winter

Few places capture the spirit of Christmas quite like New York. The city feels lifted straight from a holiday movie: ice-skaters twirling beneath the towering Rockefeller Center tree, Fifth Avenue aglow with dazzling window displays, and Brooklyn’s Dyker Heights, where entire blocks compete to outshine each other with over-the-top light shows (yes, there’s even a bus tour). When the chill sets in, retreat to one of the city’s grand hotels, where roaring lobby fires and festive cocktails await — try The Ludlow’s Pigalle, a warming mix of bourbon and ancho chile.

Sustainable travel tip: Skip the gridlocked taxis and explore Manhattan the green way. The Manhattan Waterfront Greenway offers 31 miles of scenic cycling, with Citi Bike stations dotted throughout the city, making it easy to sightsee on two wheels.

Where to stay: Winter brings added charm to the city’s luxury stays. Aman New York, a serene new Midtown retreat, is particularly enticing — every suite boasts its own working fireplace. For timeless holiday magic, nothing beats The Plaza, overlooking Central Park and steeped in Christmas nostalgia.

 

 

Venice, Italy
Temperature: 7ºC high; 0ºC low | Season: Winter

Venice may be one of the most enchanting cities in Italy, but its beauty often comes with crowds. December, however, offers a rare reprieve. The canals take on a moody, ethereal quality, with mist curling off the water and, if fortune favours, even a dusting of snow. It’s a quieter, more atmospheric side of the city — one where you can wander across St Mark’s Square without dodging selfie sticks, and experience the Floating City as Venetians do.

Sustainable travel tip: Coming in the off-season already helps ease overtourism, but the real difference lies in staying a few nights rather than just day-tripping. Slow down to explore neighbourhoods beyond the big landmarks, dine in local trattorias, and support independent shops. Not only is it better for Venice, but it makes for a richer, more authentic trip.

Where to stay: For timeless lagoon views paired with refined design, Ca’ di Dio is a standout. If lively social energy is your style, Il Palazzo Experimental is a hotspot at aperitivo hour. For more inspiration, see our curated list of the best hotels in Venice.

 

 

St Barth’s, Caribbean
Temperature: 30°C high; 24°C low | Season: Cool

In December, the world seems to converge on St Barth’s. This jewel of the Caribbean has long been the discreet A-lister’s playground, with its flawless beaches, world-class restaurants, and villas that define tropical luxury. The island buzzes with energy as the super-rich, the glamorous, and the beautiful arrive to toast the season in style. Miss out, and you risk watching the rain at home while scrolling through snapshots of sun-kissed revelry on the island’s dazzling shores.

Sustainable travel tip: For a greener stay, check into Hotel Manapany, a stylish beachfront retreat powered by solar energy. With its onsite vegetable garden and orchard, local seafood sourcing, and electric car rentals, it sets a strong example of eco-conscious island living.

Where to stay: For laid-back sophistication, Hôtel Barrière Le Carl Gustaf delivers a chic French beach house vibe. For classic island glamour, Cheval Blanc St-Barth Isle de France remains a grand dame, stretching elegantly across Flamands Beach. Explore more in our guide to the best hotels in St Barth’s.

 

 

Zermatt, Swiss Alps
Temperature: 2°C high; -6°C low | Season: Winter

If you’ve ever dreamed of a storybook Christmas, Zermatt brings it to life. Think horse-drawn sleigh rides through a snow-blanketed valley, twinkling lights strung across chalets, glühwein stalls filling the air with spice, and the iconic Matterhorn rising dramatically above it all. Better still, Zermatt is famously snow-sure — with 200km of pristine pistes open from early December, it’s one of Europe’s premier ski destinations for both skiers and snowboarders.

Where to stay: For history and charm, check into Hotel Monte Rosa, Zermatt’s oldest hotel. This elegant alpine retreat pairs postcard-perfect architecture with breathtaking mountain views.

 

 

Dubai, UAE
Temperature: 25°C high; 19°C low | Season: Winter

When it comes to over-the-top festive sparkle, few places outshine Dubai. Between November and January, the desert heat softens into a balmy 19–25°C, with endless sunshine as the backdrop. December brings extra dazzle: the Rugby Sevens, a film festival, luxury pre-Christmas sales, and Christmas trees so massive and jewel-studded they feel like spectacles in their own right. Even the most skeptical visitors often find themselves swept up in the city’s extravagant holiday spirit.

Sustainable travel tip: Balance Dubai’s glitz with a cultural deep dive at the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding in the Al Fahidi Historic District. Set among traditional wind-tower houses by Dubai Creek, it offers Emirati-hosted meals and open conversations about local traditions, faith, and daily life — living up to its motto, “Open doors. Open minds.”

Where to stay: For understated luxury in a private island setting, Bulgari Resort Dubai is a refined escape. Prefer to be at the heart of the action? Mandarin Oriental Dubai delivers beachfront glamour, standout dining, and a world-class spa. Discover more in our curated guide to the best hotels in Dubai.

 

 

Milan, Italy
Temperature: 7°C high; 1°C low | Season: Winter

Italy’s fashion capital might exude effortless cool, but come December Milan reveals a softer, festive side. The season begins with the Feast of Sant’Ambrogio, when the historic Castello Sforzesco hosts a charming Christmas market filled with artisanal trinkets and local delicacies. Warm your hands with mulled wine and sample castagnaccio, a rustic chestnut and pine-kernel cake, before diving into the city’s vibrant neighbourhoods. The famed fashion quarter dazzles with holiday displays, while Zona Tortona buzzes with creative energy — from cutting-edge galleries and design studios to brunch spots like God Save The Food, where tuna tacos are a must.

Where to stay: For contemporary glamour, Mandarin Oriental Milan pairs sleek design with a Michelin-starred restaurant and lively bar. For old-world grandeur, the Four Seasons Milano, set in a beautifully restored 15th-century convent, delivers timeless elegance. Explore more in our curated list of the best hotels in Milan.

 

 

Costa Rica
Temperature: 27ºC high; 18ºC low | Season: Summer

Costa Rica may be Central America’s most laid-back nation, but it brims with adventure. Along the Pacific coast, surfers and yogis gather in breezy towns like Nosara, where wave-lashed beaches set the pace for bohemian living. Over on the Caribbean side, slower rhythms await, with palm-fringed shores and castaway-style islands perfect for unplugging. Inland, the landscape shifts to rainforests, volcanoes, and wildlife-rich national parks. Adrenaline-seekers can zipline through cloud-forest canopies, raft white-water rivers, hike volcanic trails, or even track jaguars in Corcovado National Park. December marks peak beach season here — and with humpback whales migrating south, it’s also one of the world’s best spots for sightings.

Sustainable travel tip: Costa Rica is a pioneer in eco-tourism. Choose one of its many eco-lodges, whether tucked in the jungle or by the sea, to support local communities and conservation while experiencing the country’s natural beauty more responsibly.

Where to stay: A local favourite in Nosara, The Harmony Hotel blends surf-town soul with wellness escapes. Expect a palm-shaded pool, open-air yoga sessions, and post-surf massages at its serene Healing Centre.

 

 

Strasbourg, France
Temperature: 5ºC high; 0ºC low | Season: Winter

Strasbourg proudly claims the title “Capital of Christmas” — and with good reason. The city hosted Europe’s very first Christmas market in the 16th century, and the tradition thrives to this day. In the medieval Grande Île, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, half-timbered houses twinkle with lights while locals glide across the ice rink and stalls brim with ornaments, toys, mulled wine, and sizzling sausages. It’s festive, atmospheric, and timeless — though today’s scented candles are a modern update on the gifts once found here.

Yet Strasbourg in December is more than its market. This is peak season for Alsatian cuisine and wine: think rich pork dishes, steaming potatoes, tangy choucroute, and bold local reds, perfect against the chill. Add in the region’s snowy landscapes, and December becomes one of the most magical times to visit.

Where to stay: Nestled in restored half-timbered buildings around a cobbled courtyard, Cour du Corbeau blends history and charm. Its top-floor suites offer enchanting views over Strasbourg’s medieval rooftops — the perfect backdrop to a festive escape.

 

 

São Paulo, Brazil
Temperature: 27ºC high; 18ºC low | Season: Spring

While Rio basks in the spotlight, São Paulo quietly thrives as Brazil’s cultural powerhouse. This is the country’s style capital, where art, architecture, fashion, and food collide in endlessly inventive ways. December brings warm, dry spring days and a festive energy, as Paulistanos fill galleries, restaurants, and boutiques before heading off to coastal hotspots like Trancoso or Búzios for holiday beach parties. Time your visit right and you may even catch the São Paulo Art Biennial (held every other year), a highlight of the global art calendar.

Sustainable travel tip: Head to Pinheiros, a neighbourhood that champions homegrown creativity and conscious living. A standout is Insecta, a sustainable shoe brand crafting vegan footwear from upcycled clothing, recycled rubber, and repurposed plastic bottles — proof that cool design and eco-responsibility can go hand in hand.

Where to stay: Set within 26 acres of lush parkland in Morumbi, Palácio Tangará is São Paulo’s grand dame. Opened in 2017, it brings European elegance to the city as part of the prestigious Oetker Collection, alongside icons like Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc and Le Bristol Paris.

 

 

Miami, USA
Temperature: 24ºC high; 19ºC low | Season: Winter

December is Miami at its best. The weather is dry and breezy, with daytime highs around 24ºC — perfect for the beach by day and parties by night. And in Miami, December means more than festive celebrations: the city transforms into a global stage for Art Basel Miami Beach, bringing with it a whirlwind of shows, launches, and unforgettable parties. The buzz spills over into the Miami Design District, while Basel House blends murals, music, and street culture. For something more niche, Art Gaysel, billed as the world’s queerest art fair, keeps the spirit alive with bold creativity and inclusivity.

Sustainable travel tip: In Wynwood, stylish Asian restaurant Kyu champions sustainability. Alongside locally focused partnerships, the team offsets its wood-fired grilling by funding tree-planting initiatives in Africa — proving eco-conscious dining can be as flavourful as it is responsible.

Where to stay: Miami Beach has welcomed a wave of dazzling design hotels in recent years, yet Faena Miami Beach still holds its crown. Bold, eclectic, and full of personality, it remains one of the city’s most iconic and fun-loving stays.

 

 

Canouan, The Grenadines
Temperature: 28ºC high; 21ºC low | Season: Dry

December in the Caribbean is all about glitz and glamour — but for those who prefer discretion, Canouan offers a quieter kind of luxury. Nicknamed “the place where billionaires go to escape millionaires,” this tiny island feels worlds away from the bustle of St Barth’s. At its heart is the Mandarin Oriental, Canouan, the brand’s first resort in the region, where Oceanview Suites deliver breathtaking panoramas (and a suitably indulgent price tag). It’s secluded, serene, and effortlessly chic — the perfect antidote to the season’s social whirl.

Sustainable travel tip: Canouan is a gateway to the protected Tobago Cays, a pristine cluster of uninhabited islands and vibrant coral reefs. Visiting with local guides not only preserves this fragile ecosystem but also supports community livelihoods across St Vincent and the Grenadines.

Where to stay: The Mandarin Oriental, Canouan is the island’s showpiece, pairing world-class service with understated Caribbean charm. Suites and villas are designed for privacy, ensuring the island’s most valuable commodity — peace — is always in ready supply.

 

Bogotá, Colombia
Temperature: 20ºC high; 5ºC low | Season: Dry

Cartagena may grab the headlines with its Caribbean charm, but for a true pulse on modern Colombia, head inland to Bogotá. This vibrant capital is where the country’s creative energy really beats. December marks the start of the dry season, when the city’s typically brisk weather softens into pleasant 20ºC days — the perfect time to explore.

The historic La Candelaria district remains the draw, with its colonial streets, eye-catching murals, and trend-forward eateries. But Bogotá is never static — and neighborhoods like Chapinero Alto are on the rise, offering cocktail dens, vinyl nights at Rin Rin, and indie boutiques tucked inside reimagined mansions. For perspective (literally), ride the cable car up Cerro de Monserrate. From this 10,000-foot peak, December sunsets segue into dazzling Christmas light displays that blanket the city below.

Sustainable travel tip: Just outside the city, Chingaza National Natural Park protects a stunning array of wildlife — from jaguars to toucans and the rare spectacled bear. A guided day hike here supports local conservation and offers an unforgettable counterpoint to urban Bogotá.

Where to stay: The Four Seasons Hotel Casa Medina is a masterclass in understated elegance, blending historic character with contemporary luxury. Think warm wood beams, intimate courtyards, and a stately charm that makes it feel like a home away from home.

 

 

Uganda, Africa
Temperature: 28°C high; 16°C low | Season: Dry

December is one of the best times to explore Uganda, when the rains have eased, the landscapes remain lush, and the dry conditions make gorilla tracking unforgettable. Out on the savannah, boat safaris come into their own too, as elephants, lions, and other wildlife gravitate toward rivers and lakes — offering incredible Big Five encounters. And while December counts as the country’s “busy” season, Uganda’s under-the-radar status means you’ll rarely face crowds.

Beyond the wild, Uganda’s capital Kampala surprises with its urban spirit: think live music and cocktails at the Sheraton’s legendary Equator Bar, adventurous dining with crocodile tail slow-roasted for hours at The Lawns, and bold contemporary art at Afriart Gallery.

Sustainable travel tip: Join the Batwa Experience for a rainforest hike led by Batwa guides. Once stewards of the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, the Batwa were displaced to protect the gorillas. These tours not only share their history and culture but also give them a meaningful connection to their ancestral land.

Where to stay: Gorilla Forest Camp remains the benchmark lodge in Bwindi. Nestled in the heart of the forest, it offers the rare opportunity to set off on foot to track one of four habituated gorilla families living nearby.

 

 

Yellowstone, USA
Temperature: -4°C high; -15°C low | Season: Winter

While Yellowstone is bustling for most of the year, winter transforms it into a rare, near-private wilderness. In December, the park’s legendary landscapes are blanketed in snow, and the wildlife becomes easier to spot: bison, elk, and even brown bears tread snowy paths toward steaming rivers and hot springs. Snowcoach tours make it possible to reach icons like Old Faithful and the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone, while adventurous types can ski or snowshoe along quiet trails to views that feel entirely their own. The drama of Yellowstone’s geothermal forces — bubbling mud pots and geysers erupting against a hushed, snowy backdrop — is nothing short of extraordinary.

Sustainable travel tip: Book into one of the park’s winter lodges, which champion eco-conscious practices such as composting, farm-to-fork dining, and energy conservation. Their fuel-efficient tours also help reduce the impact of exploring this fragile, awe-inspiring environment.

 

Fiji, South Pacific
Temperature: 31°C high; 22°C low | Season: Wet

Few places banish December blues quite like Fiji. Slip off your shoes, sink your toes into powdery white sands, and let the islands’ famously warm, flower-garlanded welcome set the tone: here, “no hurries, no worries” isn’t a slogan, it’s a way of life. December marks the start of the wet season, but showers are usually short and refreshing, breaking up the tropical heat without dimming the sun-drenched glow.

Since Cyclone Winston in 2016, Fiji has leaned into eco-conscious, culturally rooted hospitality, with new resorts prioritizing sustainability and local connections. At Six Senses Fiji — located on the very island where Cast Away was filmed — solar power, Tesla batteries, and menus crafted from organic, locally foraged ingredients set the tone for a new generation of responsible luxury.

Sustainable travel tip: To experience the real Fiji beyond the beaches, venture inland. Multi-day hikes through lush mountains and rainforests offer the chance to stay in village homestays, share meals with locals, and learn about traditional island culture directly from community guides.

Where to stay: At Likuliku Lagoon Resort, the welcome is as heartfelt as the scenery. Its ten overwater bungalows — the only ones in Fiji — are perfectly poised above crystal-clear waters, making it an iconic island escape.

 

 

Kyoto, Japan
Temperature: 11°C high; 2°C low | Season: Winter

In Japan, New Year (Oshogatsu) is the most cherished holiday, and there’s no better place to soak in the traditions than Kyoto, the country’s former imperial capital. December here is a month-long celebration of heritage and ritual. The Kobo-san and Tenjin-san flea markets bustle with antiques, vintage kimonos, and steaming street food, while early December brings the spellbinding Arashiyama Hanatouro, when lanterns transform the bamboo forest into a dreamscape. As the nights draw in, many temples stage seasonal illuminations — and if the weather cooperates, a dusting of snow makes the scene even more magical.

Sustainable travel tip: Kyoto is one of Asia’s most cycle-friendly cities, with designated parking at major temples and museums. Exploring by bike not only reduces your footprint but also lets you experience the city’s quieter corners — just remember, parking outside approved spots is prohibited.

Where to stay: Tucked into forested hills, Aman Kyoto feels like a hidden sanctuary. Its serene onsen, giant hinoki-wood bathtubs, and mossy stone pathways invite deep rest, while the surrounding woodland whispers the timeless spirit of Japan.

 

 

Madagascar, Indian Ocean
Temperature: 30°C high; 24°C low | Season: Wet

For a December escape that feels truly otherworldly, look no further than Madagascar. This vast island is famed for its unique wildlife — from wide-eyed lemurs to kaleidoscopic chameleons and the wonderfully odd giraffe weevil — yet its landscapes are just as extraordinary. Explore the spiny forests of the south, or venture into the surreal labyrinth of limestone pinnacles at Tsingy de Bemaraha Strict Nature Reserve, a UNESCO site like no other. Early December offers a sweet spot in the off-season: light rains refresh the air, while the heaviest downpours usually arrive later in the month.

For those craving barefoot luxury, the private island of Miavana on Nosy Ankao delivers. Its mid-century-inspired villas, cut from local stone and set against dazzling turquoise waters, redefine the idea of a castaway hideaway — arguably one of the most stylish in the world.

Sustainable travel tip: With over 70% of the population living below the poverty line, travel here has a profound impact. Support community-led initiatives such as Anja Community Reserve, a village-managed forest that protects ring-tailed lemurs while providing livelihoods for local residents.

Where to stay: Miavana remains the ultimate choice — a spectacular blend of wild remoteness and refined indulgence.

 

 

Krakow, Poland
Temperature: 3°C high; -4°C low | Season: Winter

In December, Krakow feels straight out of a Christmas card. The medieval Rynek Główny — the city’s main square — is festooned with twinkling lights, cobblestones glisten under horse-drawn carriages, and festive markets offer steaming pierogi, roasted pork knuckles, and handcrafted ornaments. After browsing the stalls, retreat to a cozy cellar bar for a warming nip of flavoured vodka — cherry is a local favourite.

Beyond the markets, Krakow’s nightlife has a sophisticated edge. Tytano, a repurposed tobacco factory, houses a mix of lively bars and restaurants; Lastriko is the go-to for inventive craft cocktails. In the historic Kazimierz Jewish quarter, centuries-old tenements now shelter shabby-chic bars, galleries, and eateries, offering a vibrant contrast to the wintry streets outside.

Where to stay: Puro Hotel blends sleek, contemporary design with a prime location in the heart of the Old Town — ideal for exploring the city’s festive charm on foot.

 

 

Tasmania, Australia
Temperature: 23°C high; 11°C low | Season: Summer

Once seen as a sleepy outpost, Tasmania has emerged as a vibrant cultural and culinary hub. Much of the buzz centers on Hobart, transformed by the daring Museum of Old and New Art (MONA), whose provocative exhibits draw art lovers from across the globe. Designer hotels like the sandstone Henry Jones Art Hotel set the tone, while restaurants such as Franklin celebrate the island’s exceptional produce — think wood-roasted octopus and raw wallaby. Tasmania’s sparkling wines are also gaining international acclaim, best sampled during the Taste of Tasmania festival in late December, when the island’s summer bounty takes centre stage.

Sustainable travel tip: Tasmania’s untamed wilderness is carefully conserved by the Parks and Wildlife Service and Aboriginal custodians. The best way to explore it is with local operators, like Tasmanian Expeditions, who use locally owned accommodations, source regional foods, and safeguard natural and cultural heritage.

Where to stay: Pumphouse Point, a converted hydro-electric power station on Lake St Clair, offers sweeping 180-degree views of the water — a perfect base for immersing yourself in Tasmania’s wild and sophisticated side.

 

 

Berlin, Germany
Temperature: 4°C high; 0°C low | Season: Winter

Berlin is magnetic year-round, but December reveals its playful, hedonistic side. The city’s underground bars, clubs, and offbeat neighbourhoods buzz with creativity and energy, culminating in the world-famous New Year’s Eve street party along the Party Mile — a city-wide celebration of music, lights, and fireworks.

Sustainable travel tip: Berlin’s innovative food scene extends to sustainability. At FREA, vegan dishes are crafted from locally sourced organic produce, and food waste is composted and returned to the farmers who supplied it. For a cutting-edge ethical tasting experience, Nobelhart & Schmutzig in Kreuzberg offers a 10-course menu highlighting Berlin-grown ingredients.

Where to stay: Hotel Am Steinplatz is a restored Art Nouveau treasure, with Moorish arches, intricate stucco detailing, and elegant marble floors — a stylish base from which to explore the city’s festive and avant-garde winter scene.

 

 

Goa, India
Temperature: 33°C high; 22°C low | Season: Cool

December in Goa is pure revelry. Palm trees shimmer with tinsel and fairy lights, beach bars pulse with music, and travellers — new and old — dance from sunset to sunrise. The weather is balmy, perfect for long days on sun-drenched beaches, while Christmas in Goa takes on a uniquely tropical twist: fireworks, Santa hats, and decorated trees create a festive spectacle unlike anywhere else. The celebrations roll seamlessly into New Year’s Eve, with beach parties and vibrant bar scenes — a calendar full of events that means booking ahead is essential.

Sustainable travel tip: Goa has a growing eco-conscious scene. Yogamagic Eco Retreat, just inland from Anjuna, blends sustainability with comfort: glamping tents and main-house rooms are crafted from reclaimed materials, showers are solar-heated, and vegetarian and vegan meals are locally sourced. Exploring these spots supports mindful tourism while keeping you close to nature.

Where to stay: Ahilya by the Sea in Nerul offers a breezy, beach-house atmosphere overlooking a bay of fishing boats — the perfect base to enjoy Goa’s festive energy while feeling tucked away from the crowds.

 

 

Cambodia & Laos
Temperature: Around 30°C high; 20°C low | Season: Dry

December is the sweet spot for exploring Southeast Asia. The weather is pleasantly warm without the oppressive humidity of the wet season, making it ideal for discovering both bustling towns and tranquil hideaways. In Laos, colonial gems like Luang Prabang hum with festive energy, while Siem Reap and Angkor Wat are at their liveliest, yet early mornings still allow for peaceful temple visits. Even in popular spots, it’s often possible to find quiet corners, especially if you embrace sunrise explorations or charming teak houses where banana trees sway beside the verandah.

Sustainable travel tip: Support local communities by dining at Cambodia’s social-enterprise restaurants. These initiatives train underprivileged youth in hospitality, fostering sustainable careers. Highlights include Sala Baï in Siem Reap, set beside the river, and Romdeng in Phnom Penh, housed in a striking colonial building and run by the NGO Mith Samlanh.

Where to stay: For ultimate privacy and luxury, Six Senses Krabey Island offers 40 villas on a private island, complete with a sprawling spa and serene ocean views — a perfect base for a December escape.

 

 

Prague, Czech Republic
Temperature: 4°C high; 0°C low | Season: Winter

Few cities rival Prague for wintertime charm. Its snow-dusted streets and centuries-old architecture evoke a storybook feel — complete with a real castle — while the Christmas markets fill the air with the scent of cinnamon, mulled wine, and roasted treats. The city may be frosty, but that only heightens the allure of its richly decorated restaurants and underground bars, where hearty Czech fare and warming spirits are served in Art Nouveau gilded interiors.

Where to stay: The Augustine Hotel, housed in a medieval astrological tower, offers 360-degree views of the city, with suites that sit eye-level with Prague Castle — perfect for soaking in the winter magic from above.

 

 

Uruguay
Temperature: 28°C high; 16°C low | Season: Summer

For a South American beach escape with a twist, Uruguay is hard to beat. Its seemingly endless white-sand beaches remain mostly empty even in peak season — though December is when things heat up. Towns like José Ignacio, La Barra, and Punta del Este come alive as wooden-shack restaurants, beach bars, and artsy boutique hotels open their doors for the festive Buenos Aires crowd, who flock across the River Plate for Christmas and New Year celebrations. Yet there are still quiet stretches where you can enjoy the sand nearly to yourself.

Sustainable travel tip: Sacromonte, designed by local studio MAPA Architects, is an eco-boutique retreat set in 250 acres of mountain landscape near José Ignacio. Cabins are built from regionally sourced wood and stone, complemented by a vineyard, two organic gardens, onsite wastewater bio-digesters, and guided hiking and horseback tours, making it a model of sustainable, immersive travel.

Where to stay: Casa Anna, a project by Argentine chef Francis Mallmann, has transformed the tiny hamlet of Garzón into a stylish coastal hideaway, blending culinary excellence with serene beachfront charm.

 

 

The Arctic Circle
Temperature: -3°C high; -9°C low | Season: Winter

December is the quintessential time to experience the magic of the Arctic Circle. Picture sleigh rides through Lapland, pulled by reindeer or huskies, amid frozen landscapes that seem plucked from a storybook. The highlight? The Northern Lights, dazzling across Iceland, Finland, Norway, and Sweden in vibrant displays of color — at their brightest and most unforgettable this time of year.

Sustainable travel tip: Engaging with the indigenous Sami people offers a meaningful glimpse into local culture. Choose operators that provide authentic experiences rather than staged performances, supporting communities that rely on tourism for a few crucial months each year. Magnetic North Travel arranges visits with genuine reindeer herders and their families, providing an insightful and respectful cultural encounter.

Where to stay: In Swedish Lapland, Treehotel offers a unique stay in elevated rooms nestled among the trees, perfectly blending adventure with comfort in the Arctic wilderness.

 

 

Mauritius
Temperature: 29°C high; 20°C low | Season: Summer

Located about 1,200 miles off the coast of Madagascar, Mauritius is an island paradise that more than holds its own alongside tropical heavyweights like the Maldives. The island’s natural beauty is remarkable: lush hiking trails, diverse birdlife, and pristine, untouched beaches await. December, at the height of summer, is an ideal time to explore Mauritius, whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or a private castaway experience.

Where to stay: For luxury with a touch of island magic, choose LUX Grand Baie*, or opt for the timeless elegance of One&Only Le Saint Géran. Our full roundup of the best hotels in Mauritius offers even more options to suit your perfect stay.

 

 

St Lucia
Temperature: 29°C high; 23°C low | Season: Summer

With pristine beaches, dramatic Pitons, glimmering waterfalls, abundant wildlife, and lush rainforests, St Lucia is a Caribbean paradise. December marks the start of the dry season, bringing breezier, less humid days — perfect for exploring the island’s natural beauty. Festive spirit also fills the air, with celebrations like the Feast Day of St Lucy of Syracuse, a festival of lights, adding cultural charm to your stay.

Where to stay: Sugar Beach, nestled between the Pitons, offers a choice of beachfront bungalows or hillside villas, combining luxury with stunning natural surroundings. For more options, see our curated list of the best hotels in St Lucia.

 

 

Sri Lanka
Temperature: 31°C high; 24°C low | Season: Dry

This teardrop-shaped island truly has it all. From golden beaches and ancient ruins to lush hill country and expansive national parks, Sri Lanka is perfect for adventure, wildlife, and culture alike. December’s dry season offers ideal weather for exploring, whether you’re spotting elephants and leopards on safari in Yala National Park or indulging in the island’s vibrant culinary scene in cosmopolitan Colombo.

Where to stay: For an unforgettable stay, choose the chic Wild Coast Tented Lodge for a luxury safari experience or the historic grandeur of Amangalla, a 300-year-old gem in Galle Fort.