If you’re planning a getaway and want inspiration for where to go in December, we’ve curated this guide to feature four incredible destinations perfect for the month. Whether it’s enjoying the uncrowded beaches of Barbados before the holiday peak, exploring Vietnam’s sunny southern coast and cultural treasures, soaking in Sri Lanka’s mix of serene beaches and lush hill stations, or diving into the warm seas of Thailand’s island retreats, these spots offer something extraordinary for every traveller. Drawing from firsthand knowledge, we’ll explore why December is ideal for these destinations, the best ways to reach them, where to stay, and tips to make the most of your trip. Read on for our top picks to inspire your December adventures.
Places We Recommend Visiting In December
Barbados
A Caribbean paradise with pristine beaches, turquoise waters, and vibrant local culture, Barbados offers an idyllic escape during early December before the Christmas rush.
Why Visit in December
Early December is one of the best times to visit Barbados, with warm, sunny days and a lull in tourist crowds following Thanksgiving. The island boasts calm seas for swimming and snorkelling, vibrant festivals like the Barbados Food and Rum Festival, and fantastic opportunities to explore historical sites such as Bridgetown and its Garrison.
How to Get There
- From Northern Europe: Direct flights to Grantley Adams International Airport (BGI) are available from London with British Airways or Virgin Atlantic. Economy fares typically range from €600–€1,000, while business class starts around €2,500.
- From East Coast USA: JetBlue, American Airlines, and Delta offer non-stop flights to BGI from cities like New York (JFK), Miami (MIA), and Charlotte (CLT). Economy tickets are approximately $400–$700, with business class beginning at $1,800.
Where to Stay
- [Luxury] Sandy Lane Resort: A world-renowned luxury resort offering impeccable service, privacy, and beachfront elegance.
- [Mid-range] Sugar Bay Barbados: A charming mid-range, all-inclusive resort perfect for families and couples alike.
- [Boutique] Little Arches Boutique Hotel: An intimate, adults-only boutique hotel known for its tranquil ambiance and stunning ocean views.
An Insider’s Tip
Head to Oistins on a Friday night for the iconic Fish Fry – a lively evening of fresh seafood, rum punch, and local music. Also don’t miss a drive along the rugged east coast, where you will find some great settings for a meal.
Vietnam
A destination of rich history, diverse landscapes, and unparalleled culinary delights, Vietnam shines in December with a mix of warm southern beaches and cooler northern climes.
Why Visit in December
December offers pleasant weather across Vietnam, though the south is the most idyllic. Enjoy the sun-drenched beaches of Phu Quoc or Con Dao islands, explore the vibrant streets of Ho Chi Minh City, or cruise through the Mekong Delta. Meanwhile, Hanoi and Halong Bay are cooler, making sightseeing comfortable, though rains can linger in central regions like Hue and Da Nang.
How to Get There
- From Northern Europe: Reach Ho Chi Minh City (SGN) or Hanoi (HAN) via hubs like Doha, Bangkok, or Singapore. Economy fares range from €700–€1,200, while business class prices start at €2,800.
- From East Coast USA: One-stop flights to SGN or HAN are available through cities like Tokyo, Seoul, or Doha. Economy prices typically fall between $800–$1,300, and business class tickets cost upwards of $3,000.
Where to Stay
- [Beach retreat] Fusion Resort Phu Quoc: A wellness-focused retreat offering luxurious private villas and all-inclusive spa treatments.
- [City base] The Reverie Saigon: A spectacularly opulent hotel in Ho Chi Minh City, blending world-class amenities with lavish design.
- [Heritage stay] Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi: A historic hotel in the heart of Hanoi, known for its timeless elegance and exceptional service.
An Insider’s Tip
Try Phu Quoc’s signature pepper crab at a local beachfront restaurant – it’s a flavour-packed treat.
Sri Lanka
An island of diverse experiences, Sri Lanka in December offers golden beaches, misty hill stations, and wildlife safaris, with the added charm of low-season tranquillity.
Why Visit in December
With the monsoon season ending, December is perfect for exploring Sri Lanka’s southern and western coasts, where the beaches are sun-drenched and inviting. It’s also an excellent time for hill country adventures in Ella or Nuwara Eliya, where tea plantations and cool breezes await. Wildlife lovers can spot elephants and leopards at Yala or Udawalawe National Parks.
How to Get There
- From Northern Europe: Direct flights to Colombo (CMB) with SriLankan Airlines or connections via Doha or Dubai. Economy fares are usually €600–€1,000, with business class starting at €2,300.
- From East Coast USA: One-stop flights to CMB via Doha, Dubai, or Abu Dhabi are common. Economy tickets cost $800–$1,400, while business class begins at $3,200.
Where to Stay
- [Beach] Cape Weligama: A clifftop luxury resort offering breathtaking ocean views and top-tier amenities.
- [Hill country] Heritance Tea Factory: A unique colonial-style hotel nestled in the heart of Sri Lanka’s lush hill country.
- [Safari] Wild Coast Tented Lodge: A luxurious glamping experience on the edge of Yala National Park, perfect for wildlife enthusiasts.
An Insider’s Tip
Catch the scenic train from Kandy to Ella for breathtaking views of lush tea plantations and cascading waterfalls.
Thailand
A perennial favourite, Thailand welcomes December visitors with perfect weather, serene island getaways, and warm seas perfect for diving.
Why Visit in December
December marks the start of Thailand’s dry season, making it an ideal time for beach holidays. The islands in the Andaman Sea – Phuket, Krabi, and Koh Lanta – offer warm, calm waters for swimming and snorkelling. Divers can explore world-class dive sites like the Similan Islands, while those seeking culture can enjoy the vibrant city life in Bangkok or Chiang Mai.
How to Get There
- From Northern Europe: Fly to Bangkok (BKK) with Thai Airways or connect to Phuket (HKT) via the Middle East. Economy fares are between €600–€1,000, while business class starts at €2,500.
- From East Coast USA: One-stop flights to BKK with Qatar Airways, Emirates, or ANA are popular. Economy prices range from $800–$1,300, and business class costs begin at $3,000.
Where to Stay
- [Luxury] Banyan Tree Phuket: A serene and luxurious retreat offering private pool villas and exceptional spa services.
- [Mid-range] Pimalai Resort & Spa: A stunning beachfront resort on Koh Lanta, perfect for relaxation and rejuvenation.
- [Budget] Lub d Phuket Patong: A trendy, budget-friendly option offering comfortable stays in the heart of Patong Beach.
An Insider’s Tip
Skip the crowds and take a longtail boat to the quieter Bamboo Island near Krabi for a slice of paradise. Take insect repellant!
We’d like to hear from you!
Got a tip for where to go in December that we haven’t included? Put a comment below and we’ll gladly go investigate! Why not also have a look at our recommendations for places to visit during different months of the year.
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