December splits into two very different travel moods. The first half is about last-minute holiday errands and cooling weather, and the back half turns into one of the busiest, most festive travel windows of the entire year.
Here are nine destinations worth considering this month, grouped by region.
Mexico and the Caribbean
Riviera Maya, Mexico
December is peak season in the Riviera Maya, with hurricane season fully over and dry, warm weather locked in through the holidays. Resorts book up fast and rates climb accordingly, so early booking with the right guidance really matters this month.
Turks and Caicos
December delivers reliably sunny, dry weather in Turks and Caicos right as the winter holiday crowds arrive. This is one of the most in-demand windows of the year here, so plan well ahead.
United States
Aspen, Colorado
December kicks off peak ski season in Aspen, with holiday week being the single busiest and most expensive stretch of the winter. Booking lift tickets, lodging, and rental gear well in advance is essential for this window.
Park City, Utah
Park City kicks off its ski season in December too, with a quieter, less star-studded vibe than Aspen but equally reliable snow. It’s a good alternative for travelers who want the mountains without the price tag of peak-season Aspen.
Europe
Vienna, Austria
December is prime Christmas market season in Vienna, with festive stalls, mulled wine, and holiday lights filling the city’s historic squares. Cold weather is part of the experience, so pack accordingly.
Reykjavik, Iceland
Long dark nights in December make this one of the best months for chasing the Northern Lights, especially away from the city’s light pollution. It’s a completely different kind of trip than Iceland’s summer midnight sun.
Asia
Phuket, Thailand
December is the heart of Thailand’s dry season and its busiest travel month, with warm days and clear skies drawing a big wave of holiday travelers. Book resorts and flights early, since this is peak demand for the entire region.
Southern Hemisphere
Sydney, Australia
December is early summer in Sydney, with warm beach weather and a famously massive New Year’s Eve fireworks celebration over the harbor. It’s a popular Southern Hemisphere pick for travelers wanting to skip winter entirely.
Queenstown, New Zealand
December marks the start of New Zealand’s summer, ideal for hiking and lake activities around Queenstown without the winter chill. It pairs naturally with a Sydney or Australia leg on the same trip.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far ahead should I book a December Caribbean or Mexico trip?
Ideally six months or more, since December is peak season and the best resorts and rates go first. Waiting until fall often means fewer options and higher prices.
Is December a good time to see the Northern Lights in Iceland?
Yes, long dark nights significantly improve your odds of a sighting, though clear skies and solar activity still play a role. Getting away from city lights improves visibility further.
Is Christmas week the busiest time to ski in Aspen?
Yes, the week around Christmas and New Year’s is the single busiest and most expensive stretch of the ski season. Booking lodging and lift tickets well ahead is essential for this window.
Is December a good month for Thailand?
Yes, December falls in the heart of the dry season, though it’s also the busiest and priciest month of the year for the region. Book well ahead to secure good rates and availability.
What’s a good December destination to escape winter entirely?
Sydney and Queenstown both offer full summer weather in December, since the Southern Hemisphere’s seasons run opposite the Northern Hemisphere’s. It’s a strong option for travelers wanting warm weather during the holidays.
Let’s Plan Your December Getaway
Whether you’re chasing the Northern Lights or a warm-weather escape for the holidays, I’d love to help you plan it. Start your inquiry and let’s get started.
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