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We can’t think of a better way to embrace the holiday spirit and celebrate the end of another year than by travelling to some of the world’s most enchanting destinations. Whether you’re browsing for handmade gift ideas in charming Christmas markets or heading off on a tropical eco-adventure to avoid Aunty Susan’s trifle, these are our favourite places to visit in December:
Cities like Brussels and Bruges are incredible destinations at any time of year, but even more so in December when they transform into fairy-tale towns filled with enchanting Christmas markets and dazzling light displays. You can also indulge in delicious Belgian specialities including traditional holiday treats like speculoos cookies, mouthwatering chocolates, freshly-made waffles and mulled wine. Head for one of the seasonal ice-skating rinks that pop in Belgian parks for the festive season – it’s a great fun and an excellent way to justify a little overindulgence!
Christmas markets in Prague, Czech Republic
The Czech capital of Prague is another European destination that’s renowned for its Christmas atmosphere, with the city’s Old Town Square a focus for December festivities. If you venture beyond the city and into the Czech countryside, you’ll be rewarded with spectacular winter landscapes pulled straight from the pages of a story book. Charming towns like Český Krumlov, and Brno are often dusted with crisp, white snow during December, so you can enjoy picturesque walks, go sledding on a snowy hillside or sample local beers in a cosy bar.
The Petit-Champlain at Lower Old Town (Basse-Ville), Quebec
With its pristine snow-covered forests, frozen lakes, and picturesque mountains, Canada in December is all about enjoying winter scenery and outdoor activities while taking part in the exuberant North American approach to celebrating the holidays. The resort towns of the Canadian Rockies, such as Lake Louise, Banff and Jasper, offer every imaginable winter activity from skiing, and skating to ice-climbing and sleigh rides. Further east, the French-Canadian cities of Quebec City, Montreal and Mont-Tremblant feature European-style Christmas markets in a stunning setting of cobbled streets and twinkling fairy lights.
Christmas markets in Salzburg, Austria
The combination of stunning winter scenery, festive traditions, winter sports and cultural events makes Austria a magical destination to visit in December. As well as world-class ski resorts and charming Christmas markets, there’s an endless selection of musical performances and cultural events, held in beautiful historic venues in Salzburg and Vienna, at this time of year. The chilly weather is well suited to savouring hearty local cuisine like schnitzel, goulash and strudel – Guten Appetit!
Husky sledding in magical Lapland, Finland
From witnessing the spectacular natural phenomenon of the Aurora Borealis to visiting Santa’s famous workshop, the Finnish region of Lapland is a destination everyone should visit during December at least once in their life. Experience the thrill of racing along snowy forest trails with a team of eager and friendly huskies, learn about authentic indigenous Sámi culture and traditions and experience the traditional Finnish winter pastime of sauna (and don’t skip the ice swim!).
Overwater bungalows in Maldives
If lazing on beautiful beaches, swimming in pristine water and dabbling in an endless array of water sports sounds like your idea of an idyllic December holiday, the Maldives offers all of this and more. December marks the beginning of high tourist season in the Maldives, but there is still plenty of space in which to treat yourself to some secluded barefoot luxury: lounging on the deck of your luxurious overwater bungalow or snorkelling with giant, peaceful Manta rays.
Tropical Fiji Islands
Fiji’s summer season begins in December, bringing with it warm temperatures and plenty of sunshine. Go island hopping in the Mamanuca or Yasawa Islands, experience the warmth of Fijian hospitality and culture with a visit to a local village, or try one of the many adrenaline-fuelled adventure activities on offer, including zip-lining, caving or big-wave surfing. Many resorts and spas in Fiji offer wellness and relaxation packages where you can unwind and be pampered in a serene tropical setting.
Madagascar is famous for its unique and diverse wildlife, including lemurs, chameleons and other equally fascinating, endemic species. Although the island has a wide range of ecosystems and microclimates which can cause local variations in weather conditions, December is the beginning of the island’s dry season. That means warm, sunny conditions for wildlife enthusiasts, hikers and beachgoers alike. The unique blend of local traditions and French influences means you’re assured of a memorable and unique Christmas celebration.
Whether you’re chasing a snowy adventure, a luxury beach escape or simply a fresh approach to celebrating Christmas, each of these remarkable December destinations has something special to offer. For more ideas, inspiration and help designing an unforgettable December holiday, talk to your personal travel manager.
We at Travel Managers Australia recognise the traditional owners of the country where we live and work. We recognise and celebrate the diversity of Indigenous people and their enduring cultures and connections to the land and waters of New South Wales.
