Best Places to Travel in December Part 1

Let’s be honest, whether you mind the cold or not, Travel in December is one of the best months for getting away from the grind and escaping the monotony of the nine to five. It’s true, we all love those woolly winter hats and warm coats but at the same time, nothing beats a trip abroad and the chance to explore an exciting destination on the other side of the world.

With this in mind, let’s take a look at five of the best places to travel in December:

1. Budapest for the Christmas Markets (Hungary)

Hungary’s capital city may not be the warmest place at this time of year but it’s home to one of the best Christmas markets in Europe. Situated on Vörösmarty Square, these colorful markets are home to endless stalls with traditional handmade crafts and food. In fact, the busy food stalls are one of the most appealing aspects of the markets and you can expect every type of local dish and delicacy.

As if that’s not enough, there are also performances by local amateur dramatic groups. In most instances, these shows illustrate traditional Hungarian stories as a local choir fills the air with Christmas carols that gives the atmosphere an especially warm glow.

As you might expect for a medieval city, Vörösmarty Square itself provides a magical background for the markets and the square, with its elegant fountains and statues, is nothing short of stunning. Overlooking the stalls, elegant tall buildings look down over the square to add a special touch and help to keep the cold December wind away.

If you have the opportunity to visit Budapest in December, the elaborate and beautiful decorations throughout the city, is a sight to behold.

2. Auckland for Warm Weather and Waiheke Island

Auckland is home to more December sun than you can possibly imagine and this warmer climate is often a reason for its’ popularity at this time of year. Located on the north island in New Zealand, this busy metropolis is also distinctly different to the cold and barren landscapes that you see on Lord of the Rings.

You see, Auckland offers a great escape from the chill of the winter but also an encounter with endless attractions. With many trendy restaurants and quaint café’s, foodies are spoiled for choice but there are also museums and galleries at every turn. For many people, this is also the perfect opportunity to catch a game and rugby fans might want visit Eden Park to watch the All Blacks in action.

On the other hand, for those who want to experience something away from the city, Waiheke Island is just a short ferry ride away. With more than a dozen wineries and vineyards, this is also a haven for wine connoisseurs and the Tantalus Estate Vineyard & Winery in particular is recognized all over the world. Featuring this twenty-acre vineyard and a chance to experience island life in New Zealand, Waiheke Island is often considered the “icing on the cake” for Auckland.

3. Phuket for Near-Perfect Weather and Stunning Resorts

With an average temperature of 31°C, the largest island in Thailand attracts approximately five million tourists every year and it’s easy to see why. However, don’t let this popularity put you off, for getting away from the crowds is just as easy on Phuket.

Also, if you travel to Phuket in December, you’ll have the chance to witness the sand-soaked beaches in their absolute prime. In many ways, they look like something plucked from a desert-island movie and with idyllic swimming conditions this is possibly the most inviting beach destination in all of Thailand. What’s more, Phuket has some of the most impressive resorts anywhere in the world and many of these four or five star hotels are reasonably prices. Featuring infinity pools, world-class services and lush surroundings, these resorts have everything you could ever need for a memorable stay.

That being said, if isolated beaches are not your thing, you may want to head to Surin Beach, which is much more of a “party place” and a lot more vibrant than elsewhere on the island. When you’ve finished relaxing, you should know that Thailand is also a cultural experienced and full of unique encounters. In other words, in between the stunning resorts and beautiful beaches, you will also find temples, monasteries, and shrines at every turn.