You may associate summer with vacations, but actually the winter might be a better time of year to take a trip. Since there are fewer people traveling (especially families with kids, who tend to prefer the long summer break for vacations), prices are lower and destinations less crowded. Plus, you can use the opportunity to find better weather, explore a new country while it’s covered in snow, or participate in the holiday festivities — whatever you enjoy the most.
With this in mind, the following are some of the best December vacation locations for seniors.
1. London, England
If the holidays are your favorite time of year, you’ll love London in December. The city feels extra welcoming with its fairy lights and festive markets. Plus, it’s not as cold as you might expect, reaching only about 40 F. Although it does rain quite frequently, there’s always the option for indoor activities, including Christmas ballets and concerts or a trip to one of the museums (which tend to have fewer visitors than during most other times of the year).
2. Rome, Italy
Another European city that’s ideal for a December vacation is Rome. The thinner crowds make it easier to appreciate sites like the Colosseum, Trevi Fountain, and the Pantheon. When you need a break from the chilly weather, there’s always a café or restaurant just around the corner where delicious food, coffee, or wine await.
3. Malaysia
In December, temperatures in Malaysia aren’t too high and the dry season is just beginning. However, the main reason Malaysia is ideal for a December vacation is you can take advantage of the special four-day itinerary on the Eastern & Oriental Express. This luxury train journey starts in Singapore on December 23 and then takes you through Malaysia, including Penang Island on the 25th, where you’ll have a Christmas celebration. Passengers receive all their meals on board (including breakfast in their cabins), except for a luxury picnic at Pulau Payar Marine Park.
4. Cartagena, Colombia
For a more affordable vacation to a tropical destination, consider Cartagena in Colombia. This is ideal whether you want to spend a vacation lounging on the white-sand beaches, taking in the stunning architecture, or dancing the nights away to salsa music.
5. U.S. Virgin Islands
You can leave the country without even needing a passport by taking a trip to the U.S. Virgin Islands. As it’s the start of the dry season, December is the perfect time to visit. In addition to being ideal for sunbathing, the beaches are popular for snorkeling — you’ll see turtles, rays, and all sorts of brightly-colored fish, especially in Virgin Islands National Park. Make sure you come near the of the month to see the parades, live music, and pageants of the Crucian Christmas Festival.
6. Bahamas
A second Caribbean destination to consider is the Bahamas. With the hurricane season safely over, you’ll be able to spend time plenty of time at the beach, including those of private islands, which are reachable with a boat tour. Although there will be more crowds near the end of the month, it’s worthwhile staying for the Junkanoo festival, which takes place on Boxing Day (December 26) and New Year’s Day. This has evolved from a street festival to a huge parade with music and artists and is a celebration of Bahamian culture.
7. Grenada
One more Caribbean island that’s perfect for a December vacation is Grenada. Although the rainy season is over, tourism remains relatively low. Plus, this island is famous for producing spices including cinnamon and nutmeg, which give many of its national dishes a festive flavor that will put you in the mood for the holidays.
8. Maldives
It’s also the dry season in the Maldives. Ranging from mid-70s to mid-80s, temperatures are pleasant but still hot enough for you to enjoy the beaches. A big draw of the islands is the chance to see marine life like whale sharks (on the western side in December) and manta rays. Plus, some resorts have special offers for the holiday season — although you may need to book early.
9. Phuket, Thailand
Virtually anywhere in Thailand is ideal for a winter vacation. However Phuket stands out as a top choice due to its expansive beaches and excellent spas. December is a great time of year to go because temperatures are mild. However, since it’s popular with tourists, it’s best to go early in the month to avoid the highest prices and to have more choice of resorts.
10. Austria
If you’re looking for a snowy destination, consider Austria. December is one of the best times to visit the country due to the Christmas markets, which give you a great sense of the culture. Head to one of the alpine villages if you want to see mountains covered in snow and frozen lakes or stay in the city to admire the lights, drink mulled wine, and listen to the choirs.
11. French Alps
An alternative for an alpine adventure is the French Alps. Even the small villages host Christmas markets throughout December. Ski resorts open around the middle of the month, offering the chance to take a lift up the snowy mountains for breathtaking views.
12. Paris, France
Another French destination to consider is Paris. One of the most romantic cities in the world at any time of year, it’s even more alluring than normal in December, when the trees are dusted with snow and the Eiffel Tower is partially obscured in mist. Spend evenings out at the theater, the opera, or at one of the many restaurants, where you can enjoy something warming like cheese fondue or onion soup.
13. Lapland, Finland
Finally fulfill your childhood dream by visiting Lapland this December. Take a trip to Santa Claus Village, located just a short distance from Rovaniemi Airport. Here, you’ll have the chance to take a husky or reindeer tour, sauna bathe, and cross the Arctic Circle. In December, the northern part of Finland has only four hours of daylight — the many hours of darkness increase your chances of seeing the aurora borealis.
14. San Antonio
There’s no need to leave the country to have a fantastic December vacation. If you’ve never visited San Antonio, change that this year. There’s a huge amount history and culture to discover, all with a seasonal touch from the festive decorations. Plus, various events take place around the holidays, including multiple Christmas markets.
15. Miami
Another destination closer to home is Miami. If you like modern and contemporary art, make sure your visit coincides with Art Basel Miami Beach to see pieces from artists across five continents. Other events include multiple boat parades, the popup Bayfront Holiday Village with a market featuring unique crafts, an extra-special even from Viernes Culturales in Little Havana, and the North Miami Beach Tree Lighting Ceremony.
16. Hawaii
To stay within the country but feel like you’re going abroad, book a vacation to Hawaii. Temperatures drop to a comfortable low of around 70 F, creating the perfect setting to watch beautiful sunsets in the early evening. The biggest reason to visit in December, though, is the seasonal celebrations. On Oahu, for instance, there’s Honolulu City Lights, which is a month-long festival with a parade, live music, fireworks, and more.
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