Best Countries to Visit in December
Best Countries to Visit in December
Travelling to new countries is always thrilling and serious travellers always look for new destinations to explore. While the summer months are very popular travel times, a lot of people like to travel in December too due to the nice weather and the festive atmosphere. If you are looking for a comprehensive list of the top countries to visit in December, we are here to help! Take a look at this article and learn more about some best countries in December that you can explore.
International destinations to visit in December
Here are some of the best countries to visit in December for a great vacation:
1. Australia
To begin with, we have the beautiful country of Australia. Located in the Southern Hemisphere, this gorgeous nation experiences summer in December. This is why you get amazing weather and also get to experience the unique views of a sunny, bright and warm Christmas. You also get to experience all the famous spots of the country comfortably.
Key Attractions
◦ Sydney Opera House
◦ Great Barrier Reef
◦ Bondi Beach
◦ Melbourne’s Federation Square
◦ Blue Mountains
Weather Highlights
December is usually warm and sunny with temperatures reaching up to 20°C. It is a great time to indulge in outdoor activities and festive celebrations.
Visa Requirements
You'll have to apply for a tourist visa (Subclass 600) via VFS or the official website of the Australian government. The processing timeline will vary between 15-30 days.
2. New Zealand
The weather in New Zealand is identical to that of Australia so here too you experience summer in December, which is no short of spectacular! New Zealand has some amazing things to see, that range from natural wonders to man-made marvels. Head over to NZ this December and have the vacation of a lifetime.
Key Attractions
◦ Queenstown
◦ Mount Cook
◦ Milford Sound
◦ Hobbiton
◦ Rotorua
Weather Highlights
December is usually summer in New Zealand with temperatures ranging between 20-25°C. This is a perfect time to indulge in road trips, hiking and adventure sports. Make sure that you buy adventure add-ons for your international travel insurance to cover any medical emergency.
Visa Requirements
A visitor visa should be applied for to visit New Zealand. It is important to submit all the documents mentioned on the official website to obtain your visa. Proof of funds, and return tickets, along with valid ID proof and passport validity, should also be provided. The processing timeline is usually 15-30 days.
3. USA
December is a great time to visit the USA, as you get to experience the charm of the festive season. Christmas and New Year are celebrated with much fanfare with festivals, parties, shopping extravaganzas, etc. You can also see all the famous destinations and enjoy the cold and snowy weather when you visit the USA in December.
Key Attractions
◦ Grand Canyon
◦ Times Square
◦ Statue of Liberty
◦ Disney World
◦ Las Vegas Strip
Weather Highlights
December in the USA is all about snowy and chilly winters. Although the temperature ranges between 0-20°C, the northern part of the USA may get snowfall. Being the festive season, everything is celebrated with complete grandeur here.
Visa Requirements
Tourists need to apply for a B1/B2 tourist visa and fill up the DS-160 details. Then, appear for an interview at the US Embassy. The visa is usually valid for 10 years. However, you'll have to apply in advance since the processing time can be high, and you'll need to avoid the risk of delays.
4. Sri Lanka
Situated closer to home, Sri Lanka is a paradise on earth. It is known for its sprawling beaches, mesmerising mountains and breathtaking sceneries. It also has some amazing hotels and resorts that allow you to have a great vacation. You can even have a budget Sri Lanka holiday with ease, so plan ahead and have a wonderful time.
Key Attractions
◦ Galle Fort
◦ Sigriya Rock Fortress
◦ Mirissa Beach
◦ Nuwara Eliya
◦ Temple of the Tooth (Ella)
Weather Highlights
December is slightly warm in Sri Lanka. The western and southern coasts experience a dry season. If you're visiting in winter, you may prefer going to the hills or just relaxing by the beach.
Visa Requirements
For the tourists, an ETA (Electronic Travel Authorisation) is required. It can be applied online, and the approval will be provided within 1-3 days.
5. Singapore
Another wonderful December destination, Singapore is a diamond in Asia! You can have a wonderful time here as the weather is very nice all year through, including December. You can see the marvellous attractions of the country, eat some of the finest foods and shop till you drop, all while enjoying the modern and comfortable amenities.
Key Attractions
◦ Marina Bay Sands
◦ Gardens by the Bay
◦ Universal Studios
◦ Sentosa
◦ Orchard Road
Weather Highlights
December is slightly rainy in Singapore, and it has a warm tropical climate. The temperature is moderate, not too warm, not too cold. Due to Christmas and New Year, the vibe around is quite festive and vibrant.
Visa Requirements
For 30 days, the tourists need to apply for an eVisa. You can apply using an authorised agent. The processing timeline for the same is usually 3-5 days. However, it is recommended to apply in advance to prevent any last-minute delays.
6. Thailand
Thailand is a very popular travel destination and in December, it transforms into one of the biggest party hubs in the world. From lavish Christmas decorations to stunning beach-side New Year parties, you can experience a whole new world when you visit Thailand in December. The other usual attractions such as the pristine waters and the gorgeous landscapes are always there, adding to the nice experience.
Key Attractions
◦ Phi Phi Islands
◦ Chiang Mai
◦ Phuket
◦ Ayutthaya
◦ Bali
Weather Highlights
Thailand experiences cool and dry winters. However, you can go and relax by the beach and witness the beautiful landscapes. You can walk around experiencing the nightlife of the region.
Visa Requirements
A Visa-on-arrival facility is available for Indian tourists. However, if you want to stay for a longer time, you'll have to apply for an eVisa. Make sure to submit your proof of accommodation and flight tickets to show your intent to return to your home country.
7. Malaysia
Next on the list of the best countries to visit in December, is Malaysia. It is a great place to explore and if you travel in December, you will get pleasant weather and also some great deals on your flight and hotel bookings. Malaysia is a wonderful destination that offers a variety of attractions.
Key Attractions
◦ Batu Waves
◦ Cameron Highlands
◦ Penang
◦ Petronas Towers
◦ Langkawi
Weather Highlights
December brings a warm and tropical climate with temperatures ranging between 25-30°C. Therefore, you may not need to carry your winter clothes since it is only slightly cold. You should plan your trip to the West Coast islands during this time, as the temperature is great.
Visa Requirements
You must apply for an eVisa online. The processing time for obtaining a Malaysia visa is quite short. However, it is advisable that you submit all the accurate documents to prevent the risk of rejection.
8. Czech Republic
If you want to visit Europe in December, head over to the Czech Republic. One of the most underrated countries in Europe, the Czech Republic is absolutely stunning. You get to see the beautiful attractions, eat some of the best food, and interact with the locals who are very friendly and welcoming. The weather is cold and snowy, so you can even experience the charm of a white Christmas.
Key Attractions
◦ Old Town Square
◦ Charles Bridge
◦ Prague Castle
◦ Cesky Krumlov
◦ St. Virus Cathedral
Weather Highlights
The Czech Republic experiences cold and snowy winters. Due to extreme temperature conditions, the place experiences snowfall. So, if you want to witness the beauty of the winter wonderland, plan your trip during winter. The Christmas market here is magical.
Visa Requirements
You need to apply for a Schengen visa. Therefore, make sure to obtain an international travel insurance with a minimum of €30,000 coverage. You can apply via the VFS website, but you'll have to be available to share your biometrics.
9. Mexico
Mexico is a beautiful country with a large variety of attractions and destinations. It has some of the most popular beaches and resorts in the world and the food there is very delicious too. The culture of Mexico is very interesting and the people are extremely friendly. The weather remains quite pleasant during December, making it a great time to visit this wonderful country.
Key Attractions
◦ Cancun
◦ Tulum
◦ Chicken
◦ Mexico City Zocalo
◦ Copper Canyon
Weather Highlights
December is the perfect time to explore the culture and beaches of Mexico. The temperature is also slightly warm and dry, providing the perfect environment for beach hopping.
Visa Requirements
You'll need to apply for a Mexican tourist visa. You should show sufficient funds proof. Furthermore, to obtain the visa, submit a valid passport and accommodation proof. You may also need to submit your return flight tickets.
10. Maldives
Maldives has emerged as one of the most popular travel destinations in the world of late, and that too for good reason! This gorgeous island nation has all the provisions for a mesmerising holiday. December is a great time to visit as the weather is warm and dry with very little chance of rain. Plan a relaxing holiday with your loved ones and have a great time.
Key Attractions
◦ Male City
◦ Hulhumale
◦ Water Villas
◦ Banana Reef
◦ Maafushi
Weather Highlights
The Maldives has a warm and sunny December. The temperature usually ranges from 25-30°C. You can enjoy diving and island hopping. If you want to try adventure activities, it is crucial that you obtain adventure coverage for your travel insurance, too.
Visa Requirements
A free visa on arrival facility is available for Indian tourists for around 30 days. You should provide your ID proof, a valid passport, and a return flight ticket along with a hotel booking. Also, make sure to appear for the interview when scheduled.
11. Japan
December is one of the most magical and beautiful times to visit Japan. From the beautiful views of Mount Fuji to the comfortable temperature, it is a great time to relax and just seek peace. You can try a wide range of activities and enjoy delicious food as well.
Key Attractions
◦ Tokyo Skytree
◦ Jyoti Temples
◦ Nara Deer Park
◦ Mount Fuji
◦ Osaka Castle
Weather Highlights
Although the temperature is very cold, the skies are clear. Some parts of Japan also experience rainfall during December. You can also explore the rural side of Japan. Furthermore, at the same time, you can go around exploring hot springs and enjoy a comfortable time.
Visa Requirements
A tourist visa is required for Indians to visit Japan. You can apply online via VFS Japan by submitting all the necessary documents. You will have to submit hotel bookings, itinerary, and financial proof to obtain your visa.
12. Dubai
Dubai is one of the best countries to visit in December because of its cool and pleasant climate. Several shopping festivals are also held during this time. You can set out in the city exploring the beautiful Palm Jumeirah and other destinations. Indeed, it is the perfect time for outdoor adventure activities and sightseeing.
Key Attractions
◦ Burj Khalifa
◦ Palm Jumeirah
◦ Desert Safari
◦ Dubai Mall
◦ Dubai Fountain
Weather Highlights
December isn't uncomfortable, unlike summers in Dubai. The temperature is cool and pleasant and not chilling, proving to be perfect for tourist activities. You can take trips to the deserts, attend festivals, and also go shopping.
Visa Requirements
You can apply for a Dubai tourist visa online. The validity is usually 30 to 90 days. Make sure to check if it is a single-entry or multi-entry visa. Check the processing time, which is usually around 2-5 business days. Then, apply for your visa in advance once your trip is planned.
13. Turkey
Turkey in December is one of the most enchanting destinations because of the snowfall. The streets of Istanbul are very busy with the festive decor. Although slightly chilly, it is totally worth visiting Turkey in December, especially to witness the natural and historical beauty of the region. Considering the peak, make sure to book your flight tickets and accommodation in advance.
Key Attractions
◦ Cappadocia
◦ Hagia Sophia
◦ Ephesus
◦ Pamukkale
◦ Bosphorus
◦ Cruise
Weather Highlights
Turkey experiences snowfall during December, especially in Cappadocia. The weather is extremely cold with temperatures ranging between 5-12°C. You can also take a trip to Istanbul to experience the festive lights.
Visa Requirements
If you're already holding a Schengen visa, you can visit Turkey by applying for an eVisa. However, if it's not available, you'll have to apply for a sticker visa.
14. France
If you want to witness pure magic during December, you must not miss out on visiting. So, make sure to buy your travel insurance for France so that you can explore the beauty of the place, especially try winter activities in the Alps. You can also witness the magnificence of the Christmas markets held in this region, creating an exclusive, welcoming atmosphere.
Key Attractions
◦ Palace of Versailles
◦ Louvre
◦ Eiffel Tower
◦ French Riveria
◦ Mont Saint-Michael
Weather Highlights
You should take a trip to France during December to witness the magnificence of the snowy Alps. Moreover, due to Christmas, the festive vibe is all around. The weather is extremely cold as the temperature ranges between 5-10°C.
Visa Requirements
You'll have to apply for a Schengen visa, which is slightly difficult to get. Therefore, make sure to submit all the documents such as finance proof, ID proof, a valid passport and travel insurance for France with sufficient coverage. You can apply for the visa via VFS and submit your biometrics during the interview.
15. Portugal
If you want a comfortable winter escape, you must take a trip to Portugal. The laid-back beaches and colourful streets make it one of the most must-visit places. It is off tourist season, so you may get enough time on your own to enjoy the tourist destinations. Moreover, if you plan and book your accommodation in advance, you might as well get great discounts and offers.
Key Attractions
◦ Lisbon
◦ Sintra Palace
◦ Algarve Beaches
◦ Duoro Valley
◦ Belem Tower
Weather Highlights
Portugal experiences mild winters in December. The temperature ranges from 10-15°C on sunny days. The weather has a cosy feeling with festive vibes all around.
Visa Requirements
You need to submit a valid passport to obtain the visa. For a trip to Portugal, you need to apply for a Schengen visa. At the same time, to get your visa, you also need to submit the travel insurance and proof of a return flight ticket.
16. Brazil
Brazil is one of the best places to enjoy Summer in December. The celebration of the festive season is what makes it even more attractive. Numerous festivals are held by the beach during this time, and the streets are lit up as a sign of the festive season. However, the place is going to be slightly crowded, so you may not get any last-minute bookings available. Thus, plan and book in advance.
Key Attractions
◦ Copacabana Beach
◦ Iguazu Falls
◦ Amazon
◦ Salvador
◦ Christ the Redeemer
Weather Highlights
Unlike most places in December, Brazil actually experiences a hot and humid summer in December. The temperature can range up to 35°C, often proving to be uncomfortable for a lot of visitors. However, you can relax by the beach in the evening and also enjoy the festive vibe around.
Visa Requirements
A Brazilian visa is free for Indians only stay of up to 90 days. You can apply for the Brazil visa online via the consulate or embassy. The traditional Visa-on-arrival facility is not available for Indians. Therefore, it is advisable to go through the embassy-issued visa route.
17. Vietnam
If you want a balance of warm and cold during December, you should plan your trip to Vietnam. The lit-up streets and festive atmosphere fill the entire place. Moreover, cities like Ho Chi Minh and Hoi An have a very welcoming atmosphere during this time for everyone. This is the perfect time to enjoy a variety of tourist activities.
Key Attractions
◦ Hoi An
◦ Ho Chi Minh City
◦ Ha Long Bay
◦ Mekong Delta
◦ Sapa
Weather Highlights
December is slightly cool in Vietnam. The northern part of Vietnam is cooler than the Southern part. December is the perfect time for enjoying beach activities and going sightseeing.
Visa Requirements
You need to submit accommodation proof and a return flight ticket to obtain a Vietnam visa. Furthermore, the visa is valid for 30 days with a single entry. The processing time for the visa is around 3-5 business working days.
18. Greece
Greece is the perfect place to visit in December who want a more personal and laid-back atmosphere. With less number of tourists, you get to enjoy a variety of activities. Athens, Meteora, and Santorini are the must-visit destinations during December. Even in December, you'll get to witness the summer rush and the tranquillity of the season.
Key Attractions
◦ Meteora
◦ Delphi
◦ Mykonos
◦ Santorini
◦ Acropolis of Athens
Weather Highlights
December is usually a quieter season, which means you can enjoy the beauty of the surrounding region. With fewer tourists, you can indulge in enjoying an overall experience of the surrounding beauty.
Visa Requirements
You should submit all the relevant documents required for obtaining the Schengen visa. You can apply for the visa online via VFS. Make sure to submit all the documents in a properly arranged manner to avoid any rejection.
19. United Kingdom
If you want to witness the true magic of Christmas, you just can't go wrong with visiting the United Kingdom. The streets of London dazzle with Christmas lights, whereas all the castles are lit up. The winter skies are all lit, and several festive markets are held all around. Furthermore, you can also take a trip to some of the top pubs in the city and enjoy delicious food.
Key Attractions
◦ Buckingham Palace
◦ Stonehenge
◦ Edinburgh Palace
◦ London Eye
◦ Big Ben
Weather Highlights
London experiences cold winters, with snowfall in some areas as the temperature falls to 2-8°C. However, the vibe of the place is really welcoming with festive Christmas lights everywhere.
Visa Requirements
You'll have to undergo the standard tourist visa application process to obtain the visa. You must submit all the documents as requested on the official website. You can apply for the visa online and submit your biometrics for confirmation.
20. Netherlands
The Netherlands is one of the best countries in December because of its old-world charm and the beauty of the canals. You can take a trip to the markets of Amsterdam, historic windmills, and also witness the beauty of cultural treasures. The weather, however, is very chilly and cold. Moreover, there might be occasional snowfall as well, which adds to the beauty of the region, especially during the festive season.
Key Attractions
◦ Zaanse Schana
◦ Anne Frank House
◦ Amsterdam Canals
◦ Rijkmuseums
◦ Keukenhof
Weather Highlights
Because of Christmas and New Year, the Netherlands has a very festive vibe throughout December. Being the winter season, the temperature is really cold and ranges between 2-8°C. Occasional snowfall may also be experienced in this region during this time.
Visa Requirements
For your visit to the Netherlands, you'll have to follow the Schengen visa application guidelines. You can apply through VFS by submitting all the documents properly. It is advisable that you buy international travel insurance for your trip.
21. Egypt
Egypt has a very pleasant and warm atmosphere in December. You can explore Nile cruises, pyramids, and also visit the beauty of the Luxor temples. The weather is very pleasant, and you can also visit the deserts as the sun isn't that harsh.
Key Attractions
◦ Luxor Temple
◦ Nile Cruise
◦ Sphinx
◦ Pyramids of Giza
◦ Valley of the Kings
Weather Highlights
Unlike most places, December is a pleasant time in Egypt. It is the perfect time to enjoy the beauty of the Nile Cruise. You can also go around exploring the ancient sites and learning about the history of the place.
Visa Requirements
You must go through the standard procedure to apply for the visa online. Depending on your requirement, you can opt for a single-entry or multiple-entry visa.
Why Buying Travel Insurance is Important?
While you plan your international travel in December, don't forget to get the best travel insurance policy. It is vital for you to travel with this insurance cover for reasons such as:
1. Travel cover
If anything goes wrong with your trip, in regards to your flight, hotel reservations, baggage loss, etc, your travel plan will support you. A missed flight can cost you heavily, but when you have travel insurance coverage, you don't have to worry, as your insurance provider will compensate you and arrange a ticket for you on the next available flight. Similar conveniences are also available for cancelled hotel bookings, baggage delays, etc.
2. Medical cover
Healthcare expenses are unimaginably high in foreign nations, especially Western countries. But you can't avoid treatment in the event of an emergency such as a sudden illness or injury. A good family travel insurance plan covers the health of all the people travelling and if there is a need for hospitalisation, you will get reimbursed for the expenses.
3. Itinerary protection
Planning a foreign trip with your loved ones is always exciting, so you plan it thoroughly and make all the bookings in advance. But what happens when you have to cancel or reschedule the holiday at the last minute due to some unavoidable reasons? You stand to lose a huge sum of money. But when you have a family travel insurance policy, you get to reschedule or cancel your itinerary with ease as this is an important protection available under travel insurance.
4. Necessary for visa
A lot of countries don't issue visas to tourists unless they have a valid international travel insurance plan. This is a very crucial reason why you need to invest in a good travel insurance plan when you decide on the country of your choice.
5. Helpful for loss of passport
Your passport is the most important document you need when you travel. If for any reason you happen to lose your passport while you are in a foreign country, you can face tremendous amounts of problems. But if you have an international travel insurance plan, the insurance provider will assist you in getting a temporary passport and ease your troubles greatly.
As you can see, these are some very important reasons why you should never leave your country without proper travel insurance coverage.
FAQs
1. Is December a good time to travel?
Yes, December is considered to be one of the best times to travel. The weather is mild and pleasant and you get to experience many attractions in many countries. However, there are some places, such as the hills of Europe, that get extremely cold and snowy at this time and hence are best avoided. Therefore, before you finalise your trip, check out the weather conditions of the chosen destination and then decide what to do while you do so, do not forget to buy the best international travel insurance plan.
2. Can I find winter markets in Europe in December?
Winter markets are everywhere to be found in Europe in December. Due to Christmas, every small town and large city dresses up in beautiful decorations at this time and transforms into magical, winter wonderlands. Hence, it is a wonderful time to travel to these places and experience the charm and beauty of the winter markets.
3. Is it a peak travel season?
In many parts of the world, the peak tourist seasons fall between November and March, so yes, December is the best time to travel. These are the tropical countries, the touristy countries of South Asia, the Middle East and other popular destinations. However, many places in Europe have their off-season at this time owing to the extreme cold and snowy conditions. Thus, you have to pick your destination carefully to enjoy your holiday wholeheartedly.
4. Is the weather in December suitable for international trips?
Before you buy a travel insurance plan and head out, you need to understand whether the weather is suitable. The weather in countries like Thailand, Australia and the UAE is perfect in December and you can enjoy it to the fullest. However, December is not a suitable time to visit a country like Sweden or Switzerland, as many of the attractions will be shut down given the cold and frozen conditions. You need to pick the destination after proper research.
5. How expensive is it to travel abroad in December?
Since December is the peak tourist season in many countries, it is quite expensive to travel at this time. If you are looking for something like a December Dubai or Thailand trip, you will end up spending more. It is advisable to get a travel package or to book well in advance. These measures will help you to have a smooth and economical trip.
Conclusion
Choose any country from the above list as your December travel destination. You can plan a longer trip and visit several of the countries together and have a memorable vacation with your loved ones. However, before you leave, do not forget to explore the available travel insurance covers and pick out the best one for yourself. It is very handy to have this insurance coverage when you set foot in a foreign land as it allows you to travel with a lot of mental peace, and this adds to the memorable experience of your international holiday.
Disclaimer: The above information is for illustrative purposes only. For more details, please refer to the policy wordings and prospectus before concluding the sales.
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