Sri Lanka
As the annual southwest monsoon has swept over the western and southern coasts by December, the resorts along both shorelines of the Indian Ocean both are perfect places to visit this month. Bundala National Park with its lagoons, grassland and dunes is the place to see big mammals including elephants in December and hundreds of flamingo winter here. On the coast, five species of the island’s marine turtles lay their eggs through to January.
Pakistan
The Winter Festival of the Kalash people takes place in December annually and takes place around the Rumbur, Bumburet and Birir valleys of the epic Hindukush mountain ranges. Beginning on the winter solstice, rituals are performed to wish prosperity on the villages for the coming year. Traditional dancing and torch-lit processions take place over several days. Bonfires with wine and song precede offerings made to the gods upon the hilltops.
Egypt
Of course Christmas is not widely celebrated in Egypt. The Coptics of the country mark the Christian day of worship on 7th January according to the Coptic Calendar. But that makes Egypt in December a truly wondrous escape. The weather is pleasantly warm by European standards. The main archaeological sites do bustle with tourist energy but escape to hidden gems such as The Halaib and Shalatin Triangle and The Valleys of Maadi and Hulwan for a winter retreat.
Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia is cool enough by December to tour the country’s main archaeological sites. It’s a great destination to escape colder temperatures at home, and perhaps even get away from the pre-Christmas build-up and immerse yourself in a different culture. Meanwhile, the former ancient kingdoms of Al Ula in the north west welcome visitors to the Winter at Tantora music and arts festival.
Antarctica
Nearing 24 hours of daylight, night becomes day in Antarctica in December. The sea ice retreats sufficiently for polar cruise ships to reach the most inhospitable continent on earth. Antarctica briefly bursts into life with an abundance of wildlife including seal pups and penguins on the shores while sea birds court above. Hiking further into Antarctica is possible this month in periods of good weather among the soaring mountains and dramatic glaciers.
Patagonia
It’s mid-summer in Patagonia come December and as Christmas approaches, visitors from neighbouring South American countries head for the hills, forests, lakes and beaches for the laidback festive vibe. The urban hubs of Patagonia retain a rural charm while the vast tracts of beautiful wilderness offer the chance to reconnect with peace and nature ahead of the new year. This is the time to hike the Andes with a stopover in Santiago to toast the festivities.
Oman
For non-natives of the Arabian Peninsula, temperatures in December are at the most pleasant of the year for exploration. Oman is a peaceful, humble nation, with a rich and fascinating history. Swap the commercialisation of Christmas at home and instead dive into a world of sleepy fishing settlements, little-explored mountainous regions and the simple, generous hospitality of the Bedouin.
Guatemala
December in Guatemala is a true antidote to the frenzy you may have tired of as Christmas approaches elsewhere. It’s warm, dry and the friendly Mayan markets are bursting with unique treasures for a shopping experience that’s the antithesis of the malls back home. Christmas Eve is a big deal here too. Neighbours call on each other echoing the journey of Mary and Joseph before finding hospitality and heading to the town squares for dancing and celebration.
Bhutan
December in the village Bumthang sees a unique festival of colourful costumes, dancing, celebration and prayer rituals wishing for happiness and prosperity. The carnival atmosphere belies a profound religious significance. The festival notes the life of the Second Buddha of Bhutan who meditated in the caves here.
Madagascar
Madagascar is one of our favourite destinations to visit in December. Although December is the start of the rain season, it remains hot and dry with an average temperature of 28°C. The weather makes it a fantastic time for lemur watching and spotting chameleons. For those seeking some winter sun, Madagascar has some glorious white sands beaches to be had. A particular favourite in December is Ifaty, an ideal retreat to relax and soak up some sun.
Sri Lanka
As the annual southwest monsoon has swept over the western and southern coasts by December, the resorts along both shorelines of the Indian Ocean both are perfect places to visit this month. Bundala National Park with its lagoons, grassland and dunes is the place to see big mammals including elephants in December and hundreds of flamingo winter here. On the coast, five species of the island’s marine turtles lay their eggs through to January.
Pakistan
The Winter Festival of the Kalash people takes place in December annually and takes place around the Rumbur, Bumburet and Birir valleys of the epic Hindukush mountain ranges. Beginning on the winter solstice, rituals are performed to wish prosperity on the villages for the coming year. Traditional dancing and torch-lit processions take place over several days. Bonfires with wine and song precede offerings made to the gods upon the hilltops.
Egypt
Of course Christmas is not widely celebrated in Egypt. The Coptics of the country mark the Christian day of worship on 7th January according to the Coptic Calendar. But that makes Egypt in December a truly wondrous escape. The weather is pleasantly warm by European standards. The main archaeological sites do bustle with tourist energy but escape to hidden gems such as The Halaib and Shalatin Triangle and The Valleys of Maadi and Hulwan for a winter retreat.
Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia is cool enough by December to tour the country’s main archaeological sites. It’s a great destination to escape colder temperatures at home, and perhaps even get away from the pre-Christmas build-up and immerse yourself in a different culture. Meanwhile, the former ancient kingdoms of Al Ula in the north west welcome visitors to the Winter at Tantora music and arts festival.
Antarctica
Nearing 24 hours of daylight, night becomes day in Antarctica in December. The sea ice retreats sufficiently for polar cruise ships to reach the most inhospitable continent on earth. Antarctica briefly bursts into life with an abundance of wildlife including seal pups and penguins on the shores while sea birds court above. Hiking further into Antarctica is possible this month in periods of good weather among the soaring mountains and dramatic glaciers.
Patagonia
It’s mid-summer in Patagonia come December and as Christmas approaches, visitors from neighbouring South American countries head for the hills, forests, lakes and beaches for the laidback festive vibe. The urban hubs of Patagonia retain a rural charm while the vast tracts of beautiful wilderness offer the chance to reconnect with peace and nature ahead of the new year. This is the time to hike the Andes with a stopover in Santiago to toast the festivities.
Oman
For non-natives of the Arabian Peninsula, temperatures in December are at the most pleasant of the year for exploration. Oman is a peaceful, humble nation, with a rich and fascinating history. Swap the commercialisation of Christmas at home and instead dive into a world of sleepy fishing settlements, little-explored mountainous regions and the simple, generous hospitality of the Bedouin.
Guatemala
December in Guatemala is a true antidote to the frenzy you may have tired of as Christmas approaches elsewhere. It’s warm, dry and the friendly Mayan markets are bursting with unique treasures for a shopping experience that’s the antithesis of the malls back home. Christmas Eve is a big deal here too. Neighbours call on each other echoing the journey of Mary and Joseph before finding hospitality and heading to the town squares for dancing and celebration.
Bhutan
December in the village Bumthang sees a unique festival of colourful costumes, dancing, celebration and prayer rituals wishing for happiness and prosperity. The carnival atmosphere belies a profound religious significance. The festival notes the life of the Second Buddha of Bhutan who meditated in the caves here.
Madagascar
Madagascar is one of our favourite destinations to visit in December. Although December is the start of the rain season, it remains hot and dry with an average temperature of 28°C. The weather makes it a fantastic time for lemur watching and spotting chameleons. For those seeking some winter sun, Madagascar has some glorious white sands beaches to be had. A particular favourite in December is Ifaty, an ideal retreat to relax and soak up some sun.
