Best Places to Visit in December - The Holiday Destinations at The End of The Year

December is coming around the corner. The weather has cooled down, and there is something refreshing in the air. At this time of the year, it is tempting to stay inside and sulk in a cosy corner of your house. But don’t let the year end on such quiet nights because December is the perfect time for a trip. Whether you are a solivagant or someone who likes to stick with your group on field trips, this is a magnificent time to enjoy countless entertainment activities. Don’t know where to start? Check out this list of best places to visit in December; it may give you some ideas!

December Holiday Destinations - Things to Consider Before You Plan

Before you read further or jump right into the list of the best places to go in December, there are a few things you may need to consider for a safe and fun trip:

• Check COVID-19 news in the area before your trip: As the COVID-19 situation changes around the world, it's best to get the latest updates before you head to the destination. You may want to regularly check the list of reopening countries in December and their travelling restrictions. In addition, make sure that you are vaccinated and up to date with your COVID-19 vaccines before travelling (According to CDC - Centres for Disease Control and Prevention). 
• Know the weather pattern of the place you’re going: Depending on where you’re from and where you’re heading, the weather can cause certain troubles for your December trip. For example, if you’re someone who has been living in Hawaii for most of your life, visiting the UK may not be the best idea. With less than seven hours of daylight and cold temperature, you will find yourself enjoying the view… indoors. If you insist on taking such an adventure, make sure to check the weather forecast often and prepare your luggage thoroughly. 
• Have a plan to guide you into the unknown: Perhaps you’re the type of person who likes to travel without planning. You love the excitement of going on an adventure with your bare hands and enjoying the world of the unknown. However, it’s not a bad thing to take into account the risks and troubles you may encounter, especially when you’re going to visit another country. Take note of any special events (religious events, political elections or even exotic festivals) and dangerous paths on your route. This will help you avoid unpleasant situations and have a smooth strip. 
• Make a travel packing checklist: It’s never an enjoyable thing to forget stuff during your trip. When it comes to the point of forgetting your passport or your wallet at home, the trip will turn into a disaster. To prevent such cases, you may want to create a travel checklist in advance. You can make one by yourself or make it easy by downloading any travelling checklist online. However, customising the list on your own will help you become more experienced and cost you less effort during the next trip.

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• Be aware of the crowds and costs during the season: December is a busy season. It's jam-packed with tons of entertainment activities, and of course, with customers and tourists. Depending on your destination, you may need to book accommodation and travelling tickets far in advance, even one year ahead. It’s also recommended to research marketplaces and shops in case you want to get your beloved one’s gifts and souvenirs.

The Perfect Destination for Your December Adventure

Japan

The beauty of Japan attracts tourists every season. People love to watch the cherry blossoms bloom in spring, enjoy street festivals and firework displays in summer, and appreciate the crimson leaves and perfect weather in autumn. However, winter in Japan is something different. Its sacred and silent beauty makes it a winter wonderland and one of the best countries to visit in December.

Compared to other seasons, Japan is pleasantly cool and mild during December. You can expect snow in some areas, such as Hokkaido and northern parts of Honshu (Tohoku). But for the rest of Japan, it’s pretty warm and sunny, especially in Tokyo and Osaka. You can consider these two as ideal warm places to visit in December.

Although winter is the low season in Japan, there’s a wide variety of activities for you to try out. If you want to experience the cold temperatures and snow, skiing down the icy slopes in Hokkaido may just be perfect for you. However, the inconsistent snowfall in December is something you need to consider. In case you are still keen on skiing during this time, make sure to check out local conditions to see if the weather is right. If you’re not a thrill seeker, or perhaps you’re finding some relaxing leisure activity, how about camping? Having around 3000 campsites spreading from the forests to the coastline, Japan is the ideal destination for camping lovers inside and outside the country, making it one of the perfect December holiday destinations. In December, if you can manage to get a place near Mount Fuji, you’re likely to get a good view of the snow-covered mountain. Some camping sites even include hot springs paired with the views of Fuji, which are heavenly and great for relaxing when it’s cold out.

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Japan is also one of the best places to visit in December because it is the perfect time to enjoy annual events. Even though Japan is not a country that celebrates Christmas as a religious holiday, you can still enjoy the holiday atmosphere by walking down the streets. Wandering around the city while gazing at the bright festive lights and trees doesn’t sound like a bad idea. If you visit Japan by the end of December, you may as well celebrate the new year at the shrine. As a tradition, on New Year's Eve, Japanese people line up to pray for a better year at their local shrines. Sometimes there are also food and stalls finding the pathway. It’s a one-of-a-kind experience to drink warm kase and countdown to the new year with the locals.

Germany

Winter in Germany brings out the traditions, the aesthetics and the livelihood, making it the best place to holiday in December. Tourists from all over the world gather here for the charm of the Christmas market and great outdoor activities. There’s nothing more than chowing down gingerbread and having a sip of Glühwein on a cold night when counting down to the new year.

At this time of the year, it’s not ideal to leave your warm clothing at home. Although winter officially starts on December 21, you’ll expect the early season changes, including lower temperatures and a dull sky accompanied by frequent rain. Snow is not easy to see unless you head to higher altitude areas near ski fields and resorts. However, the short daytime here (from 8 am to 4 pm) provides the perfect chance to take excellent shots of holiday lights at the Christmas market, proving that Germany deserves to be the best place to holiday in December.

There are plenty of things you can do here in the year’s final month. When you arrive in Germany, one of the best December holiday destinations, it will be a pity not to have a look at the Christmas markets. You will soon get into the holiday spirit after buying some tiny little Christmas decorations, having some of the warmest drinks and enjoying delicious treats such as crepes and fruitcakes. If you have a chance to visit Berlin in December, you’re likely to experience the extra festive vibe with around 80 Christmas markets along the city. In case you want to warm up your body, plenty of ski resorts offer ski jumping, ski runs, tobogganing and snowshoeing. When you’re done with sports and up for something quieter and more relaxing, you may as well jump on a horse-drawn carriage and get a spectacular view of historic castles. In addition, make sure you don’t miss out on Berlin's main sights when you get there. It may be a little crowded, but it’s worth the wait. Imagine how lovely it is to watch the Brandenburg Gate in the sunset, to wander among the famous five museums on Museum Island, and then end your day having fun with ice skating at Lankwitz.

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Being one of the best countries to visit in December, Germany also has some exciting events that attract both residents and tourists. Christmas and New Year’s Eve are the most awaited times in the country. People celebrated this time with fireworks and food and drink stands lined with endless theatre performances and concerts. If you visit Germany in early December, you have the chance to join two of the most significant national events, which are Hanukkah and St. Nicholas Day. It will be a pleasant experience whether to visit the menorah in front of Berlin's Brandenburg Gate or to watch children’s boots filled with goodies.

New York City

No place gives you the holiday experience like New York City does. It’s the best place to visit in December. If you’re the one who loves to blend in the crowds and enjoy outdoor