Best places to travel in December 2023

Dubai offers a chance to escape the harsh temperatures of a Northern Hemisphere winter. Sunlight and warm weather make it an ideal time to lounge around hotel pools or sunbathe, although the seawater can sometimes still be a little too cold for swimming. It’s also a time when the emirate erupts with a host of festivals catering to many different interests, including the World Rugby Sevens Series and the Dubai International Film Festival. On and around the annual anniversary of the UAE’s independence, known as National Day, there are fireworks and often visual art shows.

With the warm glow of twinkling lights against snowy rooftops, Christmas markets fragrant with mulled wine and ice rinks playing seasonal tunes, there are few places that feel as festive as Canada’s cities during December — just make sure to wrap up warmly, as temperatures don’t rise much over freezing. Over in the Canadian Rockies, snow is thickening under foot, opening up opportunities for wintry activities like snowshoeing, snowmobiling and dog-sledding. You can also fly over the dazzling-white peaks on a helicopter tour. After taking in the frigid mountain air, warm up in a log cabin over a fondue dinner.

December is a good time to visit most parts of the USA, and where you go depends on the type of winter break you’re looking for. You’ll find warm temperatures and beaches ripe for sunbathing in regions like Hawaii, California, Florida and the Deep South. Or, for crisp winter days steeped in a festive atmosphere, spend time in its northern cities. At the beginning of the month, you’ll encounter few other visitors in the country’s national parks (though some are difficult to access due to snow) and around city attractions, plus hotels and restaurants often offer good value for money.

December is one of the most popular months to visit India. Temperatures drop, creating more comfortable conditions for exploring, though early mornings and evenings can be chilly. It’s a good time to take in the sights of Rajasthan, Delhi and Agra without the summer heat, although be prepared for some fog in the mornings, which tends to clear to crisp blue skies. We also recommend staying in the south of the country, where it’s sunny and warm, although you’ll need to plan in advance as many people flock here for a festive break.

In many parts of South Africa, December is one of the busiest months as the festive season ramps up. We recommend visiting earlier in the month, when there are far fewer visitors. The Cape region is warm, sunny and dry at this time of year, making it a good time for a break in Cape Town and the Winelands or a road trip along the Garden Route. If you’re planning a safari, the Kruger is hot and experiences rain at this time of year, but it’s an excellent time for birdwatching as migrant species arrive. You’ll also see lots of newborn mammals, along with the predators they attract.

With good weather wherever you are, December is one of the best months to visit Thailand. Unfortunately this is a well-known fact, and you won’t be the only one heading to its shores. We recommend visiting toward the start of the month to avoid the busy festive period. It’s a great time for diving and snorkelling along the southwest coast, where you’ll find the water clear and calm, with fewer visitors than the west coast. Koh Samui can see rainfall at this time of year, but everywhere else is warm and dry without being too hot.