now and Swells: Arctic Expeditions, Tropical Beaches, and Christmas Market Cheer
December is the ultimate month for contrast: whether you are escaping the winter cold entirely or embracing it fully, this is when global travel hits peak diversity. This is the moment to swap your heavy coat for a dry bag, as the peak dry season kicks off across Southeast Asia and the Caribbean, delivering perfect weather for island hopping, diving, and historical exploration.
From the intense cultural rhythm of Cuba's salsa scene and New Year's celebrations to the tranquil, sun-drenched backwaters of Southern India, your tropical escape options are at their best. Meanwhile, the northern half of the globe is in full festive swing: Central Europe offers guaranteed snow for skiing and the cosy warmth of world-famous Christmas Markets. If you're seeking the ultimate adventure splurge, December is the peak of the Austral Summer, making Antarctica accessible for an unparalleled expedition to see the first penguin chicks hatch. December is the time to secure your grand finale to the year.
Cuba – Salsa, Sunshine, and New Year Parties
Cuba in December is the ultimate winter sun escape that trades frosty weather for fiery culture. You are hitting the beginning of the peak dry season, meaning reliably clear skies and temperatures that are warm but not scorching (around 28°C daytime highs). The sea is a perfect 26°C, but the cooler evenings (dropping to 18°C) make strolling the historic streets and dancing all night genuinely comfortable—ideal for sightseeing and partying.
The biggest win is the total cultural immersion, peaking with the New Year. Instead of just touring, use December to combine intensive Spanish lessons with daily salsa classes in Havana or the historic city of Trinidad. You’ll spend mornings learning the language and afternoons mastering the rhythm, which you can immediately test out in the legendary Casas de la Música. The entire country builds up to New Year’s Eve, which is a massive celebration, often coinciding with the anniversary of the Cuban Revolution. Join the crowds on the Malecón for fireworks, dance the night away in the plazas, and maybe even join the locals in their tradition of throwing buckets of water out to sweep away the old year’s bad luck!
After the city buzz, switch to the rural adventure. Take the opportunity of the stable, dry weather to explore the lush, mountainous tobacco fields of the Viñales Valley, opting for horseback riding or caving through the limestone mogotes. Or head to the beautiful south coast beaches near Trinidad for snorkeling and diving. Cuba in December delivers a high-value, high-energy cultural blast that culminates in the most vibrant New Year’s party in the Caribbean.
Antarctica – The Ultimate Young Splurge
Antarctica is the definition of a once-in-a-lifetime trip, and December is the peak of the Austral Summer—the only feasible time to go. Yes, it’s a massive splurge, but you are not just buying a holiday; you are buying an expedition. This is the ideal window because the sea ice has retreated, allowing easier access to landing sites, and the notorious Drake Passage is generally at its most passable (though never guaranteed calm!).
The biggest win is the incredible wildlife spectacle and the bragging rights. December marks the arrival of the full summer life cycle: the penguin rookeries are at full capacity with parents incubating eggs, and by mid-to-late December, the first adorable, fluffy penguin chicks begin to hatch. You get nearly 24 hours of daylight (the Midnight Sun), which means maximum time for exploration, kayaking among icebergs, and taking the Polar Plunge into freezing waters. Why do it now? This expedition requires moderate fitness for scrambling into Zodiacs and hiking ashore. Don't wait until you're retired to attempt this—go while you're young and physically able to take advantage of every challenging shore landing and optional high-adrenaline activity!
After the wildlife mission, switch to the inner adventure. This is a journey of extreme landscapes and personal challenge. The "milder" December temperatures (around 0°C to 5°C on the Peninsula) are perfect for focusing on photography, attending specialist lectures, and enjoying the festive, communal atmosphere of the expedition ship. It's a humbling, perspective-changing trip that will permanently reset your definition of "wild." Don't save this for retirement—this adventure belongs on the top of your 20s/30s bucket list.
The Philippines – Island Hopping and Coral Conservation
December is the moment the Philippines transforms into a tropical paradise, making it one of the best winter sun destinations on Earth. This is the start of the "cool dry season"; the heavy rains have stopped, you get clear skies, and the air temperature is comfortably warm (around 28°C). Crucially, the sea is calm, the water is crystal-clear and warm (around 26°C), creating peak conditions for exploring the country's vast underwater world.
The biggest win is the comprehensive island-hopping mission. With over 7,000 islands, the only way to tackle the archipelago is with a dedicated tour. Island-hopping is the fastest, best way to see more in less time, hitting the prime destinations like Palawan (El Nido/Coron) and the Visayas (Cebu/Bohol). The calm seas are perfect for launching yourself into adventure: diving the incredible WWII shipwrecks off Coron, swimming with the massive Sardine Run off Moalboal (Cebu), and snorkeling among vibrant coral reefs.
For a trip with purpose, December's pristine water conditions are also ideal for marine conservation volunteering. Join a project in areas like the Visayas to learn about reef protection, coral rehabilitation, and species identification—contributing to the protection of the Coral Triangle, home to diverse species like sea turtles, manta rays, and whale sharks. After your dives, switch to land adventure: hike the Chocolate Hills in Bohol, or take a thrilling canyoneering trip to Kawasan Falls in Cebu. December is the time to dive deep, explore widely, and get fully immersed in the ultimate island life.
Southern India – Backwaters, Beaches, and Bollywood Beats
Southern India in December is the ultimate winter sun retreat, offering the perfect blend of chilled-out beaches, vibrant party scenes, and lush nature. You are hitting the peak of the dry season in both Goa and Kerala, meaning you get reliably sunny skies, low humidity, and the most pleasant temperatures of the year (daytime highs around 28°C to 32°C). This perfect weather makes travel incredibly comfortable, and the whole region buzzes with a festive, laid-back energy.
The biggest win is the adventure contrast between Goa and Kerala. Start in Kerala for a nature and culture mission: explore the iconic, tranquil backwaters on a traditional houseboat or take a canoe trip through the smaller, picturesque canals. The cool, dry climate is also ideal for heading inland to the Western Ghats for hiking or staying on a spice plantation near Munnar. Then, switch to Goa for the ultimate party reset. December is the height of the season, famous for its epic beach parties, night markets, and vibrant nightlife that culminate in massive Christmas and New Year’s Eve celebrations—perfect for budget-friendly beach hopping.
After the backwaters and beaches, switch to unique cultural exploration. Goa offers world-class yoga retreats and the chance to explore the historic Portuguese architecture of Old Goa, while Kerala’s port city of Kochi (Cochin) is a hub for unique history and art, like the famous Chinese fishing nets. The pleasant temperatures mean you can spend all day exploring the coast via rented scooter or relaxing on the beach. Southern India in December delivers tropical sunshine and adventure diversity that easily justifies the long flight.
Cambodia – Temple Trekking and Island Escapes
December marks the beginning of Cambodia's most popular travel window. It’s the heart of the dry season, which means the stifling humidity and heavy rains have vanished. You’ll enjoy clear, sunny skies and pleasantly warm temperatures (average highs of 26°C to 30°C), making it the absolute perfect time for sightseeing and hitting the beaches without the daily downpours.
The biggest win is the incredible access and comfort for exploring the historical sites. The dry, cooler air makes the immense complex of Angkor Wat near Siem Reap much more manageable to explore. Dedicate several days to temple hopping, hiring a tuk-tuk to catch sunrise over Angkor Wat and discover the atmospheric ruins of Ta Prohm (the "Tomb Raider" temple) and the faces of the Bayon. The dry ground and clear paths are ideal for cycling or scootering between the temple sites.
For the second half of the trip, the dry season delivers pristine conditions for the coast. Head south to the laid-back beach town of Sihanoukville or the quaint, historic architecture of Kampot. The clear, calm seas make this the ideal time for island hopping to the unspoiled white-sand beaches of islands like Koh Rong and Koh Rong Sanloem. These islands offer a mix of chilled-out hostels, beach bungalows, and vibrant party scenes perfect for travellers in their 20s and 30s.
In the evenings, both Siem Reap and Phnom Penh come alive with bustling night markets, street food stalls, and the lively "Pub Street" scene, perfect for socialising and sampling local Cambodian craft beers. The dry season ensures a hassle-free transition between Cambodia’s cultural wonders and its newly thriving beach and island destinations.
Central Europe – Glühwein and Guaranteed Snow
Central Europe in December is defined by two things: the stunning Christmas Markets and the magnificent, snow-covered Alps. You get to combine the pure adrenaline of winter sports with the cosy, festive charm of ancient cities—a perfect dual-mission adventure. While the weather is cold, the atmosphere is electric, fueled by mulled wine (Glühwein) and the thrill of the first fresh snow of the season.
The biggest win is the incredible seasonal access. Start in the cities: Major markets in Vienna (Austria), Cologne (Germany), or Basel (Switzerland) typically open in late November and run right up to Christmas Eve. This means you can spend the first half of December soaking up the atmosphere, tasting local treats, and enjoying the festive street life. Then, switch to the mountains: December is the moment the high-altitude resorts in Austria (like Ischgl) and Switzerland (like Verbier or Zermatt) fully open, often boasting reliable snow and excellent base conditions for skiing and snowboarding before the massive Christmas week crowds arrive.
After carving up the pistes, switch to unique snow adventures. The Alps offer more than just lifts and slopes: jump into extreme sports like ice climbing (scaling frozen waterfalls), ice diving in a frozen lake (available in Tignes, France, near the border), or the exhilarating, high-speed Tyrolean zip-lines that zoom across the valleys. You can also explore the snowy backcountry on fat bikes or enjoy a thrilling toboggan run. Central Europe in December delivers the ultimate winter trip, blending cultural warmth with high-altitude thrills.
Wrap-Up: Your Final Mission
Don't spend the end of the year waiting for spring! December offers the best dry-season beaches, the wildest winter adventures, and the most festive cities. Make your end-of-year trip your biggest one yet!