Best Destinations Early December: So, you’re dreaming of a getaway in early December? Forget the holiday craziness and picture this: cozying up by a fireplace in a charming European city, exploring vibrant Asian markets, or soaking up the sun on a South American beach. This guide dives into the best spots worldwide for an unforgettable early December adventure, whether you’re after festive cheer, breathtaking landscapes, or a much-needed escape from the cold.
We’ll cover the top destinations in North America, Europe, Asia, and South America, considering factors like weather, crowds, and activities. We’ll also help you plan your trip based on your budget and interests – from budget-friendly backpacking to luxurious escapes. Get ready to ditch the winter blues and find your perfect early December destination!
Best Destinations: North America in Early December
Early December offers a unique blend of pre-holiday cheer and crisp winter weather across North America. This makes it a fantastic time to travel, depending on your preferences for activities and weather. Whether you’re seeking festive markets, outdoor adventures, or simply a relaxing getaway, several destinations offer something special.
Top North American Destinations in Early December
Choosing a destination for early December travel requires considering factors like weather, crowds, and personal interests. The following table highlights five excellent choices, each offering a distinct experience.
| Destination | Key Attractions | Seasonal Events | Average Temperature (°F) |
|---|---|---|---|
| New York City, NY | Times Square, Central Park, Metropolitan Museum of Art, Broadway shows | Holiday window displays, Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree, Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade (late November, but lingering effects) | 38-45 |
| Quebec City, Canada | Old Quebec (UNESCO World Heritage Site), Château Frontenac, Plains of Abraham | Quebec Winter Carnival (starts in late January, but early December offers pre-carnival festive atmosphere), Christmas markets | 25-32 |
| New Orleans, LA | French Quarter, Bourbon Street, Garden District, National WWII Museum | Holiday parades, Christmas festivals, festive decorations throughout the city | 50-60 |
| Sedona, AZ | Red Rock State Park, Chapel of the Holy Cross, Pink Jeep Tours | Hiking, rock climbing, scenic drives; fewer crowds than peak season | 45-55 |
| San Diego, CA | Balboa Park, Gaslamp Quarter, beaches, San Diego Zoo | Holiday Bowl (college football game), various holiday events and light displays | 55-65 |
Early December Travel Itineraries
Here are three sample itineraries, each tailored to a different budget level:
Budget Itinerary (New Orleans): Focus on free or low-cost activities like walking tours of the French Quarter, exploring parks, and enjoying live music on Frenchmen Street. Opt for budget-friendly accommodations like hostels or Airbnb. Food can be kept affordable by utilizing local markets and casual eateries.
Mid-Range Itinerary (Sedona): Combine hiking and exploring the stunning red rock formations with comfortable hotel stays and some paid tours (e.g., Pink Jeep Tour). Enjoy a mix of fine dining and casual meals. This itinerary balances adventure and relaxation.
Luxury Itinerary (Quebec City): Stay in a luxurious hotel like the Fairmont Le Château Frontenac, enjoy fine dining experiences, and partake in exclusive tours and activities. Consider a horse-drawn carriage ride through Old Quebec and indulge in spa treatments.
Pros and Cons of Each Destination in Early December
New York City: Pros: Festive atmosphere, abundant activities, excellent public transportation. Cons: Crowds, cold weather, high prices.
Quebec City: Pros: Charming Old Town, picturesque winter scenery, fewer crowds than peak season. Cons: Cold weather, some attractions may have limited hours.
New Orleans: Pros: Mild weather, unique culture, festive celebrations. Cons: Potential for rain, some businesses may have reduced hours.
Sedona: Pros: Stunning scenery, pleasant weather for outdoor activities, fewer crowds than peak season. Cons: Limited public transportation, some attractions may require driving.
San Diego: Pros: Mild weather, beautiful beaches, variety of attractions. Cons: Can be more expensive than other destinations, may not have the same festive atmosphere as other locations.
Best Destinations: Best Destinations Early December
Early December offers a magical blend of pre-holiday cheer and crisp winter air, making it a perfect time for a European getaway. This period often boasts fewer crowds than the peak holiday season, allowing for a more relaxed and immersive travel experience. We’ll explore some of the best European cities to visit during this enchanting time, focusing on their festive Christmas markets and practical travel considerations.
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European Cities with Charming Christmas Markets in Early December, Best destinations early december
Three European cities consistently rank high for their captivating Christmas markets in early December: Nuremberg, Germany; Vienna, Austria; and Strasbourg, France. Each offers a unique atmosphere and a wide array of festive offerings.
Below, we’ll delve into the distinct characteristics of each market, highlighting what makes them special.
- Nuremberg, Germany: Nuremberg’s Christkindlesmarkt is legendary. It’s known for its traditional crafts, gingerbread, and the enchanting atmosphere created by the twinkling lights and the scent of roasted nuts and Glühwein (mulled wine).
- Key Features: Traditional crafts, Nuremberg gingerbread (Lebkuchen), Glühwein, Christkind (Christmas Child) ceremony, charming wooden stalls.
- Vienna, Austria: Vienna boasts several Christmas markets, each with its own unique charm. The markets are spread throughout the city, offering a diverse range of festive goods, from handcrafted ornaments to delicious Viennese treats. The atmosphere is elegant and sophisticated, reflecting Vienna’s rich history and culture.
- Key Features: Multiple markets throughout the city, elegant atmosphere, traditional Austrian crafts, delicious food and drinks, classical music performances.
- Strasbourg, France: Strasbourg’s Christmas market is one of the oldest and largest in Europe. It’s characterized by its stunning setting in the heart of the historic city center, its vast selection of goods, and its lively, festive atmosphere.
- Key Features: One of the oldest and largest Christmas markets in Europe, wide selection of goods, stunning historical setting, international atmosphere, festive lighting and decorations.
Comparative Cost of a Three-Day Trip
The following table provides a comparative overview of the estimated costs for a three-day trip to each city in early December. Note that these are estimates and can vary based on factors like flight availability, accommodation choices, and spending habits. Prices are given in USD and are based on average costs for budget-conscious travelers.
| City | Flights (Roundtrip) | Accommodation (2 nights) | Activities & Food |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nuremberg | $500 – $800 | $200 – $400 | $300 – $500 |
| Vienna | $600 – $900 | $250 – $500 | $350 – $600 |
| Strasbourg | $400 – $700 | $200 – $400 | $250 – $450 |
Transportation Options within Each City
Efficient and cost-effective transportation is crucial for maximizing your enjoyment of each city. Each city offers a variety of options, catering to different preferences and budgets.
- Nuremberg: Nuremberg boasts a well-connected public transportation system, including trams and buses. A day pass is relatively inexpensive and provides easy access to most attractions. Walking is also a viable option for exploring the historic city center.
- Vienna: Vienna’s extensive public transportation network, including the U-Bahn (subway), trams, and buses, is efficient and reliable. A Vienna Pass or similar travel card can provide cost savings for frequent users. Walking is enjoyable within the inner city.
- Strasbourg: Strasbourg offers a comprehensive public transportation system, including trams and buses. A day pass is affordable and provides convenient access to various parts of the city. The city center is compact and easily walkable.
Best Destinations: Best Destinations Early December
Early December offers a sweet spot for travel – the holiday rush hasn’t fully begun, and the weather in many places is still quite pleasant. This makes it an ideal time to explore new cultures and escape the pre-holiday frenzy. Let’s dive into some amazing Asian destinations perfect for an early December getaway.
Best Destinations: Asia in Early December
Choosing a destination in Asia for early December depends on your ideal weather and preferred activities. Below, we’ve compiled five diverse locations offering enjoyable temperatures and relatively low rainfall, along with suggestions for making the most of your trip.
| Destination | Average Temperature (°C) | Rainfall (mm) | Suggested Activities |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chiang Mai, Thailand | 25-28 | Low | Exploring ancient temples, visiting elephant sanctuaries (ethically!), enjoying the night bazaar, taking a cooking class. |
| Hoi An, Vietnam | 24-27 | Moderate | Tailoring clothes, exploring the ancient town, cycling through rice paddies, relaxing on An Bang Beach. |
| Kyoto, Japan | 8-12 | Low | Visiting iconic temples and shrines like Kiyomizu-dera and Fushimi Inari, strolling through Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, experiencing a traditional tea ceremony. |
| Kathmandu, Nepal | 15-18 | Low | Exploring ancient Durbar Squares, visiting Boudhanath Stupa, hiking in the surrounding hills (if you’re feeling adventurous). |
| Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia | 28-30 | Moderate | Visiting the Petronas Twin Towers, exploring Batu Caves, experiencing the vibrant street food scene, shopping at Bukit Bintang. |
These five destinations offer vastly different cultural experiences. Chiang Mai and Kathmandu offer glimpses into rich Buddhist traditions, with numerous temples and spiritual sites. Hoi An provides a blend of Vietnamese culture and history, evident in its architecture and cuisine. Kyoto immerses visitors in the refined elegance of Japanese culture, with its emphasis on aesthetics and tradition. Kuala Lumpur showcases a modern, multicultural society with influences from Malay, Chinese, and Indian cultures.
Early December often coincides with various festivals in these regions. For example, Loy Krathong in Thailand (usually in November but sometimes extending into early December) involves releasing floating lanterns on waterways. In Japan, you might encounter the beginning of preparations for the New Year. Nepal might have local festivals depending on the specific lunar calendar. Specific events will vary yearly, so checking local event listings closer to your travel date is recommended.
Visa requirements vary significantly. For many nationalities, Thailand and Malaysia offer visa-free entry for tourism for a limited duration. Vietnam often grants visas on arrival, but it’s crucial to check the specific requirements based on your citizenship. Japan and Nepal typically require pre-arranged visas, with application processes varying based on nationality and the length of stay. Always check the official websites of the respective embassies or consulates well in advance of your trip to understand the precise visa requirements and to allow ample time for processing.
Best Destinations: Best Destinations Early December
Early December offers a fantastic opportunity to escape the northern hemisphere’s chill and explore the vibrant landscapes of South America. The weather is generally warm and sunny, making it ideal for outdoor adventures and exploring the region’s diverse ecosystems. This time of year often sees fewer crowds than the peak tourist season, allowing for a more immersive and peaceful experience.
Best Destinations: South America in Early December
South America in early December boasts a stunning array of destinations perfect for adventure and relaxation. From the majestic Andes Mountains to the lush Amazon rainforest, the continent offers a diverse range of experiences for every type of traveler. The following table highlights three exceptional destinations, each offering unique natural beauty and exciting activities.
| Destination | Key Landscape Features | Climate in Early December | Recommended Activities |
|---|---|---|---|
| Machu Picchu, Peru | Ancient Incan ruins perched high in the Andes Mountains, surrounded by lush cloud forests and dramatic peaks. Imagine the mist clinging to the stone terraces, the vibrant green of the vegetation contrasting with the ancient grey stone. The air is crisp and cool, carrying the scent of damp earth and exotic flowers. | Mild and sunny days, cool nights. Average temperatures range from 12-20°C (54-68°F). | Hiking the Inca Trail (permit required), exploring the ruins, visiting nearby hot springs, enjoying the local cuisine. |
| Iguazu Falls, Argentina/Brazil | A series of cascading waterfalls, some of the largest in the world, creating a thunderous roar and a constant spray of mist. The surrounding rainforest is teeming with life, a vibrant tapestry of green with bursts of colorful flora and fauna. The air is thick with the sound of rushing water and the calls of exotic birds. | Warm and humid, with average temperatures around 25°C (77°F). Expect afternoon showers. | Boat trips to the base of the falls, hiking the various trails, spotting wildlife in the rainforest, taking a helicopter tour for a breathtaking aerial view. |
| Torres del Paine National Park, Chile | Towering granite peaks, glacial lakes reflecting the azure sky, and vast expanses of Patagonian steppe. The landscape is dramatic and awe-inspiring, a powerful blend of rugged mountains, pristine waters, and expansive plains. The air is crisp and clean, carrying the scent of pine and the distant whisper of the wind. | Mild days with cool nights. Average temperatures range from 10-15°C (50-59°F). Expect some rain. | Hiking the “W” trek or “O” trek (multi-day), kayaking on the lakes, spotting guanacos and other Patagonian wildlife, horseback riding. |
The wildlife diversity across these destinations is remarkable. Machu Picchu’s cloud forests are home to a variety of bird species, including hummingbirds and tanagers, along with monkeys and other small mammals. Iguazu Falls’ rainforest teems with vibrant macaws, monkeys, jaguars (though sightings are rare), and countless insects. Torres del Paine showcases guanacos (a relative of the llama), rheas (flightless birds), condors, and various other Patagonian species adapted to the harsh yet beautiful landscape.
Each location offers a unique glimpse into the incredible biodiversity of South America.
Best Destinations: Best Destinations Early December
Early December offers a unique travel window, falling between the peak holiday rush and the colder months. The ideal destination hinges entirely on your travel style and what you hope to experience. Choosing the right place depends on prioritizing adventure, relaxation, cultural exploration, or culinary delights. Let’s explore how different interests shape the perfect early December getaway.
Best Destinations Based on Specific Interests in Early December
The “best” destination is subjective and depends heavily on individual preferences. What constitutes a perfect trip for an adrenaline junkie will likely differ significantly from what a wellness enthusiast seeks. Below, we’ll examine how specific interests influence destination choices, providing examples of places that cater to each.
| Interest | Destination | Key Activities | Cost Considerations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Adventure Travel | Costa Rica | Whitewater rafting, zip-lining, volcano hiking. Early December offers pleasant weather and fewer crowds than peak season. | Mid-range to high, depending on the level of luxury and activities chosen. Expect to pay more for guided tours and specialized equipment. |
| Relaxation | Cancun, Mexico | Beach lounging, spa treatments, swimming in the turquoise waters. The weather is still warm and sunny in early December. | Ranges widely depending on accommodation choices. All-inclusive resorts can offer good value, while boutique hotels will be more expensive. |
| Cultural Immersion | Kyoto, Japan | Visiting ancient temples and shrines, exploring traditional gardens, participating in tea ceremonies. Early December offers fewer crowds and beautiful autumn foliage. | Can be expensive, especially flights. Accommodation and food costs vary depending on your choices. |
| Culinary Exploration | San Sebastian, Spain | Indulging in Michelin-starred restaurants, sampling pintxos (Basque tapas), exploring local markets. Early December is post-season, offering potentially lower prices and fewer crowds. | High, particularly if focusing on high-end dining experiences. However, exploring local markets and smaller restaurants can offer more budget-friendly options. |
Challenges and Rewards of Early December Travel
Early December travel presents both advantages and disadvantages depending on the chosen destination and interests. Potential challenges include the possibility of inclement weather in some regions and higher prices in popular holiday destinations. However, the rewards can include fewer crowds, lower prices in some locations (post-season deals), and the unique atmosphere of the pre-holiday season. For example, many European Christmas markets open in early December, offering a festive experience not found at other times of year.
Conversely, some tropical locations might experience higher prices due to the influx of travelers escaping the cold. Careful planning and research are key to maximizing the rewards and minimizing potential challenges.
Planning your early December trip just got a whole lot easier. Whether you’re seeking the magic of Christmas markets, the warmth of tropical beaches, or the thrill of exploring new cultures, this guide has helped you narrow down the options and find your perfect match. Remember to factor in your budget, interests, and desired travel style when making your final decision.
Now go forth and book that amazing getaway – you deserve it!
Q&A
What’s the weather like in early December in these destinations?
It varies wildly depending on the location! Expect chilly temps in Europe and North America, potentially snow in some areas, while Asia and South America offer warmer climates, though rainfall can vary.
How much should I budget for a trip in early December?
Costs depend heavily on your destination and travel style. Budget trips are possible, but luxury travel will obviously be more expensive. Consider flights, accommodation, activities, and food costs when planning your budget.
Do I need a visa for these destinations?
Visa requirements differ significantly based on your nationality and destination. Check the specific visa requirements for each country well in advance of your trip.
Are flights more expensive in early December?
Yes, flights tend to be more expensive in early December due to the holiday travel season. Booking in advance can help you secure better deals.
