1. Frankfurt, Germany
It might not be Munich or Berlin, but Frankfurt, Germany’s financial capital, still has quite a lot going it: futuristic architecture, buzzing restaurants, cocktail dens, and innovative supper clubs. December brings a magical feeling to the city when fantastic Christmas markets and ice skating rinks open up to the public, and the city’s finest apple wine is served on every corner. Want another reason to go? Well, Frankfurt is one of the cheapest places to travel to in December, as hotel rates dip to their lowest points.
2. Los Cabos, Mexico
Cabo is back on track since its coastline was devastated by Hurricane Odile, and some great hotels are opening up throughout the Mexican resort town. Two of these newcomers are The Cape and Mar Adentro. The former, from Thompson Hotels, has rooms that overlook the arch-shaped El Arco rock formation and a restaurant by chef Enrique Olvera. The latter has a show-stopping sushi restaurant that is housed in a cocoon of twigs. Nearby, the whale-watching program at the Hilton Los Cabos Beach & Golf Resort starts in December, where every room and restaurant has a bird’s-eye view of humpback mothers and their calves frolicking in the sea.
3. Las Vegas, Nevada, USA
If you’re looking for thrills and pure sensory overload, Las Vegas is the place to be. December has the lowest hotel rates of the year and, if you play your cards right, you might score even more. Las Vegas’ downtown food scene is explosive. At La Comida, you’ll find delicious street food and more tequilas than seats, while sommeliers help pair sakes with ramen you prepare yourself at Itsy Bitsy Ramen and Whisky.
4. Quebec City, Canada
Quebec City is one of the most romantic cities in the world come wintertime. Within the walled city, horse-drawn carriages rumble down old streets, low-lit bars are filled with hand-holding pairs in deep conversation, the Place D’Youville opens up its rink for ice skating, and the castle-like Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac overlooks it all. Take a romantic stroll along the banks of the St. Lawrence River, or book a room at Le Monastere des Augustines, a relatively new hotel and wellness spa where “rest” gains a whole new meaning.
5. Siem Reap, Cambodia
December is dry season in Siem Reap, where visitors can enjoy consistently cloudless skies and comfortable temperatures – perfect for active pursuits such as walking tours of Angkor Wat or cycling through the city streets. Unfortunately, this time of the year is also peak season, so it’s best to book your trip early, especially if you’re looking to stay at one of Cambodia’s best hotels such as Phum Baitang. This hotel’s 45 stilted villas have soaking tubs and hang above rice paddies, while the spa specializes in coconut-milk massages.
6. Edinburgh, Scotland
Old and new mix together wonderfully in Scotland’s cultural capital – home to marrow medieval alleys, Georgian architecture, Edinburgh castle, the futuristic Scottish parliament, and forward-thinking restaurants that put new twists on old classics. Some 150,000 people visit the city for Hogmanay, an end-of-the-year celebration that is marked by three days of concerts, processions, and fireworks. While visiting, don’t miss out on a trip to Inverlith House, which doubles as an art gallery and exhibition hall for drawings and books, and Mary’s Milk Bar, whose gelato and ice cream floats still draw vast crowds even in winter months.
7. Prague, Czech Republic
What is more magical than Prague during the winter months? With its historic streets, looming cathedrals, holiday markets, and Baroque and Gothic architecture, it’s no wonder Prague is considered one of the best places to visit at Christmas. Among the many things to do in Prague, you should consider a walking tour of Prague Castle, a stroll over the famous Charles Bridge, or a dinner while listening to a Mozart performance at Lobkowicz Palace.
8. Big Island, Hawaii
Snowbirds flock to Hawaii in December, meaning high-season crowds and rates are in full effect. However, Big Island sees lower rates than the others, not to mention a lot less rain – making it a great place to catch some surf or a glimpse of humpback whales breaching offshore. For an even hotter experience, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is unlike any other in America: you will spot molten lava continuously erupting from Kilauea Volcano.
9. Vienna, Austria
Vienna turns into a fairyland at Christmas, as the city’s prettiest squares glow with lights and holiday greenery. The markets usually open around mid-November and close on Christmas Eve. These markets sell a variety of gifts, decorations, traditional snacks, and can be found all over the city. Visitors with children or those looking to buy gifts for children should visit the markets at Karlsplatz or Reissenradplatz, while travelers who enjoy handicrafts will prefer the markets at Spittelberrg or the Christmas Village at Maria-Theresienplatz.
10. Times Square, New York, USA
Times Square is a great place to be any time of the year, but it attracts most of its visitors on New Year’s Eve. More than 1 million people fill the square for the annual celebrations which include live music, balloons, and a lot of confetti. All this leads up to midnight when the world tunes in to see a huge ball made of Waterford crystal drop. The huge ball begins its descent from atop One Times Square as the countdown to midnight begins. It reaches the bottom at the stroke of midnight, and this is when the fireworks begin.
Sources: touropia, travelandleisure
Images: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10
