While the holidays are traditionally a time to gather with family or head back to your hometown, if you’re wanting to skip out on tense family situations or are looking to do something a little different this year, celebrating the holidays in an idyllic location is one way to enjoy the holiday season.
From snow-capped mountain peaks to balmy, sandy beaches, many beautiful destinations will make a magical trip during December.
Are you looking for the best destinations to make your dream holiday getaway?
Keep reading our recommendations for the perfect travel destination this holiday season.
Swiss Alps, Switzerland
The Swiss Alps should be at the top of your list if you want the picture-perfect holiday destination. With magnificent mountain views and skiing opportunities, the Swiss Alps will give you a winter wonderland fantasy.
New York, New York
There’s a reason New York is a staple of so many romantic comedies around the holidays. The lights, the Rockefeller Tree, and the ice skating! New York is a sight to behold all year round, but visiting during December helps to make the season bright.
Bermuda
Want to escape from the cold this December? Maybe it’s time to take that dream getaway to Bermuda's warm, pink beaches! The coral reefs of the “Bermuda Triangle'' may be known in history books for causing shipwrecks, but it's perfect for snorkeling! Hurricane season will also end by December, so you’ll be visiting during the island’s prime.
Provincetown, Massachusetts
This LGBTQ+ haven will make your holiday getaway truly unforgettable. Provincetown is a tourist destination all year long. Still, in Winter, the charming streets are dusted in snow, and there are loads of events from holiday markets and the iconic Holly Folly, which features a Jingle Bell Run of Santas in bathing suits and a champagne brunch.
Walt Disney World Resort, Florida
The happiest place on earth gets even better during the holiday season. With festive decor and limited-time treats, a holiday getaway for the Disney fans in your life is a dream come true. Disney also leans into the fun by holding Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party, which includes a parade and fireworks show.
Tübingen, Germany
This little village in the province of Baden-Württemberg is ripped from a fairytale. With an array of colorful houses lining the Rhein River and cobblestone streets, Tübingen encapsulates the season's magic. Plus, the German Christmas Markets are out of this world, and none is more traditional than Tübingen’s.
Bangkok, Thailand
December is one of the ideal times to visit Thailand, and coordinating a trip with the New Year is an unparalleled experience. The CentralWorld shopping mall hosts the event, with giant beer gardens and live music. Lights and Christmas trees are everywhere, despite Thailand being a Buddhist nation, and they also have a winter market.
Queenstown, New Zealand
While it’s blustering and freezing in the U.S. during December, down under, they’re experiencing summer. For a taste of some warmth during the holiday season, Queenstown has you covered for any adventure. With attractions like zip lining, hiking, and boat rides, to relaxing by the majestic Lake Wakatipu, there’s something for everyone. Plus, there’s a stunning firework display over the lake on New Year's Eve!
A Virgin Voyage
Having just spent Thanksgiving on the Scarlet Lady, I can firmly say that being on an adult-only ship for a holiday is amazing. Virgin offers more than a cruise; it’s a voyage to destinations on a ship designed more like a boutique hotel than a traditional cruise liner. Relaxing in the hot tub while your family and friends up North are freezing never gets old, and having unlimited specialty dining, wifi, essential beverages, tips, and more included in your voyage fare, it’s hard to pass up the amazing value for your vacation budget.
If you want more information about the top destinations for a holiday getaway or to start planning your holiday getaway, schedule a consultation with Rainbow Getaways. We’ll make sure you're set to have a relaxing experience.
Rainbow Getaways proudly helps travelers of the LGBTQ community (and our allies) research, plan, and book incredible vacations where you feel confident and comfortable enjoying and exploring your destination. We plan each vacation to meet your specific needs, so you'll have an experience just as unique as you.