10 of the Best Under-the-Radar Holiday Destinations To Visit This Winter
Each December, it seems like everyone is tossing sunblock into their suitcase as they head to Cancun, the Maldives, or Florida … or they’re packing up ski gear to hit the slopes in Switzerland or Colorado for their winter vacation. And while these A-list winter destinations are a seasonal staple for good reasons (reliably balmy beaches or snow-covered pistes throughout the holidays), they also come with daunting crowds, sold-out flights, and sky-high hotel prices.
Want to go on vacation in December to an under-the-radar destination, one that’s just far enough off the tourist track to avoid the throngs (and make the most of your travel budget)? Then shift your focus from popular tropical and alpine vacation spots to these unexpected warm- or cold-weather holiday vacation spots around the world.
Best warm weather getaways for a fun December vacation
1. Mekong Delta, Vietnam
One of the best places to visit in winter is southern Vietnam.
While the climate varies dramatically between north and south Vietnam, the Mekong Delta—on the farthest southern tip of the country—is dry and balmy from December through April, making this the best time of year to visit. While there, visit Cai Rand and the delta’s other unique floating markets, float through the Tra Su Cajuput and Xeo Quyt Forests on a traditional sampan boat, and marvel at the ornate Vinh Trang Temple.
2. Zanzibar, Tanzania
For guaranteed warm weather in December, head to this group of islands off the coast of Tanzania.
This archipelago set just off the coast of Tanzania offers an attractive mix of beach weather and captivating culture for a winter trip. Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site Stone Town trading quarter on the main island of Unguja to learn about its mix of African, Arab, Indian, and European influences.
Then, venture into the lush Jozani-Chwaka Bay National Park to spot the rare red colobus monkey or the Mikumi National Park to admire elephants in the wild. You can also slip on your mask and fins to explore the underwater world of the Mnemba Atoll and Zanzibar’s crystal-clear waters along the stretches of coastline.
3. Out Islands, The Bahamas
This hidden winter travel gem has sandy beaches and warm December temperatures.
If you’re dreaming of a winter getaway to a Caribbean island but don’t look forward to beaches and chain resorts bursting with holiday crowds, consider the lesser-known Out Islands in The Bahamas. These small outposts south of Grand Bahama are a paradise of quiet, beautiful beaches and unspoiled nature on land and sea.
The Exumas and Eleuthera are the most popular, but Cat Island, Crooked Island, and Acklins farther south along the archipelago are far off the tourist track—and the ideal family-friendly winter holiday destinations. Snorkel or scuba dive along the coral reefs, kayak through mangrove forests, and try your hand at windsurfing, sailing, or fishing in the turquoise waters.
4. Valletta, Malta
An easy city to reach from Europe, Malta boasts loads of culture and mild temperatures in December.
The Mediterranean island of Malta won’t have the tropical temperatures of The Bahamas, but its balmy December average of around 62°F (17°C) is ideal for a winter holiday break. Begin in the capital of Valletta, a golden-hued city with a historic cathedral, fortress, and gardens that you may recognize from scenes in Game of Thrones, Gladiator, and Troy.
Be sure to visit the historic towns of Mdina and Sliema, too, before striking out north to the islands of Comino and Gozo—if you catch a particularly warm day, you can even take a winter dip.
5. Iguaçu National Park, Brazil and Argentina
This remote winter holiday destination is full of adventure and outdoor activities.
Located on the border between Brazil and Argentina, Iguaçu National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to one of South America’s most spectacular natural wonders: Iguaçu Falls. The world’s largest waterfall system, Iguaçu (also spelled Iguassu or Iguazú) spans almost 9,000 feet (2,700 meters) and plunges 270 feet (82 meters) to the river below. For context, Iguaçu Falls is taller than Niagara Falls by 100 feet (30 meters) and wider than Victoria Falls by 3,000 feet (914 meters).
See the falls by land or by helicopter and explore the vast national park, with its untouched jungle and unique wildlife.
Best snow-bound winter escapes without the crowds
6. Rila National Park, Bulgaria
Winter outdoor activities abound in this Southeastern European country.
Home to the highest peaks in the Balkan Peninsula, Rila National Park offers stunning alpine landscapes with a fraction of the visitors (and cost) of Switzerland’s Alps or Italy’s Dolomites. Mt. Musala pierces the sky at almost 10,000 feet (3,000 meters) and the Borovets ski resort has slopes and trails for (you guessed it) skiing, plus other winter sports.
The park is also home to the picturesque Seven Lakes, 10th-century Rila Monastery, and the spa town of Sapareva Banya, with indoor and outdoor natural mineral-water pools fed by some of the hottest natural springs in the world.
7. Quebec City, Canada
This chic winter destination full of European charm has some of the best croissants outside of Paris.
A visit in December to (hopefully) snow-covered Quebec City is a scene straight out of a holiday card. With its European aesthetic of cobblestone streets lined by 17th-century townhouses and churches, the old town is ideal for a unique winter getaway. Take in one of Quebec's most famous landmarks, the historic Château Frontenac Hotel and Citadel of Québec, admire the St. Lawrence River from the Terrasse Dufferin boardwalk, and dive into the city’s unbeatable dining scene. For visits later in the winter, the city’s Winter Carnival in January and February are among the liveliest festivals in North America.
8. Mt. Cayambe, Ecuador
For an off-the-beaten-path winter holiday destination, Mt. Cayambe checks off all the bucket list boxes.
Set in the Ecuadorian Andes northeast of Quito, volcanic Mt. Cayambe is capped in snow all year round, making it the only location on the equator where travelers can get their winter fix, 365 days a year. Hike the Cayambe Coca Ecological Reserve for views of the peak (or reach the summit over two days if you’re an experienced hiker) and explore the northern highlands, a hub of Andean culture, including the market town of Otavalo and the Cuicocha Lagoon.
9. Tromso, Norway
From seeing the northern lights to riding reindeer sleighs, Tromso is a winter wonderland for adventure.
The Arctic city of Tromso is an enchanting mix of chocolate-box charm and outdoor fun. Here, you can spot the northern lights from the dark wilderness that surrounds the town, explore by dog sled or reindeer sleigh, set off through the countryside on snowshoes or cross-country skis, whale watch in the Tromsøysundet strait, and explore the Arctic fjords. This remote outpost also has a surprisingly world-class dining scene, seasonal festivities, and a vibrant urban energy that belies its relatively small size.
10. Duluth, Minnesota
For winter travel off the tourist trail, head to this North American city for loads of Christmas-themed fun.
Family-friendly Duluth is a surprise hit for snowy winter travel. This northern city offers endless outlying trails for Nordic skiing, ice climbing, snowshoeing, dogsledding, ski slopes, and skating rinks. For seasonal spirit, the “Christmas City of the North” offers the Bentleyville Tour of Lights—the largest free walk-through light display in the country—and Christmas City Express train rides along Lake Superior. Ho ho ho, indeed.
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