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Vakantie bestemmingen december Wonder Unlocker

Wonderful Holidays in December: Discover the Best Destinations for December 2023

December, a month steeped in magic and festivity, offers an excellent opportunity to leave behind the daily grind and seek out the Wonder destinations in the world. Whether you dream of escaping the winter chill, enjoying the Christmas atmosphere in an enchanting city, or seeking an exotic adventure-filled holiday, December has something to offer everyone.

In this blog, we take you on a journey of discovery to some of the world’s most fascinating destinations for a December holiday. We delve deeper into the beauty of each place, from sun-drenched beaches to historic cities adorned with Christmas lights. So, bundle up in your winter coat or pack your sunscreen, as we embark on a journey to the best holiday destinations December has to offer.

Top 5 Holiday Destinations in December – Wonder Unlocker 

Considering a holiday in December but unsure which country to choose? This top 5 introduces you to the most marvelous holidays in December. 

  1. Cape Town, South Africa 
  2. Costa Rica 
  3. Sri Lanka 
  4. Salzburg, Austria
  5. Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Visit Cape Town, South Africa in December

Zuid-Afrika kaapstad

Looking for a sunny getaway in December? Cape Town, situated on the southwest coast of South Africa, is a popular destination for December holidays. It’s an especially appealing month to visit Cape Town due to the warm weather and the variety of activities you can engage in. 

December Weather in Cape Town 

Temperatures typically range between 18 and 26 degrees Celsius, with plenty of sunshine. Cape Town is known for its beautiful beaches, and in December, these beaches are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. Clifton and Camps Bays Beach are some popular choices.

What to Do in December in Cape Town 

December is a great time to visit the iconic Cape of Good Hope. The weather makes hiking and exploring this nature reserve much more enjoyable.

If you’re a fan of good wine, you’re in luck. The Cape Winelands, such as Stellenbosch and Franschhoek, are famous for their vineyards and wine tastings. December is an excellent time to visit these regions and enjoy South African wines. Don’t forget to complete your culinary adventure by visiting farmers markets like the Old Biscuit Mill Market. Enjoy delicious food and artisanal products here!

In December, Cape Town comes to life with a range of events and festivals, including the vibrant Cape Town Summer Festival, live music performances, and enchanting fireworks displays to celebrate New Year’s Eve. For those looking to celebrate New Year’s Eve in a spectacular way, the V&A Waterfront in Cape Town is a must-visit destination. Here, you can immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere, surrounded by restaurants, bars, and clubs with picturesque views of the harbor. Plus, it’s a tradition to be treated to an impressive fireworks show at midnight, allowing you to welcome the new year in a dazzling manner. 

December holiday to Costa Rica

Costa Rica in december bezoeken Wonder Unlocker

If you’re looking for a sunny holiday in December, and South Africa doesn’t quite meet your expectations, consider Costa Rica. This destination is ideal to visit in December when the country enjoys pleasant weather, and nature is in full bloom. 

December Weather in Costa Rica 

December marks the beginning of the dry season in Costa Rica, especially on the Pacific coast. This means you can enjoy sunny days and pleasant temperatures with minimal rainfall. The maximum temperature usually hovers around 25 degrees Celsius. 

What to Do in Costa Rica? 

Looking for activities in Costa Rica? The dry weather in December provides ideal conditions for various outdoor adventures such as hiking, biking, bird-watching, and whitewater rafting. The national parks and nature reserves, including the enchanting Manuel Antonio National Park and the adventurous Tortuguero National Park, offer splendid opportunities to discover the lush flora and fauna of the country.

Costa Rica boasts some of the world’s most beautiful beaches, and December is the perfect time to relax by the coast. Well-known beach destinations like Tamarindo, Jacó, and Manuel Antonio offer excellent opportunities for swimming, surfing, and sunbathing, allowing you to celebrate the holidays in a tropical paradise.

On the Pacific coast of Costa Rica, you can spot humpback whales in December as they migrate to the warm waters of Costa Rica for mating and calving. Boat tours are organized to observe these majestic marine mammals.

New Year’s (Año Nuevo) is celebrated with colorful fireworks displays, local traditions like shaking an old suitcase at midnight, and festive beach gatherings in Costa Rica. These celebrations reflect the close-knit community spirit and cultural diversity of the country. It’s a great time to experience local culture and culinary delights as you welcome the new year in Costa Rica. Unlock the wonders of Costa Rica during a December holiday! 

December delights: Exploring enchanting Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka, also known as the ‘Pearl of the Indian Ocean,’ shines in December as an enchanting tropical gem. The country offers a captivating sun destination for travelers looking to escape the cold winter months elsewhere and seek a relaxing escape to a paradise.

December Weather in Sri Lanka 

The charm of Sri Lanka in December begins with the weather. While many parts of the world are plagued by cold and winter precipitation, Sri Lanka basks in full sunshine. Temperatures are pleasant, ranging from warm on the coast to cooler in the hills, providing perfect conditions to enjoy the beautiful beaches and breathtaking landscapes of the country. 

What to Do in Sri Lanka during a december holiday 

The cultural richness of Sri Lanka is another highlight of a visit in December. The country is steeped in history and tradition, and you can experience these elements in full glory without the crowds. Whether you want to explore the ancient ruins of Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa, climb the majestic lion rock of Sigiriya, or immerse yourself in the spiritual atmosphere of Kandy’s Temple of the Tooth, you’ll immerse yourself in an unforgettable december holiday through Sri Lanka’s culture.

Finally, December in Sri Lanka offers a wealth of activities, from adventurous ventures to culinary discoveries. Whether you want to surf the waves of Arugam Bay, trek through the green tea plantations of Nuwara Eliya, or indulge your taste buds in delicious Sri Lankan dishes like lamprais and hoppers, there’s something for everyone. 

Visiting Salzburg, Austria in December

Salzburg is an enchanting destination that shines its brightest in December. This picturesque city, surrounded by the majestic Alps, becomes a true winter wonderland during the holidays, offering a Christmas experience you’ll cherish forever. 

December Weather in Salzburg 

Prepare to bring your thickest sweaters and coats because the weather in Salzburg in December is unmistakably wintry. Temperatures typically range between -4 and 4 degrees Celsius, enveloping the city in a cold and crisp atmosphere. As the weather gods cover the streets with a soft layer of snow, Salzburg’s scenic surroundings and historic architecture become even more enchanting. 

What to Do in Salzburg? 

Salzburg in December is like a living fairy tale. The narrow cobblestone streets surrounded by historic buildings, churches, and baroque palaces are enchantingly lit with festive Christmas lights and dazzling decorations. The enticing aroma of mulled wine, roasted almonds, and other treats fills the air, irresistibly inviting you to explore traditional Austrian cuisine.

The Christmas markets are absolute highlights of a December visit to Salzburg. The Christkindlmarkt in the old town is a true treasure trove of artisanal products, ranging from handmade ornaments to traditional craftsmanship. As you stroll through the stalls, you can warm up with a cup of steaming mulled wine and search for unique gifts for friends and family.

Music is deeply ingrained in Salzburg’s culture, and this certainly holds true for the festive month of December. The city, which celebrates the legacy of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, offers countless concerts and performances. Classical Christmas carols resonate in historic churches and palaces, with some performances taking you on a musical journey through the city’s history.

Salzburg’s old town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a wonder to behold on its own. But when the buildings and streets are illuminated by Christmas lights, the entire neighborhood transforms into an enchanting place. The imposing Hohensalzburg Fortress, towering above the city, offers breathtaking views of this magical spectacle.

As snowflakes gently fall from the sky, you can enjoy traditional Austrian delights such as kaiserschmarrn (a sweet dish), bratwurst, and the famous Mozartkugeln. Whether you’re strolling through historic squares, attending Christmas concerts, or simply enjoying the romantic atmosphere, Salzburg in December will captivate you and immerse you in the true spirit of Christmas. It’s a destination every traveler should consider for an unforgettable holiday season.

Holidaying in Dubai in December

 Dubai is a striking destination to visit in December due to its perfect blend of modernity, luxury, and holiday celebrations. We’ll tell you what to expect when visiting Dubai in December. December Weather in Dubai December is one of the most pleasant months to visit Dubai. The summer heat is behind, and the weather is mild and enjoyable. Daytime temperatures typically range between 20°C and 25°C, making it ideal for outdoor activities. 

What to Do in Dubai in December 

Dubai is renowned for its extravagant celebrations and Christmas decorations. The city transforms into an enchanting place with beautiful lights, impressive Christmas trees, and breathtaking fireworks displays. The most notable Christmas decorations can be found in shopping malls such as the Mall of the Emirates and Dubai Mall. It’s a shopper’s paradise, and December is the perfect time for Christmas shopping. The Dubai Shopping Festival usually starts in late December, offering huge discounts and promotions in nearly all stores and malls in the city.

Enjoy the mild temperatures and explore Dubai’s outdoor attractions. Go on a desert safari to experience the stunning dunes, or try sandboarding and camel riding. A visit to the Miracle Garden, one of the world’s largest flower gardens, is also a fantastic experience in December.

Take the time to explore some of Dubai’s most iconic attractions, including the Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building, and the Palm Jumeirah, an artificial island shaped like a palm tree. A ride on the monorail on the Palm Jumeirah offers panoramic views of the coastline.

Dubai is known for its diverse dining experiences. Taste local cuisine at traditional restaurants, enjoy international gastronomy at luxury restaurants, or treat yourself to dinner on a show cruise along Dubai Creek.

Would you rather vacation in January? Discover the best travel destinations in January.

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