As the Toussaint holidays commence, attention shifts to Christmas and winter travel. Whether you love the sun-soaked beaches or snowy mountain landscapes, there are ideal winter destinations to consider. Notable spots for a magical Christmas include Nordic countries like Iceland and Finland, or festive cities like London and New York. Alternatively, for those seeking warmth, Thailand and the UAE offer pleasant temperatures and unique attractions, making them perfect for escaping the cold.
As the Toussaint holidays kick off, many are already shifting their focus towards Christmas and the winter season. This time of year can be enchanting for some while challenging for others who struggle with the cold. Whether you prefer sunny beaches or snowy mountain landscapes, there’s always a way to enjoy the year-end festivities: by traveling. To help you plan your upcoming vacation, here are some trendy winter holiday destinations to consider.
What are the best destinations to keep the Christmas magic alive?
For many travelers, winter holidays are synonymous with snow and Christmas magic. To capture this spirit, numerous must-visit destinations await. If you’re not deterred by the cold, consider a Nordic country like Iceland, Denmark, Sweden, Norway, or Finland. It’s here that you’ll discover Lapland, home to the famous Santa Claus theme park in Rovaniemi. The number of visitors to Lapland is on the rise every year; in December 2022, for instance, the region expected around 63,000 tourists. You can relax in nature while engaging in various activities such as snowmobiling, snowshoeing, or dog sledding.
If the cold sends shivers down your spine, there are other places infused with the enchantment of Christmas. London, for example, has been drawing attention in recent months. In December 2023, London Heathrow Airport announced it welcomed approximately 6.7 million passengers, marking a record for the year. London’s winter allure is significantly fueled by the Hyde Park Winter Wonderland, an annual Christmas fair that transforms the city into a winter wonderland.
For those looking to travel further, New York City is another fantastic option. During the winter holidays, the Big Apple becomes one of the trendiest destinations, thanks to its plethora of activities. It’s estimated that around 7.5 million visitors will flock to the city. While in New York, don’t miss the iconic Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree, ice skating in Central Park, and the festive decorations at Radio City Music Hall.
What are the best destinations to escape the cold?
On the other hand, if you’re already missing your summer tan, heading to the southern hemisphere might suit you better. Thailand is a great recommendation during December, January, and February, when it boasts some of the warmest temperatures on the planet, ranging from 22 to 34 degrees Celsius. This period is also the dry season, making it the most enjoyable time to visit, as rain is scarce and temperatures are manageable compared to the wet season. According to the Tourism Authority of Thailand, now is the ideal time to enjoy its pristine beaches and turquoise waters, with the country anticipating nearly 12.2 million foreign tourists in the final four months of 2024.
If you prefer milder temperatures, the United Arab Emirates may be just what you’re looking for. In December, Dubai typically sees daytime temperatures ranging from 22°C to 26°C, with an average of just one rainy day throughout the month. Thanks to its favorable weather and diverse activities, Dubai was ranked one of the top winter holiday destinations in 2022. This is a perfect time to explore Dubai’s stunning skyscrapers, including the Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world, and the Burj Al Arab. Shopping enthusiasts will also delight in the city’s major shopping centers: the Dubai Mall and the Mall of the Emirates, which features the largest indoor ski slope worldwide.