Here’s how to spend less on a holiday abroad than you do on the holiday season at home.
When you think of December travel, images of white sand Caribbean beaches or cozy ski lodges in the mountains tend to come to mind. While that sounds nice and all, these winter trips usually come with a hefty price tag, hordes of people, and require booking months in advance. Since December means vacation time for many people — airlines and hotels regularly take the opportunity to bump up their prices as well.
Luckily though, this isn’t always the case. Step into the world of off-season travel and explore some of the world’s top destinations, all while skipping the crowds and tourist traps — and even saving money. Although the weather may not be at its prime, the benefits far outweigh a couple droplets of rain. So for those looking to take advantage of their winter holidays without breaking the bank, check out these often ignored top 6 low-season destinations for December!
Some of the Best Places to Visit in the December Off-Season
Bless the rains down in Botswana in the off-season
A little mud never hurt anyone, right? Travelers in search of a real adventure need not look any further than southern Africa’s Botswana. Known as the “green season”, life-giving rain begins to fall on the savanna in December, providing slightly more foliage for the wildlife to graze among. However, this is also calving season, which means you’ll have a high chance of seeing newborn animals as well as migratory birds on your daily game drives through the mire and rising rivers. Low-season in Botswana may bring short afternoon showers, but you’ll also enjoy discounted safari prices, fewer visitors, and lusher scenery — a compromise well-worth making.
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Have a jolly humid December in French Polynesia
Picture this: wooden bungalows above the shallow turquoise sea and sun-kissed dancers in grass skirts welcome you on a pristine beach. You’ve just landed in French Polynesia and you haven’t gone completely broke because we’re in the December low season. Winter is the humid season in the South Pacific Islands: tropical showers are more frequent, but you still get plenty of sunshine in between. Hotels offer discounted rates during winter too, but-make sure to book one with air conditioning to fight the humidity. You’ve got hundreds of islands to pick from! Go chasing waterfalls in Tahiti, experience the beautiful coral reefs of Taha’a, make friends with some sharks in Rangiroa, smell the hibiscus in Moorea, or throw a dart at a map — there are no wrong choices here.
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Escape the cold in Uruguay in December
Often overshadowed by its big brother Argentina, Uruguay is making a name for itself as South America’s best kept secret. This country is the perfect destination for December travelers looking to escape to warmer climates, as Uruguay will just be kicking off its sunny summer in the southern hemisphere, welcoming visitors to its stunning colonial cities, virgin beaches, and rolling green landscapes. If that’s not enough to get you packing your bags, here you’ll also find some of the continent’s best barbecues, a relaxed and friendly vibe, and a thriving gaucho culture — a combination sure to make your winter vacation truly unforgettable.
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Chill out in Morocco during the low season
Welcome to the North African land of vast deserts, striking coastline, and vibrant cultures. Depending on where in Morocco you wish to go, weather may be even more favorable in the winter months, making this a must-see destination for December. Bypass the scorching hot summers, and venture into the Sahara Desert on camelback or explore the remote villages and beautiful landscapes of the Atlas Mountains. By not visiting during peak months, you’ll also be able to stay in traditional “riads” for discounted prices, get to better know the locals, and experience a more laid-back way of life, allowing the authentic Morocco to shine through.
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Head to Iceland for a frisky off-season
Put on your parka, grab a cup of hot chocolate, and get ready for an otherworldly experience. Iceland in December is the ultimate winter destination with crisp temperatures, snowy landscapes, and a variety of natural wonders just waiting to be discovered. Although the country only gets about 4 or 5 hours of daylight at this time of year, there are some major pluses to visiting during the winter season. Aside from towering mountain peaks, glistening glaciers, and rushing waterfalls, Iceland is a prime location to witness the Northern Lights. This spectacular sight is reason enough to brave the cold temperatures and make this Western European country your December vacation spot.
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Croatia minus the throngs of tourists
When you think of Croatia, you probably think of hot Summer days spent by the ocean — well, so do thousands of others. Traveling to this Eastern European destination during off-peak season of December means less people and cheaper rates. The weather is on the chillier side and expect showers on the Adriatic coast. During the colder months, you’ll be heading inland in lieu of the islands and the beach — but don’t you worry, it’s just as lovely! Dubrovnik and Zagreb still see their fare share of activity in December though, as they have lovely and lively Christmas markets full of locals. Visiting the cobblestoned streets of Rovinj, Pula, or Motovun is far more enjoyable with a little more room to breathe. Croatia’s famous Plitvice Lakes National Park is beautiful in the winter as well — picture snowy landscapes and a frozen lake. Just pack a few more layers and your set for a great low season Croatian getaway!
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A few honorable mentions for low season travel in December
- Enjoy the mild Mediterranean climate and visit Portugal in December to experience its rich cultural heritage without the mobs of tourists.
- Taiwan is one of the few countries in Asia with a December off-peak season. Expect mild weather, less crowds, and discounted rates.
- If you steer clear of the ski resorts, December is a perfect time to go to Italy. Venice is exceptionally lovely during the winter months due to the lack of travelers willing to brave the gloomier weather.
- If you’re willing to brave a bit of rain and some seriously warm weather, December is the time to travel to Madagascar.
- Russia — no, you didn’t misread that. If you think about it, Moscow isn’t much colder than Canada or some American states in December!
So whether you’re looking for a lover’s getaway in paradise, uncrowded city streets, a wild African safari, a solo adventure somewhere new, or a wintry wonderland, December has an exciting travel destination for any low-season traveler!
Want to experience one of these amazing destinations for yourself but don’t know where to start? Our Travel Experts have got everything covered and will find you the best flights, accommodation, activities and things to do there. Submit a travel survey now to get started!
Originally published at www.jubel.co.
