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The 6 Best Places to Visit in December

With the Delta variant finally waning, travel may be on your mind again. December is the perfect time to travel, and whether you are looking for a Christmas wonderland or for some warmer weather to start off winter with, there are plenty of amazing places to visit. Here is our list of the best places to travel in December.

New York City 

A view of New York City from Central Park
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New York is one of the top destinations to visit in the USA in December, especially between Christmas and the New Year. Head to Rockefeller Center to see the Christmas Tree and enjoy some ice skating at one of the most famous ice rinks in the world. You won’t want to miss the Bank of America Winter Village at Bryant Park, where there is more ice skating plus pick up some unique gifts at the open air holiday market. Don’t forget to check out the window displays of the department stores like Bloomingdales, Saks Fifth Avenue, and Bergdorf Goodman. Take in the Rockettes Christmas Spectacular to make it a truly New York experience.

Where to stay: The Plaza 

London

Two phone booths covered in snow on a London street
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There is something quaint about visiting London during the holiday season that really gets you into the holiday spirit. Big cities are filled with holiday fun, with Christmas markets and mulled wine abound, London is no different. Ice skate at Somerset House, shop at Harrods, or Fortnum and Mason, and be amazed by the decorations at the Burlington Arcade. You’ll have loads of fun at Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park, which is back after a hiatus in 2020 thanks to COVID-19. While in London, you must go to the theatre, where there are plenty of Christmas shows and non-Christmas shows to choose from.

Where to stay: The Dorchester

Virgin Islands

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December marks the beginning of the Virgin Islands dry season, so it is the perfect time to visit—before tourism peaks in the spring months. Whether you visit St. Thomas, St. Croix or St. John, you are in for the perfect tropical vacation, and a great way to start off your winter. Stay at an all-inclusive resort for the ultimate relaxation vacation. Explore the Virgin Islands National Park, Buck Island Reef National Monument, or relax in Cruz Bay.

Where to Stay: The Ritz Carlton

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Maldives

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While you might take a chance visiting the Maldive Islands earlier in December due to the end of the rainy season, you’ll likely get a hotel deal, so it is worth the risk. Explore Banana Reef, learn some history at Mulee’aage Palace and the National Museum, or relax on Fulhadhoo Beach.

Where to Stay: Raffles Maldives Meradhoo

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Riviera Maya, Mexico

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December is the perfect time to head to Mexico for some warmer weather and r&r. The Riviera Maya has beaches to relax on, and plenty of all-inclusive resorts for a worry-free vacation. Explore caves like the Rio Secreto, feel the stress leaving your body at the Water Journey at Grand Velas Spa, or check out ancient ruins like the Chichen Itza.

Where to stay: Grand Velas Riviera Maya

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Bahamas

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Whether you do a yoga retreat or simply relax on the beach, the Bahamas are the perfect place to start off your winter. From seeing the wonder of the Marine Habitat at Atlantis, taking in nature at the Garden of the Groves, to hiking up to the Hermitage, you will forget all about the craziness of the holiday season going on at home.

Where to Stay: Grand Isle Resort 

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