Where to Go in December 2025 for Warm Weather & Low Prices

Here’s a new video I made showing all the highlights of the article below with footage of most places on this list. Please have a look!

The Caribbean is one of the best regions for warm-weather escapes in December, especially if you can travel before Christmas week. From Cancun to Punta Cana and Montego Bay, you’ll find some of the world’s top-value all-inclusive resorts — and early December prices can be half of what they’ll charge just a few weeks later.

The weather is generally perfect across the region, though some destinations may still see short afternoon showers in the first week of December. If you’re looking for a relaxing beach holiday without breaking the bank, booking an all-inclusive resort is often the best deal. With so many resorts competing for guests, prices for early December can look almost suspiciously low — but in most cases, you’ll get solid value, especially at the well-reviewed properties.

If you’re considering a Caribbean getaway in December, Cancun and Punta Cana are still your best bets for affordable all-inclusive holidays, while Montego Bay is ideal for travelers who want a more upscale experience — though it comes at a higher price point.

• 17 Cheapest Caribbean all-inclusive destinations
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Cancun, Mexico

• December avg high: 83°F/28°C
• December avg low: 70°F/21°C
• December avg precip: 3.8″/9.5cm

Cancun is the most popular beach destination in the Caribbean for good reason — it’s easy to reach, has excellent infrastructure, and the weather is just about perfect in December. You might get a quick downpour or two in the first week, but they rarely last more than 15 minutes.

If you’re planning to spend most of your time at your resort, Cancun’s famous Hotel Zone is ideal. It’s a long L-shaped strip of beachfront resorts and timeshares with very few shops or restaurants in between. But if you’d rather explore, consider staying in Playa del Carmen instead. It’s about an hour south, much more walkable, and filled with shops, bars, and restaurants. Tulum, a smaller and artsier beach town, is another option further down the coast.

For travelers who want to make the most of their trip, the Cancun Pass bundles several top attractions at a discount and can be worth it if you plan on doing more than just beach lounging.

Hotel prices in December

• 3-star hotels from: US$47 per night for two people
• 4-star hotels from: US$89 per night for two people
• All-inclusive hotels from: US$243 per night for two people

>>>Check current Cancun resort and package deals

Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

• December avg high: 84°F/29°C
• December avg low: 73°F/23°C
• December avg precip: 0.8″/2.0cm

Punta Cana is the all-inclusive capital of the Caribbean — a vacation factory designed for relaxing on the beach, sipping cocktails, and maybe booking a boat trip or two. If you’re after cultural sights or a charming town to explore, this isn’t the place. But if a beach chair and unlimited drinks sound appealing, Punta Cana offers the best value for all-inclusive resorts in December.

Resorts here are constantly competing for guests, so even in high season you’ll find impressive deals compared to most Caribbean alternatives. Early December is when the bargains are best, with room rates that can seem too good to be true. But Punta Cana’s major resorts generally deliver on what they promise, especially if you stick to the well-reviewed properties.

There are very few reasons to book a non-all-inclusive hotel in Punta Cana — the area is built around resorts, not walkable towns or independent restaurants. If you want a hassle-free beach holiday where everything is taken care of, Punta Cana is your best bet.

Hotel prices in December

• 3-star hotels from: US$46 per night for two people
• 4-star hotels from: US$81 per night for two people
• All-inclusive hotels from: US$196 per night for two people

>>Check current Punta Cana resort and package deals

Montego Bay, Jamaica

• December avg high: 85°F/29°C
• December avg low: 73°F/23°C
• December avg precip: 1.6″/4.0cm

Montego Bay is one of the Caribbean’s most convenient destinations, with a busy international airport just minutes from the resort areas. For travelers looking for an easy beach holiday, that convenience is hard to beat — but it comes at a higher price than you’ll find in Cancun or Punta Cana. Early December is still a relative bargain, but prices shoot up as Christmas approaches.

That said, Montego Bay itself isn’t much of a destination beyond the resorts. The town is busy and not particularly charming, and the stretch of beach hotels is geared toward visitors who rarely venture outside the resort gates. If you want to explore Jamaica a bit more, Negril is a far better choice. It’s about 90 minutes away, has much nicer beaches, a relaxed vibe, and faces west for those perfect Caribbean sunsets. Ocho Rios, in the other direction, is also popular with cruise ships but lacks much appeal for a longer stay.

Jamaica has the advantage that English is spoken everywhere, which makes it easier to connect with locals. On the flip side, the country does have a reputation for aggressive vendors on beaches and in tourist areas, which can be a downside if you prefer a more laid-back atmosphere.

Hotel prices in December

• 3-star hotels from: US$120 per night for two people
• 4-star hotels from: US$134 per night for two people
• All-inclusive hotels from: US$390 per night for two people

>>Check current Montego Bay resort and package deals

Mexico is one of the best destinations for a December beach holiday, offering a mix of resort towns, cultural cities, and great weather across the board. Whether you want to spend a week at an all-inclusive in Cancun (see above) or explore the historic streets of Puerto Vallarta or Mexico City, early December offers excellent deals before the holiday crowds arrive. With flights from North America often being short and affordable, Mexico is a top choice for both quick getaways and longer winter trips.

Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

• December avg high: 86°F/30°C
• December avg low: 64°F/18°C
• December avg precip: 0.9″/2.3cm

Puerto Vallarta is my personal favorite resort town in Mexico. Unlike many other beach destinations, it feels like a real city — with history, culture, and a downtown area that’s genuinely fun to explore. Whether you’re staying for a week or just visiting for the day on a cruise stop, it’s a place that always feels lively and welcoming.

One of the things I appreciate most about Puerto Vallarta is the wide variety of accommodations. You’ll find everything here, from simple family-run guesthouses and affordable 3-star hotels, to high-end beachfront resorts from the big international chains. It’s a place where you can splurge on a luxury suite or stay in a charming local inn, and still have easy access to the same beaches, restaurants, and shops.

Early December is the sweet spot for prices — before the holiday crowds drive up rates — and the weather is just about perfect. Compared to Los Cabos, which is trendier and often far more expensive, Puerto Vallarta feels like a better deal across the board.

Hotel prices in December

• 3-star hotels from: US$49 per night for two people
• 4-star hotels from: US$104 per night for two people
• All-inclusive hotels from: US$260 per night for two people

>>>Check current Puerto Vallarta resort and package deals

Los Cabos, Mexico

• December avg high: 80°F/27°C
• December avg low: 58°F/15°C
• December avg precip: 0.6″/1.4cm

Los Cabos has become a trendy winter destination over the past decade, but it’s important to know what you’re getting. This isn’t a tropical destination — December evenings here are cool enough that you’ll want to pack a light jacket or sweater. The weather is dry and pleasant, but if you’re picturing warm, balmy nights, you’re better off heading to Puerto Vallarta or Cancun instead.

Cabo is really two towns. Cabo San Lucas, on the western end, is built around a large marina filled with restaurants, bars, and shops. If nightlife and shopping are a priority, that’s where you’ll want to stay. On the other hand, San José del Cabo, closer to the airport, is quieter and more modern, with a growing arts district and a much more laid-back vibe. The stretch of coastline between the two towns is lined with upscale beach resorts, many of which are standalone properties with little else around — ideal if you’re looking for a quiet, all-inclusive experience.

English is widely spoken in Cabo, which isn’t always the case in other Mexican resort areas, making it an easy place for first-time visitors. Just keep in mind that prices here are generally higher than in Puerto Vallarta, especially at beachfront resorts.

Hotel prices in December

• 3-star hotels from: US$64 per night for two people
• 4-star hotels from: US$166 per night for two people
• All-inclusive hotels from: US$277 per night for two people

>>>Check current Cabo resort and package deals

Mexico City, Mexico

• December avg high: 69°F/21°C
• December avg low: 44°F/7°C
• December avg precip: 0.2″/0.5cm

Mexico City is one of the most underrated big cities in the world, and I feel strongly about that. It’s not only a cultural powerhouse filled with museums, markets, and world-class cuisine, but it’s also shockingly affordable. I recently spent time there filming a video specifically to highlight how much value you get compared to major cities in the US and Europe — and it didn’t disappoint.

While December is technically winter in Mexico City, the weather is mild during the day and pleasantly cool at night. The rainy season is long gone by December, so it’s an ideal time to explore without worrying about getting soaked.

For those looking to mix culture and shopping, it’s hard to beat. The city’s sprawling malls and boutiques offer far more than tourist trinkets, often at prices far lower than what you’d find in beach resorts. And with cheap domestic flights to Cancun, Puerto Vallarta, and Los Cabos, it’s a great starting or ending point for a Mexico trip.

Hotels in Mexico City are some of the best bargains on this entire list. Early December rates for well-located, high-rated hotels can feel like a mistake compared to any other major city in North America.

Hotel prices in December

• 3-star hotels from: US$24 per night for two people
• 4-star hotels from: US$65 per night for two people

Central America is a fantastic option for travelers looking for warm weather, beautiful beaches, and nature-focused adventures in December. Costa Rica, in particular, stands out with its mix of upscale resorts and charming small hotels, making it easy to find a trip that fits your style. Early December is the start of the dry season, so you’ll enjoy sunny days and reasonable prices before the Christmas rush drives rates higher.

Guanacaste, Costa Rica

• December avg high: 91°F/33°C
• December avg low: 70°F/21°C
• December avg precip: 0.5″/1.3cm

Guanacaste, on Costa Rica’s northern Pacific coast, is home to some of the country’s best beaches and largest resort hotels. December is the start of the dry season here, so you can expect sunny days, warm temperatures, and prices that are still reasonable if you go before the Christmas rush.

Most of the beachfront is dominated by large chain resorts, including plenty of all-inclusive options. If you’re looking for a classic beach holiday where everything is taken care of, you’ll have plenty of choices. That said, Guanacaste also has a good number of smaller, family-run hotels that can offer better value and more flexibility — especially if you enjoy trying different local restaurants instead of eating every meal at the resort buffet.

One of the best things about Guanacaste is how easy it is to reach. The Liberia International Airport is right in the heart of the region, so you can be at your resort within an hour of landing. The region’s popularity has been growing steadily, so booking early — especially for the second half of December — is highly recommended.

Hotel prices in December

• 3-star hotels from: US$66 per night for two people
• 4-star hotels from: US$148 per night for two people
• All-inclusive hotels from: US$422 per night for two people

South America is in full summer mode by December, making it a great choice for travelers looking for warm cities, beach destinations, and vibrant cultural experiences. From historic Caribbean coast towns to cosmopolitan capitals, you’ll find excellent value in early December before peak holiday prices kick in. Countries like Colombia, Peru, Argentina, and Brazil offer a range of affordable destinations where your travel budget will stretch further than you might expect.

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

• December avg high: 88°F/31°C
• December avg low: 72°F/22°C
• December avg precip: 5.1″/12.8cm

Rio de Janeiro might be the most beautiful city setting in the world, with its iconic beaches, dramatic mountains, and vibrant street life. December is the start of summer in Rio, so you can expect hot, humid days and the occasional quick tropical downpour. It’s also a fantastic time to visit before the New Year’s and Carnival crowds drive prices through the roof.

A lot of people assume that Rio is an expensive destination — and to be fair, it was a few years ago. But Brazil’s currency has dropped significantly, and now even international chain hotels near the beach are offering very reasonable rates. You can find surprisingly good deals at 3- and 4-star hotels, including beachfront properties that would cost double or triple in other major cities.

Of course, Rio isn’t without its challenges. Safety concerns are real, and travelers should take common-sense precautions, especially at night and in less-touristy areas. But for those who stay aware and stick to the well-traveled neighborhoods like Copacabana and Ipanema, Rio offers an unforgettable and affordable experience in one of the world’s most breathtaking cities.

Hotel prices in December

• 3-star hotels from: US$39 per night for two people
• 4-star hotels from: US$58 per night for two people

Buenos Aires, Argentina

• December avg high: 83°F/28°C
• December avg low: 65°F/18°C
• December avg precip: 4.1″/10.3cm

Buenos Aires is one of those cities that draws you in and makes it hard to leave. On my first visit, I planned to stay for about a week — and ended up spending a month, including memorable side trips to Iguazu Falls and across the river to Uruguay. Both are easy and affordable excursions that add even more to a BA trip.

Known for its rich cultural scene, Buenos Aires is more of an “indoor city” with its grand cafés, tango shows, and European-style architecture. December brings warm summer weather, but even if it rains (which it sometimes does), you’ll never be far from a museum, gallery, or a fantastic restaurant. The food scene here is world-class, and everything from a steakhouse dinner to a café breakfast feels like a bargain compared to North America or Europe.

Despite economic ups and downs, Buenos Aires continues to be one of the best-value cities for international travelers. Hotel rates are still remarkably low for the level of quality you get, especially if you book early in December before the Christmas rush.

Hotel prices in December

• 3-star hotels from: US$42 per night for two people
• 4-star hotels from: US$63 per night for two people

Cartagena, Colombia

• December avg high: 86°F/30°C
• December avg low: 76°F/24°C
• December avg precip: 1.3″/3.3cm

Cartagena is one of the best bargains in the Caribbean, especially for travelers who want both a beach holiday and a bit of history and culture. The beautifully preserved walled city feels similar to Old San Juan in Puerto Rico, with its cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, and lively plazas — but hotel prices in Cartagena are much lower. Plus, unlike Puerto Rico, Cartagena actually has a few all-inclusive resort options for those who prefer a packaged beach holiday.

Early December is an ideal time to visit, as the rainy season has just ended and the holiday crowds haven’t arrived yet. The city offers a unique blend of experiences: you can spend the morning exploring historic forts and churches, and the afternoon relaxing on a beach just a short walk away.

Cartagena has been growing in popularity, but it’s still a fantastic deal compared to more famous Caribbean islands. If you’re looking for an affordable beach destination with real character, this is one of the best choices on the entire list.

Hotel prices in December

• 3-star hotels from: US$28 per night for two people
• 4-star hotels from: US$55 per night for two people
• All-inclusive hotels from: US$198 per night for two people

Lima, Peru

• December avg high: 76°F/24°C
• December avg low: 66°F/19°C
• December avg precip: 0.0″/0.0cm

Lima might not be the first place that comes to mind for a December beach holiday, but it’s a popular summer destination for South Americans — and still an excellent bargain for international travelers. The beaches aren’t as picturesque as those in Brazil, but Lima makes up for it with a lively outdoor scene, fantastic cuisine, and surprisingly low prices.

The Miraflores district is where most visitors stay, and for good reason. It’s safe, walkable, filled with excellent restaurants (including Lima’s famous ceviche spots), and has a wide range of affordable hotels. December weather is warm and dry, making it a perfect time to explore the city’s parks, coastal cliffs, and vibrant food markets.

It’s also worth noting that while Lima is dry and sunny in December, the rainy season is just beginning in Cusco. If you’re planning a Machu Picchu trip, it’s still doable, but you’ll need to be flexible with weather. For those looking for an easy, inexpensive city break with great food and local energy, Lima is hard to beat.

Hotel prices in December

• 3-star hotels from: US$38 per night for two people
• 4-star hotels from: US$46 per night for two people

Santiago, Chile

• December avg high: 83°F/28°C
• December avg low: 54°F/12°C
• December avg precip: 0.1″/0.3cm

Santiago doesn’t always make it onto people’s bucket lists, but it’s an excellent base for exploring Chile — especially in December, when the weather is just about perfect. Warm, sunny days and cool evenings make it ideal for sightseeing without the discomfort of extreme heat or humidity.

While Santiago itself may not have as many must-see attractions as other major cities, it’s a clean, modern, and affordable city that works perfectly as a starting point. From here, it’s an easy trip to the colorful coastal town of Valparaíso or into the nearby mountains for hiking and adventure activities. December is also prime time for visiting Chile’s wine regions, which are a short drive from the city.

Santiago’s hotel prices are refreshingly reasonable, especially early in the month before the Christmas crowds arrive. It’s not a place where you need to spend a fortune to enjoy good food, reliable transportation, and comfortable accommodations. If you’re looking for a laid-back city that’s well connected to Chile’s best destinations, Santiago is a smart and affordable choice.

Hotel prices in December

• 3-star hotels from: US$49 per night for two people
• 4-star hotels from: US$75 per night for two people

Europe isn’t known for beach weather in December, but there’s one major exception. The Canary Islands, off the coast of Africa but part of Spain, offer mild temperatures, little rain, and a relaxing escape from the chilly mainland. Tenerife, the largest and most popular of the islands, is the go-to choice for sun-seekers looking for a quiet and affordable getaway before the peak winter season kicks in.

Tenerife, Canary Islands, Spain

• December avg high: 71°F/22°C
• December avg low: 61°F/16°C
• December avg precip: 1.7″/4.3cm

Tenerife is one of the few places in Europe where you’ll find pleasant, spring-like weather in December. While it’s not really warm enough for proper beach days or sunbathing, it’s far milder than anywhere on the European mainland. For travelers from London, Stockholm, or other parts of northern Europe, a cheap flight to Tenerife can be a great way to escape the winter chill without going too far.

That said, if you’re coming from farther away — like North America — it usually makes more sense to head to the Caribbean or Southeast Asia if you’re after true beach weather. Tenerife is more about relaxed afternoons in cafés, scenic coastal walks, and casual sightseeing rather than swimming and sunbathing.

The southwest part of the island, around Los Cristianos and Playa de las Américas, is where you’ll find the most English speakers and a wide range of hotels and restaurants catering to visitors. There are also several good-value all-inclusive resorts if you prefer to stay put, but it’s just as easy to base yourself in a small hotel and enjoy affordable local dining.

Hotel prices in December

• 3-star hotels from: US$66 per night for two people
• 4-star hotels from: US$113 per night for two people
• All-inclusive hotels from: US$199 per night for two people

Much of Africa enjoys ideal travel weather in December, making it a great option for those seeking warmth and sunshine. While parts of North Africa can get cool in the evenings, the daytime temperatures are perfect for sightseeing. Cities like Cairo offer excellent value for cultural travelers, while Cape Town welcomes summer with beach-friendly weather and dramatic natural scenery.

Cairo, Egypt

• December avg high: 68°F/20°C
• December avg low: 50°F/10°C
• December avg precip: 0.2″/0.5cm

Cairo is often associated with extreme heat, but December offers some of the most pleasant weather of the year — warm days, cooler evenings, and almost no rain. This is a city where most of the major attractions are outdoors, so visiting during these cooler months makes a big difference in comfort.

While Cairo is incredibly affordable, there are some things to be aware of. The city has a well-earned reputation for aggressive touts and pushy vendors, especially around tourist sites like the pyramids and the Khan el-Khalili bazaar. It can be frustrating at times, but manageable if you know what to expect and stay polite yet firm.

One tip that can improve your stay: consider booking a hotel near the pyramids in Giza rather than in central Cairo. Not only are the hotels there often better value, but you’ll also wake up to incredible views of the pyramids, and you’ll avoid much of the chaotic city traffic when visiting the main sights.

Early December prices are a bargain, but even during Christmas week Cairo remains one of the cheapest major tourist cities in the world. If you’ve always dreamed of seeing the pyramids, December is the ideal time to go.

Hotel prices in December

• 3-star hotels from: US$38 per night for two people
• 4-star hotels from: US$81 per night for two people

Cape Town, South Africa

• December avg high: 77°F/25°C
• December avg low: 59°F/15°C
• December avg precip: 0.7″/1.8cm

Cape Town is a fantastic choice for a December trip if you’re willing to make the long journey. December marks the start of summer in South Africa, bringing warm days, cool evenings, and very little rain — perfect weather for hiking Table Mountain, exploring the Cape Winelands, or lounging on the city’s iconic beaches.

While flights to Cape Town can be long and expensive, once you arrive, you’ll find that everything else is refreshingly affordable. Hotels, restaurants, and tours are excellent value for the quality you get, especially if you’re traveling from Europe or North America. Early December is also less crowded than the peak holiday weeks that follow, so it’s a great time to visit if you prefer to avoid the biggest crowds.

Cape Town’s combination of natural beauty, outdoor activities, and reasonable prices makes it one of the best places to stretch your travel budget in December — as long as you’re okay with the long-haul flight to get there.

Hotel prices in December

• 3-star hotels from: US$66 per night for two people
• 4-star hotels from: US$85 per night for two people

Most of the Middle East is pleasantly cool in December, but Dubai and Abu Dhabi are exceptions where you’ll find perfect beach weather. With sunny skies, warm temperatures, and a modern infrastructure that caters to visitors, the UAE is a great option for a December escape. Prices can be high during the Christmas period, but it’s still possible to visit on a reasonable budget if you plan carefully.

Dubai, UAE

• December avg high: 79°F/26°C
• December avg low: 61°F/16°C
• December avg precip: 0.6″/1.5cm

Dubai is one of the few places within a short flight of Europe where you’ll find beach weather in December. That’s a big reason why hotels fill up fast around the holidays — but if you can visit in early December, you’ll find better rates and fewer crowds.

While Dubai is known for luxury and over-the-top attractions, it’s still possible to visit on a budget. The key is to avoid hotel restaurants and follow the locals and expat workers to smaller restaurants and food courts, where you can get a fantastic meal for under US$10. Public transportation is also cheap and reliable, so you don’t need to splurge on taxis for every outing.

Abu Dhabi, about 90 minutes away by bus or car, is another option worth considering. On my first visit, I actually preferred Abu Dhabi to Dubai — it’s more compact, easier to get around, and has a calmer vibe. However, there are far fewer budget hotel options, so if you’re looking to stretch your money, Dubai will give you more flexibility.

December is the busiest time of year in the UAE, so it’s important to book early, especially if you’re going over Christmas week.

Hotel prices in December

• 3-star hotels from: US$80 per night for two people
• 4-star hotels from: US$108 per night for two people

December is an ideal month in most of Southeast Asia, except for much of the coast of Vietnam, which gets rain this month. Crowds, of course, get big just before Christmas, and hotel prices go up accordingly. It’s too cold in China, Korea, and Japan to make this list.

For a longer list see our best December destinations in Asia choices, which includes some of these but quite a few more.

Boracay Island, Philippines

• December average high: 82°F/28°C
• December average low: 75°F/24°C
• December avg precip: 7.1″/17.8cm

The traditional rainy season winds down in early December in Boracay, but even early in the month you are only likely to get a few quick showers each week. Typical of the Tropics, the rain often hits in the afternoon, and is over 30 minutes later, leaving behind yet another amazing sunset as the clouds slowly disappear.

If you are looking for something far less developed than Phuket or any other Thai island, Boracay might be for you. This gorgeous strip of sand is a bit out of the way, but partly because of that it still feels somewhat undiscovered. You’ll spend your days relaxing along White Beach or walking up and down the sandy paths that serve as the only real form of transport for most people. Many visitors come every year, and quite a few of those never seem to leave.

The hotel prices here might seem a bit high for Asia at first glance, but that’s because the island is long and thin so almost every hotel is literally on the beach or within a block or maybe two of it. The value is very good and food is a bargain here as well.

• 3-star hotels from: US$42 per night for two people
• 4-star hotels from: US$69 per night for two people

>>Boracay prices and travel tips
>>>Check Boracay resort deals

Bangkok, Thailand

• December avg high: 88°F/31°C
• December avg low: 69°F/21°C
• December avg precip: 0.4″/1.0cm

The driest and coolest month of the year, Bangkok is ideal during December, or at least as ideal as it’s ever going to get. It’s very hot and quite humid almost every day of the year, but the humidity backs off just a bit during winter, and that will be much appreciated for anyone spending more than an hour or two outside.

There’s a massive range of quality and prices when it comes to hotels in Bangkok, and the city is enormous as well, so you really want to do your research for this place. Most people are happier paying a bit more to stay near the river and all the tourist attractions, or even in the infamous Khosan Road backpacker district, which is cheap and fun, if tacky. If you like to shop then Bangkok is a slice of heaven. There are close to 15 large malls in the Siam Square area, which is also central and convenient since the elevated metro system cuts right through it. Room rates in 2024 are looking even lower than in previous years so this could be a good year to visit and splurge a bit on something you didn’t think you could afford.

• 3-star hotels from: US$18 per night for two people
• 4-star hotels from: US$23 per night for two people

>>Bangkok prices and travel tips
>>>Check current Bangkok hotel deals

Phuket, Thailand

• December avg high: 88°F/31°C
• December avg low: 75°F/24°C
• December avg precip: 2.3″/5.8cm

Phuket is incredibly popular among Europeans in December, especially the final week, of course, so it’s critical to book early to get a good price at a beachfront hotel if that’s your mission. It’s also important to mention that Phuket is an island with more than a dozen different beach towns, each with its own personality and price range. Some are raucous and down-market while others are quiet and very expensive.

The prices given here are on the low side, especially during the winter season, so you are going to pay more unless you are willing to stay in one of the simple hotels in Phuket Town. It’s not a beach resort, but it’s a fun place itself, cheaper than the beaches, and allows an easy way to cheaply visit multiple beaches during a visit. My favorite beaches are Kata and Karon beach, which are both a bit south of the adult-oriented Patong Beach area.

• 3-star hotels from: US$26 per night for two people
• 4-star hotels from: US$45 per night for two people

>>Phuket prices and travel tips
>>>Check Phuket hotel and resort promotions

Chiang Mai, Thailand

• December avg high: 83°F/28°C
• December avg low: 59°F/15°C
• December avg precip: 0.8″/2.0cm

Unlike Bangkok, which has warm evenings and blazing hot days pretty much all year, Chiang Mai cools off nicely during December, at least in the evenings. This is an outdoor city with an emphasis on hiking and exploring temples so the cooler temperatures will be welcome for most people. It’s still hot most days, and quite dry as well, so it balances nicely.

Hotels in Chiang Mai are among the world’s greatest travel bargains, with decent private rooms available for under US$15 per night in the city center. Pay more and you get a lot more, so it’s fun to feel like a big shot in a US$30 room that is almost like a suite. It gets crowded around Christmas so prepare for that and book early.

• 3-star hotels from: US$17 per night for two people
• 4-star hotels from: US$36 per night for two people

>>Chiang Mai prices and travel tips
>>>Check current Chiang Mai hotel deals

Goa, India

• December avg high: 91°F/33°C
• December avg low: 69°F/21°C
• December avg precip: 0.3″/0.8cm

If you are looking for a cheap, beautiful, and relaxing beach destination during December then Goa is ideal. This has become hugely popular with package tourists from Europe and Israel (and more recently Russia), and the fact that pretty much everyone speaks English and there aren’t many cultural opportunities means that it’s a perfect place to just vegetate in a beach chair for a week or two.

Not surprisingly, the weeks around Christmas and New Years are literally the busiest of the year in Goa, so either book a hotel way in advance or be flexible once you arrive. Some towns, like Calungute, are lined with package hotels that fill up completely, but other towns, like Anjuna and Vagator, are usually booked in person or by email, so you can often find a place just walking around. If you are in the mood to tour around, Mumbai has great weather during December, and Delhi has warm days but cool evenings this time of year. Goa has some of the best beaches in December in all of Asia, so give this one a serious look.

• 3-star hotels from: US$29 per night for two people
• 4-star hotels from: US$72 per night for two people

>>Goa prices and travel tips
>>>Check current Goa hotel deals

Luang Prabang, Laos

• December avg high: 80°F/27°C
• December avg low: 58°F/14°C
• December avg precip: 0.5″/1.3cm

It’s not the most famous city in Southeast Asia, but Luang Prabang is incredibly popular among those who’ve visited, and fortunately the weather during December is pretty much perfect. There’s no rain to worry about and it even cools off enough in the evenings to where you won’t need an air conditioner and morning hikes will be very comfortable.

Hotel prices definitely jump up around Christmas, so this is yet another place where you should come in the first half of the month if possible. Most people visit along with a trip to Bangkok and Siem Reap, but other cities in Laos are worth a stop as well, especially Vang Vieng (if you are a backpacker type) and Vientiane.

• 3-star hotels from: US$25 per night for two people
• 4-star hotels from: US$112 per night for two people

>>Luang Prabang prices and travel tips
>>>Check current Luang Prabang hotel deals

Siem Reap, Cambodia

• December avg high: 88°F/31°C
• December avg low: 69°F/21°C
• December avg precip: 0.4″/1.0cm

There is a key reason why December is the best month of the year to visit Siem Reap. More than any non-beach city on this list, Siem Reap is an outdoor town due to the main attraction being the glorious Angkor Wat temples just to its north (and the whole reason you are coming to Siem Reap in the first place).

Those temples are all outdoor for the most part, so cooler and dryer conditions mean you can spend more time touring the temples and still being comfortable. Almost any other month of the year and you’ll be better off going back to your hotel for a few hours in the afternoon, but in December you can carry on all day if you like. The town of Siem Reap is a delight in itself, but of course it fills up near Christmas.

• 3-star hotels from: US$8 per night for two people
• 4-star hotels from: US$22 per night for two people

>>Siem Reap prices and travel tips
>>>Check current Siem Reap hotel deals

Hanoi, Vietnam

• December avg high: 71°F/22°C
• December avg low: 60°F/16°C
• December avg precip: 0.8″/2.0cm

It’s actually a bit chilly in Hanoi in December, but generally very dry and exceedingly pleasant around the clock, so it’s a very good time to visit. Nearly everyone who visits Hanoi will be doing it as part of a larger tour of Vietnam or other countries in Southeast Asia, and this is one of the cooler cities this time of year, therefore a nice balance to some of the places that are still quite hot.

Hanoi is actually one of the cheapest tourist cities in the world according to our Backpacker Index, and that’s partly due to beer and museums being incredibly cheap. In reality, you’ll want to spend more money than the minimum because everything is great value. There are hundreds of family-run hotels with 10 to 20 rooms and a breakfast room in the basement serving surprisingly great food included in the rate. They tend to be spotless and well run, so it could be worth skipping a chain hotel and saving some money in the process.

• 3-star hotels from: US$15 per night for two people
• 4-star hotels from: US$27 per night for two people

>>Hanoi prices and travel tips
>>>Check current Hanoi hotel deals

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

• December avg high: 87°F/31°C
• December avg low: 71°F/22°C
• December avg precip: 2.2″/5.5cm

December is the coolest month of the year in Saigon (as it’s locally known) and the rainy season is pretty much over by November, so this is an ideal time to come as part of a tour of Southeast Asia. It’s normally blazing hot and humid here, so the moderate temperatures will be a bonus even if you have nothing to compare it to.

HCMC is not quite as cheap as Hanoi, and it’s not as nice to look at either, but it’s definitely worth a visit for a combination of history and culture. This is a huge and sprawling city so it’s important to choose the location of your hotel carefully. During Christmas things do fill up and prices go up as well, so book early if possible.

• 3-star hotels from: US$17 per night for two people
• 4-star hotels from: US$28 per night for two people

>>>Ho Chi Minh City prices and travel tips
>>>Check current Ho Chi Minh City hotel deals

December marks the start of summer in Oceania, making it an ideal time to visit countries like New Zealand. While the long flight deters some travelers, those who make the journey are rewarded with incredible landscapes, mild summer weather, and a wide range of outdoor activities. For many, the adventure starts in Auckland.

Auckland, New Zealand

• December average high: 71°F/22°C
• December average low: 57°F/14°C
• December avg precip: 3.6″/9.0cm

Auckland is where most international flights into New Zealand land — but honestly, you shouldn’t plan to linger here for long. It’s a perfectly pleasant city with a nice waterfront and some decent sights, but compared to the rest of the country, Auckland feels a bit “just okay.” The real magic of New Zealand is found in its small towns, national parks, and jaw-dropping landscapes scattered across both islands.

When I visited, I rented a campervan, and it’s still one of the best ways to see New Zealand on a budget. You can arrange a one-way rental that includes the ferry crossing to the South Island, which makes the logistics easy and allows you to avoid expensive hotels by staying in holiday parks and campgrounds along the way. Cooking your own meals also helps keep costs down, and the freedom to stop anywhere is part of the fun.

Queenstown, on the South Island, is the highlight of the country for many visitors, offering adventure sports, stunning scenery, and a lively town center. Rotorua and Taupo on the North Island are also well worth visiting, and the Bay of Islands is a great early stop if you’re starting from Auckland.

If you’re making the long flight to New Zealand, it’s absolutely worth the effort to explore beyond Auckland — that’s where the true beauty of the country reveals itself.

Hotel prices in December

• 3-star hotels from: US$57 per night for two people
• 4-star hotels from: US$73 per night for two people