Looking for the best places to travel in December on a budget? Well, you have come to the right place.
In many parts of the world, December is a wonderful time for traveling. There are countless ways to spend your vacation time: visit a fairytale Alpine ski resort, relax on a tropical beach, or experience spring in the warm Southern Hemisphere. But unfortunately, December is not the cheapest month to take a trip. Be prepared for a swarm of other tourists, sky-high airfares, and outrageous hotel rates.
Every corner of the globe comes alive in December with festivities, vacations, sales, and celebrations. You’ll have to book months in advance to get the best deals if you want to take a trip during the last week of December. Avoiding the week between Christmas and New Year’s Eve will reduce your costs significantly.
We’ve compiled a list of amazing places to travel in December on a budget that won’t empty your bank account. Flight tickets can add up quickly when planning a trip internationally. With this in mind, the following is a list of places to travel to in December on a budget covering the entire globe. Meanwhile, pick a destination closer to home if you want to save money on airfare.
Best Places to Travel in December on a Budget
Here are some of the most exciting places to travel to in December on a budget and possible locations around these places to have the most fun.
#1. Las Vegas, Nevada
Travel to Las Vegas to get in on the action. This desert city takes you from New York to Paris in one strip and is known for its unique atmosphere and nonstop buzz. The best part is that it is reasonably priced. Vegas, the cheapest December vacation on this list, wants you to visit so badly that its hotels offer unbelievable deals.
Whether you’ve always wanted to stay at the Bellagio Las Vegas, Excalibur Hotel, or MGM Grand Hotel, you’ll be able to find a good deal in the run-up to Christmas. The savings become even more appealing when you book your stay as part of a travel package.
While you’re here, take a stroll down The Strip, visit the Mob Museum, and take a tour of the nearby Grand Canyon.
#2. Belize, Central America
Want to have some fun in the sun without spending a fortune? Make plans to visit Belize. There’s plenty to do traveling to this location, from exploring Mayan ruins to diving in the Great Blue Hole (a massive marine sinkhole) to snorkeling along the Belize Barrier Reef (the world’s second-largest reef after Australia’s Great Barrier Reef). Not a strong swimmer? Hike through pine forests, around waterfalls, and through caves at Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve.
Your wallet will appreciate the extra money you’ve saved by planning your trip for this perfectly warm (around 82 degrees) and relatively dry time of year. Furthermore, the pristine beaches, dense jungles, and inviting turquoise waters will help you forget about your financial (or other) problems.
#3. Orlando, Florida
Although it is not the most fun Floridian destination, Orlando often offers the best deals, especially during the holiday season. Many Orlando hotels are nearly half-price this time of year. You’ll probably get lucky with airfare as well, especially if you book early.
With all that money you’ve saved, you can take the kids (and yourself) to Disney World, Universal Studios, or Sea World Orlando before the holidays.
Not into insane crowds and listening to “It’s a Small World” repeatedly? Snorkel in Discovery Cove or visit the sloths at the Exotic Animal Experience in Orlando.
Alternatively, take a day trip to one of the beaches near Orlando and spend the afternoon relaxing in the sun and sand.
#4. Oaxaca, Mexico
In December, this Southern Mexican city has a lot to offer tourists looking for a good deal. Save money on hotel rooms and at some local establishments. Let’s face it; you’re probably going to Mexico for some sun, so plan on spending some quality time poolside.
When you’re not soaking up the rays (while wearing sunscreen), Oaxaca has plenty to keep you busy and intrigued. Book a bike tour, visit the ancient ruins of Monte Alban, take a cooking class (who doesn’t love Mexican food? ), or visit one of the town’s many churches.
Do you enjoy going to museums? At the Museo de las Culturas and Museo de Filatelia de Oaxaca, A.C., soak up some culture and history. Then, visit the markets in Plaza de Armas, the city’s central square.
On December 23, don’t miss Noche de los Rábanos (a.k.a. Night of the Radishes). This historic festival dates back to 1897 and features fireworks, music, dances, delicious food, and a competition for the best-carved radish.
#5. Salt Lake City, Utah
There are numerous reasons to visit Utah’s capital, whether you are a skier or a culture buff. Another advantage is that Salt Lake City is a relatively inexpensive place to visit in December. Those who intend to stay in the city can save even more money by taking public transportation. The Utah Transit Authority offers a variety of convenient transportation options to get you where you need to go. If you want to take a day trip to nearby Utah ski resorts, you should rent a car, which is also less expensive before the holidays.
This capital city, founded by Mormons (Latter Day Saints) in 1847, is home to an impressive Mormon Temple. Only Mormons are permitted inside, but the rest of us can admire the architecture from the outside.
All are welcome to visit the nearby Mormon Tabernacle, a large, domed auditorium with over 6,500 seats and an 11,623-pipe pipe organ. The world-renowned Mormon Tabernacle Choir performs here. It’s also free. Big Cottonwood Canyon is a must-see for nature lovers and avid hikers.
#6. Montego Bay and Kingston, Jamaica
Looking for a low-cost beach vacation? It’s time to get jammin’ in Jamaica. Both Montego Bay and Kingston are popular vacation destinations for those looking to unwind. And they both have fantastic deals in December.
Place your body on a beach chair, hike through the mountains, snorkel, or relax by the pool, content in the knowledge that you saved money on airfare and hotel for this trip. Another advantage: with so many hotel shuttles and taxis available, you won’t need to spend money on a rental car.
If you don’t want to spend too much on food, an all-inclusive resort may be your best bet. You’ll also have paid for everything up front, so you can relax and order whatever you want from the menu without feeling guilty.
#7. Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
If you’re looking for somewhere warm, bright, and beautiful, Punta Cana is the place to be. It’s also a good value by Caribbean standards, with affordable all-inclusive packages and gorgeous beaches.
This picture-perfect spot on the eastern side of the Dominican Republic’s Caribbean is pretty close to paradise, surrounded by turquoise water and white, sandy beaches. Zipline through the rainforest canopy, windsurf, kiteboard, sail, dive, or snorkel are all options for thrill seekers. Not interested in all of that? Don’t be concerned. Options include golf, horseback riding, beach walks, and pool floats.
Another advantage? December is the month to take advantage of great deals and beautiful weather. This month has highs around 85 degrees and less rain than in April to November. As the tourist season approaches, hotel and airfare prices will be on the lower end of the spectrum.
#8. St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands
The United States Virgin Islands, one of the most popular tourist destinations in the Caribbean, provide an unforgettable and truly relaxing vacation. Visitors to St. Thomas can enjoy swimming with turtles, snorkeling or diving in the clear blue ocean, golfing, shopping, and fantastic food – not bad for a 32-square-mile island.
This destination has everything from luxury resorts to basic hotels and bed and breakfasts. It’s simple to find something within your price range.
#9. Stowe, Vermont
While some Vermont ski resorts offer significant discounts on lift tickets due to run closures at this time of year, Stowe does not. That is unfortunate news. Now for the good news: they don’t have to because they get more snow in December than most resorts and have more runs open for you to ski. Furthermore, booking lift tickets online at least seven days in advance save you money regardless of when you plan to visit.
So, what makes this a cheap vacation, you ask? Hotel discounts provide savings. Rooms can be over $100 more affordable per night in early to mid-December, leaving you with plenty of money for shopping or lift tickets.
While you’re still buzzing from saving your money, take some time to appreciate Stowe’s natural beauty. After all, it’s been dubbed one of Vermont’s most beautiful small towns for a reason!
Non-skiers will appreciate the spa amenities many of the resorts offer, and the town’s shopping and dining are first-rate. Aside from the unrivaled skiing and snowboarding, visitors can also enjoy indoor rock climbing at Stowe Mountain Resort and ice skating at Spruce Peak Village.
#10. Banff, Alberta, Canada
The winter season is when Banff truly shines. There’s no shortage of outdoor activities in this spectacular village, from world-class skiing and snowboarding to snow-shoeing, cross-country skiing, skating, curling, and sledding.
Those seeking adventure should not miss the Johnston Canyon Icewalk. Because the conditions can be slippery and dangerous, hiring a guide is best. Do you want to unwind? Book a sleigh ride through the snowy meadows or soak in the Banff Hot Springs.
Skiing in Banff is expensive at any time of year. However, the longer you ski, the better the deals, especially in early to mid-December. When you book a “Stay and Ski” package, you’ll save money on room rates and lift tickets at Banff Sunshine, Lake Louise Ski Resort, and Mount Norquay. Banff is a town that rewards early birds, so the earlier you book, the better the savings. The same is true for your airfare.
#11. Québec City, Canada
July is the best month to visit Québec City if you don’t mind paying high hotel and restaurant prices and elbowing their way through crowds looking for the city’s best poutine. On the other hand, traveling to this lovely Canadian gem in December is magical and relatively inexpensive.
Because it’s Québec, you’re almost guaranteed a dusting of snow or, more likely, a large dump that illuminates the historic buildings and parks. Visit a German Christmas market in Vieux-Québec or Le Grand Marché. Travel through festively decorated streets that make you forget you’re in Canada. The Rue de Petit Champlain, in particular, screams to be photographed.
Toboggan down Au 1884, a huge sledding run considered Québec City’s oldest attraction. It is located next to the Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac, North America’s most photographed hotel. The most expensive time to stay at this iconic hotel is around Christmas. On the other hand, choosing a room during the first two weeks of December will result in a price reduction of at least half. This opulent structure, built by the Canadian Pacific Railroad company in 1892, offers breathtaking views of the Saint Lawrence River.
Is December a cheap month to fly?
It would be best if you did not break this rule: Always postpone any travel plans during the winter holidays, such as Christmas and New Year’s. The period from the middle of December to the middle of January, which encompasses most of the winter holidays, is known for skyrocketing flight prices.
Is Turkey cheap in December?
Since December is the low season across Turkey, you may be able to find good deals on flights and accommodations if you travel during this time. On the other hand, hotels in certain regions close for the winter, particularly on the coasts of the Aegean and the Mediterranean.
What month is the cheapest to fly?
January and February are the months with the lowest average airfare.
If you want to get the best deals on domestic flights, the months of January and February are your best bet. However, August is the best month to travel internationally because of the low cost of airfare.
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Best Places to Travel in December on a Budget: References
