As Winter aggressively invades and conquers Europe, it’s fair to say Europe is essentially written off and rubber-stamped as a no-go zone for sun-seeking enthusiasts. Accordingly, the sharp change in climate provides the perfect excuse to travel further afield to distant lands in search of well-deserved and bountiful vitamin D.
As Europe descends into its annual freeze, other countries and cities around the world begin to step into summer. So if you are thinking about escaping the winter freeze or perhaps spending the festive season somewhere new and most importantly warm, here’s a complete list of the warmest places to visit in December.
Colombia, South America
Nicknamed the ‘gateway to South America’, Colombia is absolutely mesmerising and the perfect place to visit in December. The most populous nation of Spanish-speaking South America, bordered by Panama, Venezuela, Brazil, Peru and Ecuador in the south, Colombia, within and of itself, is fire!
Bursting with diversity, creativity and pure adrenaline, there is so much to see and do in Colombia. From the snow-crowned Andean peaks and high-altitude plains and grasslands such as (Los Llanos) known as the “Serengeti of South America”. To dreamy white-sand shores, the impenetrable Amazon jungle and wonderous coffee plantations. To colonial communities and cryptic archaeological ruins, Colombia and its cities are excitingly seductive.
Average October temperature: 31°C
Average October rainfall: 125mm
Average October sunshine: 11 hours
Miami, Florida
Sandwiched between America and the Caribbean, Miami is a trendy vacation spot. From quirky Art Deco buildings to glamorous white-sand beaches, Miami is undoubtedly one of the best places to visit in December.
With plush beaches, restaurants, bars, and a blazing nightlight scene, Miami is the definition of fun. With much to do, and within iconic hot spots such as the renowned South Beach and Little Havana. Miami is exciting and bold and a fantastic pit-stop, mid-stop or long-stop when visiting the Caribbean or South America.
Average October temperature: 25°C
Average October rainfall: 55mm
Average October sunshine: 12 hours
The Bahamas, Caribbean
Situated within the Lucayan Archipelago of the West Indies and comprised of 16 major islands, The Bahamas is a breathtakingly beautiful and idyllic destination. From secret sandbars to secluded pink beaches. To deserted islands and coves, along with thousands of miles of irresistible and arguably the bluest waters and inviting Bahamian culture, The Bahamas truly is the epitome of paradise.
The Bahamas is the perfect destination for relaxation and adventure. With a wide variety of exhilarating activities on offer, such as sailing, island hopping, kayaking as well as snorkelling with stingrays and sea turtles, to visiting Pig Beach, there is so much to do and see in The Bahamas.
Average October temperature: 25°C
Average October rainfall: 65mm
Average October sunshine: 12 hours
Cape Town, South Africa
A port city on South Africa’s southwest coast, on a peninsula beneath the imposing Table Mountain, Cape Town is a diverse and fascinating city surrounded by nature and much loved by all who visit.
With a dark and moving history, Cape Town is most famously known for being home to the inspirational South African president and national treasure, Nelson Mandela. In equal parts, Cape Town is famous for its history and the coming-together of cultures, cuisines and landscapes. As such, there is so much to do and see in Cape Town, and top attractions include the Cape of Good Hope and Robben Island, which was used as a prison until 1996 and is now a Unesco World Heritage site. Boulders Penguin Colony which is home to 3000 African Penguins, and Noordhoek Beach, which surfers and horse riders favour.
Average October temperature: 27°C
Average October rainfall: 16mm
Average October sunshine: 12 hours
Havana, Cuba
The capital of Cuba, Havana, is a distinct and fascinating city. With a history and culture unlike anything else you’ll find in the Caribbean, Havana is an iconic city full of joy, culture, music and colour.
Accordingly, there is much to do, see and learn from visiting Havana. From visiting the Plaza de la Catedral to Necrópolis Cristóbal Colón, a national monument renowned for its striking religious iconography and elaborate marble statues. Or perhaps venturing to other towns such as Varadero, one of the most famous towns in Cuba and highly regarded for pristine 21 km (13 mi) long white sand beach.
Average October temperature: 29°C
Average October rainfall: 36mm
Average October sunshine: 12 hours
Dubai, United Arab Emirates
The most populous city in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Dubai is magnificent. Well known for luxury shopping, ultramodern architecture and a lively nightlife scene, Dubai is great for winter escapes, and as such, it is one of the best places to visit in December.
With the world’s tallest building, the world’s largest shopping mall along with sparkling white sandy beaches, Dubai is extravagant. From its beaches to architectural marvels and even its desert, Dubai is irresistibly dynamic, and is home to some of the world’s most unique and modern attractions.
Average October temperature: 27°C
Average October rainfall: 1mm
Average October sunshine: 13 hours
