While we are all for one Australian summeryou have to admit: December is a good month for traveling. In fact, a series of public holidays and the closure of most workplaces for the end of the year could well make the period from November to January the perfect time to pack your bags and set your sights on a new destination vacation. And even though there are many hidden gems to explore on Australian coastssometimes there's nothing like jumping on a plane and innovating abroad. That you're still dealing with the FOMO of seeing all your friends travel to Europe mid-year, or if you just can't go a few months without planning your next getaway, we've got you covered. Below, five international destinations we're considering this holiday season.
Bali, Indonesia
If you're craving a radical change, but don't like the cooler temperatures that much of the world offers at the end of the year, Bali might just be the destination for you. With beaches that rival those of Europe (without the hardships of a 24-hour plane ride), vibrant nightlife when the mood strikes, and an average temperature of 28 degrees Celsius, Bali has it all. for a pretty spectacular vacation. Want an outdoor adventure? December is also a good month to explore the island's lush forests. At this time of year, humidity is moderate and rainfall is low, making it a great time to wander around the area. natural beauty from Ubud, or soak up the beauty of Nusa Pedina on a snorkelling excursion. Bali is also full of luxury hotels and villasoften without exorbitant prices, so you can rest and relax at the end of a day exploring.
Salzburg, Austria
Here in Australia, the holiday season is a little different to most parts of the world. So if you dream of a traditional restaurant Christmas – with snow, mulled wine and lots of festive traditions – why not head to Salzburg? Nestled north of the Alps, Salzburg is famous for its Christmas markets. The Christkindlmarkt on Dom Square, which runs from November 21 to January 1, is the city's best-known and oldest market, with more than 100 stalls, as well as attractions like choir concerts, parades and , Of course, delicious dishes and seasonal trinkets. After Christmas, the magic of Salzburg continues, with the mountainous city providing the perfect backdrop for a fireworks display to celebrate the New Year. And if traditional festivities aren't for you, Salzburg is also renowned for being the scene of The sound of music. Most of the locations featured in the film are located in and around the city center. You can therefore explore them on your own or take part in one of the many organized tours of the city.
new York
Few destinations rival New York in December. As many cities shut down at the end of the year, each of New York's boroughs comes alive, with hidden gems for dining, drinking, shopping, and gaming at every turn. With an average temperature of around 7 degrees Celsius and the promise of snowfall in quintessential New York spots like Central Park and The High Line, there's arguably no better place to experience a memorable white Christmas. For first-time visitors to the city, no holiday trip would be complete without a stop at the Rockefeller Center, which is adorned each year with a towering Christmas tree. You can just stand and admire the wonders of the 50,000 multi-colored LED lights that surround each branch (and are on from 5 a.m. to midnight daily), or take a few laps around the track. the emblematic Rockefeller Ice Rink. There are also countless other seasonal attractions worth including in your December itinerary, like a stroll down Fifth Avenue (which is adorned with Christmas paraphernalia) or a trip to Radio City for the Christmas Show. Rockettes. Christmas show. And for seasoned travelers looking for lesser-known New York spots (including Chloe Sévigny’s favorite ancient shopping place), why not browse this RUSSIAN editor guide in New York.
Sri Lanka
If you are planning a trip to Sri Lanka, December is the month to do it. The end of the year marks the transition from the monsoon to the dry season, bringing with it hot, dry weather to the south and west of Sri Lanka, and temperatures generally hovering between 20 and 25 degrees Celsius. Sprawling beaches, vast mountains, breathtaking ancient ruins and abundant wildlife make Sri Lanka the ideal destination for those who want a little bit of everything on their vacation. Weary travelers can park at the beaches of Mirissa, Tallala and Unawatuna (to name a few) for a little rest and relaxation – with excellent surfing conditions for those who are more prone to water. Adventure seekers may prefer to take a detour to the highlands, where popular hikes like Little Adam's Peak and Ella Rock offer a challenging but enjoyable way to enjoy Sri Lanka's incredible natural environment.
Tokyo, Japan
For a change of scenery that doesn't come at the cost of a breathtakingly long flight, you can't go past Tokyo. A manageable nine-hour flight from Australia, December is the perfect time to experience winter in the capital, without the arctic temperatures that January and February typically bring. Every year, ttravelers flock to the bustling capital in droves, eager to immerse themselves in its impressive offering of architecture, fashion and art. Whether you prefer to get lost in the shops of Shibuya (the city's trendiest district), enjoy fresh sushi at an omakase, or relax in a traditional onsen, there is something for every traveler in Tokyo. There are also many ski resorts located just outside of Tokyo, such as Gala Yuzawa and Ishiuchi Maruyama, which are accessible by train or bus, for travelers wanting to escape the city. Ready to book your stay? Check out our guide to the best hotels in Tokyo.
