It seems weird to already be talking about travel plans for the end of the year, but as we fast-forward toward 2023, it's actually not that far away at all. We have all kinds of trips to book throughout the year, but for December we've gone for a few options that you may not have thought of before, but we think it's a great way to celebrate another trip around the sun.
Mayan Mexico
There are many facets to Mexico which make it a popular travel destination, with the ancient cultures that once lived here accounting for much of the current interest. Our nine-day adventure through the Yucatán Peninsula will introduce you to some of the essential things to do in the region and also introduce some hidden gems. You'll climb amazing Mayan temples, discover stunning cenotes with crystal clear waters, and sink your toes into the soft white sand of the Caribbean coast. Your trip includes visits to the world-famous Chichen Itza and the historic, but lesser-known, Mayan pyramids of Ek' Balam. To top off the trip, party until dawn with like-minded travelers in the bustling beach town of Tulum.
Venture through the Yucatán Peninsula on our Mayan Mexico end of year trip
If you really want to treat yourself to an epic trip this year, save some money and vacation time for this train trip through Thailand and Laos. We kept our promise to be good to the planet and stay unable to fly to our destination and turned this multi-country itinerary into something truly memorable. This epic two-week journey begins in the beating heart of Thailand, Bangkok. From there we will board the train to Thailand's oldest city, Phitsanulok, from where we will explore the ruins of Sukhothai, an ancient city from the Khmer era. Next, head to Chiang Mai, where you can dig into authentic local street food and try your hand at Thai cuisine with a cooking class. We'll meet some of Thailand's most charismatic locals at an elephant sanctuary in Lampang, before crossing the border to Laos. Here you will experience traditional life in a rural village, embark on a waterfall hike, and kayak the beautiful Namsong River. Finally, we will take a sleeper train back to Bangkok – for a walking tour with a local insider.
Become a cultural traveler!
Subscribe to our newsletter to
save up to $500 during our unique trips.
Discover Amazing Thailand and Laos by train with cultural trip
The real Costa Rica
Explore a Costa Rican cloud forest, surf the best waves in the Pacific, and sleep near the Arenal Volcano. This eight-day adventure spans the west Costa Rica from the capital, San Josehas Tamarind. It's perfect for wildlife watchers and adrenaline seekers: you'll spot sloths, hummingbirds and frogs, as well as whitewater rafting through the jungle. There's also a visit to a volcanic coffee plantation, a cooking class, and plenty of relaxing time to spend splashing around in a pool (or under a waterfall).
Travel to The real Costa Rica and spend a few blissful days relaxing in the sun
Caribbean Colombia
This exciting itinerary offers the perfect balance between cultural exploration and outdoor adventures, showcasing the breathtaking beauty and diversity of Caribbean Colombia. Stroll the cobblestone streets of the walled city of Cartagena, sample authentic street food, and canoe through the mangroves of La Boquilla before taking a day trip to the tropical Rosary Islands. Your journey continues north toward the base of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, where you'll hike to the deserted beaches of Tayrona National Park and try tubing on the Río Don Diego. End your trip with a farewell dinner in Palomino.
I think you know Caribbean Colombia? Join us to learn more about this less traveled part of South America
Colonial Mexico
Revolution, architectural masterpieces and ancient ruins await you on this five-day cultural getaway to the heart of the colonial country. Mexico. Led by our expert Local Insider, you'll leave the capital and immerse yourself in the beautiful towns of San Miguel de Allende, Querétaro, and Guanajuato, learning all about the colonial era and Mexican independence as you go. You'll also visit ancient pyramids and stone warriors in Teotihuacan and Tula, giving you an in-depth understanding of this wonderful and historically rich country.
Enjoy a winter trip under the sun Colonial Mexico
Connect with like-minded people on our premium trips curated by local, globally minded insiders.
Since you're here, we'd like to share our vision for the future of travel – and where Culture Trip is headed.
Culture Trip was launched in 2011 with a simple but passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and discover what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful – and it's still part of our DNA today . We're proud that for over a decade, millions of people like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations written by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.
We increasingly believe the world needs more meaningful and real connections between curious travelers eager to explore the world more responsibly. That's why we've carefully curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for unique experiences in three categories: Cultural trips, Train travel And Private trips. Our trips are suitable for solo travelers as well as couples and friends who want to explore the world together.
Cultural trips are deeply immersive 5-16 day itineraries, which combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. OUR Train travel are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax while getting under the skin of a destination. OUR Private trips are completely personalized itineraries, curated by our travel experts specifically for you, your friends or family.
We know many of you are concerned about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways to broaden your horizons while minimizing harm or even providing benefits. We are committed to going as far as possible in organizing our trips while respecting the planet. That's why all our trips are fly-free, fully carbon offset – and we have ambitious plans to reach net zero emissions in the very near future.
