Summer is here but it’s beginning to look a lot like a Christmas holiday
By Valeria Garibotti on 6th July, 2023
Do excuse us for discussing Christmas in summer.
BOTSWANA
Travelling over Christmas means travelling in Botswana’s green (wet) season. It can be very rewarding with wildlife giving birth to their young and some exceptional birdlife. This, along with the lush green scenery provides plenty of picture-perfect opportunities.
The clear atmosphere and thunderclouds make for excellent photographic safaris, and you can expect a spectacular thunderstorm every few days. New-born calves frolic on the Kalahari plains. So for those who are not afraid to get wet now and then, it is a great time to visit.
CHILE
One of the best trips you can ever take, is to combine a stay in Patagonia with an expedition cruise that will take to places so remote you will wonder if you are the only people on earth! This is no regular cruise so do not think of onboard entertainment, swimming pools with slides and thousands of passengers. Think instead, only about 200 people onboard, comfortable surroundings and daily explorations on land. Of course you will also enjoy wonderful meals and drinks.
And did we mention you can combine a break in Argentina too? I cannot get any better!
KENYA
Christmas in Kenya is an adventure you will never forget. Instead looking at your Christmas tree, look up towards the acacia trees, as leopards often spend their days draped along the tree branches. Particularly December is a good time to visit Kenya, as the rainy season is short, and you have the chance to see new-born animals and migratory birds.
It is the best time for lush landscapes and underwater adventures. December is the time to experience Kenya’s safari reserves at their lushest but still accessible.
NAMIBIA
December, January, and February are good months if you want to escape winter in the northern hemisphere. Celebrating Christmas in the heart of the Namib Desert, surrounded by red dunes, is a special experience.
It is the wet season, and the colours will be most vibrant during and after this season. Some days will be humid, and rain may follow, often in localized, afternoon thunderstorms. The scenery is greener, and the rates are lower, because of the low season.
TANZANIA
You like Christmas to be a little different and unique from the previous?
Enjoy a wildlife safari in Tanzania’s Northern circuit with your loved ones or go hike the Kilimanjaro and simply end your trip on the beaches of Zanzibar. In December the rains have made the country green again and it is getting dry and warm again in Tanzania. This makes Tanzania a fantastic destination for a safari and beach vacation over Christmas and New Year.
SOUTH AFRICA
Spend Christmas in South Africa and turn winter into summer, as here summer arrived!
Spend sunny days in the ‘Mother City’ Cape Town and end your trip with some adventurous days in the African Bush. South Africa is one of the most diverse destinations in the world. From the classic safari in the Kruger National Park to the majestic “Mother City” of Cape Town. Visit the snow-capped mountains of the Drakensberg or the arid red dunes of the Kalahari.
Spend time at the beautiful wine regions around Franschhoek or the beautiful beaches of the Garden Route. South Africa is a true all-rounder…
CAMBODIA
December in Cambodia is sunny! Explore majestic temples, get a taste of Khmer history and end with an extended luxury beach stay with the highlights tour of Cambodia.
There’s plenty going on, but at a relaxed pace -so you can return home sun-kissed and energised from your adventures.
SLOVENIA
Slovenia is the perfect Christmas destination. The capital Ljubljana and the second largest city Maribor are the perfect places due to the view of snow-capped mountains and towering evergreens covered in snow.
Visit Slovenia’s Christmas markets for some holiday cheer or tour one of Slovenia’s epic Castles in the Snow.
Enjoy a peaceful trip to Lake Bled and experience an adrenaline boost while skiing, snowboarding, or climbing the peaks of Slovenia. Slovenia is a fairy-tale winter escape.
VIETNAM
Southern Vietnam is a glorious choice for Christmas – and something like our Southern Comforts tour is the perfect balance of relaxation and adventure.
There’s time to explore Saigon for a bit of history and culture, biking and boating along the Mekong Delta and a luxurious tropical island beach stay to finish off. Bliss, and not too much travelling around long distances, so ideal for families.
But even better news is that the whole country is at its best around this time of year, so if you prefer to travel North to South leaving no stone unturned? That’s available too.
ST LUCIA
Swap snowy landscapes for white sandy beaches.
December brings the start of the most beautiful weather in St. Lucia. The best part about booking a tropical Christmas getaway here is that you won’t have to miss out on a delicious roast dinner on December 25. Enjoy the differences of a traditional Christmas dinner in St. Lucia when you eat roast lamb with sweet potatoes, plantains, or yams instead of the usual turkey with sides.
One of the best experiences of spending Christmas in a place other than home is the opportunity to experience some of the local Christmas traditions, and I am sure you won’t be disappointed if you spend Christmas in St. Lucia.
MALDIVES
For sun-soaked luxury and lobster for Christmas dinner you can’t go wrong with the Maldives.
But don’t feel limited – if you prefer to be busy, speak with our specialist Carly to choose the best island for you – get your PADI Open water scuba diving qualification, spend some time with expert marine biologists, or play tennis on a full size court.
And for families, you’ll find some of the best kids clubs in the world here too.
BRAZIL
Christmas in Rio is the ultimate holiday indulgence. The city’s setting is simply stunning, making it one of the world’s most iconic cities and deserving of the name Cidade Maravilhosa – the marvellous city.
Bathed by the Atlantic ocean, Ipanema and Copacabana beaches offer the perfect refuge from the cold British winter. Long stretches of sand, soaked in warm sunshine, buzzing with people playing beach volleyball, football, relaxing, sipping cocktails, and just simply enjoying the best of life. But don’t worry, they offer plenty of space so that you can find your perfect spot! Everything about this city is intoxicatingly addictive, in a good way. The sounds, colours, lifestyle and the lush surrounding nature, giving plenty of opportunities to get out of the hustle and bustle and escape to a nearby forest or a hidden beach.
Christmas is a wonderful time to be here. The weather is perfect and the city is in a celebratory mood. If you can stay for New Year, join one of the best parties and fireworks displays in the world! Brazilians know how to party, but plan your holiday ahead, because the secret is out and Rio is becoming more and more popular!
ICELAND
SRI LANKA
MADEIRA
During this enchanting season, a visit to Madeira becomes truly magical. The island radiates with the vibrant spirit of Christmas, evident in every corner you explore. Funchal, the bustling city, becomes adorned with a spectacular display of Christmas lights, casting a warm glow upon its streets. As you wander through the island, you’ll encounter numerous traditional nativity scenes, each one adding to the festive ambiance. Indulge in the delights of the outdoor Christmas market, where you can savor delectable treats ranging from succulent traditional pork sandwiches known as Carne Vinha D’alhos to a delightful array of liqueurs, beer, and, of course, the obligatory Poncha. Madeirans embrace this time of year with utmost dedication and reverence, ensuring that the Christmas spirit fills the air, captivating all who experience it.
PHILIPPINES
Few parts of South East Asia celebrate Christmas so if you like the idea of holiday music in the background and seeing tropical trees festively decorated while experiencing the flavours, heat, and excitement of the region, the Philippines is your answer.
With Spanish and American influences, many parts of the Philippines have a Caribbean-meets-Asia feeling. So you’ll find historic churches and convents, excellent rum, and the ubiquitous plastic stools of South East Asia’s outdoor eateries. Of course, there are also colourful jeepneys, warm and friendly people, and some truly stunning scenery.
Whether you want a quiet, off-the-beaten track beach, a buzzing island resort, or the Goldilocks option between, there’s a spot to celebrate Christmas or end one year and ring in a new one. Some islands get a bit more wind than others at this time of year but sunshine and clear skies can be found through much of the country, making it a great time to visit.
MAURITIUS
Escape to Mauritius for Christmas and unwind on the white sand beaches of the lush Indian Ocean. Plenty of sunshine in December and activities to keep the entire family entertained. Enjoy a catamaran sail, swim with dolphins and experience the vibrant local Mauritian culture
MALAYSIA
Fancy having a multi-coloured, multi-layered cake with flavours of pandan and butterfly pea flower instead of a traditional Christmas cake? Head for Malaysia where the heat will hit you in the face the moment you leave the airport and if you go home without having found at least one new food to rave about, you haven’t truly experienced.
While the east coast is rainy at Christmas time, the west coast is where you’ll find some of the best boutique hotels in the country (hello Villa Samadhi and Seven Terraces!) and plenty of sun for those relaxing days by the beach. Why not spend the Christmas holiday seeing the highlights in comfort and winding down at one of the nation’s most beautiful resorts? Stroll through heritage towns, look for monkeys in the trees, eat your fill of nasi lemak and roti canai, and start the new year with a slice of kek lapis. Make it a delicious holiday!
CAYMAN ISLANDS
For an island destination where you can thoroughly enjoy doing nothing or keep yourself (or that certain person in your family) occupied, Grand Cayman is tough to beat. World-class diving and snorkeling, sunset sails to a place called Rum Point, snorkeling with friendly stingrays, walking through gardens in search of blue iguanas, golf, horseback riding, caves, museums, and so much more can fill your time. Fear not, the beaches are also glorious and there are some stellar villas and resorts to lay your head. And did we mention it’s a direct flight from Heathrow?
Which all means, if you want a December getaway that’s both fly-and-flop and busy enough to keep everyone entertained, the Cayman Islands beckon.
MEXICO
BARBADOS
Are you longing for an unforgettable Christmas getaway? Look no further than Barbados, where convenient direct flights from London whisk you away to a paradise of sun, sea, and celebration. Leave behind the winter blues and immerse yourself in the warmth of sun-kissed beaches and the genuine hospitality of the Caribbean.
Picture yourself waking up in your luxurious accommodation, just steps away from powdery sands and crystal-clear waters. Barbados offers a unique blend of laid-back island vibes, luxury and vibrant festive joy, where Christmas traditions mingle seamlessly with the rhythms of the Caribbean.
From mouthwatering local cuisine to thrilling water sports and relaxing beachfront moments, every day in Barbados is filled with pure bliss. Create cherished memories as you embrace the magic of the season in this tropical haven. Book quickly and don’t miss the chance to spend an extraordinary luxurious holiday in this Caribbean paradise!
EGYPT
Embark on an extraordinary Christmas journey to Egypt – the ultimate destination that offers the best of both worlds without long flights! Delve into the wonders of ancient history, from the iconic Pyramids of Giza to Luxor’s awe-inspiring UNESCO World heritage sites. Cruise the mystical Nile temples in pure luxury, reliving a bygone era of wonder and admiration.
But that’s not all – to finish your holiday on a pure relaxing tone, head to the Red Sea coast for idyllic beaches, enchanting desert landscapes, and crystal-clear waters. After days of exploration, bask in the warm winter sun at your lovely resort and immerse yourself in a world of vibrant marine life through exhilarating snorkeling and scuba diving adventures.
What sets Egypt apart is its short flight time to fully savor your holiday – short travel time for an extraordinary holiday. . This Christmas, treat yourself to an unparalleled experience in Egypt, where the magic of history and relaxation intertwine for an unforgettable journey of a lifetime!
THAILAND
Experience a Christmas like no other in enchanting Thailand.
Break free from the UK’s wintry grasp and find yourself in a tropical haven, where culture, natural beauty, and warm weather blend in perfect harmony..
If you’re seeking a relaxing Christmas, we’ll be thrilled to curate a tranquil escape at a gorgeous hotel by some of the most idyllic beaches. Alternatively, for a fun and active holiday, Thailand’s diverse landscapes provide thrilling adventures, from snorkeling in azure waters to trekking through emerald forests. Allow us to guide you on exciting journeys through lush jungles, cultural immersive experiences, or visits to our favorite elephant sanctuaries. You can also opt for a mix of relaxation and action.
From bustling cities to serene islands, Thailand has something for everyone and invites you to embark on unforgettable adventures, creating lifelong memories with your family. This Christmas, unwrap the gift of an extraordinary holiday as Thailand’s charm and warmth leave cherished memories that will forever linger in your heart.
