Where to go in

December

Where to go in

December

December is postcard season, it’s just up to you which scene you choose - winter wonderland or beach paradise? In Europe, cities like Prague, Brussels, and Amsterdam light up, literally, with Christmas markets, sparkling decorations and cozy pursuits. For those seeking winter sun, Dubai and Abu Dhabi bring hot-luxe getaways with pristine beaches, high end resorts, and outdoor action. Here’s our pick of where to go.

Prague

If you really want to “do Christmas” then December in Prague is magical - all festive cheer and romantic, wintery charm. The Old Town Square transforms into the mother of all Christmas markets, where the scent of roasted chestnuts and mulled wine fills the air. A giant Christmas tree sparkles against the historic architecture whilst you stock up on beautifully crafted Christmas baubles and artisanal gifts. The Church of St. Nicholas hosts choirs that fill the air with traditional carols which adds to the enchanting vibe. For those wanting a bit of winter fun, skating on Strelecky Island offers stunning views of Prague Castle and the Vltava River. Warm up with a cup of svařák, a Czech mulled wine, as you stroll through the city.

Brussels

December in Brussels is a festive dream. The city’s Christmas market on the historic Grand Place hosts a majestic Christmas tree surrounded by charming wooden stalls selling artisanal crafts, festive treats, and holiday gifts. Then, it’s all about the lights. Brussels By Lights brings the city to life with dazzling decorations and beautiful light displays. The Grand Place also hosts sound and light shows, filling the square with colour and music, while the façade of the Church of Sainte Catherine lights up with seasonal projections. Head to Place de la Monnaie to ice skate in the heart of the city. Don’t miss sampling the diverse gastronomy at the market, from Belgian waffles to hot chocolate, and discover new favourite brews at the Heuvelhal Christmas Beer Festival on 14 and 15 December.

Amsterdam

Amsterdam in December is a winter fairytale, with snow-dusted streets and glowing lights. The Dutch concept of gezelligheid - a cozy, warm, and inviting atmosphere -permeates every corner, from candlelit cafes to festive markets. If the temperatures drop low enough, you may be lucky enough to ice-skate on the city’s iconic frozen canals, a rare and magical experience. The annual Amsterdam Light Festival transforms the city into an open-air gallery, with cool light installations illuminating canals and landmarks from December through January. The festive season kicks off with the Sinterklaas parade, bringing holiday cheer as Sinterklaas arrives with his helpers. Head to Museumplein, the Museum Quarter, for the Amsterdam Christmas market and feast on festive foods like appelbeignets (deep-fried apple fritters) and speculaas (spiced biscuits).

Baha Mar, Bahamas

Fancy Christmas in paradise? Baha Mar in the Bahamas in December combines holiday magic with tropical luxury. The weather is perfect for lounging on the white-sand beaches or diving into turquoise waters. If your mode is active then channel some holiday nostalgia at the water park or try snorkelling and paddleboarding in the crystal-clear ocean. The Bahamas in December is really all about resort life, though - the perfect excuse to maximise chill, fun and sun time. Right on Cable Beach, our SLS resort is lavish, playful and indulgent - think infinity pools bedecked with striped cabanas and a flock of flamingos (yes, really). From here it’s a 10-minute drive into the capital, Nassau, and a further five-minute drive over the causeway to the beaches of Paradise Island. But when you’re in the centre of a luxury 1000-acre island retreat, with a casino, water park and tennis court, why would you go anywhere else?

Dubai

For a winter-sun festive jaunt with all the baubles and record-breaking sparkles, it has to be Dubai. From November to January the weather cools to a perfect 19-25ºC and the sun is always shining. The month kicks off with UAE National Day, on 2 December, with city-wide festivities and parades which have to be seen to be believed. There's also the Rugby Sevens, a film festival, pre-Christmas designer sales and towering Christmas trees dripping with lights and Swarovski crystals. If you thought Dubai was extra, try Dubai in December. Outside of the urban Christmas buzz, the month’s mild weather is ideal for exploring Dubai’s natural beauty - think kayaking in the serene Hatta Dam, surrounded by the Hajar Mountains. Hotels wise, you’re spoiled for choice with gourmet dining, panoramic views and next generation wellness to indulge all of the senses all of the time.

Abu Dhabi

With dramatic landscapes, monolithic architecture and idyllic beaches, Abu Dhabi has an other-worldly feeling, which could be just what December ordered. The calendar is also packed with events, kicking off with a bang on 2 December with the fireworks and full-tilt festivities of UAE National Day. The Sheikh Zayed Festival, running all December, is a must-see, showcasing Emirati heritage with traditional art, crafts, and performances that honour the legacy of Sheikh Zayed. The holiday spirit continues at Yas Winterfest from December 13-22, transforming Yas Island into a winter wonderland with snow parks, Santa Land and carnival zone. For a unique adventure, head to the Moreeb Dune for the Moreeb Lights event, where the epic dunes are illuminated from 8-31 December 8-31, creating a surreal desert landscape. Then there’s the supercharged hotel resort experience – super VIP, supersized and super luxe. Time to dive in.