Planning a Christmas vacation abroad? Here are some snowy getaways

Christmas celebration in Vienna. Photo: Shutterstock/Mustafa Ertugral

December is the time of the year when most people choose to take a break from work and go on holiday. The year-end, the festival of Christmas, and the beginning of the New Year all contribute to a wonderful holiday season. The winter season also adds another dimension to the beauty of December. It is also a month of celebrations and family get-togethers. The chill, snow, the Christmas stars, and the decorations put up to welcome the season add more charm to cities and countries. There is no better time than December to enjoy the true elegance of Europe, even though it might be a little colder during this period. Below are some of the ideal countries to visit in December, where snow, the chill, Christmas cake, and wine all come together to make it a captivating season.

Switzerland readies to welcome Christmas
Switzerland is one of the most alluring places in the world, where Christmas, the chill, and snow converge. The snow-capped Alps and the Christmas markets present visitors with a dream world. Visitors to Switzerland should carry adequate winter clothing as snowfall is likely during the season. The temperature here varies between minus 1 degree to 4 degrees Celsius.

Ideal time to see Japan
December is considered the best time to visit Japan on a tour. The illuminations in winter make the cities of Tokyo and Kyoto beautiful. A special aspect of a tour during the season is that it will provide a serene atmosphere and pleasant weather. If you are someone who likes to enjoy travelling without much fuss, pack your bags and head for Japan in December.

Meet Santa Claus in Austria
Austria in Central Europe is one of the most beautiful countries to visit during Christmas. The main cities of the country, such as Vienna and Salzburg, turn enchanting during the Christmas season. The markets lined up with Santas waiting to welcome tourists are another attraction in Austria during Christmas. The Austrian Alps, ideal for skiing, are also a favourite destination for tourists.

Gaze at Northern Lights in Canada
Christmas is one of the best seasons to visit Canada. Those travelling to Canada should carry with them enough winter clothing. There is no better month in Canada than December to take a walk on the snowy trails and watch the snowfall. The country’s Banff and Jasper National Parks are beautiful to visit at this time. Visitors can see the phenomenon of Northern Lights from Canada. The fact that this is the best time to see the Northern Lights also makes Canada a favourite among tourists.

Alluring Germany
The markets that are beautifully done up during the Christmas season are the attractiveness of Germany. Munich, Nuremberg, and Cologne are famous Christmas markets. It is the festive season that makes Germany so popular with tourists. Since it is a very cold season, there will be a large fall in the number of tourists during this time. For this reason, there is no better time than December for a quiet German trip to enjoy the sights of cities decorated with Christmas lights and savour delicious food.

Enjoy summer Christmas in New Zealand and Australia
When it is winter everywhere else, December is the start of summer in New Zealand. There is no better place to enjoy a summer Christmas than this country. Those who love beach trips and mountain biking can choose New Zealand with confidence. Same is the case with Australia and December is the best time to visit Sydney and Melbourne.

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