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15 Great Places To Spend December In Asia

15 Great Places To Spend December In Asia

One of the things that I love about December is the holidays. It usually means that we pack our bags and set out travelling because you are guaranteed to have two days off in two consecutive weeks. That means more leave saved. I’m sure we aren’t the only ones who think that way. That being said, we have spent the December period in a number of locations in Asia.

From Vietnam and Cambodia to the Philippines, our experience has been varied. It made me wonder what the other places to spend December in Asia are.

So I reached out to a couple of travel bloggers and we compiled a list. If you are looking for inspiration for your holiday spot to spend December in Asia, then look no further!

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1. Hong Kong

Hong Kong is a great place to visit in December in Asia

Hong Kong is a great place to visit in December in Asia

LOCATION: Hong Kong

GETTING THERE: Flying into Hong Kong International Airport is the best and easiest. But there are also trains from China, ferries from Macau, and it’s also sometimes a cruise ship stop.

WHERE TO STAY: Marco Polo Hong Kong Hotel and the Peninsula in Tsim Sha Tsui

During the month of December, Hong Kong is one of the most beautiful places in Asia. As a remnant of the city’s colonial days, it celebrates both Chinese and Western holidays. Because of this, Christmas is a huge deal and the city goes all out with its decorations.

The streets are lined with beautiful lights and the shopping malls will have elaborate displays to celebrate Christmas. Some malls that are especially known for their displays include Elements in Tsim Sha Tsui, Langham Place in Mongkok, and Times Square in Causeway Bay.

The city skyline also changes for the holidays. Aside from the beautiful lights you see normally in Hong Kong island, you’ll also see red and green lights for Christmas, as well as lit-up “Happy New Year” signs, usually with the year.

Every time I visit, I always have to take a stroll along Victoria Harbour and the holiday season definitely makes for a more festive walk along the Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade.

By Constance from The Adventures Of Panda Bear

India

You would probably be surprised if I told you that India is a great place to spend December in Asia. The reason is the varied landscape which ranges from the snow-capped mountains in the north to the sun lit beaches of the south.

There is even a desert to explore and let’s not get started on all the national parks and UNESCO heritage sites in India. India has a different vibe and can be a bit of a culture shock to many people but it does provide an unforgettable experience.

2. Goa

Sinjana says that Goa is a great place to spend December in Asia.

Sinjana says that Goa is a great place to spend December in Asia.

LOCATION: Goa, India

GETTING THERE: You can get to Goa by flight, train or road.

WHERE TO STAY: Panjim

December is certainly the best time to visit Goa. I prefer early December when the prices and crowd has not yet surged, but Christmas vibes are still in the air. The beautiful Portuguese-era churches are decorated with lights, the weather is at its best, and the markets are throbbing.

Panjim, being centrally located, is one of the best places to stay in Goa if you’re visiting for the first time. It’s a great time to enjoy paragliding, jetboat rides and even scuba-diving in the Arabian sea. Marvel at some of the finest Portuguese architectural wonders in old Panjim and the 18th century houses in Fountainhas.

Another good reason for visiting Goa in December is the jeep safari and short trek to Dudhsagar falls. Entry is prohibited during the monsoon and opens for visitors in November. Don’t forget to stroll along the Mandovi river at night looking at the floating casinos and cruise parties.

A 1-hour cruise party includes several cultural dance and music performances which give an insight to the culture of Goa.

Some of my favourite places in Goa in December is Dona Paula, Dudhsagar falls, Miramar Beach, Reis Magos Fort and Fort Aguada. December is also a time to indulge in delicious Goan seafood and desserts while enjoying live music in the shacks.

By Sinjana from Backpack & Explore

Japan

Another country that keeps cropping up on my list of places to spend December in Asia is Japan. One of the reasons why we have never made the trip is because I can’t decide whether the country would look more beautiful in summer or in winter.

A couple of travel bloggers however definitely advocate visiting it in December, so I probably am going to be swayed in one direction soon.

3. Yokohama

Yokohoma is another great place to spend December in Asia.

Yokohoma is another great place to spend December in Asia.

LOCATION: Yokohama, Japan

GETTING THERE: 50 minutes by train from Tokyo

WHERE TO STAY: I suggest you stay somewhere in the Minato Mirai area. It’s close to all the tourist attractions, to the train stations, and there’s everything all around. Super convenient and easy to access.

Yokohama is a beautiful city, super close to Tokyo. It’s easy to do on a day trip, but it deserves a little longer. December is a great time to be there – it’s winter, when the skies are clear and blue, and it rains just a little. It’s not nearly as crowded as the rest of the year and, if you’re lucky, you get to have a few days of snow!

There are Christmas markets, and although they’re not very big, they’re cute. The cafés have winter-themed drinks, which are adorable, and the food during winter is irresistible. It’s also a great time to do some shopping, for there are Christmas sales everywhere.

But my favourite thing is that the sun sets early (at around 5 pm) so you can watch it easily. The best place to do so is somewhere in Minato Mirai, where you can see the Ferris wheel. For Unobstructed views, easy to get to, and free places, go somewhere like the first floor of a shopping mall!

But don’t miss Yokohama’s Chinatown, with one of the best Chinese food in the country, the beautiful Yamashita Park, and the Yokohama Bay, which many mini-cruises and beautiful views.

By Thais from World Trip Diaries

4. Nagoya

Lena thinks that Nagoya is a great place to visit in December in Asia.

Lena thinks that Nagoya is a great place to visit in December in Asia.

LOCATION: Nagoya, Japan

GETTING THERE: From other big cities in Japan such as Tokyo or Osaka, it is easiest to take the Shinkansen bullet train to Nagoya.

WHERE TO STAY: One of the best locations to stay in Nagoya is around Nagoya Station. There are multiple hotels in every price category to choose from but I recommend Nagoya JR Gate Tower Hotel for a luxury stay in Nagoya, Meitetsu New Grand Hotel if you are looking for a mid-range business hotel and Leo Start Hostel if you are looking for low budget accommodation.

Nagoya in Japan is a great place to visit in December. The main reason to visit Nagoya is its delicious food and dishes like Miso Nikomi Udon and Oden are just so much better when it is cold outside. The hot dishes will warm up not only your body but also your heart.

One of the highlights of a visit to Nagoya in winter is the illumination at Nabana no Sato, one of the biggest and most beautiful illumination events in Japan. Millions of lights cover this flower park and light up the night in a rainbow of colours.

Each year the illumination is under a different theme, but the famous tunnel of light is a definitive highlight each year.

By Lena from Nagoya Foodie

Myanmar

Somehow Myanmar has never featured on my list of places to spend December in Asia. I’m not sure why I have never thought about it but when one of my fellow travel bloggers suggested adding it to our list, I didn’t hesitate.

That is the beauty of doing these collaboration posts I guess. You see things from perspectives you would ordinarily not have looked at.

5. Inle Lake

Another gorgeous place to visit in December in Asia is Inle Lake.

Another gorgeous place to visit in December in Asia is Inle Lake.

LOCATION: Inle Lake, Myanmar, formerly known as Burma

GETTING THERE: Inle Lake is served by the local Heho airport. However, most people choose to get around Myanmar by bus. Inle Lake is a natural stopping point in the popular Bagan – Yangon route, and there are several buses daily to both these destinations, as well as others.

Be prepared for a long, bumpy ride, and definitely bring some warm clothes as the air condition on the bus might be too strong!

WHERE TO STAY: One of the best places to stay around Inle Lake is a village called Nyaung Shwe. There is plenty of basic and inexpensive accommodation, and you might even be able to book last minute, even during Christmas and New Year’s. Other nearby villages are Kalaw and Pindaya.

Inle Lake is a freshwater lake in Myanmar, which has become increasingly popular with travellers going around the country. The whole area is very picturesque, not only because of the beautiful nature, but also because of the local floating villages, with houses built on stilts. 

The area is popular for its hiking trails. There are many different hikes, and most people choose the Kalaw to Nyaung Shwe trail, which is completed in three days / two nights. It’s best to do this hike with a company, as they will take care of all the logistics.

If you don’t want to hike, you can always cycle. You can rent bicycles everywhere, and the paths around Inle Lake are very flat, making it an ideal day out. A somehow touristy activity at Inle Lake that is nevertheless totally worth it, is a longboat ride across the lake.

Most hotels will have at least contact with a local boat, but you can always find one at the Inle Boat Station in Nyaung Shwe. Most people seem to offer a fairly standard itinerary, including visits to a few traditional workshops and floating villages. The landscape is spectacular, and you might even see water buffaloes!

Finally, there are many monasteries and temples in the area that you can visit, such as the Maing Thauk Monastery and the Thalaeoo Monastery. Like with all Buddhist temples, remember to dress respectfully.

By Dave from Dave’s Travel Pages

Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is one of my favourite spots on this side of the globe. While I have personally not spent the last month of the calendar year in this country, we have travelled rather extensively through it and we fell in love with the landscape, the people and the food (which is to die for!).

Would we spend our December in Asia in this quadrant of the world? Without a doubt! In fact, a lot of other travel bloggers seem to feel the same.

Take a look at all the locations in Sri Lanka that they suggested. If you want to know more about the planning side of things, I would suggest taking a look at our two week itinerary in Sri Lanka.

6. Hikkaduwa

Hikkaduwa in Sri Lanka is a great place to spend December in Asia.

Hikkaduwa in Sri Lanka is a great place to spend December in Asia.

LOCATION:  Hikkaduwa Sri Lanka

GETTING THERE:  Take the train from Columbo (1-hour train ride)

WHERE TO STAY: Hikka Tranz or Coral Princess

Hikkaduwa in Sri Lanka is the perfect place to spend December in Asia. Beaches in Sri Lanka have two peak seasons. The southern beaches best weather and visibility is in the winter while the northern beaches are best in the summer.

Hikkaduwa’s location on the southwest tip of the island makes it ideally suited for winter visits. The oceans are warm. The skies are clear, and the air temperature is just right.

Sri Lanka is known for as a budget travel destination, but that means you can have affordable luxury like splurging for a beach hotel. The Hikka Tranz is a beautiful property situated right at reef break. Sea turtles feed in the shallows there every morning.

The Coral Princess offers beachfront rooms with a coral reef just off the sand.  Both of these hotels have on-premise dive shops that provide some of the most inexpensive diving in the world.

Local highlights include river tours, the Ambalangoda Mask Workshop and Museum, moonstone mines, and ayurvedic gardens. You shouldn’t miss snorkelling the coral reef or trying your hand at the local surf break.

You can find fine dining at the beach resorts, but if you’re looking for down and dirty backpacking food, you have to check out the burgers (and coffee) at Salty Swamis and the kottu roti at Chamis Place. The Christmas celebration might be limited to a Charlie Brown inspired Christmas Tree and a few red hats, but the sun and fun can’t be beat, especially at a Sri Lankan price tag.

By Jenn and Ed from Coleman Concierge

7. Kandy

Kandy in Sri Lanka is an awesome place to spend December in Asia

Kandy in Sri Lanka is an awesome place to spend December in Asia

LOCATION: Kandy is a city in central Sri Lanka.

GETTING THERE: A lot of people visiting Sri Lanka hire a driver, which is what we did. It is about a 3.5-hour drive from Colombo, which is the capital city and where you will land. You can also get here by bus.

WHERE TO STAY: The place I would recommend the most is the Theva Residency in Kandy. We stayed here for a few nights and it was beautiful.

I took a trip with my family to Sri Lanka for Christmas. I was looking forward to this, as I wanted to escape the festivities and the cold. However, Sri Lankans love Christmas! There were more decorations here than anywhere I have seen in the world. So if you love Christmas but want to be warm while celebrating it, then Sri Lanka is perfect.

Kandy is beautiful, a town set around a huge lake and surrounded by mountains all around. It is a such a peaceful place with lots of natural beauty and lots to do. The Royal Botanical gardens are not to miss. It is 147 acres of beautiful nature, flowers and trees.

Perfect for a few hours wandering and a picnic! Visit the temple of the Sacred Tooth relic which houses the relic of Buddha’s tooth next. This is a beautiful temple and is definitely worth a visit. However, make sure to be dressed appropriately which means covering up your legs and shoulders.

There is also a Royal Palace in Kandy. The city is also famous for its traditional dancers. Every evening there is a show with dancing, fire breathing and incredible costumes. Be warned that on their holy days called ‘Poya Days’ you will not be served any alcohol.

If you like a boozy Christmas, make sure to do your research beforehand! Kandy is a beautiful place to stay with children or for couples and a lovely place to stay to escape a cold European winter. December is also when the weather is at its best in Sri Lanka.

By Hanna from Solar Powered Blonde

8. Colombo

The capital city of Sri Lanka is another spot that has reached our list of places to spend December in Asia.

The capital city of Sri Lanka is another spot that has reached our list of places to spend December in Asia.

LOCATION: Colombo, Sri Lanka.

GETTING THERE: You can take a flight to the Bandaranaike International Airport of Sri Lanka which is approximately 33 km from Colombo. You can hire a cab or rent a car to drive to your hotel or drive around the city.

WHERE TO STAY: Homestay (Airbnb). You should book early to find good accommodation since December end is the peak season due to holidays. We stayed in a homestay (Airbnb) in the heart of Colombo city near the National Hospital of Sri Lanka.

Sri Lanka is mainly a Buddhist country, but all celebrate Christmas together. Christmas in Colombo is all about having a great dinner with family and friends. Every street, store, big or small are adorned with Christmas ornaments and lights. The Christmas mornings are welcomed by bursting firecrackers at midnight and attending Midnight Mass.

In 2016, Sri Lanka achieved the Guinness World Record for Tallest Artificial Christmas tree by building a 72.1-meter Christmas tree in Colombo. Every year, the Galle Face Green, a large open area near the fort in Colombo is turned into a Christmas fair with plenty of rides for kids and a beautifully decorated Christmas tree.

We spent most of our evening roaming around the Christmas fair and then went for a quiet family dinner to the Black Pepper restaurant at Dutch Hospital Square. A tropical Christmas in Sri Lanka is one to remember.

If you are in Sri Lanka during Christmas, don’t forget to try Sri Lankan Christmas Cake. After Sri Lankan adopted the Christmas cake tradition from the British, they added their own spin to the fruit cake.

By Anwesha from Going Places With Anwesha

9. Haputale

December in Asia? Maybe Haputale is the spot for you.

December in Asia? Maybe Haputale is the spot for you.

LOCATION: Haputale, Sri Lanka

GETTING THERE: Take the train from Kandy or Ella and hop off at the small town of Haputale

WHERE TO STAY: Guesthouses are the way to go. Stay with a family and get a home cooked meal. We loved Sunflower Inn.

Skip the over-ridden tourist-y city of Ella and explore the real tea country of Sri Lanka. Haputale, or the City in the Sky, is a small town nestled high in the hill country of Sri Lanka. This picture-perfect town drips with beautiful views of Sri Lanka’s lush countryside. 

The town is situated higher up than most, so the temperatures are mild – a much-welcomed break from the oppressive heat throughout the rest of the country. Be sure to pack a jacket and pants for the evening.

Haputale is a great home base for discovering the beauty of Sri Lanka’s hill country. Take a tuk-tuk to Lipton’s Seat in the morning for unbeatable views (on a clear day you can see the ocean). Or head to Bambarakanda Falls, the tallest in Sri Lanka, and take a relaxing swim. Tea is queen here in Haputale and there are endless ways to wander the tea plantations.

You can simply walk out of town and wander the plantations on your own or hire a guide to take you around (your homestay host can help you). Hikers and nature lovers should certainly check out Horton Plains.

Lastly, take your time and relax, Haputale is all about taking in the scenery and taking it slow.

By Meg Atteberry of Fox in the Forest 

Taiwan

Another popular destination to spend December in Asia is Taiwan. One that has been on my radar for the past year and is in the running for the country we may choose to head to this year.

That is if we don’t follow our plans to head to Spain. Needless to say, I was happy that someone decided to talk about visiting this gorgeous country.

10. Taipei

Taipei is a great place to consider visiting in December in Asia.

Taipei is a great place to consider visiting in December in Asia.

LOCATION: Taipei, Taiwan

GETTING THERE: Fly to Taiyuan Airport and take the Taoyuan Airport MRT to the Taipei city centre.

WHERE TO STAY: Taipei MRT (subway system) is efficient and clean. Staying near any central MRT stations will make your transport within the city a breeze. If you are in Taipei for the New Year celebration, opt for hotels in Xinyi District such as W Hotel or Home Hotel.

You will never have a white Christmas in Taipei thanks to its mild winter. Nevertheless, the city becomes festive with the holiday spirit in December. Although Taiwan traditionally doesn’t celebrate Christmas, it doesn’t stop locals from getting into the holiday mood.

The streets are decorated with Christmas lights, and the shopping malls are bustling. The Taipei City also arranges a Christmas festival throughout December.

However, the crème de la creme of the holiday celebration in Taipei is the New Year’s Eve fireworks at Taipei 101. Ring in the new year with the spectacular firework show at the tallest tower in the country! The Taipei City also throws a New Year’s Eve countdown party in Taipei City Hall Square.

Near the event site in Xinyi District is blocked off from the traffic, making the entire area a pedestrian-friendly party zone.

Besides the holiday festivity, Taipei’s mild winter makes December a great time to visit the lively capital city of Taiwan. December marks the beginning of the short and pleasant winter in the island country that observes the hot and humid subtropical climate year-round.

Whether you explore the city on foot or make a day trip to hot springs, you will enjoy what Taipei has to offer much better at this time. Check out how to see the best of Taipei in three days to plan your trip this winter.

By Chloe from Chloe’s Travelogue

Thailand

Thailand has been on a number of people’s bucket lists. A lot of people choose to travel to the country at the end of the year. That is why it made perfect sense to include it in our list of countries to spend December in Asia. We have a couple of contributions to this section from other travel bloggers.

11. Bangkok

Bangkok is a great place to spend December in Asia.

Bangkok is a great place to spend December in Asia.

LOCATION: Bangkok, Thailand

GETTING THERE: There are many international flights to Bangkok. The best way to get around the city is by using the BTS Skytrain and the MRT Subway to avoid traffic. If your destination is too far from the nearest station, then you can hail a tuk-tuk, a motorbike taxi, or a taxi to get to your destination.

WHERE TO STAY: Bangkok has a lot of districts for tourist accommodation and this really depends on the type of vacation you are after. Riverside Bangkok is the most romantic part of Bangkok with stunning views of the Chao Phraya River, a perfect escape from downtown Bangkok without leaving the city.

It will also be a great vantage point to view fireworks on New Year’s Eve. For those looking for cheaper accommodation and street parties, Khao San Road is the way to go. Here, you will not feel alone during the holidays. It is also closer to Bangkok’s tourist attractions.

December is the best time to visit the capital of the Land of Smiles. During this month, the weather is just right: not too hot and not too rainy. Not everyone in Bangkok celebrates the Christmas season but the city of lights definitely has the decorations down pat.

As you walk through the line of gigantic malls on Rama Road, you will find yourself in a wonderland surrounded by impressively decorated trees, fairy lights, and massive presents.

Every hotel is bound to have a Christmas or New Year’s package and every club and pub has a line up for the holidays. As for New Year’s Eve, the skyline is lit up with fireworks which are best viewed from a rooftop bar or a river cruise.

By Karolina from Lazy Travel Blog

12. Phuket Island

Have you ever considered Phuket as a place to visit in December in Asia.

Have you ever considered Phuket as a place to visit in December in Asia.

LOCATION: Thailand’s largest island, Phuket is on the Andaman Sea on the west side of Southern Thailand

GETTING THERE: The easiest way to get to Phuket is to fly from Bangkok though there are also direct flights from other destinations such as Singapore and Kuala Lumpur.

WHERE TO STAY: The luxury resorts of Sri Panwa or Keemala Phuket

When December hits it’s time to go to Thailand, and some of the country’s top resorts are on Phuket Island, part of the province of Phuket.

It’s an ideal place to postpone the start of winter; a place where pale turquoise water laps up on the shores of sandy beaches, and the landscape is lush with palms, casuarina trees, frangipani and foliage-covered hills.

By December, monsoon season is over and the weather should be hot and sunny. While it may be hard to leave the beach or the pool at your resort, there is plenty to see and do. Active travellers can swim, dive, sail and snorkel, or sign up for a kayaking excursion. On the cultural side, visitors can explore Phuket Town, sleepy fishing villages, shrines such as the Big Buddha on Nakkerd Hills and historic temples such as Wat Chalong.

The beaches remain the regions big draw, however, and with more than 30 around the island visitors are spoiled for choice. Traveller favourites include Kata Beach, Kata Noi, the upscale Surin Beach and the aptly named Paradise Beach.

While Patong is perhaps the most famous beach, it’s also the most crowded, and is in the heart of Phuket’s wildest nightlife. Some would say the real beauty of Phuket is in more out-of-the-way spots, like Sri panwa on Cape Panwa Peninsula, or laidback Kamala Beach.

By Carol from Wandering Carol

Oman

Another location that I haven’t considered visiting in December in Asia is Oman. One of our fellow travel bloggers suggested adding it to the list and I have to admit that I was curious.

13. Jabel Shams

Jebal Shams in Oman is another gorgeous location to spend December in Asia.

Jebal Shams in Oman is another gorgeous location to spend December in Asia.

LOCATION: Jabel Shams, Oman

GETTING THERE: The nearest international airport is Muscat International Airport almost 300km from the mountain range of Jabel Shams. Many tours operators run tours and pick people directly from the airport or their respective hotels in Muscat.

To reach the peak of the mountain, a 4wd drive is necessary as it is an off-road drive along the way. The base of the Jabel Shams is almost 3 hours’ drive from the capital city of Muscat and take around 1 hour more to reach the peak.

WHERE TO STAY: There is ample accommodation on the mountain peak, ranging from budget hotels to luxury resorts. All this accommodation offers basic facilities and beautiful views of the mountain range.

The most frequently visited resort is the Jabel Shams Resort which is located right on the peak of the mountain. It is a lavish resort with luxurious facilities for the guests.

The Grand Canyon of Arabia, Jabel Shams (Mountain of the Sun) in the third highest peak in the Arabian Peninsula. At the height of 3000 metres, it is the highest peak in Al-Hajar mountain range and offers spectacular views of the Wadi Ghul which lies in the valley of this mighty mountain range.

As the climate in Oman is pretty hot all year round, December is the best time to visit Jabel Shams as temperature goes to single figure on the highest point of the mountain.

The road to the mountain peak isn’t a smooth ride and not for the faint-hearted. There are sharp turns and bends, but the drive is worth the effort. The road is covered with mountains all around and presents a beautiful view of the sunrise and sunset. Dark, rugged mountains rule this region of Oman and offer a perfect scenic view during December when the sun isn’t very harsh.

As one ascends to the mountain peak, views start getting better. Tall, palm trees can be found along the way with a herd of mountain goats. There aren’t plenty of facilities on the top of the mountain peak and therefore it is better to carry the necessary stuff.

The peak of Jabel Shams mountain is a perfect camping site too and plenty of camps can be seen during the pleasant December climate.

By Nabiha from Verses By A Voyager

Vietnam

Vietnam is one of those countries that will forever have a special place in my heart. Much like Indonesia, it was one of the first places that we truly backpacked in. Cheap, great climate, amazing people and food that cannot be described are just a few reasons why I fell in love with the country.

We did visit Vietnam in December and the climate was varied, from chilly in the north to hot in the south. That means you can have your pick depending on the weather you want to explore in.

14. Mui Ne

Mui Ne is a great place to spend December in Asia.

Mui Ne is a great place to spend December in Asia.

LOCATION: Mui Ne is a beautiful fishing village in the South of Vietnam, about 5 hours away from Ho Chi Minh City.

HOW TO GET THERE: There are many daily buses that leave Ho Chi Minh City and head towards Mui Ne, a ticket costing around 5 dollars, depending on the type of services offered on the bus.

WHERE TO STAY: During my stay in Mui Ne I chose Café Xua Hostel as my base, an eco-lodge located in among coconut trees, across the street from the beach.

Mui Ne stretches over an area of 12 kilometres, incorporating the touristic resorts dotted along the bay. The weather in December in Mui Ne is quite humid, with temperatures averaging around 30 degrees and a bit of rain here and there.

There are plenty of things to do in Mui Ne, from visiting the famous white sand dunes and experience quad biking on them, to eating fish pho in the market from the fishing village. Because of the fishing village, in Mui Ne you will find some of the best grilled fish in the area.

In the evenings, at most of the local restaurants you can choose your own fish from the piles of ice, and it will be cooked to your liking on the spot.

Even though I visited during the Christmas holidays, everything in Mui Ne was still open and businesses were functioning as usual.

By Joanna from The World In My Pocket

15. Sapa

Sapa in Vietnam is a beautiful spot to spend December in Asia.

Sapa in Vietnam is a beautiful spot to spend December in Asia.

LOCATION: Sapa, Vietnam

GETTING THERE: Sapa is located approximately 8 hours from Hanoi. It can be easily reached by train or by overnight bus.

WHERE TO STAY: Spend at least one night staying in Sapa. You can book through one of the many tour operators in Hanoi, who will provide a tour guide and accommodation for the group. To fully experience Sapa I recommend staying at one of the home stays, rather than directly in the town centre.

Sapa is a popular trekking base located in North-western Vietnam. A visit to Sapa will allow you to experience the hillside tribes and villages, trekking through endless beautiful landscapes along the way.

There are a number of trekking options available, from short half day hikes to multi-day adventures. While you won’t see the typical bright green grass visiting in December, you will experience cooler temperatures and far fewer crowds, making for a much more pleasant experience in the hills.

For many the cooler temperatures are a relief from the heat experienced through much of the surrounding countries and areas during this time of year. However, be sure to pack a jacket and raincoat as temperatures do drop in the mountains during this time of year.

By Taylor from Taverna Travels

*This post contains Affiliate links

** The photographs in this post are not the property of Globetrove and have been provided by the individual authors.

Sue Davies

Saturday 18th of July 2020

Great list of places. Myanmar and Japan are definitely on my list. Hoping to be able to travel to Asia in December, too.

Wendy Lynn Lee

Saturday 18th of July 2020

Great list! So many wonderful vacation ideas for December in Asia. I think I'd choose Japan, maybe Yokohama.

Alma

Saturday 18th of July 2020

A comprehensive guide! Spoilt for choice. Saving this one, just in case.

katy kuhlwilm

Saturday 18th of July 2020

This is really useful as our spring and summer travels has been wiped out. I will add a few of these to my list, especially Japan! I'd love to visit Kyoto.

Cosette

Saturday 18th of July 2020

Oh, I love all these suggestions, december is one of my favorite months of the year. It's my Birthday month and I love december. We spend Christmas here in The Netherlands, Germany and in Jordan.