Cheap destinations in December that you can visit to get away from work and traditional celebrations. December is not only the last month of the year but also generally considered an expensive travel month.
Cheap Destinations In December
Even though December is considered an expensive travel month, here are cheap places you can choose as your destination. Booking in advance helps a lot for things to be manageable.
The choice you make should also be informed by what you want to do on your vacation. You can choose to spend time on the beach or skiing.
Las Vegas, Nevada
Las Vegas in December is full of festive things to do. Holiday lights and decorations are all over. The weather is pleasant and the skies are sunny.
We visited the Red Rock Canyon National Conservation area we enjoyed the awesome scenery biking, and a little hike. There are shops where you can buy Santa photos, holiday decorations, among other things.
The Linq Promenade has great entertainment, dining, and unique nightlife. The place has a high roller and unique retail. We enjoyed the open-air design, we wondered and explored.
People flock to Ethel M Chocolate Factory for chocolates, truffles, crèmes, and peanut brittle. We enjoyed seeing the confectionery delights being created.
There is wine tasting for 21 plus. Nevada State Railway Station Museum Boulder City preserves the heritage of Nevada trains.
We explored the grounds and the static displays. There are open-air and pedal-powered rides along the historic train tracks.
The town square offers movie theaters and a children’s play area. Ice skating at the Ice Rink at the Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas is no exception.
Orlando, Florida
In December Orlando has holiday decorations, festive treats, live performances, and features skating. SeaWorld’s Christmas Celebrations has more than 3 million sparkling lights and activities throughout the park.
Gatorland will put you at odds with your budget. There are amazing parks to visit and explore. One of the parks is devoted to Florida’s most famous native inhabitants.
Christmas at the Gaylord Palms offers an interactive, multi-sensory experience that allows guests to step into movies. We explored the 17,000 square foot exhibit and enjoyed 13 scenes that include replicas of film props and audio clips.
Epcot International Festival of the holidays will help you understand how holidays are celebrated around the globe. We explored different cultures and strolled the pavilions and did some holiday shopping.
You can’t miss the wild safari. There are dozens of animals on display on 85 acres of land. We saw giraffe’s alligators, zebras, bison, and hares. Always keep your camera ready and your driver should be cautious.
Disney springs Florida decorate trees spread out over the 120-acre shopping and entertainment complex. Ornaments and decors are sold at an affordable cost.
Oaxaca, Mexico
Oaxaca is not a big city but packs a huge punch in terms of activities, especially in December. Most Mexicans families enjoy themselves during evenings at Zocalo. You can grab some food and drinks also.
We visited the 16th Century Baroque Catholic Church and were astonished by its beauty inside and out. The Museum of Culture is just near the church.
It’s housed in the beautiful monastery buildings of the complex. The display includes a collection of precious stones and golden jewelry.
A free walking tour will do you good. This helps in getting to learn about the city’s history and culture from a knowledgeable local guide.
There is a white mountain built by the Zapotecs called Monte Alban. You can climb the pyramids and experience stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
The Guelaguetza Festival is usually focused on traditional dance performances. They dress uniquely for the event.
The Botanical Garden helps you learn about the local flora and fauna. The garden is combined with the cathedral and the cultural museum.
Hiking and swimming at Hierve el Agua which is the boiling water and later you can check out the street Art Scene.
Salt Lake City, Utah
Salt Lake City is energized with seasonal spirit during December. There are numerous lights and beautiful nativity scenes. Music is part of the season with horse-drawn carriages.
The Festival of Trees at the south town expo center is fun. There are themed Christmas trees decorated by individuals, families, and businesses.
The trees are auctioned off to help the children’s medical center. The children suffer from different illnesses and it’s a great way to help.
Christmas at the Grand America Hotel hosts Santa and Mrs. Claus. The amazing kid’s buffet and an array of items await you. Santa Grand afternoon tea starts at 12 pm and 3 pm.
Zoo Lights at Hogle Zoo Utah are a fun holiday activity. The animals also enjoy the back seat and enjoy the excitement. The rocky shore exhibit features a heated underway viewing area.
Christmas at City Creek Center is a wonderful place to do shopping. People visit Santa at his special lantern cottage to share their wishes.
There is a torchlight parade at Snowbird Resort where bonfires and torchlight parades come down the mountain. During the daytime, Santa rides along the slopes passing out treats.
There is candlelight Christmas at Place Heritage Park. You will also learn about Salt Lakes City’s history. During December the state park transforms into a Currier and Ives Christmas card.
Belize, Central America
Belize is a great place to be on your December vacation. Belize is exciting in the language, culture, and food. English is an official language but you can get Maya, Garifuna, Krior, and Spanish.
There is a sacred cave in Belize that you can’t miss. Many people believe that if you enter the cave your time is up and that jars filled with blood used to lay scattered throughout the cave.
You will hear and see people dressed old- fashion as they celebrate special holidays in December. You can head to the beach for snorkeling, swimming, diving, and sailing.
Thailand
Thailand is a beautiful place to explore. There are over 300 Islands in Thailand that you can explore. You can go island hopping in some of them.
At times in December, you can watch a Muay Thai fight. It is Thailand’s national sport where fighters use their fist, elbows, shins, and knees.
Take time in the Grand Palace where you will see stunning architecture. To avoid feeling uncomfortable make sure you have covered your shoulders and knees.
A Thai massage will help you relax. You can also enjoy food menu options that you would not get back home such as scorpions, crickets, and ant salad.
A day at the beach will do you good and will help you relax. Railay Beach offers rock climbing up the giant limestone pillars in Krabi. Thai Islands also offer the best diving in the world. You can also explore the underwater world.
A night market will offer you a chance to grab dinner as you listen to great music. If you want something strong order a Thai Bucket with your favorite alcohol.
Phnom Penh, Cambodia
Phnom Penh is also known as a charming city. Walking through the city and mixing with locals will make you experience the Cambodian culture. The central market has handicrafts, local art, designer handbags, and furniture.
Undertaking an adventure like trekking, rock- climbing, rafting, and kayaking will fill your day with fun.
Gibbon spotting is extremely popular. Walking through the forest with your guide and seeing yellow-cheeked gibbons in their natural habitat.
I can’t forget the flying experience, the perfect way to round off a temple. You will view landscapes, lush jungles, flooded forests, and floating villages.
Phnom has lots to offer beneath the surface of its waters. Scuba diving is common in Cambodia. Ocean kayaking makes me happy. I did it down the Mekong or Tonle San River combined with the jungle trek.
Killing fields has thousands of skulls and bones unearthed from killing fields in the area. The Khmer Rouge terrorized and murdered fellow Cambodians. It’s horrific but opens your eyes.
The S21 Museum is a museum with a history of how the Cambodians were tortured by the Khmer Rouge. You can visit the Mondulkiri project’s Elephant Sanctuary.
Santiago, Chile
December weather in Santiago is pretty much perfect. Santiago is beautifully situated in a ramble river valley towered over by the Cordillera.
These hulking mounds of the ancient rocks dominate the skyline. You can soak up the view of the Cordillera from Santiago’s best lookouts.
The country has varying landscapes and dramatic extremes with beautiful mountains and beaches.
December gives you a chance to enjoy adrenaline sports and wine tasting in the central valleys. Wildlife spotting in Cape Horn will give you an unforgettable experience.
There is a festival called the La Fiesta Grande. The patron of local mines gathers people to enjoy music and other cultural events.
Artisans from many different countries gather in December to enjoy art, dance, music, and people eat and drink together. On December 8 there is an annual pilgrimage of great religious importance.
Bellavista neighborhood features graffiti-lined streets with cafes, boutique shops, and art galleries.
Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
Punta Cana is pretty close to a paradise. The place is surrounded by turquoise water and white sandy beaches.
Bavaro beach is beautiful, popular, and has an endless stretch of fine sand. You can enjoy a walk or enjoy the amazing scenery while sipping a delicious cocktail.
There are plenty of catamaran excursions to choose from in Punta Cana. These include natural swimming pools, a snorkeling stop, and lots of fun.
There is the paradise island of Isla Saona. Learning about the Dominican culture will help you understand the customs and traditions.
A unique excursion that you can’t overlook is the fun cave. It belongs to the Los Hiatuses National Park. Other than caving it has rappelling, swimming, hiking, and horse riding. It is a 5 in 1 adventure for all outdoor.
Los Haitises National Park offers beautiful and compound nature and wildlife. You can enjoy a boat ride inside the park and see frigate birds, caves, mangroves. You can spend the night at the 2 eco-lodges surrounded by waterfalls.
Explore the beautiful Samana Peninsula and helicopter or plane excursion. If you get hungry eat the freshest fish in Boca De Yuma. Explore seclude waterfalls in Punta Cana.
Costa Rica
Costa Rica is famous for its long cables and spectacular views. Costa Rica is a zip-lining place of origin so you can’t pass up a chance to soar over tropical rainforest.
Travelers love sunset crossing because you sail underneath a beautiful sky and watch the sun. go down while relaxing on the boat. A great activity for all travelers especially couples.
Costa Rica has good snorkeling and scuba diving. Snorkeling off the beach is not good at
Costa Rica. The Gulf of Papagayo is made up of many bays with myriad boat access. You can also enjoy private boating.
There are ATV tours where you drive through forests and jungles to beautiful viewpoints. It’s more fun, especially during the rainy season. Costa Rica has the best waves in Latin America for surfing.
Rappelling down waterfalls is an incredible activity in Costa Rica. It’s a heart-pumping adventure in the middle of a beautiful rainforest.
Costa Ricans do love to party. You find fiestas civicas all year long. During these parties, there are rides, games, food, and bull riding activities. You will enjoy the live music and Costa Rican tradition.
Cheap Destination In December
Travel in December can be tricky because some of the popular places have too many tourists. However, you can visit the same places but choose to spend time off the beaten path.
Take advantage of public and school holidays. There are heaps of activities in these destinations that will improve family relationships.
I hope this article on cheap destinations in December gave you some ideas as you plan your next vacation. Please share it and also follow me on Pinterest for more travel ideas.
