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10 Best December Destinations
Washington, DC
December falls right in the middle of Washington, DC's off season, and you'll find the lowest prices on hotel rates during this period when Congress is out and much of the city's political population has returned home for the holidays. Besides having the city's museums and monuments to yourself, you'll get to enjoy the holiday cheer of a city that pulls out all the stops when it comes to Christmas decorations.
Atlanta, Georgia
Atlanta is nicknamed Hotlanta for a reason in summer. However, winters in this southern capital bring mild temperatures with weather often pleasant enough to stroll through a park or enjoy a meal outdoors. December is an ideal time for football fans as the gridiron heats up with plenty of NFL action and the collegiate Chick-fil-A Bowl.
Vail, Colorado
Colorado's ski towns transform into little Christmas villages in December, and Vail is no exception. Strap on your skis or snowboard to enjoy some of the country's best powder covering more than 5,200 acres of terrain. Back in town, explore the Vail Winter Market or sit back and enjoy the annual Holidaze entertainment.
Trinidad & Tobago
Temperatures in the low 80s will greet you in the island nation of Trinidad and Tobago. While December falls in the rainy season, typically short-lasting afternoon showers mean lower rates at hotels and resorts. If you're in the mood for cultural diversity, Trinidad's the destination for you, but if stunning sunsets and natural beauty are on the menu, head to the smaller island of Tobago.
Photo courtesy of The Trinidad and Tobago Tourism Development Company
Orlando, Florida
Christmas is taken very seriously in the theme park capital of the world, and if you plan your December visit to Orlando early in December while kids are still in school, you can enjoy the Christmas magic of Disney World, Universal Studios or SeaWorld without having to fight the crowds.
Dallas, Texas
What better place to do some holiday shopping than at the original Neiman Marcus store in downtown Dallas? After you've lightened your wallet, warm up with some old fashioned Texas barbecue or put on your boots for a night of honky-tonk at one of several Dallas institutions.
Bahamas
Winters in the Bahamas are dry and warm, probably why so many North Americans flock here to escape cold winter temperatures. Plan your travels early in the month to catch the tail end of the off season and save some money on your beachside accommodations.
Prague, Czech Republic
Throughout Europe, the month of December means Christmas Markets, and Prague has some of the best. Chilly temperatures drive away most of the city's tourists, causing hotel prices to plummet, so you can enjoy the sights and sounds of this European capital like a local.
San Diego, California
San Diego's weather has been ranked by Consumer Travel as number two in the entire world for it's warm, dry days and good air quality. While December is one of the coolest months of the year in this seaside city, it's also one of the sunniest, and hotel rates tend to drop during this off season period.
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
December in the Southern Hemisphere means summer temperatures for those travelers who aren't so fond of a snowy white Christmas. Remember to bring your sunscreen along for your Christmas on the beach; December is one of Rio de Janeiro's hottest months with temperatures breaking the 100s.
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