Into the Dance: 4 Party Destinations for December
Introducing Where to Travel When: Trippin's new series featuring our top destinations for each month.
This week, we're highlighting the key destinations you should go to for the winter holidays. We're separating this into four moods – from island escapes to party spots, via off-grid selections and festive choices.
Head here for our beach and island selections. For those looking for more of a switch-up, end 2022 on a high by heading to one of our key nightlife destinations for December. Whether you're looking to sweat it out to some fiery gqom or in a former football stadium with one of the best sound systems in the world, we've got you covered.
Accra, Ghana
Ghana is one of the most popular destinations for December, and it’s easy to see why as it’s a time when the Ghanaian diaspora moves towards the motherland. The climate will be cooler in December across Ghana, but you’ll also miss the summer rain – meaning you can stay out for longer dancing on its beaches. Compared to its neighbouring areas, the energy of Accra is relatively calm but you can expect the dance to be hot and sweaty. Head to Alley or Bloom Bar for food and drinks; experience the nightlife scene at Club Twist and, for those still standing, head to Ace Tantra for the afterparty.
Athens, Greece
It’s off-peak season in the Greek capital during this time, meaning flights will cost you less and although the weather will have dropped, it’ll still be comfortably sunny. Visit some of the capital’s best queer bars, selected by George Kanis, or PTS, as recommended by Madam X in her extensive guide. “From debaucherous techno parties to heavy bass music, married couple Savvas and Jordan have gone above and beyond,” Madam X wrote, “with their progressive programming and phat L-Acoustics sound system.”
Tbilisi, Georgia
Sublimely decorated for the New Year celebrations, Tbilisi extends the Christmas spirit until mid-January. Tbilisi is cold in December and you can expect to experience some snowfall, but what better way to stay warm in this alluring Georgian capital than to dive into its nightlife scene? An ex-Soviet city filled with contrasts, Tbilisi’s electronic scene is intimately intertwined with its politics. Bassiani, of course, is its main nightlife attraction and it’s not one to be missed. Billed as one of the best clubs in the world, it’s located in a former Soviet-built football stadium and the main dancefloor is a disused swimming pool. Expect to feel spine-rattling bass from one of the most impressive sound systems in the world.
Durban, South Africa
Durban is known as the birthplace of gqom, and the coastal city is a key party destination in winter. The festive season is the best time to visit this South African city as the climate remains dry, making it easier to visit its top nightlife spots. Be sure to check out Citizen Boy’s guide on Durban nightlife, which includes the pick Club 101 – the home of gqom.
