Festive Season: 4 Holiday Destinations for December
Welcome to the fourth instalment of Where to Travel When: Trippin's new series featuring our top destinations for each month.
We've divided our key December hotspots into four moods: from island and beach escapes to party hotspots, via off-grid spots and festive choices. This week, we've highlighted the destinations you need to hit up for your winter festivities.
Salvador, Brazil
Brazil has the largest Catholic community in the world and on Christmas, the squares and streets of Salvador are bathed in light and decorations. But what makes it different? December is set to usher in the high summer season and the climate will remain tropical. Balance the best of both worlds by experiencing the festive season in full fettle, whilst enjoying Salvador’s warm climes against a backdrop of palm trees.
Berlin, Germany
If you’re looking for a dramatically colder festive season filled with snow, head to Berlin. Each December, the German capital hosts a wide spread of Christmas markets. The tradition dates back to the Middle Ages, in 1530, for the capital city so if you want to trace the markets back to its roots, Berlin should be your top destination for the festive season. If you’re in need of some warmth from the winter chill, there is, of course, Berlin’s notoriously hedonistic nightlife scene; burrow into the darker corners of its clubs for a sweat-drenched getaway from the cold.
Venice, Italy
Venice is a popular summer destination, known as a romantic vacation during the hotter months. But beat the masses of tourists and go in December, when its ornate, historical architecture is draped in festive decor. One of its main attractions – St Mark’s Basilica – hosts a Christmas mass each year and church bells ring all day. Hanukkah is celebrated in the sestiere – or district – of Cannaregio, and, of course, you can experience a frosty, winter version of a gondola ride.
New Orleans, US
New Orleans is one of our top picks of festive getaways, and it celebrates a range of winter traditions. Latkes with a Twist is known for being one of the best Hanukkah celebrations in America. For Hanukkah, make sure you head to the Jewish Community Center for the Menorah lighting too. Or, if you’re celebrating Christmas, make time for the Celebration in the Oaks in City Park, where 600-year-old oak trees are decorated in Spanish moss and lights. Here, you can stroll through 25 acres of festive displays. After Christmas, Kwanzaa is celebrated with the lighting of candles. The New Orleans Kwanzaa Coalition hosts an annual display of festivities including dancing, drumming and a celebration of its seven principles.
