The 15 Best Travel Destinations for December, According to a Travel Agent

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What's the first thing that comes to mind when you think of December? Is it building a snowman, drinking hot cocoa, sitting by the fireplace or decorating the tree? What if all you can think of when December rolls around is the sunshine that you're missing, warmer temperatures and white sand instead of white snow? What if all you really want is to visit somewhere new? Whatever your heart desires during the first of the winter months, we can assure you that these destinations—the best places to travel in December—will perk you right up!

While this time of year can be stressful when it comes to planning travel accommodations, it doesn't have to be! You can browse social media accounts dedicated to all things getaway, ask friends for suggestions, read roundups like this one or even speak with a travel agent. Travel agencies exist to help individuals live their best lives on the vacations of their dreams.

Legacy Travel, for example, is a nationwide travel agency with offices located in Chicago and Dallas. They specialize in varying types of cruises, safaris and all-inclusive vacations. Owner Cathi Banks weighs in with her advice for the absolute best travel destinations for December, no matter which climate you're looking for.

Related: 40 Best Family Vacations on a Budget—and Yep, They Include Europe and the Caribbean

8 Best Places To Travel for Snow in December

If you're looking for snow and all the winter activities you can handle, Banks suggests visiting Jackson, Wyoming, Salt Lake, Utah or the Rockies (and/or any surrounding areas of Colorado). Any of these spots will have you sipping hot cocoa fireside and making smores to your heart's content!

1. Jackson Hole, Wyoming

Banks' first suggestion is Jackson Hole, which is rather close to Yellowstone National Park, so it may be worth your while to try and visit both should Wyoming be your choice this year.

Not sure just what to do during your trip to the Tetons? Not to worry! Follow Jackson Hole Mountain Resort's first-timer's guide to fill your time with fun! Don't forget to book snowshoeing, a winter bike tour or a sleigh ride!

2. Leavenworth, Washington

Located in the Cascade Mountains, Leavenworth is a Bavarian-style town that boasts German beer and food, along with the Nutcracker Museum which displays thousands of nutcrackers, some centuries old. You won't be left wanting for Christmas lights if you visit Leavenworth as almost every building is decorated and lit up for the holiday.

3. Park City Mountain Resort, Utah

Just a little over 30 miles outside Salt Lake City, this resort has it all. Its most famous attractions are skiing, of course, snowboarding and the Sundance Film Festival, which happens in January. With childcare and spa opportunities, there are no shortages of indulgence at Park City Mountain!

4. Winter Park, Colorado

Ski season this year started on November 3, so you can head over and get right on the slopes! Go snow tubing (even in the dark!), ice skating, snowshoeing or attend the tree lighting celebration. Winter Park, Colorado is a winter wonderland—perfect for December travel.

5. Frankenmuth, Michigan

A Bavarian-style town, Frankenmuth shines bright each December for the holidays. The Christmas Experience includes activities such as writing letters to Santa, skating on an ice rink, a driving light tour and a singing Christmas tree! Revel in all things holidays in Frankenmuth this year.

6. Asheville, North Carolina

If you're looking for snow and a gorgeous little town, Asheville is the place for you. Hosting a variety of things to do and see like art galleries, street performances, boutique shopping and the iconic Blue Ridge Parkway Road, Asheville is an idyllic getaway.

7. Deer Valley Resort, Utah

Utah is another of Banks' suggestions to visit in December. So, if Utah and skiing seem more your speed, Deer Valley is the place for you! They pride themselves on limiting the amount of skiers on the mountain at a time to provide the most enjoyable experience.

8. Keystone Resort, Colorado

Indulge in the resort life with the decadent foods, spa and massage appointments, as well as ski passes and shopping. Established in 1970, Keystone Resort is an experience that rivals the larger resorts while still feeling cozy and attainable for those with slightly lower budgets.

Related: Add the Rocky Mountaineer to Your Bucket List—'It Was One of the Most Scenic Trips I've Ever Taken'

One thing to keep in mind for your travel plans is altitude sickness. Less fun, I know, but from personal experience, it would be wise to drink more water than you think is necessary—and then have at least another bottle! Hydration is key in avoiding the worst effects of going from a low elevation to a suddenly very high elevation.

7 Best Places To Travel for Warm Weather in December

9. Hawaii

If you and your friends or family are looking to escape the cold and mountains of snow this year, consider saying "Aloha!" to the islands of Hawaii. Bask in the mid-80s, learn to surf, enjoy local cuisine or try out hula dancing! According to Banks, the best place to visit in the U.S. during the month of December is Hawaii.

10. Costa Rica

Costa Rica is a warm weather paradise. From lush rainforests to volcanoes and serene beaches, this Central American getaway is a wonderful choice for fans of the outdoors.

11. The Caribbean

Banks says another great "sun and fun" vacation spot for December is the Caribbean. With high temperatures averaging in the 80s during the day and 70s at night, it really is the perfect weather to enjoy all those summer activities you're longing for. A downfall of the Caribbean winter is the possibility of a hurricane. Don't let that deter you though! All you need to do is check the forecast before planning.

12. Puerto Rico

Getting more specific, Puerto Rico (in the Caribbean) hosts vast landscapes such as mountains, rainforests and plenty of waterfalls. In the capital of San Juan, you'll find the Isla Verde area which is known for its strip of hotels, casinos and beach bars.

13. Key West, Florida

Go diving and snorkeling this December in Key West. While temperatures are still rather mild, averaging highs in the mid-seventies, (Fahrenheit) there's plenty to do! Go on a fishing charter, or go sightseeing to the Tropical Forest and Botanical Garden, which is 15 acres of native gardens and forest dedicated to preserving, protecting and sustaining the tropical ecosystem of the Keys.

14. San Diego, California

Located on the Pacific coast of California, San Diego is a bustling city full of adventure waiting for you and your friends or family. Visit the famous Balboa Park which houses the San Diego Zoo, museums, theaters and gardens and walking paths. San Diego averages only four rainy days every December, so it's nothing but sunshine for your December vacation!

15. Mexico

Banks also suggests going to Mexico. "The weather's perfect. It's just a beautiful time of year there." December generally marks the beginning of the dry season for Mexico, so while the humidity may still seem a bit much for some, it's actually the least heavy this time of year.

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Best Time To Travel in December

"The first half of the month is ideal for the best price and the least crowds," says Banks. "After the 15th and on, it's going to be super crowded, super expensive, or not even available at this point."

That being said, it seems that the key to winter travel, especially for a prime location, is planning! In an ideal world, we could plan our December getaway as early as April. However, life isn't always picture-perfect. And sometimes, the best vacations are the last-minute, spur-of-the-moment getaways, after all.

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