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Where to Go for Christmas Sun: A Comprehensive Guide to Warm Destinations

The festive season is upon us, and while many relish the thought of a white Christmas, others dream of escaping the cold to bask under the sun. If you're among the latter, you're in luck! This comprehensive guide will take you through the best destinations to catch some Christmas sun. Whether you're looking for a balmy beach or a city that's warm in December, we've got you covered. Plus, with Flight Plan Book, finding the best flight deals has never been easier. So, pack your sunscreen, and let's embark on a journey to find the perfect sunny spot for your Christmas holiday.

Table of Contents

Destinations with 30°C and Above

If you're looking for a scorching Christmas, these destinations won't disappoint:

Thailand

Thailand, known as the "Land of Smiles", offers a tropical paradise during December. With temperatures soaring above 30°C, it's a haven for sun-seekers.

  • Why to Go: Apart from the warm weather, Thailand boasts a rich cultural heritage, mouth-watering cuisine, and pristine beaches.
  • Popular Attractions: Visit the Grand Palace in Bangkok, explore the ancient temples in Ayutthaya, or relax on the beaches of Phuket and Krabi.
  • Things to Do: Take a traditional Thai cooking class, go island hopping, indulge in spa treatments, or attend a full moon party in Koh Phangan.

Australia

December is summer in Australia, making it an ideal destination for those looking to escape the winter chill.

  • Why to Go: From vibrant cities to stunning beaches and unique wildlife, Australia offers a diverse range of experiences.
  • Popular Attractions: Explore the Sydney Opera House, dive into the Great Barrier Reef, or take a road trip along the Great Ocean Road.
  • Things to Do: Surf on Bondi Beach, witness the beauty of Uluru at sunset, or spot kangaroos and koalas in the wild.

Maldives

The Maldives, an archipelago of 26 atolls in the Indian Ocean, is synonymous with luxury, romance, and tropical beauty.

  • Why to Go: Perfect for honeymooners, families, and solo travellers alike, the Maldives offers overwater bungalows, clear blue waters, and vibrant marine life.
  • Popular Attractions: Explore the coral reefs, visit the glowing beaches on Vaadhoo Island, and relax in luxury resorts.
  • Things to Do: Dive with manta rays, snorkel in clear lagoons, indulge in spa treatments, or dine in an underwater restaurant.

Indonesia (Bali)

Bali, Indonesia's famed Island of the Gods, is known for its highly developed arts, including traditional and modern dance, sculpture, painting, and music.

  • Why to Go: With its lush landscapes, iconic rice paddies, and spiritual essence, Bali is a tropical paradise that offers serenity and adventure in equal measure.
  • Popular Attractions: Visit the Uluwatu Temple, explore the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary, and relax on Seminyak Beach.
  • Things to Do: Take a Balinese cooking class, surf on Kuta Beach, visit the Tegalalang Rice Terrace, or attend a traditional Kecak dance performance.

India (Goa)

Goa, a former Portuguese colony, is India's smallest state by area but is big on tourism, drawing in visitors with its blend of Indian and Portuguese cultures, sweetened with sun, sea, sand, seafood, and spirituality.

  • Why to Go: Known for its vibrant nightlife, historic sites, and diverse flora and fauna, Goa offers a unique blend of Indian and Portuguese heritage, architecture, and culture.
  • Popular Attractions: Explore the Basilica of Bom Jesus, relax on Anjuna Beach, and visit the Fort Aguada.
  • Things to Do: Attend a beach party, explore the local markets, indulge in water sports, or take a yoga retreat.

Destinations with 25°C and Above

For those who prefer a slightly cooler yet still warm Christmas, these destinations offer the perfect balance:

Morocco (Marrakech)

Marrakech, a former imperial city in western Morocco, is a major economic centre and home to mosques, palaces, and gardens.

  • Why to Go: Marrakech offers a rich tapestry of history, culture, and architecture, making it a mesmerising destination for travellers.
  • Popular Attractions: Wander through the Jardin Majorelle, explore the Saadian Tombs, and get lost in the bustling Jemaa el-Fnaa square.
  • Things to Do: Shop for unique souvenirs in the souks, take a traditional Moroccan cooking class, or relax in a hammam.

Mexico (Cancún)

Cancún, located on the northeast coast of the Yucatán Peninsula in the Mexican state of Quintana Roo, is known for its beaches, numerous resorts, and nightlife.

  • Why to Go: Perfect for beach lovers and history enthusiasts alike, Cancún offers a blend of modern amenities and ancient Mayan history.
  • Popular Attractions: Visit the El Rey Ruins, relax on Playa Delfines, and explore the underwater museum, MUSA.
  • Things to Do: Dive in the cenotes, take a day trip to Chichén Itzá, or enjoy the vibrant nightlife.

New Zealand (Auckland)

Auckland, based around 2 large harbours, is a major city in the north of New Zealand’s North Island.

  • Why to Go: Known as the "City of Sails", Auckland offers a mix of urban and natural attractions.
  • Popular Attractions: Climb the Auckland Harbour Bridge, visit the Sky Tower, and explore Waiheke Island.
  • Things to Do: Take a ferry to Rangitoto Island, visit the Auckland Art Gallery, or indulge in wine tasting on Waiheke Island.

Destinations with 20°C and Above

These destinations offer a pleasant warmth, perfect for those who want to escape the cold but not the festive feel of the season:

Portugal (Lisbon)

Lisbon, the hilly coastal capital city of Portugal, is known for its cafe culture, Fado music, and the historic Belém Tower.

  • Why to Go: Lisbon offers a blend of modern culture and ancient history, with its cobbled streets, historic sites, and vibrant nightlife.
  • Popular Attractions: Explore the Jerónimos Monastery, take a tram ride on the historic Tram 28, and visit the LX Factory for unique shops and restaurants.
  • Things to Do: Listen to traditional Fado music, taste the famous 'pastel de nata' pastries, or take a day trip to the nearby Sintra.

South Africa (Cape Town)

Cape Town, set on a peninsula beneath the imposing Table Mountain, is known for its harbour, natural setting, and the historic District Six Museum.

  • Why to Go: From its iconic Table Mountain to its vibrant V&A Waterfront, Cape Town offers a mix of nature, culture, and history.
  • Popular Attractions: Visit Robben Island, take a cable car up to Table Mountain, and explore the Cape Winelands.
  • Things to Do: Dive with sharks in Gansbaai, visit the penguins at Boulders Beach, or explore the Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens.

Japan (Kyoto)

Kyoto, once the capital of Japan, is famous for its numerous classical Buddhist temples, as well as gardens, imperial palaces, and traditional wooden houses.

  • Why to Go: Kyoto offers a journey back in time to Japan's ancient past, with its preserved streets, traditional tea houses, and historic temples.
  • Popular Attractions: Visit the Fushimi Inari Shrine, explore the bamboo groves of Arashiyama, and wander through the historic Gion district.
  • Things to Do: Attend a traditional tea ceremony, wear a kimono and explore the city, or visit during cherry blossom season for a magical experience.

Destinations with 15°C and Above

These destinations offer a mild climate, ideal for those who prefer cooler temperatures while still escaping the harsh winter cold:

Italy (Rome)

Rome, the capital of Italy, known as the Eternal City, is a sprawling cosmopolitan city with nearly 3,000 years of globally influential art, architecture, and culture on display.

  • Why to Go: Rome offers a journey through history with its ancient ruins, Renaissance art, and vibrant street life.
  • Popular Attractions: Explore the Colosseum, visit the Vatican City, and toss a coin into the Trevi Fountain.
  • Things to Do: Enjoy a gelato while strolling through the historic streets, visit the Roman Forum, or indulge in authentic Italian cuisine at a local trattoria.

Spain (Barcelona)

Barcelona, the cosmopolitan capital of Spain’s Catalonia region, is known for its art and architecture, especially the fantastical Sagrada Família church by Antoni Gaudí.

  • Why to Go: Barcelona offers a mix of modernist landmarks, medieval streets, and beautiful beaches.
  • Popular Attractions: Visit the Gothic Quarter, explore Park Güell, and admire the architecture of Casa Batlló.
  • Things to Do: Watch a flamenco show, relax on Barceloneta Beach, or take a tapas tour through the city's bustling markets.

USA (San Francisco)

San Francisco, located in northern California, is known for its hilly landscape, iconic Golden Gate Bridge, and historic cable cars.

  • Why to Go: San Francisco offers a diverse cultural experience, with its mix of historic neighborhoods, tech innovation, and stunning natural beauty.
  • Popular Attractions: Explore Alcatraz Island, stroll through Fisherman's Wharf, and visit the Museum of Modern Art.
  • Things to Do: Bike across the Golden Gate Bridge, explore the diverse neighborhoods like Chinatown and the Mission, or relax in Golden Gate Park.

Best Time to Book

Securing the perfect Christmas sun getaway requires a bit of planning. Knowing when to book can make a significant difference in terms of cost, availability, and overall experience. Here's a guide to help you make the most of your holiday planning:

Early Bird Gets the Worm

Booking your Christmas getaway early can often secure you the best deals. Airlines and hotels tend to offer attractive prices several months in advance to ensure occupancy. By booking early, you not only get a wider choice but often better prices too.

Last-Minute Deals

If you're flexible with your travel plans, waiting for last-minute deals can be beneficial. Airlines and hotels might drop their prices to fill up remaining seats and rooms. However, this approach can be a bit risky, especially during the peak Christmas season, as popular destinations might get fully booked.

Utilise Flight Aggregators

Using flight aggregators like Flight Plan Book and Kiwi can help you compare prices across various airlines and booking sites, ensuring you get the best deal possible. These platforms often have exclusive deals and offer price alerts for your chosen destinations.

Consider Alternative Airports

If you're flying to a major city, consider checking flights to and from nearby airports. Sometimes, smaller or alternative airports might offer better deals or more convenient flight times.

Travel During the Shoulder Season

While Christmas is peak season for many destinations, travelling just before or after the main holiday rush can offer better prices and fewer crowds. Research the shoulder season for your chosen destination and consider adjusting your dates for a more relaxed and cost-effective experience.

Common Misconceptions

When it comes to finding the perfect sunny Christmas destination, there are several misconceptions that travellers often believe. Let's debunk some of these myths:

1. Christmas Sun Destinations are Always Expensive

While it's true that many popular destinations see a surge in prices during the festive season, there are always deals to be found. By being flexible with your travel dates, using flight aggregators like Flight Plan Book, and considering off-the-beaten-path locations, you can enjoy a sunny Christmas without breaking the bank.

2. Last-Minute Bookings Always Offer the Best Deals

While last-minute deals can sometimes offer significant savings, waiting too long can also mean limited choices and higher prices, especially during peak seasons. It's always a balance between booking early to secure your preferred choice and waiting for potential price drops.

3. All Warm Destinations Offer a Beach Experience

Not all sunny destinations are beach-centric. Places like Marrakech or Rome offer warm temperatures without the typical beach setting. It's essential to research and choose a destination that aligns with your holiday vision.

4. Christmas Sun Means Missing Out on Festive Activities

Many sun-soaked destinations go all out for Christmas, offering festive markets, local traditions, and unique celebrations. You can enjoy the warmth while still indulging in the festive spirit.

5. Direct Flights are Always the Best Option

While direct flights offer convenience, layovers or connecting flights can sometimes lead to significant savings. Plus, they can provide an opportunity to explore an additional city or country during your journey.

Key Takeaways

Planning a sunny Christmas getaway can be an exciting endeavour. Here are the essential points to remember from this guide:

  • Destination Choices: From the balmy beaches of the Canary Islands to the cultural richness of Rome, there's a sunny Christmas destination for every traveller's preference.
  • Booking Strategy: Whether you're an early bird or a last-minute planner, using flight aggregators like Flight Plan Book can help you find the best deals. Remember to be flexible with your dates and consider alternative airports for added savings.
  • Debunking Myths: Not all sunny destinations are beach-centric, and you don't have to miss out on festive activities just because you're in a warmer climate. Research and planning are key.
  • Local Experiences: Embrace local traditions and festivities. Many warm destinations offer unique Christmas celebrations that can enrich your holiday experience.
  • Stay Informed: Keep an eye on travel advisories, local COVID-19 guidelines, and entry requirements. The travel landscape can change, so it's essential to be prepared.

Summary and Conclusion

As the festive season approaches, the allure of escaping to sunnier climes becomes increasingly tempting. This guide has taken you on a journey through some of the best destinations to consider for a sunny Christmas getaway, from the balmy beaches of the Canary Islands to the historic streets of Rome.

Booking the perfect Christmas sun holiday requires a blend of early planning and flexibility. With tools like Flight Plan Book at your disposal, finding the best flight deals becomes a seamless process. Moreover, by debunking common misconceptions, we've highlighted that a sunny Christmas doesn't mean missing out on festive activities or traditions. Many warm destinations offer their unique spin on Christmas celebrations, providing travellers with a fresh perspective on this joyous occasion.

In conclusion, whether you're a beach lover, a culture enthusiast, or someone looking for a unique festive experience, there's a sunny Christmas destination waiting for you. All it takes is a bit of research, an open mind, and the spirit of adventure. Here's to sunny skies, warm breezes, and a Christmas filled with unforgettable memories!

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