Dreaming of swapping snow boots for sandals, exploring a Christmas market straight out of a storybook, or celebrating the holidays somewhere completely new? December is a wonderful time for Canadians to pack their bags and discover the world!

Whether you are dreaming of a tropical beach, a festive European getaway, or an adventure filled with culture and incredible scenery, there are plenty of holiday destinations to add to your travel bucket list.

But before you trade your winter coat for a carry-on, remember that holiday travel planning involves more than booking flights and finding the perfect hotel. Depending on your destination, you may need to consider travel vaccinations, prescription medications, mosquito-borne illnesses, food and water safety, and other health precautions.

At Virtual Travel Clinic, we help Canadians prepare for international adventures with virtual travel health consultations, destination-specific recommendations, and prescriptions for travel vaccines and medications when appropriate.

Ready to find your next holiday escape? Here are 10 of the best places to travel during the holidays, along with tips to help you prepare for a healthier, happier trip.

1. Mexico: Sunshine, Beaches and Festive Celebrations

If your ideal Christmas involves sunshine, delicious food, and a little relaxation, Mexico deserves a spot on your list. It is a popular choice for Canadians looking to escape the winter chill, whether you prefer an all-inclusive resort or a cultural adventure.

Why visit during the holidays?

• Cancún and the Riviera Maya: Enjoy beautiful beaches, resort stays, and opportunities to explore nearby Mayan ruins.
• Puerto Vallarta: Combine Pacific coast scenery with charming streets, local restaurants, and waterfront sunsets.
• Mexico City: Experience museums, historic neighbourhoods, seasonal decorations, and traditional Mexican holiday celebrations.

Mexico offers something for different travel styles, from poolside relaxation to busy city exploration.

Travel health tip: Food and water safety, mosquito-bite prevention, and destination-specific vaccine recommendations are worth considering before departure. Your plans may differ depending on whether you are staying at an all-inclusive resort, exploring cities, or travelling to rural areas.

2. Thailand: Tropical Beaches and Unforgettable Food

Want to spend the holidays somewhere warm, colourful, and full of adventure? Thailand offers a fantastic mix of beaches, temples, bustling markets, and memorable food experiences.

Why visit during the holidays?

• Phuket: Discover beautiful beaches, island excursions, and coastal scenery.
• Bangkok: Explore temples, shopping districts, street markets, and lively neighbourhoods.
• Chiang Mai: Visit historic temples, enjoy local markets, and explore northern Thailand’s cultural attractions.

Thailand is a great option for travellers who want to combine relaxation with sightseeing. You could spend one day lounging on a beach and the next exploring a busy night market.

Travel health tip: Depending on your itinerary, you may need to consider food and water precautions, mosquito-borne illnesses, and recommended travel vaccinations. Travellers visiting rural areas or planning outdoor activities may have different health considerations than those staying in major cities or resorts.

3. Japan: Winter Scenery and Festive City Lights

For Canadians who love winter but want a change of scenery, Japan offers a magical holiday experience. Think sparkling city illuminations, steaming bowls of ramen, traditional temples, and snow-covered landscapes.

Why visit during the holidays?

• Tokyo: Discover seasonal light displays, shopping districts, restaurants, and exciting city attractions.
• Kyoto: Explore traditional architecture, historic temples, and picturesque streets.
• Hokkaido: Enjoy winter scenery and opportunities for skiing, snowboarding, and other cold-weather adventures.

Japan is especially appealing if you want a holiday filled with culture, food, and sightseeing rather than a traditional beach escape.

Travel health tip: Review your routine immunizations and any destination-specific recommendations before departure. If you are planning winter sports or outdoor excursions, remember to consider cold-weather safety, appropriate clothing, and access to medical care.

4. Costa Rica: Rainforests, Wildlife and Outdoor Adventures

If your perfect holiday involves monkeys in the trees, lush rainforests, and beautiful beaches, Costa Rica is an excellent option for nature-loving travellers.

December marks the beginning of the dry season in much of the country, making it an appealing time to explore, although weather conditions can vary by region.

Why visit during the holidays?

• La Fortuna: Visit the Arenal Volcano area, explore rainforest trails, and relax in natural hot springs.
• Manuel Antonio: Combine beach time with wildlife spotting and visits to the national park.
• Monteverde: Discover cloud forests, hanging bridges, and incredible biodiversity.

Costa Rica is ideal for travellers who want a little bit of everything, from relaxing by the ocean to hiking through tropical forests.

Travel health tip: Mosquito-bite prevention is important, as mosquito-borne illnesses can occur in Costa Rica. Food and water safety, recommended vaccinations, and any additional precautions will depend on where you are going and what you plan to do.

5. Australia: A Summer Christmas Down Under

What if you could trade a white Christmas for a sunny one? December falls during summer in Australia, making it a great option for Canadians dreaming of warm weather, coastal adventures, and outdoor celebrations.

Why visit during the holidays?

• Sydney: Enjoy the famous harbour, coastal walks, beaches, and festive city events.
• Gold Coast: Spend your days at the beach, explore theme parks, or discover the surrounding hinterland.
• Melbourne and the Great Ocean Road: Experience arts, food, city attractions, and spectacular coastal scenery.

Australia is a fantastic destination for a longer holiday, particularly if you want to combine city sightseeing with road trips and outdoor activities.

Travel health tip: Check your routine immunizations and review any health considerations relevant to your activities. If you are planning hiking, swimming, or spending long days outdoors, prepare for the summer heat, sun exposure, and dehydration.

6. New Zealand: A Holiday Filled With Natural Wonders

For travellers who would rather spend the holidays exploring mountains, lakes, and scenic roads, New Zealand is hard to beat. December is the beginning of summer, offering opportunities to enjoy the outdoors and explore the country’s remarkable landscapes.

Why visit during the holidays?

• Queenstown: Enjoy mountain views, lake activities, hiking, and adventure experiences.
• Milford Sound: Take in dramatic fjords, waterfalls, and breathtaking scenery.
• Lake Tekapo: Admire turquoise waters, mountain views, and the region’s famous night skies.

New Zealand is particularly well suited to road trips, so consider allowing enough time to explore without rushing from one destination to the next.

Travel health tip: Think about your planned activities when preparing for your trip. Hiking and adventure sports require suitable equipment and preparation, while long road trips call for regular breaks, hydration, and sun protection.

7. Austria: Christmas Markets and Storybook Villages

For a classic Christmas holiday, Austria delivers festive charm in abundance. Imagine strolling through beautifully decorated markets, sipping a warm drink, browsing handcrafted gifts, and admiring historic buildings beneath winter lights.

Why visit during the holidays?

• Vienna: Explore Christmas markets, grand architecture, museums, and traditional cafés.
• Salzburg: Wander through a charming old town surrounded by Alpine scenery.
• Innsbruck: Enjoy festive markets with the added bonus of dramatic mountain views.

Austria is a wonderful choice for couples, families, and anyone who wants to experience a traditional European Christmas atmosphere.

Travel health tip: Winter travel brings its own considerations. Pack suitable layers, prepare for icy conditions, and review your routine immunizations before departure. If you plan to ski or participate in winter sports, make sure you understand the safety requirements and have appropriate travel insurance.

8. The Philippines: Island Hopping and Tropical Escapes

If your version of a holiday getaway includes crystal-clear water, white-sand beaches, and island adventures, the Philippines could be the destination for you.

With thousands of islands, there are plenty of places to enjoy coastal scenery, explore local communities, and spend time on the water.

Why visit during the holidays?

• Palawan: Discover limestone cliffs, lagoons, and incredible coastal scenery.
• Boracay: Relax on white-sand beaches and enjoy a lively holiday atmosphere.
• Cebu: Explore beaches, marine life, and opportunities for water-based adventures.

The Philippines can be a great fit for travellers who want a beach-focused holiday with opportunities to explore beyond their resort.

Travel health tip: Depending on the islands you visit and your planned activities, you may need to consider mosquito-borne illnesses, food and water safety, and destination-specific vaccine recommendations. Island-hopping itineraries can also mean travelling farther from medical facilities, so plan accordingly.

9. South Africa: Wildlife, Coastlines and Big Adventures

Looking for a holiday that feels a little different? South Africa offers a remarkable combination of wildlife experiences, dramatic landscapes, vibrant cities, and coastal adventures. December is summer in the Southern Hemisphere, making it an appealing time to explore many of the country’s outdoor attractions.

Why visit during the holidays?

• Cape Town: Explore the waterfront, visit beaches, and admire Table Mountain.
• Kruger National Park: Experience safari adventures and opportunities to see wildlife in its natural habitat.
• The Garden Route: Discover coastal towns, scenic drives, forests, and beautiful ocean views.

South Africa is especially appealing to travellers who want to combine a city stay with a safari or scenic road trip.

Travel health tip: Your itinerary matters here. Safari travel and visits to certain regions may involve health considerations that differ from those in major cities. Malaria prevention, insect-bite precautions, and recommended or required vaccinations should be reviewed with a travel medicine professional before departure.

10. Peru: History, Culture and Bucket-List Experiences

If you would rather spend the holidays discovering ancient history and incredible landscapes, Peru deserves a place on your travel wish list.

From archaeological wonders to traditional markets and mountain scenery, Peru offers a rich cultural experience for adventurous travellers.

Why visit during the holidays?

• Cusco: Explore historic streets, markets, and architecture shaped by Inca and Spanish influences.
• Machu Picchu: Discover the famous Inca citadel surrounded by dramatic mountain scenery.
• The Sacred Valley: Visit traditional communities, archaeological sites, and beautiful Andean landscapes.

One important detail: December falls within the rainy season in much of the Peruvian Andes. Weather can affect hiking plans and travel arrangements, so build some flexibility into your itinerary.

Travel health tip: Altitude is an important consideration when visiting Cusco and other high-elevation destinations. Travellers should also review food and water safety, mosquito-borne illness risks for relevant regions, and destination-specific vaccine recommendations. If your trip includes trekking or visits to the Amazon, your health preparation may differ considerably from a city-only itinerary.

How to Choose the Best Holiday Destination for You

Still deciding where to spend your December vacation? Start by thinking about what kind of holiday you want. Your ideal destination might be somewhere sunny and relaxing, or it might be a place where you can explore new cultures and enjoy festive traditions.

Here is a quick comparison to help narrow down your options.

Remember that December weather varies considerably between destinations. Research the conditions for your specific travel dates, and check whether seasonal weather could affect your activities.

Your Holiday Travel Health Checklist

Your flights are booked, your accommodation is sorted, and your suitcase is practically packed. But before you head to the airport, take a moment to prepare for your health, too!

International destinations can have different health risks, and the right precautions depend on your destination, medical history, vaccination history, and planned activities.

Use this checklist to get started:

• Review your vaccinations. Check whether routine immunizations are up to date and whether additional travel vaccines are recommended or required for your destination.
• Ask about travel medications. Depending on your itinerary, prescription medications may be appropriate to help prevent or manage certain travel-related illnesses.
• Plan for food and water safety. Learn how to reduce your risk of illnesses associated with contaminated food or water.
• Pack insect repellent. Mosquitoes and other insects can transmit illnesses in some destinations. Find out what precautions are recommended for your trip.
• Prepare for your activities. A beach holiday, a safari, and a high-altitude trek can involve very different health considerations.
• Allow time to prepare. Ideally, arrange your travel health consultation 2 to 4 weeks before departure. Some vaccines require multiple doses or time to provide protection, so earlier preparation may be beneficial.

Not sure what applies to your destination? Virtual Travel Clinic provides destination-specific travel health guidance to help you understand your options and prepare for your trip. You can explore our travel vaccinations and medications page to learn more.

Make Your Next Adventure a Healthy One

The holidays are a wonderful opportunity to explore somewhere new, reconnect with loved ones, or finally tick that dream destination off your bucket list.

Whether you are sipping hot chocolate at a Christmas market in Austria or enjoying sunshine on a beach in Mexico, a little preparation can help you travel with greater confidence.

At Virtual Travel Clinic, we help Canadians prepare for international travel with virtual consultations, personalized travel health recommendations, and prescriptions for travel vaccines and medications when appropriate.

Your next adventure should be full of great memories, not unexpected travel health surprises!

Start Your Trip on the Right Foot

Ready to get your travel health plan in place?

1. Choose your consultation: Visit our booking page and select the consultation that suits your trip.
2. Complete your intake form: Share your destinations, travel dates, activities, and relevant health information.
3. Meet with a Travel Medicine Professional: Discuss your itinerary and receive personalized recommendations.
4. Get prepared for departure: If prescribed, arrange to collect your travel medications and have eligible vaccines administered through a local pharmacy.

Have questions about which consultation is right for your trip? Call us at 1-833-359-4669.

Ideally, book 2 to 4 weeks before departure to allow time for your travel health preparations. If you are travelling soon, recommendations can be tailored to the time available.

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