While many people choose to take their big yearly trips in the warm summer months, traveling in the winter off-season can be just as effective for exploring and recharging. Shop at the German 'Weihnachtsmarkt,' rejuvenate in beautiful India, see the Big Five in South Africa, or cycle around Phnom Penh.
Explore South Africa during December and view stunning sceneries of (and from) the Towering mountain ranges. See the 'Big Five' at the national parks. Get a real experience of African culture and cuisine, among other local experiences. The weather is warm in December, and you must make it a point to go for a safari at the Kruger National Park. You can spend the hours at the beach and explore Table Mountain all in one day. Other places to visit include the Blyde River Canyon, the Panorama route, the coastlines of Hermanus, the Addo Elephant National Park, and the historic Robben Island.
If you're looking for an opportunity to rejuvenate, then you should head over to India in December. You will love the tranquility while you explore this beautiful country. Go for a houseboat ride in the Kerala backwaters, take part in the cultural festival at Fort Kochi, and much more. A visit to India is not complete without visiting the iconic Taj Mahal, the Pink City at Jaipur, and catching breathtaking sunsets at Brahmaputra River. Do not leave India without tasting the local cuisine; the locals love spicy food, so ready your taste buds.
The weather in Cambodia during December is dry, so you will have the perfect temperatures to explore the country's natural landmarks. Visit the tombs at Angkor Wat, cycle in Phnom Penh, or backpack across the country. Alternatively, explore the ancient cities and ruins at places such as Krong Siem Reap. Spend time at the pristine beaches and eat with the locals, and be sure to try the famous Cambodian cuisine.
The Holy Land, or Israel, will help you remember what Christmas is all about. It is a religious country and has a mix of Christians, Jews, and Muslims. The Jewish festival of lights, or Hanukkah, coincides with Christmas, thereby adding to the air of festivities across the country. The Sea of Galilee, Masada National Park, Mount Zion, and Ein Gedi are also fantastic places to visit.
Enjoy the holiday season in Germany and prepare to shop. Visit the German Weihnachtsmarkt, or Christmas markets, for a shopping experience like no other. The markets are in almost all cities, including Cologne, Nuremberg, Frankfurt, and Munich.