It’s the most wonderful vacation time of the year! Maybe you’re traveling solo this month to avoid awkward holiday festivities — yes, I’m still single, Grandma! Perhaps you’re looking for a getaway that you and your family will never forget! Or, you may just be using up some of those vacation days before they’re lost forever!

Whatever your reason for getting away this holiday season, December is the perfect month to get out there. So to celebrate the last month of the year, we’ve gift wrapped our top 5 festive spots to visit in December—just for you!

If You’re Outdoorsy…Aspen!

Do you have mad mountain shredding skills? Or maybe you just want to take on your first bunny slope? (Bend your knees!) Either way, you’ll find what you’re looking for in Aspen, Colorado! With four mountains of varying skill levels, Aspen is the perfect ski town for all travelers with a hankering for some powder. The season starts in late November with more advanced ski runs opening by mid December, so book early to beat the winter rush.

If you need a break from the ski slopes, check out all of the other attractions that Aspen has to offer. Take a sleigh ride, or try mountain tubing! Relax at a spa, or just grab a bite to eat! Aspen has many bars and restaurants, both on the mountains and in town. Talk about your very own Winter Wonderland!

If You’re Feeling Festive…Munich!

For anyone longing for a traditional holiday experience, you need look no further than Munich, Germany. December is the ideal time to visit Munich thanks to its annual festive market which dates back to the 14th century.

The market runs from November through December and is the perfect venue for all your holiday shopping needs. The giant tree and holiday activities will get any Grinch into the festive spirit. You can take Bavarian singing lessons or enroll your kids in one of the child-friendly workshops with activities ranging from baking to crafting. Nestled in the historic city center, the Munich Market is a great place to experience Munich. Just be sure to layer up: the average temperature for December in Munich is 33 degrees Fahrenheit! But that’s nothing that a steaming mug of German hot chocolate couldn’t fix!

If You Enjoy Bright Lights…Fairbanks!

The Aurora Borealis, also known as the Northern Lights, is one of the greatest natural wonders that our planet has to offer. While the lights are always visible somewhere in the world throughout the winter months, December is the optimal time for catching these spectacular displays in Fairbanks, Alaska. When planning your trip, make sure to check out the Aurora Borealis forecasts from the Geophysical Institute at the University of Alaska, Fairbanks, to ensure you find the perfect spot for viewing!

The lights are not the only attractions to be found around these parts. Take a tour of a reindeer ranch, or visit the Fountainhead Antique Auto Museum for a four-wheel blast from the past.  For a true Alaskan experience that you’ll never forget, how about testing your sled-handling skills with a classic dog-sledding tour? If your time in Fairbanks leaves you feeling chill, make sure to warm up with a dip in the Chena Hot Springs before you leave.

If You Just Want to Party…Rio!

Ring in the New Year in a tropical paradise! Rio de Janeiro‘s New Year’s party on Copacabana Beach is a world famous celebration. The New Year festivities begin at 8 P.M. with live music that ranges from traditional Brazilian to good old rock n’ roll.  The fireworks show spans the length of the beach and begins at the stroke of midnight.

Local Brazilian tradition encourages you to wear white to bring you good luck in the New Year, and other accents of color to bring fortune in different areas of your life. Wear green for health, yellow for success, and red for romance! While you’re in Rio, make sure to take in some live samba in the historic Lapa neighborhood. If the past year felt long to you, then Rio is the ideal place to shake it off on the dance floor.

If You Want to Sail Away…Phuket!

Head to Phuket, Thailand for The King’s Cup Regatta!  The largest regatta in Asia began in 1987 to celebrate the King of Thailand’s 60th birthday and this year, it runs from December 4th through December 12th. Now in its 28th year, this sailing celebration will be an experience to remember for all sailing enthusiasts out there, and a great spectacle for the more casual observer!

While you’re in Phuket, make sure to do some sailing and scuba diving of your own to take full advantage of the crystal clear ocean waters that surround this island city. After such a hectic year, don’t forget to relax on the beautiful beaches—you know you totally deserve it!

Do you have any special holiday trips planned ? Let us know in the comments below!