Top Ten Cheapest Places to Visit in December

Siem Reap is your gateway to the temples of Angkor. This city offers a lot to see without breaking the bank. You can explore ancient ruins, see traditional dance, and shop for crafts. The weather in December is dry and pleasant, with average temperatures around 29°C (84°F). It is also outside the peak tourist season for many Western countries, though it is a popular time in Cambodia. Accommodation and food are very affordable. You can easily find guesthouses for under $20 a night. Meals at local restaurants often cost just a few dollars. Be prepared for early mornings if you want to see the sunrise at Angkor Wat. The site opens early.

Luang Prabang in Laos is a UNESCO World Heritage city. It is known for its many Buddhist temples and colonial architecture. The morning alms giving ceremony is a notable daily event. December offers excellent weather, with cooler temperatures and low humidity. It is considered part of the dry season. This makes exploring the city and surrounding natural areas very comfortable. Costs here are low. You can find budget accommodation and eat well for very little money. Local transport is also inexpensive. The alms giving ceremony requires respectful observation. Visitors should dress modestly and avoid using flash photography.

The Burj Khalifa is the world's tallest building. Visiting the observation decks offers incredible views over Dubai. The surrounding area has modern architecture and shopping. December is a great time to visit Dubai. The weather is mild and sunny, perfect for sightseeing, with temperatures typically in the low to mid 20s Celsius (70s Fahrenheit). However, Dubai is not a cheap destination. While you can find budget friendly food options away from the main tourist areas, accommodation and the Burj Khalifa ticket itself can be expensive. Book tickets for the Burj Khalifa observation decks in advance. Sunset slots are the most popular and sell out quickly.

Tromsø is a city in the Arctic Circle. It is known for its opportunities to see the Northern Lights in winter. The city itself has a cultural hub and wooden houses. December is deep winter here. Expect very short daylight hours, or even the polar night where the sun does not rise. This is prime time for chasing the aurora borealis. Norway is an expensive country. Tromsø is no exception. Accommodation, food, and activities like Northern Lights tours are costly. Pack warm clothing. Temperatures are well below freezing, and you will need layers to stay comfortable, especially when out at night.

Cape Town offers stunning natural beauty with Table Mountain as its backdrop. You can explore beaches, vineyards, and the city's historic sites. It is the oldest city in South Africa. December is summer in Cape Town. Expect warm, sunny weather perfect for outdoor activities. It is also a popular time, so expect crowds. South Africa is generally affordable for international visitors. Accommodation and food offer good value, though some luxury options can be pricey. Table Mountain Cableway tickets can be booked online. Queues can be long during peak season.

Chichen Itza is one of the most famous Maya archaeological sites. You can explore impressive pyramids and structures. It was a major city in its time. December is an excellent month to visit. The weather is dry and warm, with average temperatures around 28°C (82°F). It is outside the hurricane season. Mexico offers good value for money. Entrance fees to sites are reasonable, and food and accommodation can be very cheap, especially away from major tourist resorts. Arrive early to avoid the biggest crowds and the midday heat. The site can get very busy.

Tulum features Maya ruins set on dramatic cliffs overlooking the Caribbean Sea. It offers a mix of history and beach access. It was one of the last cities built by the Maya. December is part of the dry season. The weather is warm and sunny, ideal for exploring the ruins and relaxing on the beaches. It is a popular time to visit. While Mexico is generally affordable, Tulum has become more expensive. Accommodation and dining in the popular beach zone can be pricey. Staying in Tulum town is more budget friendly. The ruins are smaller than some other Maya sites. Manage expectations regarding scale.

The Perito Moreno Glacier in Argentina is a massive ice formation. It is part of the Southern Patagonian Ice Field, the world's third largest reserve of fresh water. You can witness calving ice. December is early summer in Patagonia. The weather is milder, with longer daylight hours. It is a good time for trekking and viewing glaciers. Argentina can offer good value, but prices can fluctuate. Expect to spend on park entrance fees and organized tours for the best glacier access. Accommodation and food costs are moderate. Getting here requires travel to El Calafate. From there, buses or tours go to the glacier viewing platforms.

Rotorua is known for its geothermal activity, with bubbling mud pools and geysers. It is also a center for Māori culture. The city is situated on the shores of Lake Rotorua. December is summer in New Zealand. Expect warm temperatures and long days, ideal for exploring. It is a popular time for both local and international tourists. New Zealand can be an expensive country to travel in. While Rotorua offers a range of accommodation, costs for activities and transport can add up quickly. Self catering can save money. Some geothermal areas have entrance fees. The smell of sulfur is noticeable throughout the city.

Palawan is an archipelago known for its clear waters and limestone cliffs. El Nido and Coron are popular for island hopping and diving. It is often called the Philippines' Last Frontier. December is generally a good month to visit. It marks the start of the dry season with sunny skies and calm seas. Conditions are ideal for water activities. The Philippines is one of the most affordable destinations in Southeast Asia. Palawan offers budget friendly guesthouses and delicious local food at low prices. Travel between islands often involves boat tours. These are usually booked locally and can be a significant part of your daily spend.