Sure, it might seem a little premature, but booking a Christmas holiday in advance is essential when it comes to getting what you want. Here are some travel ideas from luxury tour operator Scott Dunn that cover both ends of the thermometer.
Hot!
New Zealand
A Christmas holiday in NZ is less about snow and more about sun and barbecues in the back garden, albeit with Christmas carols. Curate an itinerary that encompasses top picks of both the North and South Islands offering endless landscapes, sensational scenery and a huge variety of activities for the whole family. From wine tasting in Central Otago to guided Maori tours around Rotorua. From diving in Abel Tasman National Park to whale watching in Kaikoura. Whether you appreciate wildlife, wine, adventure, landscapes or culture, New Zealand has it all in bucket-loads.
Try it: 10-night tailor-made itinerary from $52,900 per person based on a B&B basis and including internal flights and daily experiences
Myanmar
Thinking of staying in Hong Kong but still keen to book a short getaway? A compact five-night itinerary is a great way to experience some of Myanmar’s most beautiful cultural highlights. Step back in time and journey from the last royal capital of the Burmese Kingdom, Mandalay, to the mysterious ancient ruins of Bagan and the lustrous golden stupas of Yangon.
Try it: 5-night tailor-made itinerary from $9,100 per person based on a B&B basis and including internal flights and daily experiences.
Cold!
Sweden
A real winter wonderland, Sweden truly has it all. From the colourful cobbled streets of Stockholm to the wild landscapes of Lapland and the magical Northern Lights. Here, history and culture meet natural beauty and adrenaline-packed activities, creating the perfect playground for both adults and children alike. Just be sure to pack your winter warmers!
Try it: 7-night tailor-made itinerary to Swedish Lapland from $26,700 per person based on a B&B basis and including select experiences.
Bhutan
Why not discover a whole new country as 2019 draws to a close? Embark on a journey to the Himalayan Kingdom of Bhutan in December and you’ll be rewarded with clear blue skies, sunshine and crisp temperatures. If you’re lucky, you might see the amazing landscape blanketed in snow. Combine all the mustsee sights starting in the capital Thimphu, followed by the fertile valley of Punakha and finishing in Paro with the stunning walk to Tiger’s Nest Monastery.
Try it: 6-night tailor-made itinerary to Bhutan from $17,700 per person based on full board including private transfers and daily experiences.
For more information on all these Christmas holidays and more, visit scottdunn.com or call 5806 1600.
See more in our Travel section
Six quick getaways from Hong Kong
Tracing family roots: Melinda’s Story
Top things to see and do in Hong Kong
This article first appeared in the August/September 2019 issue of Expat Living magazine. Subscribe now so you never miss an issue.