If you’re a winter lover, you’ll want to experience a snowy wonderland. During December, some of the most beautiful landscapes in the world turn to snow. If you’re planning on traveling for a Christmas market or a ski holiday, these countries will give you the perfect excuse to get dressed up and enjoy a magical adventure.
Japan
Although Japan is known for its beautiful cherry blossoms, winter is also a popular tourist season. The silver season provides lesser numbers of tourists to enjoy the country’s renowned snow regions.
Hokkaido, located in northern Japan, is known for its various winter festivals and seafood delicacies. During this season, it also offers plenty of ski activities and tours. One is a trip on an icebreaker ship through the Okhotsk Sea.
The northern Alps, which include areas such as the Hakuba Valley and the Shiga Kogen, are known for their dramatic scenery and exquisite snow-covered peaks. These areas offer Olympic-quality ski resorts. In addition, you can enjoy onsen areas and hot springs at the Jigokudani monkey park.
Finland
The country experiences a period of cold weather during December. Although the average temperature in Finland is -4 degrees Celsius, the temperature in the north can drop to as low as -15 degrees Celsius.
In Finnish Lapland, you can see the Northern Lights, visible from your bed, for about 200 nights each year. Finland’s magical Lapland region is known for its numerous ski slopes, which range from towering peaks to family-friendly runs. It also has plenty of winter activities, such as reindeer safaris and visits to Santa Claus Village.
Austria
Austria is one of the most popular winter destinations in Europe. The country’s numerous ski areas are known for their quality. During winter, it also has plenty of activities and attractions.
During the Christmas season, Vienna is known for its charming Christmas markets. These areas are filled with Christmas-themed activities, such as candle-making and roasting chestnuts.
One of the best ways to experience Austria’s different side is by visiting one of its beautiful Alpine villages. Known as Hallstatt, this area has been attracting thousands of tourists daily due to its magnificent mountain backdrop and pastel-colored houses. It’s also believed that the area inspired Arendelle from the popular Disney movie “Frozen.”
Greenland
Greenland is a country that’s known for its beautiful winter season. The region features magnificent fjords, towering glaciers, and coastal towns covered in white snow. Temperatures in Greenland typically stay below 0 degrees Celsius during December.
The coastline of Greenland is filled with inlets and fjords, areas where massive ice sheets melt and form spectacular glaciers. One of the most popular areas to visit is Narsap Sermia. It can be reached from Nuuk with a short hike.
Another must-do while in Greenland is taking a boat trip to explore the region’s fjords and oceans. One of the most popular ways to do this is by traveling on Greenland’s passenger ferry, the Sarfaq Ittuk. This trip will allow you to see Greenland’s enormous icebergs and rare whales. It also stops at the small settlements located in the region.
The winter season offers various activities and travel experiences that are unlike any other. Besides packing for the cold weather, taking adequate safety precautions, and ensuring that you have the necessary travel insurance, having the proper coverage is also essential for winter travel.