Insider Picks for the Best Hotels to Visit in December

Image courtesy of the Rosewood Vienna

Whether you’re celebrating a holiday or just taking advantage of common school breaks, December is always a popular time to travel. So to answer the annual question of where is the best place to travel in December, we’ve put together some of our favorite destinations for all kinds of travel.

If you’re already looking forward to your December vacation, let us know and we will match you with a Fora Advisor to start planning your getaway!

Warm-weather holidays

For those of us in the northern climates, December’s short days and cold temperatures will have us daydreaming about the beach. And these destinations are some of our advisors’ favorites for chasing away those winter blues and soaking in some much-needed sunshine.

“I've seen a major uptick in last-minute festive inquiries, especially following a summer of actually soaking through an unprecedented hurricane season,” Fora Advisor Lauren Ruehl said. “In particular, Caribbean islands seem to be on everyone's radar, with the best resorts nearly booked out for the festive season."

Four Seasons Lanai

Image courtesy of Four Seasons Lanai

Not as famous as its fellow Hawaiian islands, Lanai holds its own with some stellar beaches and dramatic landscapes. There’s not a bad view at the Four Seasons Lanai, where all the dining terraces look toward a stunning crescent beach and Pacific vistas. Outdoor spaces include a lagoon-style pool and blooming gardens, plus a Jack Nicklaus golf course. Families keep the kids busy with the kids club, and for adults, there’s a full-service spa. The resort has a menu of curated experiences from sailing adventures to hula lessons, and there’s even an observatory on the property for star gazers. Terraces and soaking tubs are standard in the traditionally decorated rooms, with sprawling suites featuring ocean views and living areas. 

Pro tip: Book a trip with an arrival before December 31, 2025 and receive a roundtrip luxury flight from Daniel K. Inouye International Airport in Honolulu to Lanai..

• When you book Four Seasons with a Fora Advisor, you will enjoy exclusive Four Seasons Preferred Partner amenities. Your advisor will be pleased to give you more details.
  
  

Maroma, A Belmond Hotel, Riviera Maya

image courtesy of Maroma, A Belmond Hotel

Only a half-hour from Cancun’s airport, Maroma transports travelers to a refined oasis on the Riviera Maya. Natural wood finishes and thatched roofing give the resort a rustic-chic feel, continued in the gorgeous rooms and suites, some with oceanfront terraces. And families will have room to spread out in the multi-room suites and villas. Maroma’s wellness offerings are extensive, with a full-service spa, daily yoga classes and a focus on treatments inspired by Mayan traditions. Outdoor amenities include the stunning beach and three outdoor pools, plus activities like snorkeling, paddleboarding and guided tours.  

• Belmond Bellini Club perks include a hotel credit, daily breakfast, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
  
  

Casa de Campo Resort & Villas

Image courtesy of Casa de Campo Resort & Villas

With its stunning beaches and extensive offerings, Casa de Campo is the perfect destination for families, couples or friends. Not only does the resort offer traditional rooms and suites, but the property also provides a huge selection of villas. Combine that with a beach club, three golf courses and a spa, and any type of traveler can find what they’re looking for here. There are multiple restaurants and bars throughout the resort, as well as food trucks, and your Fora Advisor can help coordinate scheduled activities, like horseback riding, cave tours and sailing lessons. Kids also have a full calendar of programming for ages 1 to teens. 

• Fora Reserve perks include a $200 resort credit, daily breakfast, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
  
  

Active and wellness-focused getaways

Starting the New Year includes reflecting on the old and ushering in new experiences. And when it comes to creating memorable experiences, these resorts are experts.  If you’ve wanted to tackle a new mountain or reset with a spa getaway, here are some of our advisors’ favorite destinations to start the year off well.

“Miraval is the perfect spot to recharge during the festive season,” Fora Advisor Chelsea Gambino said. “Their ‘life in balance’ tagline is woven through every experience on the property, like the digital detox and the incredibly thoughtful menus.”

Montage Deer Valley

Image courtesy of Montage Deer Valley

Reopened after an extensive renovation in 2023 and fresh off being awarded a Michelin Key, the Montage Deer Valley is brimming with luxe details. Think private terraces with your own fire pit, an on-site ski concierge and a full-service spa. Skiers will love the ski-in/out location, and even non-skiers deserve to unwind at the stylish Après Lounge. The guest rooms all have fireplaces, while the suites and residences are particularly convenient for families looking to spread out. And a bonus about being in Deer Valley is that you’re close to the action of downtown Park City while staying in a quieter location.

• Fora Perks include a $100 resort credit, daily breakfast credit, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
  
  

Enchantment Resort, Sedona

Image courtesy of Enchantment Resort, Sedona

Just stepping onto Enchantment’s property will lower your blood pressure. Dramatic red rocks surround the resort, which was built with a low profile to maximize the stunning canyon views from every vantage point. Sweeping terraces with fire pits, a sprawling pool deck and tennis courts encourage you to spend time outdoors, and numerous hiking trails beckon to explore beyond the resort. The Trail House is a dedicated spot where guests can rent outdoor equipment and meet up with guides for hiking, biking or other adventures. For spa treatments, fitness activities and golf, guests have access to nearby partner facilities. Rooms have a minimalist, Southwestern vibe, and there are suites and stand-alone casitas that include living areas, fireplaces and some private plunge pools. 

• Fora Perks include a $100 resort credit, daily breakfast, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
  
  

Miraval Berkshires Resort & Spa

Image courtesy of Miraval Berkshires Resort & Spa

The proximity to both Boston and New York make Miraval Berkshires Resort a convenient choice for New Year’s reset. With the rustic Berkshire Hills as a backdrop, the Miraval property is anchored by its 19th-century brick mansion and 18-hole golf course. And the complex also includes other structures, including chic cottages, a pool area, extensive spa facilities and a few restaurants. Miraval encourages guests to pick an intention for their visit, offering consults with wellness experts and lots of programming: high rope, sound bathing, bee keeping, yoga and equine experiences are just some of your options here. 

• Hyatt Privé perks include a $100 resort credit, daily breakfast, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
  
  

European holiday markets

Europe is famous for its festive holiday markets. And each destination does them a little differently, showcasing local cuisine, artisan wares and cultural traditions. Imagine pedestrian streets strung with magical lights, piazzas filled with artsy booths and the warming smells of mulled wine and roasting chestnuts. Now check out these fabulous hotels that make the perfect home base while exploring these urban wonderlands.

“Spending Christmas in London is a magical experience,” Fora Advisor Bijoy Shah said. “Visit Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park, especially if you're visiting London with kids, or go ice skating at iconic locations such as Canary Wharf and Somerset House.”

Ham Yard Hotel, Firmdale Hotels, London

Image courtesy of Ham Yard

Ham Yard Hotel is a short walk from some of London’s best Christmas markets, including Covent Garden and Leicester Square. The hotel is packed with Firmdale’s trademark bold design, like vibrant fabric headboards, whimsical lighting and eye-catching contemporary art. Connecting rooms and two-bedroom suites are ideal for families, and the on-site restaurant and hip bar are so convenient after a day of exploring. There’s even a bowling alley! With its prime location, just a short stroll from Soho and the West End, you’ll also be able to peruse the shops on Carnaby Street and take in a show in the nearby theater district.

• Fora Reserve perks include a $100 food and beverage credit, daily breakfast, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
  
  

Rosewood Vienna

Image courtesy of Rosewood Vienna

The Rosewood’s location in Vienna’s historic center (known as the Innere Stadt) puts you exactly where you want to be for a December visit. Restaurants, shops and cultural stops are within walking distance, as is the metro and more than one holiday market (don’t miss the market at Rathausplatz). Certainly elegant from the outside, the Rosewood adds a bit of flair in its interiors. Garden-themed murals and modern lighting signal fresh design, while marble checkered floors and gorgeous herringbone wood floors are a nod to the past. Don’t miss the Asaya Spa and the incredible rooftop bar, both are exceptional.

• Rosewood Elite perks include a welcome amenity, daily breakfast and an upgrade whenever possible.
  
  

Kimpton St Honoré Paris

Image courtesy of Kimpton St Honoré

The Tuileries Garden has one of the most central holiday markets, and you’re only a 10-minute stroll away when you stay at the Kimpton St Honoré. Plus you’ll be close to the Louvre, Le Marais and the Saint-Lazare train station. This creative hotel is impressive before you even walk through the door, with its Art Nouveau facade indicating the playful design inside. The restaurant has a garden feel, with sunlight pouring in through skylights, and other pluses include a spa and an indoor pool. Rooms are generously sized (for Paris), and some suites add balconies with enviable Paris views. 

• IHG Luxury & Lifestyle perks include $100 hotel credit, daily breakfast, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
  
  
  

Whether you’re looking for sunny days or snowy slopes, connect with a Fora Advisor to find the perfect match for your winter getaway.