Where to Travel This December: 4 Perfect Destinations for Bajans Ready to Explore
December is that magical time when the world transforms, some places into winter wonderlands, others into festive beach escapes. If you’re living in Barbados and looking to swap your Christmas ham for a snowy street stroll or a mojito under the palm trees, here are five fantastic December getaways to consider this year. Whether you're dreaming of white Christmases or turquoise waters, this list offers something for every kind of traveler.
Toronto, Canada – A Winter Wonderland with Urban Charm
Toronto in December offers all the holiday sparkle you can imagine- Christmas markets, ice skating in Nathan Phillips Square, and charming snowy streets lit with festive cheer. For Bajans looking to experience a true northern winter, Toronto is a top pick.
What to Expect:
Christmas markets (like the Distillery Winter Village)
Shopping on Queen Street West
Beautiful views of the CN Tower dusted in snow
Bonus Tip: Take a side trip to Montreal, just a short plane or train ride away. Known for its French flair, historic architecture, and winter festivals, Montreal is the perfect addition to your Canadian holiday. It’s a popular “triangle” route many Caribbean travelers love: Barbados to Toronto then to Montreal and back to Barbados.
Travel Note: Bajans need an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) to enter Canada by air. It’s a quick and easy online application and usually approved within minutes.
Dominican Republic – All-Inclusive Vibes for the Holidays
For those who want December to feel like July, the Dominican Republic is calling. Picture this: palm trees, beach cabanas, festive drinks, and zero stress. Punta Cana and Puerto Plata are popular picks for all-inclusive resorts that wrap everything into one neat little package- meals, drinks, entertainment, even holiday celebrations.
Why Go Here:
Warm weather, festive beachfront parties
Great mix of family-friendly and adults-only resorts
All-inclusive = no stress, just fun
Whether you're looking for luxury or something more low-key, the DR delivers an easy, relaxing December holiday that feels like a real escape from the usual.
Travel Tip:
If you don’t have a US visa, no worries. Many Bajans connect via Panama, which is a common and convenient route to enter the Dominican Republic hassle-free.
New York City – Holiday Magic in the Big Apple
New York in December is straight out of a movie…literally. Think Rockefeller Center's Christmas tree, snow flurries in Central Park, and Fifth Avenue window displays. If you’ve always dreamed of seeing NYC during the holidays, this is your sign.
Tips for Doing NYC on a Budget:
Fly in early or just after Christmas for better airfare deals
Use the subway instead of taxis, it’s safe and fast
Stay in Brooklyn or Queens for more affordable accommodation
Enjoy free holiday attractions like Bryant Park Winter Village and festive window displays
It’s a big city, but with smart planning, New York can be festive and affordable.
England – A Classic Christmas in London (and Beyond)
If you want that cozy, festive, storybook-style Christmas, England is the perfect choice. From twinkling London lights to charming countryside towns, this destination blends tradition, style, and ease of travel. Barbadians can visit visa-free, and direct flights make it incredibly easy.
Start in London:
Wander through Hyde Park’s Winter Wonderland, one of Europe’s biggest Christmas attractions
Stroll the Southbank Christmas Market with a hot drink in hand
Go shopping under the Oxford Street lights and take in festive West End shows
Then hop over to Bath:
A short train ride from London, Bath is a beautiful Georgian city famous for its Roman baths, quaint streets, and one of the most charming Christmas markets in the UK. It’s the perfect way to round out your English holiday with a slower, scenic pace.
Travel Note:
Barbadians can travel visa-free, but must apply for an ETA (Electronic Travel Authorisation) before visiting the UK. It's mandatory and must be approved before travel. The application is online, quick, and valid for multiple trips over two years.
Why It Works:
Direct flights to London
ETA required, but no visa hassle
Great mix of big-city cheer and peaceful countryside charm
Bonus Destination: A Bit More Adventurous? Try Europe Proper
If you're in the mood for a classic European Christmas, you're in luck, Barbadians don’t need a Schengen visa for short visits to several European countries, opening the door to some of the most enchanting Christmas destinations on the planet.
Picture this:
Twinkling lights strung through centuries-old streets
Mulled wine and gingerbread at festive markets
Gothic architecture covered in snow
Cozy cafés and historic charm at every corner
Yes, flights may be a bit longer with connections through London or another major hub, but the payoff is a winter experience straight out of a fairytale.
Top Picks:
Vienna, Austra – Elegant, imperial, and full of musical charm
Prague, Czech Republic – Enchanting and medieval, with one of Europe’s best holiday atmospheres
Barcelona or Amsterdam – For a slightly warmer (but still festive) vibe
Why It Works:
No Schengen visa required for Barbadian passport holders
Easy connections from London or other European cities
A chance to explore new cultures with holiday flair
Final Thoughts: Where Will You Go This December?
Whether you’re ice-skating in Toronto, beach-lounging in the DR, bargain-hunting in Brooklyn, or sipping hot chocolate in a medieval square in Prague, your December getaway can be exactly what you make it.
Need help booking flights, finding the best resort deals, or creating your perfect itinerary? Our travel experts are ready to guide you every step of the way so all you need to do is pack.
Ready to plan your December escape?
Contact us today or stop by the office, your holiday adventure starts here.
Author: Cara Nichols
Meet Cara, a vibrant young Barbadian woman with an insatiable wanderlust and a passion for sharing her adventures with the world. Cara's love for travel knows no bounds as she explores diverse cultures, tries new cuisines, and immerses herself in unique experiences. Her blog is a captivating blend of vivid storytelling, stunning photography, and insightful reflections, offering readers a glimpse into the beauty and complexities of the world through her eyes. Join Cara on her journey of discovery, where each destination is a new chapter in her inspiring travelogue.
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