San Francisco, California: A Culinary Adventure and Luxury Hotel Boom

San Francisco is a must-visit destination in December, offering a unique blend of iconic landmarks, exciting dining rooms, and buzzy nightlife. The city’s iconic skyline is a sight to behold, featuring the Golden Gate Bridge, the Transamerica Pyramid in Chinatown, and the waterfront Ferry Building, which has become one of the city’s top dining destinations in recent years.

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One of the city’s newest and most exciting restaurants is Arquet, which has just opened its doors to the public. This Michelin-acclaimed eatery is from the same team behind Sorrel and showcases fresh, locally sourced produce from the Ferry Building Farmers Market. Another must-visit restaurant is Hayati, a Mediterranean kitchen by Paris-born restaurateur Kaïs Bouzidi of local faves Sens and Barcha.

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If you’re looking for a night out, The Deluxe is the place to be. This restored jazz club has an improved sound system, classic cocktails, and live music every night. To get into the holiday spirit, catch the San Francisco Ballet’s staging of The Nutcracker, which runs from December 4 to 27. And if you want to ring in the new year in style, catch the free public fireworks show over the San Francisco Bay at midnight on New Year’s Eve, launched from barges near the Ferry Building and Pier 14.

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For a place to stay, check out The Huntington Hotel, a storied landmark that closed during the pandemic and reopened in March this year. This reimagined landmark in Nob Hill offers luxurious accommodations and stunning views of the city. Alternatively, consider staying at 1 Hotel San Francisco, a hotel with an eco ethos near the Embarcadero.

Seville, Spain: A Winter Getaway in the Sun

Seville, in the south of Spain, is another top destination for a winter getaway in December. With mild daytime temperatures of 61°F to 63°F, it’s the perfect place to escape the cold and enjoy the city’s many attractions. One of the city’s newest and most exciting hotels is La Casa del Limonero, which welcomed guests in April 2025 after a major renovation of the 15th-century palace-house.

Seville is also a foodie’s paradise, with iconic restaurants like Cañabota, Jaylu, Casa Ruperto, and Yebra serving up delicious cuisine. For a drink, head to one of the city’s many buzzy cocktail bars, such as Naked and Famous, Plácido y Grata, or Tremenda Muela. And for a luxury hotel experience, consider staying at Cristine Bedfor Guest Houses Sevilla, a super stylish stay in a building designed by Seville’s star architect.

Queenstown, New Zealand: A Summer Vibe in the Southern Hemisphere

For those chasing a summer vibe, head to Queenstown, New Zealand, the adventure capital of the Southern Hemisphere. With its stunning natural beauty, Queenstown is a must-visit destination in December, offering a range of outdoor activities and attractions. From skiing and snowboarding to hiking and bungee jumping, there’s something for every adventure-seeker in Queenstown.

For a place to stay, consider staying at one of the many luxury hotels and resorts in the area, such as the Millbrook Resort or the Queenstown Park Resort. And for a unique experience, take a scenic flight over Milford Sound or go on a wine tour in the nearby Gibbston Valley.