Let’s be real, Christmas can be intense. Between November and January, you can’t avoid it – every daytime TV presenter is wrapped in tinsel, Mariah Carey’s on repeat down Tesco, and next door always goes OTT with the decs. Whether you’re just not a fan or don’t celebrate at all, December isn’t the most wonderful time of the year for everyone…
But before you enter Grinch mode – the solution doesn’t have to be staying in until it’s all over, btw. We’ve pulled together four holiday destinations around the world where Christmas is nowhere near as big a deal as it is in the UK – or, better still, it’s not even a thing. We’re talking places in North Africa, the Middle East and Southeast Asia where Christianity isn’t the main religion. Wherever you go, we can’t promise you won’t see a single Santa or piece of tinsel – lots of hotels still decorate for Western tourists – but you should be pretty safe from Xmas overload when you’re out and about.
So, here are the best destinations to escape Christmas this December…
Egypt
Egypt’s the perfect December destination for dodging Christmas – the weather’s still warm, it’s packed with ancient sites and most of the locals are Muslim, so the 25th is basically an ordinary day here. There’s a small Coptic Christian community, but their celebrations aren’t until the 7th of January, and the UK will be back to business as usual by then, anyway.
What’s the weather like in December?
Expect around 22-26°C during the day – ideal for sightseeing and cruising down the Nile without getting a sweat on. Evenings can get a little cooler, though, so bring a light layer.
Where to go:
- Cairo – Egypt’s capital is buzzy all year round. Pick up handmade crafts in the souks, people-watch in traditional cafés and soak up that iconic view of the Pyramids.
- Luxor – perfect for temple-hopping, especially in December when the crowds are smaller and the heat’s toned down a bit.
- Sharm El Sheikh – serves up mega resorts, beach clubs and world-class diving in the Red Sea. December’s prime time for windsurfing and sunset boat trips, too.
- Hurghada – this beachy pick’s popular for its boujie marina, epic beaches and snorkelling in the coral reefs.
Morocco
It’s only a short flight from home, but Morocco couldn’t feel further from the UK – in the best way. Swap grey skies and drizzle for desert sunsets, old-world bazaars and boho beach towns. Islam’s the official religion here, so you won’t see anything Christmassy other than the decorations that are put up for tourists.
What’s the weather like in December?
It’s usually between 18°C and 24°C, depending on where you go – cities tend to be warmer and coastal breezes cool things down. If you’re staying in the desert, the temperature drops enough for spending wholesome evenings around a firepit while you stargaze.
Where to go:
- Marrakech – this city always brings the energy. December’s cooler weather is comfy for exploring the souks and the calendar is filled with cultural events, like the Marrakech International Film Festival.
- Essaouira – a beachy babe with a laidback vibe. Come here for great surf, fresh seafood and historic port scenes.
- Fez – AKA the cultural capital. Fez loves a cultural sight, from stunning mosques and Medieval architecture to the University of Al-Qarawiyyin, one of the oldest universities in the world.
- Casablanca – big on old-world charm. Art Deco buildings give everything a vintage look and you can even have your main-character moment in Rick’s Café, just like the one in the classic film.
Tunisia
Most countries around the Mediterranean are no-go zones if you’re trying to avoid Christmas, but Tunisia’s all yours. Like Egypt and Morrocco, it’s another North African country where Islam’s the main local religion, so Christmas isn’t an important part of the cultural calendar. Must-do things here include exploring old ruins, desert safaris and medina tours…
What’s the weather like in December?
During the day, temperatures usually sit around 16-20°C – mild enough for sightseeing but warm enough to feel like you’re leaving winter at home.
Where to go:
- Tunis – city break material. Check out Carthage’s ruins, wander down the Medina’s cobbled lanes and don’t miss the Insta-worthy Sidi Bou Said.
- Sousse – this beachfront pick’s been here for almost 3,000 years, so you’ve got plenty of throwbacks to visit. Its Medina’s scored UNESCO status – inside there’s a lively souk, the Great Mosque and the gorg Mosaic Museum.
- Hammamet – this stylish part of the coast’s been compared to St Tropez – it’s all immaculate sweeps, boujie beachfront resorts and chic clubs. But, the Old Town gives away its fishing village lore.
- Djerba Island – leave the mainland behind for 125km of coastline, whitewashed villages and lush olive groves. And if you’re into sci-fi, don’t freak out but parts of the first Star Wars were filmed here…
Thailand
Thailand’s a Buddhist country, so the locals don’t really celebrate Christmas, but that doesn’t mean there’s nothing going on in December… New Year is the main event in cities and beach resorts, and you can expect mega parties that start in the build-up to New Year’s Eve. Think huge fireworks displays, floating lantern ceremonies and DJ sets until the AM. Plus, it’s right in the middle of peak season, so the vibes are unreal.
What’s the weather like in December?
Thailand’s dry season runs from November to March, so the chance of rain’s super slim. Days average a toasty 30°C, with blue skies and low humidity.
Where to go:
- Bangkok – chaos, but the good kind. December’s the perf time to visit the Grand Palace and Wat Pho temple during the day, then visit 24/7 food markets and legendary clubbing streets at night.
- Phuket – Thailand’s largest island mixes luxe stays, lively beaches and epic nightlife. Days are for snorkelling in Phang Nga Bay and chilling on Kata Beach. Once the sun sets, head to Bangla Road or Patong Beach for all-nighter parties.
- Krabi – a great base for island-hopping. At this time of year, the seas are calm – perfect for boat trips to Railay Beach, Koh Poda and the Phi Phi Islands, or kayaking through mangroves.
- Khao Lak – the vibe here’s more peace than parties. Chill out on palm-lined beaches, trek through rainforests or get involved in the watersports scene. December’s the start of the diving season in the Similan and Surin Islands, famous for coral gardens and manta rays.
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Author and pronouns: Daisy Colley (she/her)
Last updated: 30/10/25
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