Where to Go in Asia in December and January: A Guide for Australians

For most Australians, the summer months of December and January are the most popular time to travel. It is also not surprising to find that Asia in December sits at the top of many Christmas holiday wish lists.

The downside is that the December and January Christmas holiday season is the most expensive time of year for flights and accommodation. Weather also needs to be taken into consideration as tropical climates compete with the frosty Christmas winter landscapes that divide Asia into a multitude of seasons.

Depending on the destination, tropical beaches may quickly be drenched in daily monsoonal downpours or your Christmas winter wonderland become damp and dreary.

We have lived in Thailand and Vietnam and travelled to over 60 countries and have learnt that choosing the right destination for the Christmas holiday period makes a bigger difference than most people realise.

Below are our top picks for the best places in Asia to visit over Christmas and January. What to expect when you get there, and the places we would think twice about visiting.

Where to Go in Asia in December and January at a Glance

If you are short on time, check out our table. It gives a good overview of the weather, crowds and prices in a wide variety of destinations. We also give our verdict on where to go and where to be more cautious.

Before You Book: Advice on Travelling Over the Christmas Period

Christmas is the ideal time to travel as Christmas and public holidays can easily be stretched into a decent chunk of time off work. Unfortunately, school holidays, Christmas and New Year all land at the same time, so airfares from Australia to Asia rise sharply.

To get the best Christmas and New Year holiday deals it is important to book flights and accommodation well in advance. This may mean booking almost a year ahead for the more popular destinations. This is especially true if you want to secure your favourite hotel and tourist attractions.

If you are flexible there are cheaper options out there. Flying out before the start of the school holidays in early December or travelling on Christmas Day itself is often cheaper. Alternatively, you can postpone your holiday until the second or third week of January, to avoid the initial Christmas holiday rush.

Travel During Chinese New Year and Tet

If your trip stretches into late January, keep an eye on the Lunar New Year. For example, Chinese New Year and Vietnam’s Tet celebrations can fall anywhere between January 21^st and February 20^th depending on what year you are travelling.   

The weeks leading up to it are busy, with domestic travel increasing and prices rising in places like Vietnam, Malaysia and Singapore. In Vietnam especially, many family-run businesses close for several days around Tet itself. When planning your holiday, it is important to check the dates for Lunar New Year before booking your trip.

We experienced Tet when we were in Vietnam and would reconsider travel during this time. Travel between Nha Trang and Da Lat was difficult as most transport was booked out by locals returning home to their families.

Leading up to Tet the supermarket in Da Lat was packed with locals’ frantically shopping for the Vietnamese Lunar New Year. Imagine Christmas grocery shopping in Australia on steroids, you could not move for shopping trolleys.

We stayed in a mid-range hotel with a restaurant, but unfortunately, it was only serving breakfast during Tet. Thankfully, we had the foresight to stock up on instant noodles prior to the holiday which was a good move as restaurants and convenience stores were closed for days over Tet.

If you want to travel during Vietnamese Lunar New Year, I suggest staying in the tourist areas of the capital cities and stay at a hotel brand that guarantees an in-house restaurant.

Check Entry Rules Before You Go

During our travels we have seen changes to the entry rules of many countries. Across Asia conditions of entry may vary between needing a physical visa, being eligible for a visa waiver program or applying online for a digital arrival card prior to leaving home.

We advise checking the latest entry requirements and visa rules for your chosen country before you book. If you need a visa for entry, make sure to have at least 6 months left on your passport and allow extra time for the visa to be processed.  

Book Accommodation Early

Hotels and apartments in popular beach and tourist hotspots book out quickly over Christmas and New Year. If you have a specific hotel in mind, book it as soon as your flights are locked in to avoid disappointment.

When booking accommodation so far in advance we recommend choosing the free cancellation rate in case you need to change travel plans later.

The Best Places in Asia to Visit Over Christmas and January

Over Christmas and January, the best places to visit in Asia will depend on your preferred style of travel and favoured holiday destination.

The Christmas period is the perfect time to recharge and enjoy a wide selection of holiday experiences. Spend the day lazing on a tropical beach, explore the bright lights of the big city, escape to peaceful mountain settings or discover what a white Christmas is all about.

Northern Thailand: Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai

Chiang Mai is our second home, and the peak season between November and February is when it is at its best.

December and January bring cooler weather, with dry, sunny days and comfortable winter daytime temperatures of 25 to 29°C The mornings and evenings are cooler, dropping to around 15°C, making it the ideal time for mountain treks and exploring the alleyways and temples of the Old City.

Keep in mind that February brings the start of the smoky season, a time when farmers burn off their fields and forest fires add to the haze. It usually runs through to April, with March often the worst. Air quality in Chiang Mai during this period is poor, so it’s best avoided if you can.

Chiang Mai at Christmas: What to Expect

This is Chiang Mai’s peak season, so flights from Bangkok and accommodation prices rise, and both book out quickly.

Christmas is alive and well in the tourist areas, and you will see Christmas trees and decorations all over the city. Chiang Mai is busy, and popular tourist destinations such as Doi Suthep and the Sunday Walking Street get crowded.

Traditional Christmas dinner buffets can be found at 5-star hotels such as the Anantara Chiang Mai Resort and Chiang Mai Marriott Hotel. These Christmas buffet packages can be pre-booked through the hotel websites. For less traditional fare, you will find a wealth of Thai and international restaurants across the city.

New Year’s celebrations start with a bang as fireworks light up the skies over Chiang Mai. There are New Year’s Eve festivities across the city, with Tha Phae Gate one of the most popular venues.

Where to Stay in Chiang Mai

Deciding where to stay in Chiang Mai will depend on whether it is your first trip to the region. For first timers to Chiang Mai, the Old City or Night Market area are the best places to stay as they are within easy walking distance of temples and markets.

Nimman is a popular choice for the second-time traveller wanting to enjoy the area’s coffee culture, restaurants and shopping.

Rooms book out quickly over the holidays, so it’s worth comparing hotels in the Old City, around the Night Market and in Nimman to see what’s still available for your dates.

Top Tip
City traffic increases over the Christmas and New Year holidays, making it difficult to get transport between Nimman and the Old City tourist attractions. Waits for a Grab taxi can be around an hour as traffic gets backed up between the two areas.

Things to Do in Chiang Mai

There are so many things to do in Chiang Mai when it comes to tourist attractions. Soak up the local atmosphere and grab a bargain at the night markets.

Visit an ethical elephant sanctuary or take a Thai cooking class. See spectacular views over Chiang Mai from Wat Phra That Doi Suthep Chiang Mai’s most sacred Buddhist temple.

Take a day trip to Chiang Rai’s famous White Temple and Blue Temple. Visit the Royal Twin Pagodas and spend a day trekking Doi Inthanon, Thailand’s highest mountain.

Australians can have a 30-day visa-free stay in Thailand, with the option of a single extension of up to 30 extra days at immigration. This is ideal for anyone wanting 60 days of slow travel in Thailand.

Top Tip
Restaurants are open during Christmas, and although you might not get your traditional Christmas dinner, there are so many different cuisines to try. A favourite Thai restaurant is THE HOUSE by Ginger, which is listed in the Michelin Guide. This much-loved restaurant sits within the Old City and bookings are essential.

New Year’s Eve is usually spent enjoying the music and celebrations at Tha Phae Gate on the moat of the Old City.

For day-to-day questions, our free Chiang Mai Travel Planning Facebook group has more than 11,000 members sharing up-to-date advice.

Thailand’s Andaman Coast: Phuket, Krabi and Koh Lanta

Phuket, Krabi and Koh Lanta offer some of the most reliable beach weather in Asia over Christmas. This time of year is well known for its long sunny days, calm water and good visibility for snorkelling.

Thailand’s Andaman Coast at Christmas: What to Expect

The Andaman Coast is home to Thailand’s most famous hotspots, and the holiday prices reflect this. This is the most expensive time of year, with Phuket especially busy. Boat trips to popular spots like the Phi Phi Islands and Phang Nga Bay book out early, so reserve ahead of time.

Where to Stay on Thailand’s Andaman Coast

Phuket’s Kata and Karon beaches are popular with families and those who want restaurants on the doorstep. Visit Patong if you are looking for high-energy nightlife. Ao Nang in Krabi is a good base for island-hopping. For a quieter Christmas escape, Koh Lanta is ideal for a more relaxed holiday vibe.

Prices climb quickly over the holidays, so check what’s still available in Kata and Karon, Patong, Ao Nang and Koh Lanta before you lock in your dates.

Top Tip
When choosing Phuket accommodation, make sure it is close to the beach and attractions. Phuket traffic is notoriously busy, and it can take hours to get from one place to another. Allow plenty of time for your return trip to the airport to ensure you don’t miss your flight out of Phuket.

Things to Do on Thailand’s Andaman Coast

Take a day trip to Phang Nga Bay, go island-hopping around the Krabi coastline, or snorkel off Koh Rok from Koh Lanta. Boat trips book out over the holidays, so reserve ahead.

Southern Vietnam: Ho Chi Minh City, the Mekong Delta and Phu Quoc

Vietnam is divided into three distinct climates, and choosing the wrong destination can ruin your holiday enjoyment. In December and January, southern Vietnam is the place to be. The dry season brings warm, sunny weather, which is great for both city sightseeing and beach time.

Ho Chi Minh City and Phu Quoc at Christmas: What to Expect

Ho Chi Minh City is filled with excitement as Christmas decorations line the main boulevards in the lead-up to a big New Year’s Eve countdown. The island of Phu Quoc is at its best but busy, so book beachfront accommodation early.

Where to Stay in Ho Chi Minh City and Phu Quoc

In Ho Chi Minh City, District 1 puts you close to the main sights, while District 3 is a little quieter with good local food. On Phu Quoc, Long Beach suits those who want sunsets and restaurants, and the north of the island is quieter.

Compare hotels in District 1 and District 3, or browse beachfront stays on Long Beach and in northern Phu Quoc while there’s still a good choice.

Things to Do in Ho Chi Minh City and Phu Quoc

Take a day trip into the Mekong Delta to see river life and floating markets, visit the Cu Chi Tunnels, and eat your way through Ho Chi Minh city’s famous street food.

Top Tip
If you are interested in the Vietnam War, make sure to visit the War Remnants Museum and Independence Palace (Reunification Palace). Both are fascinating and give insight into Vietnam’s tragic past.

On Phu Quoc, take an island tour and check out the views of the island from the Hon Thom cable car. Visit Sao Beach and Starfish Beach. Take a snorkelling tour or visit the Sun World Aquatopia Waterpark.

Australians will need a visa for Vietnam. The e-visa allows stays of up to 90 days and can be applied for online via the official Vietnamese government portal.

For more information on planning a trip, see our sister website Step Into Vietnam, which covers what to see and how to get around, region by region.

Cambodia: Siem Reap and Angkor Wat

December and January are amongst the best months of the year to explore Angkor Wat. By Cambodian standards, the weather is cool and dry. Although its still hot, it is a more comfortable climate for long days of climbing through temples than the scorching months that follow.

Siem Reap and Angkor Wat at Christmas: What to Expect

Sunrise tours to Angkor Wat are busy at this time of year. Book in advance and arrive early to beat the heat of the day. Angkor Wat itself does get crowded, so consider watching sunrise from a quieter temple.

Australians need a visa, available as an e-visa or on arrival at the airport. You also need to complete Cambodia’s free e-Arrival card within seven days before you land, even if you already have a visa.

Where to Stay in Siem Reap

Stay near Pub Street to be in the centre of the action, close to restaurants and bars. Pub Street gets loud at night, so a quieter hotel along the river may be more to your liking.

Compare hotels around Pub Street or along the Siem Reap River to see what’s available for your dates.

Things to Do in Siem Reap and Angkor Wat

Nothing can prepare you for the grandeur of the Angkor Archaeological Park. This sprawling complex stretches over 400 square kilometres, with Angkor Wat the jewel in the crown.

Sunrise at Angkor Wat is a must, but a visit to the tree-covered ruins of Ta Prohm Temple and the serene faces of Bayon Temple is just as memorable. For more detail, read our Angkor Wat guide.

Top Tip
We have visited Angkor Wat twice. The first time we went by tuk tuk and the second time we took a tour. We enjoyed both, but we learnt more about the history of the complex on the tour.

Pub Street in Siem Reap is a lot of fun, so give yourself a day or two to enjoy the party atmosphere.

We caught the Giant Ibis bus from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap and found it a comfortable and reliable way to travel.  

Laos: Luang Prabang

Luang Prabang sits on the Mekong River and is one of the most laid-back towns in Southeast Asia. The Christmas period brings the cool season, with daily temperatures reaching a pleasant 26 to 27°C. The mornings and evenings can get refreshingly chilly, dropping to around 14°C, so pack a light jacket.

Luang Prabang at Christmas: What to Expect

The town is busy but rarely feels overwhelming. The early morning alms-giving ceremony is a highlight and should be finished off with a visit to the morning market and a traditional Lao breakfast by the Mekong River. Watch the ceremony quietly from a respectful distance, and avoid flash photography.

Australians need a visa for Laos, available as an e-visa or on arrival at Luang Prabang airport. You will also need to complete Laos’s online Digital Immigration Form before you arrive.

Where to Stay in Luang Prabang

The Old Town is the most sought-after location in Luang Prabang, as its within walking distance of temples, cafes and the night market.

Rooms in the heritage area are limited, so compare Old Town hotels early if you’re travelling over Christmas.

Things to Do in Luang Prabang

For a glimpse into Lao culture, visit the Royal Palace and National Museum and the historic Wat Xieng Thong Buddhist temple. If you are looking for natural beauty, the Pak Ou Caves and Kuang Si Waterfall sit on Luang Prabang’s doorstep.

Swim in the turquoise waters of the Kuang Si Falls, climb Mount Phousi for sunset views and take a slow boat trip on the Mekong.

Malaysia’s West Coast: Penang and Langkawi

Much like Thailand and Vietnam, Malaysia’s weather fluctuates between rainy and dry seasons. During the Christmas period, the east coast experiences monsoon rains, while the west coast welcomes warm, sunny weather, making it one of the best times to visit the region.

Penang and Langkawi at Christmas: What to Expect

Penang is famous for being a food lover’s delight and the place to discover George Town’s colourful past.  Here you can see the traditional Chinese shophouses, historic clan jetties, Hindu temples and colonial buildings that tell the story of this fascinating city.

Penang is a melting pot of cultures, and this overflows into its cuisine. Malay, Chinese and Indian dishes can be enjoyed in local hawker centres across the city.

If you are looking for a beach holiday in Malaysia, the island life of Langkawi awaits. Here you can enjoy a mix of natural beauty as tropical beaches merge with lush rainforest landscapes.

Australians can visit Malaysia visa-free for up to 90 days. You will need to complete the free online Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC) within three days before you arrive.

Where to Stay in Penang and Langkawi

When visiting Penang, a stay in George Town is the best choice for the food scene and heritage sites. For a beach holiday in Penang, look no further than Batu Ferringhi.  

On Langkawi, Pantai Cenang is the most popular location for restaurants and beach activity. Tanjung Rhu is a better choice for those wanting a quieter beach holiday.

Compare hotels in George Town and Batu Ferringhi, or on Langkawi at Pantai Cenang and Tanjung Rhu, to see what’s available for your dates.

Top Tip
Traffic in Penang can get busy, especially during peak hours. This is particularly true for the roads from George Town to Batu Ferringhi and Penang International Airport.

Things to Do in Penang and Langkawi

In George Town, walk the street art trail, visit the clan jetties, or explore Little India and Chinatown. Join a hawker food tour or heritage tour of George Town.  

In Langkawi, take a ride on the Langkawi SkyCab cable car and walk amid the treetops on the Langkawi Sky Bridge. Langkawi is one place where hiring a car makes a lot of sense, as public transport is limited.

Sri Lanka’s South and West Coasts

December to March is prime time for Sri Lanka’s south and west coasts. Galle’s historic fort, the beaches of Mirissa and Unawatuna, and whale-watching season all line up nicely with the Australian summer holidays.

The east coast, including Trincomalee and Arugam Bay, is in its wet season at this time, so stick to the south and west.

Sri Lanka at Christmas: What to Expect

You will be travelling during high season, and the best beachside accommodation books out early. Entry into Sri Lanka has also become easier for Australians. Simply apply online for a free 30-day tourist ETA through the official ETA website before you leave home.

Where to Stay on Sri Lanka’s South Coast

Book a hotel in and around Galle Fort for history and character, Mirissa for beaches and whale watching, or Unawatuna for a lively beach town vibe.

Things to Do in Sri Lanka

Walk the ramparts of Galle Fort at sunset, head out on a whale-watching tour from Mirissa and take a day trip inland to the tea country or Yala National Park.

Japan: For a Cold Christmas

If a white Christmas is on your bucket list, a trip to Japan is one of the easiest ways for Australians to experience one. Hokkaido and the Japanese Alps are famous for snow and some of the world’s best skiing.

If skiing is not your thing, head over to Tokyo or Osaka for impressive winter illumination displays. While there, make sure to visit the Christmas markets in both cities.

Japan at Christmas: What to Expect

Christmas Day is a normal working day in Japan, so everything stays open. New Year is the big holiday, and many shops, restaurants, attractions and even ATMs close from around 29 December to 3 January. Trains are packed from the 29 to 31 December and again from 2 to 4 January as people travel home and back.

The upside is that New Year in Japan is a memorable cultural experience, with crowds visiting shrines and temples on the first days of January. When planning your trip, remember to check the opening hours of any tourist attractions you are eager to see.

Australians can visit Japan visa-free for up to 90 days. Registering your details on Visit Japan Web before you fly speeds up immigration and customs on arrival.

Where to Stay in Japan

Stay in Niseko or Hakuba for snow and skiing. Tokyo or Osaka are ideal for big city vibes, Japanese heritage buildings, winter illuminations and Christmas markets.

Things to Do in Japan in Winter

Celebrate a white Christmas on the ski slopes and finish the day soaking in a natural hot spring onsen. Visit Tokyo or Osaka for winter light displays, food and Christmas markets.

If you are looking for another cold-weather city break, our Seoul 4 Day Itinerary is a great alternative.

Places in Asia to Think Twice About Over Christmas

Asia is full of much-loved places that repeatedly make Australians’ travel wish lists. Here are some worth rethinking as a Christmas destination.

None of these locations are write-offs You just need to do your due diligence before deciding whether they are the best holiday option for you during the Christmas period.

Bali

Bali is a firm favourite holiday destination for many Australians. Sadly, the Christmas months of December and January also fall within Bali’s wet season.

It’s also peak season for Australian families, so prices and crowds are at their highest.

During this time, expect heavy downpours, particularly in the afternoon. A Bali holiday is still doable, especially if you enjoy relaxing by the pool. If reliable sunshine is a holiday must, the Andaman Coast of Thailand is a better choice.

Koh Samui and Thailand’s Gulf Islands

The Gulf of Thailand runs on a different weather pattern to the Andaman Coast. Koh Samui, Koh Phangan and Koh Tao have their rainy season from around October to mid-December, with November being the wettest month of all.

Visiting in early December can be a gamble but from Christmas onwards the weather usually settles, so if your trip starts in late December, the Gulf islands are a strong option.

Central Vietnam: Da Nang and Hoi An

Da Nang and Hoi An are like a second home to us, and we have visited on many occasions. As much as we love this region, we also know that this time of year can be unpredictable.

Central Vietnam is still in its wet season, which runs from September to January. Hoi An is famous for flooding, with the worst of it in October and November. December and January are cool, cloudy and often damp, which isn’t tropical beach weather.

When you visit Da Nang and Hoi An at this time of year, you never know what you are going to get. We have experienced mild wet seasons with short afternoon drizzles, and full-blown wet season weather with heavy all-day rain that resulted in flooding.   

If you plan to visit during Christmas, the lanterns of Hoi An’s Ancient Town will still look beautiful and it’s fine for a few days of sightseeing, Just do not plan a beach holiday around it. Da Nang and Hoi An are at their best between February and April, with glorious weather of mild days and lasting sunshine.

Our guide to Ba Na Hills and long stays in Vietnam have more on the area.

Malaysia’s East Coast Islands

Monsoons hit the Perhentian Islands and much of Malaysia’s east coast from around November until February or early March. Most resorts close and ferry services stop running. Save a visit to these islands for the middle of the year.

The Philippines

In the Philippines, the dry season is just getting started in December, and places like Palawan and Boracay can be superb. Unfortunately, late-season typhoons can still hit in December, with one or two tropical cyclones typically entering Philippine waters during the month. So build some flexibility into your plans and make sure your travel insurance is sorted before you go.

Travel Insurance for Christmas Trips to Asia

Travel insurance matters more over the Christmas period than at almost any other time of year, for three practical reasons.

Weather can disrupt your plans. Cyclones, typhoons and flooding can affect parts of Asia during December and January. Travel insurance generally only covers a weather event if you buy the policy before it becomes a “known event”, which usually means before a storm is named or reported in the media. The best time to buy insurance is as soon as you book.

Peak season bookings are expensive to lose. Christmas flights and accommodation cost far more than at other times of the year. To beat these rising costs, most people book their holiday months in advance, which means more money at risk if your plans change. Cancellation cover protects you if illness, injury or other covered events stop you from travelling.

Scooters and activities have conditions. If you plan to ride a scooter in Thailand or Vietnam, check the fine print. With Cover-More, for example, you need to add motorcycle and moped cover to your policy, the bike must be 250cc or under, you need a valid Australian licence, and you must wear a helmet. There’s no cover if you’ve been drinking. Many travellers only discover these conditions after an accident.

We use Cover-More for our own travels.

For more ways to save on your trip, see our Travel Savings page.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is the best weather in Asia in December?

The top spots for the best weather in Asia in December are Northern Thailand and Thailand’s Andaman Coast, southern Vietnam, Cambodia and Sri Lanka’s south and west coasts. This time of year, coincides with these regions dry season which is more likely to guarantee a pleasant Christmas holiday.  

Is Bali worth visiting over Christmas?

There is no denying that Bali is one of Australia’s most popular destinations and Christmas is the busiest and most expensive time to visit. It is important to note that December also falls within Bali’s wet season. If sunshine is your priority, Thailand’s Andaman Coast is a more reliable choice.

Is Vietnam good to visit in December?

Yes, but it depends on the region. Southern Vietnam, including Ho Chi Minh City and Phu Quoc, is dry and warm. Central Vietnam, including Da Nang and Hoi An, is cool and damp, and the north is cool to cold.

Is Thailand too busy over Christmas and New Year?

It’s peak season, so popular areas like Phuket and Chiang Mai are busy and more expensive. Booking early and choosing quieter bases like Koh Lanta or Chiang Mai’s Riverside area helps.

How long can Australians stay in Thailand without a visa?

Australians can stay in Thailand visa-free for up to 30 days for tourism. A single extension of up to 30 days can be requested for a fee at immigration once inside Thailand.

When should Australians book flights to Asia for Christmas?

Book for Christmas as early as possible. During the holiday period airfares and accommodation rise quickly, so booking several months ahead and staying flexible with your dates gives you the best chance of a good price.

Do I need travel insurance for a short trip to Asia?

Yes. Medical costs overseas can be significant even on a short trip. You are also protecting expensive peak season bookings. Buy your policy as soon as you book so you are covered if a weather event occurs.

Last Words on Where to Go in Asia Over Christmas and January

Where to go in Asia over Christmas and January will ultimately come down to your personal preference and what kind of Christmas holiday you enjoy.

If it is your first trip to Asia, we recommend visiting Thailand’s Andaman Coast or Chiang Mai in northern Thailand. Here you can soak up the sun on the beaches of Thailand’s Andaman Coast or head north to enjoy the mountains and laid-back vibe of Chiang Mai.

For culture and history, combine a trip to Angkor Wat near Siem Reap Cambodia with a visit to Ho Chi Minh City in southern Vietnam.

If you are looking for a genuine white Christmas, winter in Japan is hard to beat, just remember to plan around Japan’s New Year closures.

Wherever you go, book early, stay flexible and sort your insurance as soon as your flights are confirmed. Where do you plan to spend Christmas in Asia? Feel Free to leave a comment, we would love to hear from you.

Feel free to join our Facebook groups. Chiang Mai Travel Planning group has more than 11,000 members helping each other get the most out of visiting Chiang Mai in Thailand. If Vietnam is calling, our Vietnam Travel Made Easy for route planning, visa questions and local advice.

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