With all the festivities going on, there is really no better time to travel than the last few months of the year.

Aside from all the exciting activities to do such as spending a white Christmas in Korea or Japan, you also get to enjoy the cool temperature climates in certain countries during winter. Yes, that means you get to escape the humid weather in Singapore!

If you are running out of ideas on where your next holiday site should be, we came up with 6 Best Year-End Travel Destinations and some tips on what you can expect there.

#1 TOKYO

As the capital of Japan, Tokyo is anything but lacklustre. From their incredible food culture and outstanding fashion statements to amazingly friendly and polite citizens, and even world-class toilets, we really think it is impossible to not fall in love with that place!

Go for an onsen experience, indulge in cheap yakitori and explore Harajuku’s Takeshita Street—these are some of the many highlights you can find in Tokyo.

#2 SEOUL

Seoul is a cosmopolitan city that has retained parts of its history; there are tall and modern skyscrapers located just beside ancient palaces at one location. Whether you are into the bustling city life or culture experiences, there is plenty to look out for in Seoul.

The cool kids will want to be seen at Common Ground, Onion and Daelim Changgo Gallery CO:LUMN. For food enthusiasts who wish to taste authentic Korean street food and fresh seafood, there is no better place than Gwangjang Market and Noryangjin Fish Market.

#3 TAIPEI

Taipei may just be one of our favourite cities in Southeast Asia. There are so many street snacks to try, museums to visit, night markets to roam around at and most importantly, plenty of karaoke studios to unleash your inner Beyoncé.

There are several spots we will always return to when we visit Taipei—Rao He Night Market, Shida Night Market, Fujin Street and Yongkang Street. If you need more reasons to convince you to visit Taipei (we wonder why?), have a look 25 Reasons Why We Love Taipei.

#4 HONG KONG

Everyone knows Hong Kong is dim sum heaven. And even if you are not into dim sum, there are also many cha chaan teng that serve comfort food at affordable prices. One hipster neighbourhood we strongly recommend visiting is Sheung Wan, where you can find a myriad of local traditional teahouses and swanky fusion restaurants.

One of the best night time activities in Hong Kong is to visit a rooftop bar where you can take in the scenic skyline while enjoying a tipple or two.

#5 HANOI

Hanoi is an underrated travel destination that should be included in your travel plans. The capital of Vietnam is famous for its chaotic two-century-old Old Quarter and is the ideal gateway to other must-see Vietnamese attractions such as UNESCO World Heritage Site Halong Bay and the gorgeous Sapa Valley.

Tight on budget? Consider going for a backpacking trip to Hanoi!

#6 MELBOURNE

Those who enjoy cafe hopping in Singapore will absolutely fall in love with the cafes in Melbourne. The standards are set high and you can only expect the best quality when it comes to coffee and food. Take a look at our comprehensive guide on 41 Best Cafes In Melbourne To Visit.

Food and activities in Melbourne may not be cheap but do not be put off by the price tags first because you can always choose to visit these 10 Iconic Attractions In Melbourne For Free. In fact, you can also stay at these gorgeous Airbnb apartments for under S$150 per night. 

As Christmas is drawing near, you might want to book a last minute getaway to a magical winter wonderland; why not pick an ethereal European city to spend the festivity at? We are big fans of the whole Christmasy vibes that European cities have, and holidays never felt more joyous.

Be it strolling along the gorgeous tree-lined streets of Barcelona, or having a romantic dinner by the Eiffel Tower in Paris, Europe has endless to offer and most of these cities truly embodies the Christmas spirit.

Have a once-in-a-lifetime experience at any one of these cities in our guide to the 12 Best European Cities to enjoy your Christmas holiday at. It is not too late to book your dream holiday!

#1 AMSTERDAM

Amsterdam transforms into a festive wonderland every Christmas, with a whole list of exciting activities that you can add to your itinerary.

This includes the spectacular Amsterdam Light Festival happening from 28 November 2015 to 17 January 2015, various Christmas markets all over the city, outdoor ice skating rings and more!

#2 BARCELONA

If you are not a big fan of snow, Barcelona is for you as it rarely snows in December, so you need not worry about dealing with extreme cold.

What Barcelona has are fabulous light displays, museums and fantastic restaurants that you can dine at for some unforgettable Christmas dinners. Of course, Barcelona is always a fantastic destination for shopping for high street labels, and you can expect lots of sale events.

#3 BERLIN

What this beautiful city prides in is their “collection” of crazy huge Christmas markets that are sure to get you in a jolly festive spirit.

You can ice-skate, ride toboggans, and take part in all the Christmasy activities at Potsdamer Platz – right in the heart of Berlin city. You can even play curling on ice (very popular in Berlin); this is surely something you can not do in Singapore!

#4 BRUSSELS

Brussels is great for ice-skating, especially now that it has moved to the Place de la Monnaie. It is a must to check out the various Christmas markets here and you will be spoilt for choice, we guarantee.

There are ferris wheel and merry-go-round fun too. Oh, Brussels have got some pretty darn mean chocolates that you must try too.

#5 BUDAPEST

Think big scale laser shows, Christmas markets and even hot spring pools at Szechenyi Baths in Budapest. Yes, the hot spring baths (including lovely outdoor ones) are must-visits as a respite from the cold.

Take a river cruise to experience scenic views of the city too, and have a lovely time at the Nutcracker Ballet at the Hungarian State Opera House.

#6 FLORENCE

What you would be happy to know is that Florence’s historical and acclaimed museums are actually less crowded during the year-end festive season, so you can use this opportunity to truly enjoy the artworks.

It is also no surprise that Florence has amazing Christmas markets that are a must-go. You should also head to the Duomo for midnight Mass in Italian on Christmas Eve for an authentic Italian Christmas experience.

#7 LONDON

Never say no to spending Christmas at London. There are almost too many reasons why! Besides the Christmas fairs, insanely beautiful lights and world-class food, London boasts festive vibes that is upbeat and unbeatable.

If you need more reasons, London is a shopping paradise and there are many parks where you can do Christmas picnics at.

#8 PARIS

But of course, Paris is romantic all year long and Christmas is just another reason for us to visit, really.

Watch the Eiffel Tower light up in full glory, sip tea and eat macarons at the many French patisseries, and take a stroll in Jardin des Tuileries. Hop on a carousel in Paris or have a go at an outdoor ice skating ring; we are sure that Christmas in Paris is one you will never forget.

#9 PRAGUE

Prague’s great range of Christmas markets are open daily at the Old Town Square and Wenceslas Square, where you can have a taste of a true blue European Christmas. Look forward to lots of street snacks and merchandise!

Other activities that you can enjoy here are nightly Prague opera and ballet performances. A walk along Charles Bridge with your loved ones will sweeten the winter, too.

#10 ROME

The ancient city of Italy is one that history buffs will love, but hey, a well-deserved holiday here does not mean all Julius Caesar and nothing else.

Hearty Italian meals and fresh morning bakes, street performances and museum visits, and shopping along Spanish steps are but some activities to fill your days. And Navona is our favourite square to appreciate arts.

#11 SALZBURG

This amazing Austrian town is especially known for their Christmas markets set in the jaw-droppingly beautiful Cathedral Square. From traditional craftsmanship to delicious Christmas cookies, you will be in awe with everything that Salzburg has to offer.

For more fun, go skiing or visit a sauna/spa.

#12 VENICE

The lights display will have you swept off your feet here in Venice. It is such a beautiful destination to spend Christmas at; well, Venice is always a great holiday destination anyway.

Immerse yourself in museum-hopping, do some Christmas shopping, take a gondola ride down the canals and have the freshest seafood meal – you deserve it!

Whether you are looking to plan a shopping trip at Paris and London or an Italian escapade, here are 12 essential cost-saving tips for your trip to Europe.

It is the favourite time of the year again and you are probably trying to decide where to travel to for your yearly getaway. If you haven’t booked your trip, it is still not too late to book your dream year-end holiday. Yes, you deserve the trip.

There are many more places on the globe to tick off. And if you are sick and tired of the tropical weather in Singapore, how does a country/ city with a cooler climate sound? But of course, there are also numerous options with warmer climates too – if you aren’t already sick of summer!

Here are our picks for the Best Places To Travel This Year End.

Photo source: mytravelo.com

#1 LONDON – CHRISTMAS CELEBRATIONS & YEAR END SALES

Nothing feels quite like spending Christmas in a country where it actually feels like… well, Christmas. Think of every British Christmas movie you have ever watched in your life (e.g. Love Actually) and mash it up together; this will give you an idea of the atmosphere you can expect at London. On top of them all, London is the best city in the world.

You can visit Christmas markets, enjoy the gorgeous lights, go out for some drinks and even ice skate. London is always a good idea. However cold it is, it is an unbeatable experience just to soak in the atmosphere, and grab some really good shopping deals too!

#2 MOROCCO – ATLAS MOUNTAINS & WATERFALLS

Calling all the thrill-seekers and athletic folks! Look forward to trekking up the scenic Atlas mountains or hike to breathtaking waterfalls at Morocco. If you are not as adventurous, there is always Marrakech in Morocco. This iconic city is loved by many for the stark contrast between the ‘new’ and ‘old’ districts.

And Marrakech is a place we love for the immensely colourful shops, buildings and overall vibe. Definitely one of those “bucket list” places to visit!

Photo source: Hashslush

#3 NEW YORK CITY – TIMES SQUARE BALL DROP

Okay, we know it is a long shot asking anybody to even think of squeezing in with the crazy crowds on New Year’s Eve at Times Square, but what we can promise you is this – it will be a one-of-its-kind experience, and that memory will be etched in your heart for always. It is another of those bucket list destinations/activity that so many have. And to actually be in New York City during the year end? That on its own is magical.

We recommend planning in advance and packing a little heavier. A great travel period is to arrive a few days before Christmas, and leave after New Year’s. Well, however crowded it will be, nothing beats that experience.

#4 ORLANDO – MAGICAL CHRISTMAS EXPERIENCE IN DISNEYLAND

Nothing comes close to the feeling of spending Christmas in the most magical place in the world – Disneyland. At the Happiest Place on Earth, no dreams are impossible and that unadulterated joy is second to none. Revisit your childhood favourites in a Christmas parade unlike any other, with Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party, a fun-filled event for the whole family.

Don’t forget your Mickey/ Minnie ears!

#5 RIO DE JANEIRO – ESCAPE THE WINTER COLD

Think beautiful sandy beaches and panoramic landscapes. Rio is for all the winter-haters out there who can never stand a day in jackets and fur. Visit the iconic Christ the Redeemer and kick back at Ipanema and just take in the whole Brazilian atmosphere.

#6 SEOUL – AFFORDABLE & FANTASTIC YEAR-END NIGHTLIFE

This great and affordable option is honestly one of our favourites. Seoul has slowly become one of the most visited places by Singaporeans as their culture has been dominating everywhere, even in Western countries. When we think about Seoul, we think of food, food and more food!

This year end, go on and get crazy with the great nightlife in Seoul. Have a crazy shopping spree and snap up all the year-end sale items you can find. Seoul certainly has it all.

#7 SYDNEY – LARGE SCALE NYE FIREWORKS DISPLAY

The extraordinary NYE fireworks at Sydney Harbour is second in running for the world’s longest fireworks display. The 12-minute display is something that the world flocks to Sydney for, and to join the Australians to party like there is no tomorrow.

#8 TOKYO – WINTER ILLUMINATIONS

Whether you are in Shinjuku or Ginza, Tokyo has crazy light displays that will wow even the harshest critics. Have fun in the amusement parks, or take a trip to surrounding historical landmarks, or even to Tokyo Disneysea. Tokyo has it all, and Tokyo will always be among the best holiday destinations.