Itching for a getaway with a half-packed suitcase perpetually under your bed? With only four weeks away until Christmas (we're not counting...), holiday tickets can get pretty pricey – up to two, three, or even four times its usual rates. But for those of you who are still contemplating whether or not to get out of town for the holidays, we've rounded up a few December deals you can take advantage of that won't break the bank.
RECOMMENDED: Staying in town for the holidays? Have Christmas dinner at one of these 52 bet restaurants in Hong Kong, followed with a drink or two at these incredible hidden bars.
Brimming with tuk-tuks, canal boats, glittering temples and mouth-watering food, Bangkok is a cornucopia of sights, sounds and tastes. Head over to the bustling city for a few days and spend your days with early morning visits to floating markets, sampling legendary street food delights, and exploring historic attractions such as the Grand Palace, Wat Pho, the National Museum and the Wang Na Palace within its grounds.
Ticket Price: approximately $1800
When: Dec 21 – 27
Just a quick ferry or bus ride away, Macao is one of the easiest (and cheapest) places for Hongkongers to escape to. If you're a newbie to Macao, we suggest getting lost in cute coffee shops, explore stunning heritage sites and end your day in these independent bars. Alternatively, escape reality and play it big by splashing some cash at the casinos, or check-in at a luxurious hotel where you can spend your time sipping on cocktails and getting pampered at the spa.
Ticket price: $65 - $190 by bus via the Hong Kong - Zhuhai - Macao Bridge, $171 - $346 by ferry.
Seoul in December is bustling with exciting events happening all over the city. Aside from hitting up all the usual tourist spots, take advantage of the cold weather and go ice-skating at the Olympic Park Ice Rink, where you're surrounded by impressive museums and fortresses. If bright, sparkling Christmasy bulbs are what you're after, make sure to catch the lighting festival at The Garden of Morning Calm and be wowed by the thousands of mesmerising glowing lights covering the land.
Ticket price: Around $1800 (subject to change)
When: Dec 21 - 27
The capital of Taiwan is littered with bustling night markets and food vendors alongside peaceful pockets of dynastic temples, cathartic walking trails and natural hot springs. If you've got food on your mind, make sure to pay a visit to the strictly-for-food Ningxia Night Market and eat your way through all the beloved local snacks. For some Christmas wonderland vibes, the newly developed area around Banqiao train station turns into a full-on Christmas fair with carolers, market, an abundance of twinkly lights and even a massive Christmas tree in the center.
Ticket price: approximately $1800
When: Dec 21 - 28
While most of the world gets at least a little cooler come December, in Australia, summer has just begun. This holiday season, take a trip to the land down under for a relaxing seaside escape that also offers heart-pumping adrenaline activities, vibrant markets and plenty of culture. Celebrate Christmas and New Year's Eve at beaches such as Broadbeach, Burleigh Heads Beach, Coolangatta Beach and more, where you'll find plenty of spectacular performances and fun-filled activities.
Ticket price: approximately $4600
When: Dec 22 - Jan 1
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