Planning an overseas family adventure for the 2024 December holidays but can’t choose between balmy islands or a snowy European wonderland? We’re here to help! Follow this quick guide to determine whether a sun or snow holiday is the best fit for your family holiday.
If you prefer to swap the South African summer heat for tropical breezes, affordable and accessible tropical island destinations like Thailand, Mauritius, Mozambique, Bali, Zanzibar, Seychelles and the Maldives offer idyllic weather during December. Expect temperatures between 25°C and 30°C, perfect for beach days, water sports and outdoor exploration.
In contrast, a European ski holiday promises a true winter experience. Popular ski destinations like Switzerland, Austria, France and Italy transform into snow-covered wonderlands with temperatures averaging between -5°C and 5°C. Your family will get to enjoy traditional "White Christmas" experiences with twinkling lights, roaring fireplaces and winter sports.
Tropical destinations are ideal for families who want a laid-back holiday with lots of water-based activities. Kids can spend their days building sandcastles, swimming, snorkelling, or even learning to scuba dive in destinations like Mauritius, Zanzibar, Mozambique, the Seychelles and the Maldives. If your family loves adventure, Bali and Thailand offer thrilling experiences like jungle treks, cultural excursions and island-hopping tours.
For families seeking a more active holiday, Europe’s ski resorts offer an endless array of snow-filled fun. Kids can take ski or snowboarding lessons, go sledding, build snowmen, or even enjoy a festive sleigh ride through quaint alpine villages. Many resorts in Switzerland, Italy and France have dedicated ski schools for children and family-friendly après-ski activities like ice-skating and winter festivals.
Club Med is a leader in family-friendly, affordable holidays for South African families. For example, you can travel to Italy this Christmas with a 7 Night package for Club Med Pragelato Sestriere from R36,814 pps (full deal details here). Club Med also has great deals for France, like 7 Nights at Club Med La Rosiere from R44,293 pps (full deal details here), and for Switzerland, like 7 Nights at Club Med ST Moritz Roi Soleil from R44,910 pps (full deal details here).
Or, for a bucket-list snow holiday, how about a 4-night family Christmas in Rovaniemi, Finland, the 'official home' of Santa Claus? You can make your kids' Christmas dreams come true from R42,950 pps; full details here. Or you can experience a snowy New Year's in Lapland with this 4-night package, priced from R52,600 pps; full details here.
In terms of cost, a European ski trip can be pricier, largely because flights are longer (10 to 12 hours), and accommodation in popular ski resorts can be more expensive, especially during the Christmas season. However, some smaller ski resorts in Italy and Austria offer more affordable options for families. To save on costs, consider visiting less popular resorts or booking an all-inclusive package that covers flights, accommodation, ski passes, equipment rental and meals.
For tropical islands, there are a few distinct destinations that are popular with both luxury and budget-conscious South African travellers. For example, Mozambique, Zanzibar, Bali, Thailand and Mauritius are known for offering affordable, family-friendly accommodation, while the Maldives and the Seychelles are typically on the higher end. Flights to these destinations are relatively short (4 to 8 hours from South Africa) and often more affordable compared to European flights, especially if you book well in advance.
In addition, tour operators in these popular tropical destinations usually offer packages that include flights, return airport/hotel transfers, accommodation, some or all meals and land and water activities. These packages make family travel super affordable, especially when compared to what you would pay if you booked everything separately.
For example, there are several incredible deals for Mauritius available for December: 7 Nights at Club Med La Plantation D'Albion; 5 Nights at Mauricia Beachcomber; 7 Nights at Club Med La Pointe aux Canonniers; 7 Nights at Shandrani Beachcomber.
There are also several of deals for Thailand, such as: 7 Nights at Kata Sea Breeze Resort in Phuket; for Seychelles: 7 Nights at Carana Beach; for Bali: 7 Nights at Sol by Melia Benoa and 7 Nights at Aston Sunset Beach Resort; and for the Maldives: 7 Nights at You & Me by Cocoon and 7 Nights at Cora Cora. See more tropical island deals here.
Closer to home, there are plenty of deals for Zanzibar this December, such as:7 Nights at My Blue Hotel; 7 Nights at Bluebay Beach Resort; 7 Nights at Sea Cliff Resort and Spa; and 7 Nights at Paradise Beach Resort.
Many tropical destinations offer world-class, family-friendly resorts. In Mauritius, the Maldives and Seychelles you’ll find all-inclusive resorts with kids’ clubs, water parks and babysitting services, allowing parents to unwind while children are entertained. Bali and Thailand offer beachfront villas and family-friendly hotels that cater to larger groups, with plenty of child-friendly dining options and activities.
European ski resorts are also incredibly family-friendly. Resorts in Switzerland, Austria, Italy and France offer cosy alpine chalets, ski-in/ski-out hotels, and all-inclusive packages with childcare services, kids’ ski schools and festive activities. Many resorts also host Christmas events like tree-lighting ceremonies, Christmas markets, and even visits from Santa Claus, making it an unforgettable experience for families.
So, which Christmas adventure is best for South African families? Ultimately, it depends on what your family is looking for.
If you’re dreaming of relaxing on a pristine beach, soaking up the sun and enjoying water activities, a tropical escape to Mauritius, Bali, Mozambique, Zanzibar, Seychelles, Thailand or the Maldives is the perfect choice.
But, if your family prefers an action-packed holiday filled with snow sports, festive winter experiences and the charm of a European Christmas, then a ski trip to Switzerland, Austria, Italy or France might be more your style.
Sun or snow, it’s a tough choice…If you’re in the lucky position to still be torn between the two options for the upcoming December holidays, here are three key considerations to help you make the right choice:
Consider Your Budget: Tropical holidays tend to be more affordable, with cheaper flights and a range of accommodation options. Ski trips, especially in peak season, can get pricey.
Think About the Kids: If your children love the beach and water sports, tropical destinations are ideal. If they’re more into adventure and love the idea of playing in the snow, a ski holiday will keep them entertained.
Travel Time: Tropical destinations are generally closer to South Africa and involve shorter flights, which may be preferable for families with young children. European destinations, while further away, offer the unique opportunity to experience a winter wonderland and make the long journey worthwhile.
Whether you choose to bask in the sun on a tropical island or embrace the winter chill on a European ski slope, both types of holidays offer unforgettable Christmas experiences for South African families.
Sure Travel has you covered for both options with incredible deals. View latest packages on our website, or contact your nearest Sure Travel Agent for options.