With the holidays around the corner, it’s time to craft a memorable end-of-year escape. The blog article by Musafir.com, titled “Christmas Travel Plan 2025: Snow, Warm Beaches, & Destination Dupes”, lays out three very different travel moods for December: snowy slopes, sunshine-soaked beaches and clever budget “dupe” destinations.
Here’s a tailored version of that plan—geared for travellers from India (and elsewhere) with a few bonus tips from us at Planet Earth Holidays.

1. The White Christmas: Snow, Slopes & Cozy Lodges

If you dream of a “white Christmas” where snow blankets the landscape, crisp air fills your lungs and cosy evenings by a fireplace beckon, this is your theme.

  • Domestic pick: Auli in Uttarakhand. According to Musafir.com, it’s “India’s go-to winter ski hub — alpine slopes, training-friendly runs and that red-roofed ropeway that lifts you up for jaw-dropping views of Nanda Devi.”
  • International pick: Gangwon Province region in South Korea (e.g., around Pyeongchang / Yongpyong) — a budget-friendly alternative to Switzerland that still gives snow, resorts and those winter scenes.

Why choose this?

  • A snowy escape offers novelty, romantic atmosphere and activities (skiing, sledding, cozy fires).
  • Ideal for families or couples who want a special seasonal memory.
  • From India, timing matters: flights to hill regions fill early, and weather can be fickle — book early.

Tip from Planet Earth Holidays:
If you’re combining snow with another destination (say a beach after the slopes), book your inter-transfer in advance. Think: 3-4 nights in Auli (or other snow region) then fly or drive to a warmer zone by the coast. We can help design that seamless itinerary.

2. The Sunny & Spiritual: Warm Beaches With Culture

Not everyone wants to shiver. If the idea of warm sand, gentle waves and festive lights sounds better, this is your theme.

  • Domestic warmth: Shillong in Meghalaya — a compact city with chilled out vibe, carols in churches, lights on streets and a nature detour at Dawki.
  • International warmth: Ho Chi Minh City & the Vietnamese coast — warm nights, cathedral midnight mass plus island day-trips and beach downtime.

Why choose warm over white?

  • If you don’t want to deal with winter gear or uncertain snow conditions.
  • If you want a festive vibe but without heavy layers and freezing temperatures.
  • Beach + culture = festive and relaxed.

Tip from Planet Earth Holidays:
Pick a destination where you can combine daylight beach activity with an evening festive dinner or midnight mass (if you’re into that). For example, a coastal resort stay + a city night for the lights.

3. Destination Dupes: Europe-Style Feel Without the Europe Price Tag

For the travellers who love the charm of European Christmas markets or festive cobblestone towns but are wary of visas, cost or long flights, “dupe” locales.

  • Example: Zagreb (Croatia) with its recognised Advent market.
  • Domestic example: Pondicherry — French Quarter streets, basilicas, midnight mass – a “European holiday vibe” domestically.

Why consider the dupe route?

  • Saves on visa hassles and often on cost/fly time.
  • Allows you to enjoy a “special” Christmas mood without going into full winter or long-haul.
  • Flexible for short breaks, long weekends or extended escapes.

4. Quick Planner & Practical Mumbo-Jumbo

easy planner:

  • Short weekend (4 days): Thu, 25 Dec to Sun, 28 Dec (take Fri off) → ideal for domestic escapes.
  • Extended (5 days): Thu to Mon (take Fri+Mon off) → good for short international hops.
  • Ultimate break (6 days): Thu to Tue (Fri+Mon+Tue off) → pack in snow + coast, or multiple zones.

Packing & booking tips:

  • Book early: Winter and holiday seasons surge—flights/hotels go fast.
  • Snow trip gear: base layer, fleece, windproof shell, gloves, waterproof boots.
  • Warm-weather trip: light daytime clothes + one smart outfit for midnight mass or festive dinner.
  • Consider travel insurance especially if you’ll ski or undertake winter sports.

5. Why Choose Planet Earth Holidays for Your Festive Escape

At Planet Earth Holidays, we specialise in crafting tailored holiday experiences that align with these themes. Whether your goal is snowy escape, warm beach relaxation, or festival-style budget blowout, we can plan flights, hotels, transfers, guided tours, and add local flavour.
Because just like Musafir.com says — you don’t want the logistics to steal the magic. We ensure every booking syncs, your pick-ups are reliable, and you arrive relaxed and ready.

👉 If you’d like to explore Christmas & New Year holiday packages, check our dedicated page on planetearthholidays.com

Final Thoughts

The holiday season offers a powerful chance to book memories: whether you’re making snow angels, sipping cocktails by the sea, or wandering charming market lanes under lights. The smart framework laid out by Musafir.com gives you three strong themes. At Planet Earth Holidays, we help you pick the theme and execute it with ease.

Here’s to a Christmas & New Year that feels just right for you — whichever tempo you choose.

For more inspiration, see the original blog: “Christmas Travel Plan 2025: Snow, Warm Beaches, & Destination Dupes” by Musafir.com. Musafir.com India