Do the holidays stress you out? You are in good company if they do as around 40 percent of people say they suffer more stress in holiday season. 

Travel website, Smart Lemur, an authentic has listed some of the best destinations for this year’s winter getaway.

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Sri Lanka, South Asia

December in Sri Lanka, an island country surrounded by the Indian Ocean, is the most pleasant time – sunny and not overcrowded with tourists. The average daily temperature for this month is 27°C.

Visitors spending Christmas here enjoy the best tea and cinnamon in the world, exchange presents on the sandy beaches, drink from coconuts and watch wild elephants. Seeing these giants from close up in their natural habitat is one of the unique attractions in Sri Lanka.

Those eager to have more traditional holiday activities, are welcome to visit the capital Colombo, offering festive markets, special dinners, live music events and dance performances.

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Here are other options they suggest for an end-of-year break with comfortable weather:

Mauritius, Indian Ocean - called the pearl of the Indian Ocean, is a tiny island full of lavish nature, ranging from crystal-clear waters and coloured layers of sand to tropical forests and lively underwater world. During December, air temperature is likely to reach 29°C, and travellers get to enjoy up to nine daily hours of sunshine.

Svalbard, Norway - one of the northernmost settlements in the world, luring travellers who dream of Arctic Christmas. From mid-November to late January, this Norwegian archipelago in the Arctic Ocean enters into a mystical dark season known as Polar Night. During this period, the sun is hidden from the horizon and everything is pitch-dark around the clock.

Christmas Island, Australia - in the Indian Ocean, 1,550km northwest from the Australian mainland. Apart from its obvious affiliation to Christmas after being named so on December 25th in 1643, the island is rich in spectacular nature.  It is the only place on Earth to witness one of the most incredible natural processes – an annual red crab migration. Bright-coloured crabs from all over the island start marching towards the ocean, all at the same time. And it usually occurs in December.

Galápagos Islands, Ecuador - a volcanic archipelago, famous for its diverse wildlife and jaw-dropping scenery. December is a warm and dry season with air temperature reaching 27°C. Visitors get a chance to see rare animals like marine iguanas, sea turtles, flamingos, Masked Boobies and White-cheeked Pintails, which tend to stay away during other months.

Smart Lemur is a website created by a group of travel enthusiasts who are passionate about unique and authentic travel experiences. 

19. Magical Christmas - with a French accent 

Close your eyes and imagine lying on a deck chair in the warm sun, the waves softly crashing near your toes, and the sound of Polynesian music drifting through the breeze. Now imagine celebrating Christmas in this paradise with your loved ones – feels like a dream doesn’t it? But it doesn’t have to be!

The Islands of Tahiti is a stunning and relaxing place in which to spend the Christmas period, away from the stress of the festive season and the long list of commitments that it brings.

Jet skiing is a very popular activity in French Polynesia. In the lead up to Christmas, there is also plenty to do around The Islands of Tahiti. Why not venture out on a hike to the peaks of the islands’ mountains, taking in the breathtaking views? Or you can take a dive into the islands’ pristine waters and spend the day exploring the abundance of marine life in the surrounding ocean.

A traditional Polynesian breakfast

When Christmas Day comes around you will not be disappointed. The Islands of Tahiti know how to put on a show with the town centre of Papeete throwing a large tropical Christmas party that is bound to be a hit with the whole family. For the foodies in the family, the classic Christmas feast has not been forgotten, and most resorts across the islands put a Tahitian twist on traditional Christmas dishes.

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Whether you are looking to bring your traditional Christmas to a beautiful paradise or are planning on escaping the family, The Islands of Tahiti is the perfect location to spend the festive season.

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