Three operational international airports this year have allowed tourists from Kuban to approach planning their winter holiday vacations more boldly.
December in Kuban rarely brings frost and snow, but it always brings a readiness for change. During these weeks, people not only sum up the year and make plans but also carefully consider where to spend the holidays to feel a magical atmosphere.
For Kuban residents, the New Year is often associated with travel: they are accustomed to celebrating not only at home around a shared table but also on the road, choosing fresh impressions and a change of scenery. In a region where winter is mild and unobtrusive, the desire to add color to the holidays—be it snowy peaks, hot sun, or the lights of a big city—has become a natural part of the New Year tradition. And if before, residents of Kuban had to search for a suitable flight from the only open airport, this winter the possibilities have expanded: the airports of Krasnodar and Gelendzhik have joined Sochi’s air harbor. This means only one thing: travel options have noticeably increased, and therefore the New Year holidays promise to be more diverse and brighter.
Where to go if your soul craves sun? Where to celebrate if you want snow? Which destinations are currently most convenient and accessible for residents of the region? We studied flights, gathered opinions from industry specialists, and compiled a comprehensive guide to the best routes of the season.
Warm Countries
The top spot among foreign destinations confidently belongs to warm countries. Experts unanimously name Thailand as the absolute winter favorite. Tour operators note in unison that it is breaking all attendance records. In December, the sea here remains summer-soft, beaches readily welcome guests, and markets with exotic fruits and seafood work until late evening. On New Year’s Eve, Thai embankments buzz with music and dancing, concerts and festivals, and are finally illuminated by the light of fireworks. It’s easy to feel like a movie hero here—the picturesque views encountered are that stunning. Movies have indeed been filmed on some islands, and tour guides love to share these stories, adding a touch of romance to the walks. Thailand is chosen by those who want to welcome the New Year to the sound of waves and the rustle of tropical trees, while also getting a dose of festive spirit.
Egypt remains a unique quiet refuge for families who value comfort and a warm welcome.
During the New Year weekends, local hoteliers offer magnificent music shows and performances for children and adults. Vacationers are also attracted by the wide selection of dishes on an «all-inclusive» basis, as well as the mesmerizing underwater world of the Red Sea.
Furthermore, interest in Sri Lanka has noticeably grown this year. There you can start the day with surfing and end it with a pleasant tea ceremony. The island is perfect for those seeking tranquility and a chance to escape to a place where time flows slowly.
China, on the other hand, has re-entered the list of hits thanks to its multifaceted nature. The availability of a visa-free regime makes the country attractive for both short trips and long journeys. Tour operators emphasize that China is a rare place where you can see absolutely everything: from beach holidays on Hainan to the «Avatar» mountains. And in winter, people fly there precisely for the contrasts. Southern resorts delight with sun and tropics, while northern and central provinces offer mist and mountain trails.
Among long-distance travels, a real find for a New Year’s holiday is Cuba. White-sand beaches, the old quarters of Havana, music and dancing in the streets—all this turns a vacation into a true adventure, full of emotions and infectious rhythm.
Currently, there is also high demand for Indonesia (Bali), India, and Italy. Besides staying on beaches, cruises are considered a rather unconventional way to celebrate the New Year.
Such trips are always accompanied by fireworks and exciting show programs.
The most popular cruise today is through the Persian Gulf.
Familiar Places
However, not only distant countries shape the map of New Year trips. The near abroad is on the rise again—primarily Georgia, Abkhazia, and Armenia. People go to Georgian Tbilisi for a festive atmosphere unlike either European or Russian. Narrow streets with lights, loud eloquent toasts, Christmas markets, national music—here every tourist feels like a welcome guest, not just a visitor.
Abkhazia is the choice for those
