17 of the best places to spend Christmas 2022 

4. Barbados

The Caribbean is made for cruises during Christmas. Here, it’s all about swimming in azure seas, beachcombing on sandy beaches, and sipping on a glass of Brugal XV’s smooth rum, while back on board there’s plenty of spa pampering with yet another island on the horizon. Barbados, the go-to Caribbean favorite, is at its most relaxed between mid-September and mid-December when hotel prices drop by up to a third and the air-kissing, winter-sun-seeking regulars haven’t yet jetted in. There’s a risk of rain, but it never lasts long and the temperature’s still a balmy 27C. Explore the wild east. The island’s Atlantic side is an exhilarating whirl of dramatic shores (particularly around the little town of Bathsheba), rolling surf, flapping coconut palms, and topsy-turvy hills that seem a world away from the congested beach resorts lining the west and south coasts. Drive over to bask in the peace and fresh air; Bay Tavern in Martin’s Bay is a mellow spot where Bajans take a break on Thursday afternoons, shooting (and feeling) the breeze at a “lime” (informal hangout).