14 Christmas Destinations That Are More Dangerous Than You Think
Christmas can be time away, fun, and unforgettable memories all in one. From snowy landscapes to fairytale-looking towns lit up, there are many places people look to go to celebrate the holiday spirit. Not every holiday hotspot is as safe as it seems, however. Some of them hide risks that can turn your Christmas dream into a nightmare if you’re not prepared.
Whether it’s extreme weather, wildlife encounters, or other less obvious safety concerns, some places have a reputation for being more dangerous than you’d think. If you’re going to travel far and wide this season, you should read about some of these destinations where holiday cheer comes with a side of caution.
Patagonia, Chile
The dramatic landscapes of Patagonia come with harsh winter conditions of freezing winds and sudden storms. The remote locations make rescue operations difficult and many trails become slick with ice. According to a report by the Chilean government in 2022, it is very important to prepare visitors properly during the holiday season.
Swiss Jungfrau Region, Switzerland
Famed for its skiing and holiday vibes, it’s not without its hazards here. Thrill seekers face a mix of risks: avalanches, icy slopes, and overcrowded lifts. Multiple fatal incidents were recorded in the past winter season.
Mount Washington, New Hampshire
For decades, Mount Washington has been called the home of the world’s worst weather by having wind speeds over 200 mph. Even the best hikers can become disoriented in winter in whiteout conditions. Hypothermia cases among those who underestimate the extreme elements are common.
Reykjavik, Iceland
The Northern Lights are a bucket list experience, but the icy roads leading to viewing points in Iceland are deadly. Icelandic Road and Coastal Administration reports an increase in car accidents in December. Driving conditions are often misjudged by tourists, making a winter wonderland into a dangerous drive.
The Alps, Europe
The Alps may look like a postcard come to life, but they are also known for avalanches during the ski season. It’s also particularly dangerous for people to stray off marked trails, where the results can be fatal.
New York City, USA
The holiday lights of Rockefeller Center and the magic of Times Square draw millions, but so does petty crime during the holiday season. Crowded tourist areas are pickpocket targets, and icy sidewalks cause many falls each year that land visitors in ERs instead of holiday dinners.
The Yellowstone National Park, United States
Although Yellowstone is enchanting during winter, the park’s geothermal features can be dangerous. The ground is unpredictable and stepping off the boardwalks can result in severe burns or worse. Combine that with the chance to run into grizzlies who haven’t gone into hibernation yet and you have a recipe for danger.
Machu Picchu, Peru
Touring this ancient wonder in December is always a threat to battle loose trails and heavy rainfall. The wet season brings frequent landslides, which close access routes and make hiking dangerous.
Hallstatt, Austria
Its fairy tale charm is a draw, but it is a challenge to get around in those steep, icy paths in winter. Also, overcrowding has become a matter of safety because the narrow streets are not able to cope with the tourist influx, especially during the peak holiday weeks.
Tokyo, Japan
Tokyo’s Christmas lights are dazzling, but the city’s winter flu season is a hidden hazard for tourists. Trains become packed and public spaces become breeding grounds for viruses. Last December, Japanese health officials reported a spike in flu cases and urged travelers to be careful.
The Canadian Rockies, Canada
The Rockies are a winter paradise with snow-laden peaks and frozen lakes, but they are fraught with risks. Accidents are common in ice climbing and skiing and sudden changes in weather can leave adventurers stranded. In less visited areas, you may also encounter wildlife such as cougars and bears, as rare as those might be.
Mount Everest Base Camp, Nepal
You might be surprised to see Everest on this list, but trekking here in the winter is not for the faint of heart. Avalanches are a very real threat and the biting cold can plummet to -30°F. Thin air can also be dangerous to your health if you’re not acclimated to high altitudes.
Niagara Falls, Canada
The frozen falls are an incredible sight but the iced-over walkways and viewing platforms can be very dangerous. December is the time of year when slip-and-fall accidents skyrocket, and ice and mist make for an unforgiving surface, even for the most experienced winter travelers. Throw in wind chills that can freeze exposed skin in minutes and you’ve got yourself a frosty hazard.
Lapland, Finland
Lapland is a bucket list Christmas destination, known as Santa’s official home. Yet temperatures below zero, coupled with swift snowstorms, leave travelers frozen in place for hours in remote locations. It also leads to frequent vehicle collisions with wildlife (moose and reindeer).
Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
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