Does the surf beat the snow this Christmas?

There's no denying that some like it hot...whilst others prefer a white Christmas. But which will you opt for this year? There are pros and cons whichever option you choose, whether you decide to hit the slopes in Switzerland or lounge on a beach in New Zealand.

Sun, sea and sand

What could be better than enjoying a sunny Christmas day? Head for Australia or New Zealand, where it's the height of summer, and kick back with a beach barbie on December 25th. Or take off to Malaysia or Dubai, where it's not quite as hot as during the summer months, but still a whole lot warmer than the UK! Dubai is a great destination for shopping and lounging on the beach, whilst those looking to get off the beaten track will love Malaysia's temples, palm fringed beaches and traditional street food - just stay away from the big cities if you want to experience the local culture at its most authentic.

A White Christmas

For some of us, celebrating Christmas in the sun just doesn't feel right. If you're a traditionalist, a white Christmas is probably right up your street, so why not head for one of the most popular ski resorts? Switzerland or France are classic choices, or you could try something a little different and head for Austria, Quebec or even Utah. Of course, you don't have to enjoy a winter sports break, you could head for Germany, Brussels or Prague and experience traditional Christmas markets - they're a great spot for shopping and sometimes you can even bag a last-minute weekend break, which is perfect if you're feeling a bit disorganised this year. City breaks are a great option if you're looking to enjoy the cold in a bustling destination where you can soak up the local culture, enjoy some shopping and dine out. If you would rather have a quiet break, then why not head for Iceland, Sweden or even Greenland, where you can experience husky rides, and visit Father Christmas himself? This is one trip that's definitely not just for the kids.

Whether your idea of heaven is snow or sunshine this Christmas, there's a destination to suit you. You could be strolling through the markets of Prague, sunning yourself on a tropical island beach or whizzing down the slopes in Switzerland - and with last-minute deals available online, it's easy to pick up a bargain. It sure beats being stuck in the cold, grey UK!