Christmas is just around the corner, and many people are about to take their long-awaited vacation. However, if you have not yet decided on your destination for then, we have the list for you. Here is our list of the top 6 destinations you should visit during Christmas vacation:
1. Rovaniemi, Lapland, Finland
Rovaniemi in Lapland, Finland is said to be the Headquarters of Christmas itself as it is located at the North of the Arctic Circle. Be sure to bring thick jackets as your visit there will inevitably be cold. That being said, you can enjoy multiple winter sports activities and watch animals such as moose, polar bear, and wolverines at the Ranua Wildlife Park.
For more Christmas-themed activities, visitors can make gingerbread houses with Mr. and Mrs. Claus or take elf lessons at Elf School. You could also take a calligraphy class and make Christmas cards with their popular quill. You can even mail it straight to your loved ones, although it may take some time to arrive. But hey, it is the thought that counts, right?
2. Malta
Malta takes the Christmas season seriously as it is integral in their culture. The residents annually display their Holy Crib confections in their windows and garages. If you visit here during the Christmas season, you may catch the yearly Christmas pantomime show at the Manoel Theather then take a walk along with the dazzling light decorations at the Republic Street. You could also hear the symphony of Christmas from carolers at Downtown Valletta.
3. Philippines
Being one of the predominantly Christian nations in Asia, the Philippines is the perfect place to be in during the holiday. Whether you are visiting a family or want to feel the joy of Christmas, the holiday spirit in the Philippines will make you feel at home. You can visit many churches that enact the birth of Christ and the visit of the three kings or witness the long-standing tradition of Noche Buena. For an added celebration feel, taste their mouth-watering Lechon and Hamon that are staples in this kind of celebration.
4. Japan
Christmas in Japan is extra. As you walk down the streets of Tokyo, you will ultimately feel the spirit of Christmas as bright Christmas lights welcome your eyes along with many Christmas-themed shops. Enjoy your vacation by taking many pictures with the holiday background and taking a tour around the different temples and food spots that will feed your hunger for an adventure.
5. Reykjavik, Iceland
Experience the not so usual Christmas tradition of Reykjavik, Iceland. One of these unique practices that they have is the “13 Yuletide Lads.” This is where 13 scruffy Santas give nice kids presents during the 13 days before Christmas. Visitors can also enjoy the picturesque scenery of the Yule Town Market in Ingolfstrog Square, Downtown Reykjavik, that has a stretch of tiny lovely huts where you can shop for Christmas related souvenirs, gifts, and decorations.
6. Oberndorf, Austria
Feel the holiday spirit in the location of the film The Sound of Music in Oberndorf, Austria. Be welcomed by the sight of snow-covered mountains. Although just like Iceland, they also have a peculiar tradition during Christmas Season. People dress as Krampus, an Alpine Beast that takes away naughty kids.
If you are nice throughout the year, you have nothing to worry about. The towns here also offer an excellent selection of Christmas decor and potential gifts that you can give to your loved ones.
Final Thoughts
The Christmas season is about the celebration of the birth of Christ and lets us not forget the true meaning behind it. Spend this long-awaited season with family and make sure to create the best memories. Wherever you choose to celebrate it, the important thing is that you are happy and satisfied with your vacation.
