Popular Christmas Destinations to visit
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While some people would prefer to spend Christmas in Singapore, others would be more inclined to travel abroad with their friends or family to spend the festive season in another country, especially somewhere that is snowing. This allows them to immerse themselves in diverse cultural traditions, admire breathtaking scenery, and relish the magic of a snowy holiday.
1. Vienna, Austria
Kicking off this list, most known for its magnificent museums, stunning architecture, culture, traditions and culinary delights, Vienna is a must go destination if you are looking to celebrate christmas overseas. "Christkindmarkt" also known as Vienna’s traditional Christmas markets, they are beautifully decorated with festive ornaments, twinkling lights and wooden stalls that sell all kinds of holiday treats and gifts. As you take a stroll down the streets of Vienna, you can hear classic Christmas songs being played as well as other classical music. If you are a fan of classical music or composers such as Mozart and Strauss, there are a handful of classical concerts which will definitely put a smile on your face. The streets of Vienna may seem to never end, so I’m sure you’ll be famished at some point, but rest assured, there is plenty of food to enjoy while you’re there! Traditional treats like Lebkuchen (gingerbread cookies), Maroni (roasted chestnuts), Punsch (a warm fruit punch made with fruit juices and spices) and lastly, Krapen (a type of Austrian doughnut often enjoyed during the holidays).
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Speaking of gingerbread cookies and festive activities, did you know you can build and decorate your own gingerbread house with your friends or family? Check out All Things Delicious’ Gingerbread Housekit!
Photo by: CJ Wadhwa
2. Zurich, Switzerland
Just like Vienna, Switzerland is a beautiful and magical destination to visit during the Christmas season. The country’s breathtaking landscapes, charming villages and Christmas lights and decorations really put you in the mood for the festive season. The Swiss Christmas markets also known as Weihnachtsmärkete or Machès are known for selling unique handicrafts, holiday treats and hot chocolate (to keep you warm!) Switzerland is also known for its stunning winter landscapes, so get ready to take lots of insta-worthy pictures while you’re there! Apart from that, you can also take part in sports activities with your friends or family such as snowboarding, skiing and ice skating. Lastly, you can also observe the Swiss Christmas traditions such as the lighting of Advent candles, the singing of christmas carols, and the celebration of Saint Nicholas’ day on December 6.
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3. Italy
Italy is another popular Christmas destination because of its rich cultural traditions, stunning decorations, delicious holiday food, religious significance, charming villages and not forgetting the christmas markets. If you are someone who is interested in other countries’ cultures, there are a few local christmas traditions that are carried out during the festive season, such as, Nativity Scenes, Midnight Mass, Christmas Eve Candlelight Processions and many more! At times, you might find yourself lost in exploration for hours, and when it's time to recharge, rest assured, there's an abundance of delicious food to satiate your appetite and provide the energy needed for further adventures!
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4. New York City/ USA
Moving out of the European region and heading over to the States, celebrating christmas here will definitely make you feel as if you’re a main character chasing after love in a rom com movie like Love Actually, a young boy lost in New York from Home Alone (my personal favourite) or an officer stuck in Nakatomi Plaza surrounded by terrorists on Christmas Day. Regardless, you can’t deny that there is something magical about spending Christmas in the USA, the christmas markets, the angelic carols, the attractive displays of christmas lights at many neighbourhoods, parks and botanical gardens. However, if you are someone who dislikes the cold weather, rest assured, there are other states such as Florida, Hawaii and California that offer a warmer alternative. If you are looking to go on a shopping spree, the USA is well known for their sales, the most prominent one being Black Friday. All in all, the USA is a great place to spend Christmas at, with a great atmosphere as well as a thousand and one things to do there!
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5. Japan, Tokyo/Osaka
However, if you are not planning to travel too far, look no further than Japan, another excellent place to experience a unique and captivating Christmas experience, a blend of both traditional Japanese and Western Holiday traditions! Cities like Tokyo and Osaka, are well known for their elaborate Christmas light displays and illuminations. Much like Singapore, the Christmas lights fill the streets, parks and shopping districts, it is truly a sight to behold. If you are looking to have some fun with your friends and family, Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo Disney Sea welcomes all of you with open arms! (They really do go all out with their Christmas-themed events and decorations!) If you, your friends or family are craving for some Christmas desserts, rest assured there are plenty of Christmas sponge cakes in Japan to enjoy! They are typically decorated with whipped cream and strawberries, you will be able to find many of these beautifully designed cakes at Bakeries and Patisseries!
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We’ve come to the end of the blog! However, if you are craving for some dessert or something sweet, may I recommend All Things Delicious’ Chocolate Log cake.
Photo by: CJ Wadhwa
