Come Christmas and we start hearing jingle bells and carols, at least in our minds. Christmas holidays are the ideal time for familial bonding and reunions. And also for that long awaited break from the monotony of the entire year. There are plenty of destinations around the world where Christmas is celebrated with fervor and joy. Have a look at the best of those.
Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi, Finland
What better place for a Christmas trip other than the hometown of Santa Claus? Santa Claus Village located near Arctic Circle in Lapland, Finland, is the must-visit Christmas destination. Here you are welcomed by everything that symbolizes Christmas, oodles of snow, enormous Christmas trees, sleigh rides, reindeers, and a chance to meet the most important Christmas celebrity, Santa Claus. Yes, there is someone dressed up as Santa waiting for guests at the village. Take a selfie with Santa, and get a gift from him too!
Salzburg, Austria
Do you remember the movie, Sound of Music? The place that looked straight out of a fairy-tale? It was Salzburg in Austria. The place is famous for its Christmas festivities. Salzburg has several Christmas markets where you get a chance for shopping galore. Not just shopping, Christmas markets in Salzburg have everything you wish for, be it singing, dancing, story time, or guided Christmas tours. A romantic destination where you can mix Christmas fun with snow fun, Salzburg is an apt choice for Christmas holidays.
Reykjavik, Iceland
Reykjavik in Iceland is another amazing destination to be in the midst of pomp and splendor of Christmas. True to its name, Iceland will woo you with ice, and tons of it everywhere. Skating over frozen lakes is an interesting activity awaiting you in winters in Reykjavik. Buggy rides in snow are also quite popular. Fireworks and lighting will look fabulous in the backdrop of white snow. A trip to watch the Northern Lights will be the best of all that Reykjavik has to offer for Christmas visitors.
Vatican, Italy
A Christmas spent in the holy city of Vatican will me a memorable experience. If you are religious and wish to spend a holiday in divine atmosphere, Vatican is the place for you to go. The celebrations here start eight days prior to Christmas day. You will get a chance to seek the blessings of The Pope. The huge Christmas tree and Nativity Scene are the special attractions here. On Christmas day, there will be a special midnight mass conducted by the Pope. It will be a different and unique Christmas if you head to Vatican.
Christmas in Hawaii
So far we have seen places where we can see white Christmas, where everything shines in snow. But if you are not especially fond of subzero temperatures, you still have a lot of options to enjoy Christmas to the fullest. Head to destinations in Hawaii for a fun-filled Christmas. Here, everything related to Christmas will have a Hawaiian touch. Santa will be in his quintessential red suit, with Hawaiian modifications. Even the Christmas trees will be adorned with tropical flowers and decor. There will be Christmas carols, parades, feasts, everything without the biting cold. Honolulu has a month long display of Christmas lights. It is fun and frolic in Hawaii for Christmas.
Tromso in Norway
Have you fancied being in a place where Sun doesn’t come up in the mornings? Well, Tromso is one such place in Norway. Decembers here totally devoid of Sun. The master lighter that bids goodbye in November doesn’t show up till the end of January. A Christmas in the sun-forsaken land will be a unique experience. Combine with this the beauty of multitude of colors of Aurora Borealis, or Northern Lights. No man-made lighting can match the priceless beauty of this spectacle. A Christmas spent in the cool Nordic surroundings will be a great addition to your memories.
Nuremberg, Germany
Nuremberg is one of the places in Germany which is world-famous for its Christmas markets. The markets have their unique traditions and customs. The stalls here sell traditional Christmas delicacies such as gingerbread and grilled sausages. They also serve mulled wine in abundance. Apart from traditional items, there are a host of other items too at these markets to enchant you, especially the kids with you. A tour in the city during Christmas time will give you a live demonstration of the vibrant culture.
Aspen, Colorado
Aspen, the skiing destination of Colorado, is the hot hub of lively Christmas celebrations. A 12 day celebrations that kick off from December 20 will offer you several merry-making activities for free. Skating, sleigh rides, cookie decorations and storytelling sessions are some of them. The best thing about Aspen is that layers of fresh crispy snow delights you every day. But this is no time for wrapping up inside cozy rooms. Lively parties, hot chocolates and a lot more wait for party-goers in Aspen during Christmas.
The Maldives
Are you looking for a respite from winter chills? Maldives is an ideal Christmas destination for those wishing to spend some time in tropical climate. This seaside destination will offer its best in this season. Of course, there is no snow, and no skiing or snowboarding. But when ocean is beckoning you with its pristine charm, what more do you need? The best part of a Christmas in Maldives is that the weather won’t be too harsh on you. Neither the sweltering heat nor the chill in bones.
There is no time like Christmas to explore uncharted territories. Let the jingle bells accompany your passion for globetrotting. Whether you’re looking for a fun-filled Christmas in Hawaii or a deeply enlightening trip surrounded by Nordic culture in Norway, go with the best
International Tour operators for an unforgettable experience. Connect with Fortune Tours to know more about the best International Group Tour Packages.