Tired of the same old Christmas at home? Whether it’s
snow, sand or shopping you’re after, read on for
our guide to the Ultimate Christmas Travel Experience.
New York City
New York City embraces the holiday spirit with gusto,
transforming itself into a winter wonderland for the whole
month of December. From the enormous tree and ice rink at
the Rockefeller Center to the window displays at Macy's and
Saks Fifth Avenue, luring in to buy up big, there are
delights for visitors of all ages. Make sure you check out
the ‘Origami Holiday Tree’ at the American
Museum of Natural History, which is covered in over 500
hand-folded origami animals.
An English Cathedral Carol Service
The best place on earth to hear traditional Christmas carols
is in England’s great cathedrals. There’s
nothing quite like the sound of angelic voices rising up
into their magnificent vaulted ceilings. Head for Lincoln,
Ely, Christ Church Oxford, Winchester, or Chichester. If
you’re in London, arrive early to the Christmas Eve
carol services at St Paul’s and at Westminster Abbey
to make sure you get a pew!
Phuket
, Thailand.
If you prefer white sand to snow, head to Phuket. Instead of
picking up discarded wrapping paper and arguing with
relatives, relax on the beach and soak up the sun. If you
suddenly feel a twinge for tradition, the turkey and
trimmings can be found at the Green Man Pub in Chalong,
complete with a Christmas pantomime and Santa!
Munich markets
Munich, in the heart of Bavaria, is home to a Christmas
market as old as its famous local breweries, which date back
to the 14th century. Baked apples, roasted almonds and
chestnuts, potato pancakes, Glühwein and other
mouth-watering German delicacies are standard fare. At 11am
and 5pm you can catch the City Hall’s elaborate
‘Glockenspiel’ clock in full flight.
Lapland with Santa
If you want to give Santa your order in person, head for
Rovaniemi in Finnish Lapland, the real home of Santa, Mrs
Claus, the elves and the reindeer. This pristine Arctic
landscape is also the perfect place to see the northern
lights, and to hit some of the best low-cost ski slopes in
Europe.
But remember, it’s no use asking Santa for travel
insurance so make sure you take it out before you go!
