Towns and cities across the country have been ablaze with lights for a couple of weeks. Homes are swiftly following suit; adorning their homes in flashing reindeer along with erecting prized Christmas trees left, right and centre. Carols echo in our ears long after exiting from shops. Cards have started hitting the doormat. It’s official; Christmas is in full swing! For those of you who are looking to make this year extra special and just can’t get enough of the festivities, here are the Top 5 Places to Embrace Christmas.
Austria
When it comes to Christmas, Austria and the city of Salzburg especially, knows how to celebrate. Hosting the world renowned Salzburg Christkindlmarkt, you will be crammed full of clichés, washed down with glass upon glass of delicious, warm mulled wine. Lose yourself in the bustling market aisles, exalt the choirs, gorge on gingerbread and be enchanted by the nativity plays. You can’t fail to be charmed by Austria at Christmas time.
Christmas in Iceland
The city of Reykjavík may not be the first to mind when planning a festive getaway. Celebrations here are perfectly suited to a young family. Thirteen Santas, each with their own characters and roles, take it in turns to visit the city one at a time, starting on December 12th. Buffet dinners are offered around the city from the end of November and the Christmas Village in Hafnarfjordur, a little outside the city, is the icing on the Christmas cake. Take a walk under the warm glow of the hundreds of twinkling lights and enjoy a magical and memorable time.
America
There’s no denying that Americans like the holidays. You could easily go as far to stay that they love the holiday season. Delicious holiday time treats and hearty meals, elaborate decorations, mammoth trees and plenty of gifts make this time of year extra special. Plan a visit to pretty much anywhere in North America during December and you won’t go far wrong. Particular hot spots include New York, Boston and Colorado for skiing.
Germany
Another winning contender when it comes to Christmas Markets, Germany comes to life in the wintery holiday months. Nuremberg is a particular star, boasting the Christkindlemarket that is frequented by around 2 million visitors every year. That figure alone goes someway to proving just how atmospheric and ambient a Christmas here can be. With dazzling lights and plenty of delicious treats, not to many every hand crafted gift you can think of, Christmas in Germany will be sure to do the job.
Puerto Rico
Surprisingly, the celebrations in Puerto Rico continue for far longer than anywhere else across the world, meaning it’s a holiday haven for Christmas lovers! San Juan is the best place to visit! Sample some Puerto Rican egg nog, enjoy some local and authentic treats and embrace the celebratory atmosphere.
The festive period is usually best enjoyed with the people you love the most, your friends and family, at home. But sometimes it can be nice to broaden your horizons and spend Christmas somewhere else for a year and these are some of the top picks.
