Whether you want to escape tradition, experience a different climate, a White Christmas or just to do something different, Christmas away will hopefully reward you with an unforgettable experience. Here are just a few ideas.
Quebec City is one of the favourite historic destinations for Christmas. The city has a romantic, "Christmassy" feel with its cobblestoned streets and spectacular architecture of the city surrounded by walls. This city was founded in 1608 by a French explorer named Samuel de Champlain. When the snow falls and you experience the food, wine and Christmas atmosphere at the many fantastic restaurants, you may wonder why you have never done this before
Quebec City is one of the favourite historic destinations for Christmas. The city has a romantic, "Christmassy" feel with its cobblestoned streets and spectacular architecture of the city surrounded by walls. This city was founded in 1608 by a French explorer named Samuel de Champlain. When the snow falls and you experience the food, wine and Christmas atmosphere at the many fantastic restaurants, you may wonder why you have never done this before
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Spain is another popular destination as there are many special activities during the Christmas season. On of these amazing experiences is Las Posadas which is a procession re-enacting Mary and Josephs search for "room at the inn". The traditional story of Mary and Joseph, and their search for lodging is re-enacted in a 10 block processions of carollers, histories characters, the Drum Corps and hundreds of visitors participating in the Christmas music.
Traditionally a nine-day celebration started in Spain, Las Posadas is symbolic of Joseph’s and Mary’s journey to Bethlehem and their search for shelter prior to the birth of Christ. In English, Las Posadas translates to “the inns” or “the shelters.” Dating to the 16th century, the symbolic re-enactment begins with a procession of village families, called pilgrims (led by children and followed by adults and musicians) seeking shelter for the night. The pilgrims travel to a different “host” home in the village each of the nine nights, looking for lodging and carrying small lit candles. They are turned away from many homes before finally finding refuge. Upon entering their destination, the families pray together and sing. Their prayers are followed by joyous celebration.
Traditionally a nine-day celebration started in Spain, Las Posadas is symbolic of Joseph’s and Mary’s journey to Bethlehem and their search for shelter prior to the birth of Christ. In English, Las Posadas translates to “the inns” or “the shelters.” Dating to the 16th century, the symbolic re-enactment begins with a procession of village families, called pilgrims (led by children and followed by adults and musicians) seeking shelter for the night. The pilgrims travel to a different “host” home in the village each of the nine nights, looking for lodging and carrying small lit candles. They are turned away from many homes before finally finding refuge. Upon entering their destination, the families pray together and sing. Their prayers are followed by joyous celebration.
Another alternative to your traditional Christmas is Kaikoura, New Zealand. An outdoor Christmas could be celebrated here as it would be the height of Summer and outdoor activities are in abundance. You could hike the rainforest in the Kaikoura Mountain range or enjoy the waters of Kaikoura Bay.
There is much to see here as it is one of the most bio diverse marine environments on the planet. There are bound to be sperm whales, fur seals, dolphins and pilot whales and you can see them from the comfort of a boat.
There is much to see here as it is one of the most bio diverse marine environments on the planet. There are bound to be sperm whales, fur seals, dolphins and pilot whales and you can see them from the comfort of a boat.
Wherever you end up for Christmas, amidst all the busy-ness, don't forget the true reason of Christmas. Make this Christmas one to remember....
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