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If you’re a Bangkok first-timer, this is your invitation to explore a city teeming with life, flavour and history.
Dreaming of a winter wonderland?
Pack your gloves and beanie because we have the perfect guide to a white Christmas, where snow-covered landscapes and festive enchantments define their cold season.
Raise the brrrr in Lapland, get frost wandering the decorated streets of Seoul or freeze the day on the ski fields of the Canadian Rockies.
Whether you’re wanting an adventure-packed Christmas itinerary, or you prefer to go with the snow, it’s time to explore these winter wonderlands.
Lapland, Finland
Nowhere does Christmas quite like Lapland, the Finnish winter wonderland that’s set to the backdrop of the Northern Lights. Delight in the heartwarming charm of Rovaniemi, home to the official village of Santa Claus himself, reindeer, and husky sledding, which each release the magic of Christmas for both the young and young at heart.
By day, embrace the exhilaration of ski resorts that beckon with pristine landscapes and some of the best snow on the planet. As night descends, retreat to the cozy embrace of a crackling fireplace. Whether you’re after budget friendly Airbnbs or luxurious glass igloos where you can witness the Northern Lights from the comfort of your bed, your Christmas spirit will be soaring in this real-life snow globe destination.
GETTING THERE
- Qantas and Qatar Airways fly to Rovaniemi
- Flight time is approximately 30 hours (two stops)
- Research and book accommodation with Booking.com.
Canadian Rockies, Canada
Where better to enjoy a white Christmas than the Canadian Rockies? Here 701km of ski slopes lure global travellers to the snowcapped mountainous terrain. Outdoor activities beckon with ice walks, skiing, ice skating, and dog sledding all an option – just don’t forget to reward yourself with Christmas pudding afterwards. If you’re wanting to learn about the landscape and history of these striking mountains; traverse the rugged Grotto and Maligne Canyons. Stroll through icy landscapes explore hidden waterfalls and discover Native American tribal pictographs dating back 500 - 1,000 years. Immerse yourself in Banff’s scenery on a walking tour, such as the In Search of Christmas Spirit experience, which follows illuminated sculptures through the Cascade of Time Gardens.
If you’re heading to the Rockies to relax, rather than raise your heartbeat, enjoy a leisurely scenic train journey through the mountain peaks, and relish the panoramic views from the cozy confines of your seat. While you’re there, make sure to immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring beauty of Canada’s Northern Lights, with Jasper and Banff National Parks serving some of the best vantage points.
GETTING THERE
- Air Canada flies to Calgary
- Flight time is approximately 20 hours (one stop)
- Research and book accommodation with Booking.com.
Seoul, South Korea
If urban jungles of Christmas lights and inner-city winter activities are your favourite part of the holiday season, may we introduce you to your new Seoul-mate? Watch as the city lights up with outdoor spectacles, vibrant Christmas decorations, and bustling markets all winter long. Christmas in South Korea is slightly more geared towards couples as opposed to families, offering the perfect opportunity for a romantic getaway.
To soak it all in, venture a short 25-minute drive from Seoul to uncover the mesmerising Lighting Festival at The Garden of Morning Calm where you’ll find a kaleidoscope of colourful lights awaiting amidst the garden dreamscape. For an immersive adventure, head to Lotte World to celebrate winter wonder. Experience exciting Christmas parades, hours of holiday-themed activities, and of course, exclusive Lotte World merchandise to purchase as a gift or something for yourself.
GETTING THERE
- Korean Air flies to Incheon Airport, Seoul
- Flight time is approximately 10 hours
- Research and book accommodation with Booking.com.
Berlin, Germany
Brace yourself for a Christmas market extravaganza in Berlin, where the air is filled with the smell of gingerbread and steaming mugs of Gluhwein (mulled wine) to warm marketgoers’ hands. There are over 80 Christmas markets in Berlin alone, but some of the best to really indulge in the Christmas spirit are; Alexanderplatz Christmas Market, Berliner Weihnachtszeit at Roten Rathaus, and Schloss Charlottenburg Christmas Market, each offering their own blend of holiday cheer.
If markets aren’t your cup of Gluhwein, Berlin has a wealth of other wintertime activities to explore. Glide across ice skating rinks, conquer sledding hills, be serenaded by gospel concerts, and immerse yourself in church services across the city. And here’s a tip: if the Christmas week isn’t feasible for your visit to Germany, most markets and festivities span from November until January, so you can embrace the merriment all winter long.
GETTING THERE
- Emirates and Singapore Airlines fly to Berlin
- Flight time is approximately 26 hours (two stops)
- Research and book accommodation with Booking.com.
New York, United States
If you’re planning on ticking New York off your bucket list this year, visit during winter to embrace the season in one of the most iconic travel-destinations in the world. As you wander the snow-lined twinkling streets of the Big Apple, you’ll stumble upon plenty of pop-up winter activities with everything from Christmas-themed bars for late night celebrations, light festivals, extravagant street decorations, ice skating rinks, and the towering Rockefeller Christmas Tree, of course!
While you’re taking your bite of the Big Apple, make sure to stop in for a bite at Rolf’s Restaurant on 3rd Avenue to discover a snug German restaurant decked floor-to-ceiling in so much Christmas décor you’ll wonder how they got it in the door. If you want to extend the holiday spirit to your accommodation choice, book a stay at Lotte New York Palace or Dream Downtown – complete with an ice bar – to experience some of the most Christmassy hotels in the city.
GETTING THERE
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