How to Celebrate Christmas Abroad: Traditions, Destinations and Festive Magic

Christmas is a season filled with traditions, joy, and time spent with loved ones. But what if you could take those traditions somewhere new and discover how others mark the season? Choosing to celebrate Christmas abroad opens doors to unforgettable experiences, cultural discoveries, and a chance to create memories that feel truly special. From snowy wonderlands to sun-soaked escapes, there are countless ways to make the holidays shine brighter when you travel.

Why People Choose to Celebrate Christmas Abroad

Many families and couples are now swapping the familiar routine for something different. Celebrating Christmas abroad can be about chasing the snow for a storybook setting or seeking warmth on tropical beaches. It may mean tasting festive dishes you’ve never heard of, joining in local traditions, or simply stepping away from the pressure of hosting at home.

Travelling at Christmas also gives you time to slow down. Instead of preparing food, cleaning, and entertaining, you get the gift of rest. Imagine arriving at a cosy lodge where the tree is already glowing or a beachfront villa where dinner is served as the sun sets.

For more information about differing Christmas traditions abroad, check out this article from the British Museum.

Protections You Receive When Booking with Jamie Wake Travel

When you book your festive trip through Jamie Wake Travel, you get more than expert advice and handpicked destinations. You also receive peace of mind. As members of Protected Trust Services and holders of an ATOL licence, every booking you make with us is financially protected.

We tailor-make holidays to suit individual needs, and all of our custom trips include both Supplier Failure Insurance and Scheduled Airline Failure Insurance. That means if an airline or supplier ever fails, your money and holiday are safe.

This protection is built into everything we do. It’s one of the reasons our customers return to us year after year. When you’re travelling at such an important time of year, knowing your festive break is secure makes all the difference.

Destinations Where You Can Celebrate Christmas Abroad

Travelling during December doesn’t have to mean giving up on the festive atmosphere. Many destinations embrace the season in unique ways, combining centuries-old customs with modern celebrations. Here are five places where you can celebrate Christmas abroad and experience something unforgettable.

Celebrate Christmas Abroad in Germany

Germany is often seen as the home of Christmas markets, and for good reason. Cities like Munich, Nuremberg, and Cologne transform into glowing fairytale scenes filled with twinkling lights, wooden stalls, and the scent of mulled wine. Families stroll through the markets sipping hot chocolate while carol singers add to the atmosphere.

One of the highlights is sampling local festive food. From bratwurst served with sauerkraut to delicate gingerbread biscuits, the flavours of a German Christmas are unforgettable. Children will love the rides and toy stalls, while adults can shop for handmade ornaments and traditional crafts.

A wonderful place to stay is the Excelsior Hotel Ernst in Cologne, perfectly located near the cathedral and markets. With elegant rooms, warm service, and festive touches throughout, it’s a hotel that makes the season shine brighter.

At Jamie Wake Travel, we have access to exclusive offers on German Christmas breaks. If Cologne doesn’t appeal, we can tailor a trip to Dresden, Berlin, or even smaller towns that bring the magic to life in a more intimate setting.

Celebrate Christmas Abroad in Lapland

Lapland is the ultimate festive destination. Here, snow blankets the ground, reindeer roam the forests, and the Northern Lights dance across the sky. For children, the chance to meet Santa Claus himself is the highlight of the season. For adults, it’s a return to childlike wonder.

Activities include husky sledding, snowmobiling, and visiting ice villages. Families can decorate gingerbread, ride through snowy forests, or simply enjoy the peace of a log cabin with a roaring fire. The atmosphere is like stepping inside a Christmas card.

The Arctic Light Hotel in Rovaniemi offers a modern take on Lapland’s charm. With stylish interiors, cosy rooms, and festive menus, it’s a perfect base for exploring the Arctic Circle.

Through Jamie Wake Travel, we can help arrange tailored packages that combine Santa visits with winter adventures. With a wide range of offers available, we’ll help you create a trip that’s every bit as magical as the season deserves.

Celebrate Christmas Abroad in the USA

From New York’s sparkling Fifth Avenue displays to the warm glow of lights in Florida, the USA offers many ways to celebrate Christmas abroad. Each region has its own take, making it a versatile choice for couples and families.

New York is known for its Rockefeller Centre tree, ice skating rinks, and department store windows. It’s the perfect mix of shopping, theatre, and festive atmosphere. In contrast, Orlando brings sunshine and theme parks filled with holiday parades, fireworks, and special events.

The Plaza Hotel in New York remains one of the most iconic places to stay. With its timeless style, grand location, and festive atmosphere, it feels like stepping into a Christmas film.

Jamie Wake Travel can connect you with offers that include flights, theatre tickets, and festive experiences. Whether you want to skate beneath the Rockefeller tree or sip cocktails in Miami, we’ll create a holiday plan that works for you.

Celebrate Christmas Abroad in Australia

If you’d rather swap snow for sunshine, Australia is the answer. Christmas falls during their summer, so locals celebrate with barbecues on the beach, outdoor concerts, and festive markets held under the stars.

Sydney is famous for its harbour celebrations, with lights and music filling the warm December evenings.

Families gather for seafood feasts and beach picnics, often followed by fireworks. It’s a relaxed but joyful way to spend the holidays.

The Langham in Sydney offers a luxurious stay with views of the harbour. With its elegant rooms, spa, and festive dining, it’s a wonderful choice for couples and families seeking comfort and celebration.



At Jamie Wake Travel, we can arrange packages that combine Christmas in Sydney with New Year’s Eve fireworks or trips along the coast. We have a wide range of offers to suit different tastes and travel styles.

Celebrate Christmas Abroad in Mexico

Mexico combines faith, colour, and festivity during December. Towns and cities celebrate Las Posadas, a nine-day event filled with parades, music, and food leading up to Christmas Eve. Families gather for feasts, piñatas, and candlelit processions.

In beach resorts like Cancún, you’ll also find a mix of traditional celebrations and relaxed holiday escapes. Guests enjoy decorated resorts, festive menus, and beachside concerts. It’s the perfect balance of culture and relaxation.

The Ritz-Carlton in Cancún offers five-star service with beachfront access and festive touches that bring Christmas to life. With luxury rooms and world-class dining, it’s a special place to spend the holidays.

With Jamie Wake Travel, you can choose between cultural city trips or all-inclusive resort stays. We’ll help you decide whether to focus on traditions, relaxation, or a combination of both.

Jamie Says:

“Christmas is about making memories that last a lifetime. Celebrating abroad adds something unforgettable, whether it’s meeting Santa in Lapland or watching fireworks in Sydney. At Jamie Wake Travel, we love helping families and couples find the perfect way to enjoy the season.”

How to Choose the Right Christmas Destination for You

When deciding where to go, think about what matters most. Do you want snow or sunshine? Do you want relaxation or activity? Are you travelling with children who will enjoy Santa visits, or do you prefer a quiet escape with fine dining and culture?

Practical factors like flight times, budgets, and available activities also come into play. We work with a wide range of suppliers and tour operators, which means we can match your needs with the right options. No two families want the same thing, so no two itineraries should be identical.

Making Your Holiday Stress-Free

Booking a trip at Christmas might seem daunting, but working with a trusted travel agency makes it easier. We handle the planning, from flights and transfers to accommodation and festive activities. You get the fun of choosing without the stress of organising.

With our financial protections, tailored packages, and insider access to offers, your holiday is safe and memorable. That way, you can simply enjoy the season with those who matter most.

Final Thoughts: Celebrate Christmas Abroad with Jamie Wake Travel

Every family deserves a Christmas to remember. Whether that means snowy markets in Germany, adventures in Lapland, bright lights in New York, sunny beaches in Australia, or cultural traditions in Mexico, there’s a world of festive options waiting for you.

At Jamie Wake Travel, we specialise in tailor-made holidays that are as unique as you are. You can now use our website to create and book your own bespoke holidays with our online search tool, available on every page. Or, if you’d rather leave the planning to us, we’re just a phone call or message away.

Celebrate Christmas abroad with peace of mind, knowing every booking is protected. Speak to us today on 01495 400005 or fill out our holiday enquiry form to start planning. Together, we’ll make this Christmas one you’ll never forget.

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