Family Christmas Holidays in the Sun
Christmas is a time for family and what better way to spend it than together on holiday. While many associate Christmas with snow and chilly weather, sunny family holidays during this festive season offer a unique and memorable experience. If you are looking to swap your traditional Christmas festivities for sunnier climes, here we explore some fantastic destinations where you can celebrate Christmas with your loved ones while enjoying the sunshine, beaches, and a relaxed atmosphere.
Phuket, Thailand - An island bliss
Whether you choose to head straight to Phuket or spend some time exploring the hustle of Bangkok first you will experience a uniquely different Christmas here. The island, with its stunning beaches, lush landscapes, and vibrant culture, provides an enchanting backdrop for celebrating the festive season. Families can enjoy a range of activities from building sandcastles and snorkeling, to exploring the bustling local markets. Many resorts and restaurants offer special Christmas dinners, often featuring a mix of international and Thai cuisine, ensuring a memorable culinary experience. Phuket's welcoming locals and the joyous atmosphere in the streets, along with the warm weather, make it a fantastic destination for a family Christmas getaway.
Bali, Indonesia - A Tropical Christmas
Bali’s lush landscapes, picturesque beaches, and serene temples offer a unique backdrop for celebrating the Christmas holidays. Families can explore the vibrant local markets, partake in traditional Balinese ceremonies, and visit ornate temples. Many resorts and restaurants in Bali organise festive Christmas dinners with a mix of international and Indonesian flavors, creating a delightfully different alternative to a traditional meal. The warmth of the Balinese people and the island's enchanting ambiance make it a perfect destination for families to spend time together and relax.
Sri Lanka - Christmas with colonial charm
Christmas holidays in Sri Lanka offer a unique blend of cultural richness and tropical splendor, making it an ideal destination for families. While Sri Lankans are primarily Buddhists, the festive spirit of Christmas is warmly embraced throughout the country. Families can explore the colonial charm of cities like Colombo and Galle, adorned with Christmas lights and decorations. The beautiful coastal areas provide the perfect backdrop for sun-soaked celebrations, with options for water sports, whale watching, and relaxing on pristine beaches. Further in land, the lush hill country offers a cooler escape, with the chance to explore tea plantations and witness stunning waterfalls. Sri Lanka's diverse cuisine ensures a delightful gastronomic adventure for all family members.
Maldives, Indian Ocean - A paradise Island
Family christmas holidays in the Maldives are celebrated with a tropical twist, as palm trees replace traditional Christmas trees, and festive decorations adorn the luxurious resorts that dot the islands. Families can enjoy special Christmas feasts featuring fresh seafood and international cuisines, often accompanied by local music and dance performances. It's a serene and tranquil way to celebrate the festive season.
Mauritius - Christmas in Paradise
Family Christmas holidays in Mauritius are a blend of tropical paradise and multicultural celebrations. Alongside the pristine beaches and lush rainforests that are associated with Mauritius, the island also hosts various events and festivities during the Christmas period, including vibrant street parades, cultural performances, and sumptuous feasts. Many resorts and hotels also organise special Christmas dinners, featuring a mix of international and Creole cuisine. The warm hospitality of the locals, along with the island's natural beauty, makes Mauritius an ideal destination for families to celebrate the festive period.
Goa, India - Sun and Serenity
Family Christmas holidays in Goa are a delightful blend of sun, sand, and festive spirit. With Portuguese-influenced architecture, and a vibrant culture that comes alive during the festive season. Families can explore picturesque beaches, visit ancient churches, and indulge in water sports. Goa hosts lively Christmas markets and colorful street decorations, adding to the festive ambiance. Many hotels and beachfront shacks serve special Christmas meals with a fusion of local and international flavors.
Zanzibar, Tanzania - Spice Island Christmas
Family Christmas holidays in Zanzibar are a perfect blend of exotic beauty and cultural fascination. This Tanzanian archipelago in the Indian Ocean offers pristine beaches, historic Stone Town, and a rich Swahili heritage that infuses the festive season with a unique charm. Families can explore white-sand beaches, go snorkeling in coral-rich waters, and take guided tours of Stone Town's intriguing history. Zanzibar comes alive during Christmas with colorful street celebrations, music, and feasts that feature Swahili and international cuisines.
Dubai, UAE - A glamourous Christmas
Spending the festive season with family in Dubai is an experience filled with an array of unique activities. During this time, Dubai transforms into a magical wonderland, adorned with glittering lights and grand decorations across the city's malls, landmarks, and hotels. Families can enjoy the Winter Festival at Ski Dubai; The Miracle Garden which blooms with festive cheer; the Dubai Opera hosts special themed performances, while the Dubai Mall dazzles visitors with its spectacular light shows. Families can also enjoy a traditional Christmas brunch or dinner at various luxurious hotels. Dubai's family-friendly attractions, combined with the city's vibrant and diverse offerings, create an unforgettable Christmas holiday for all.
St Lucia - A tropical Christmas paradise
Enjoy a multi generational family holiday on the beach in St Lucia. Families can revel in the warm, inviting atmosphere as the island gets adorned with Christmas decorations and joyful spirit. St. Lucia offers a range of activities, from enjoying the beautiful beaches and warm Caribbean waters to participating in special festive events. Families can witness the stunning Festival of Lights in the capital, Castries, featuring vibrant parades, live music, and local cuisine. The iconic Gros Islet Friday Night Street Party gets infused with Christmas cheer, providing a unique cultural experience filled with music, dancing, and local dishes. Exploring the island's natural wonders, such as the majestic Pitons or the lush rainforests, can be coupled with horseback riding, snorkeling, or zip-lining adventures. Traditional Christmas meals with a local twist are available at various resorts and local restaurants. St. Lucia's blend of natural beauty and festive celebrations makes it an ideal destination for families seeking a tropical holiday imbued with Christmas spirit.
Singapore
Whether you are transferring through or using Singapore as your base, celebrating the festive period here with family is a blend of enchanting experiences and vibrant festivities. The city hosts stunning displays of Christmas lights and decorations, transforming its iconic landmarks like Orchard Road into a dazzling spectacle. Gardens by the Bay, adorned with beautiful Christmas displays and light shows, offer a magical wonderland for children and adults alike. Sentosa Island hosts various Christmas-themed events, including beach parties, spectacular light displays, and fun-filled activities like beachside movies or special Santa appearances. Families can also enjoy the delightful Christmas markets scattered throughout the city. You will find an array of festive cuisines on offer, allowing families to enjoy sumptuous festive meals ranging from traditional Christmas fare to local delicacies.
Costa Rica - An eco-friendly Christmas
Celebrating the festive season in Costa Rica with family is a nature-infused escapade, offering a unique and enriching experience. Costa Rica's ecotourism sites, like Manuel Antonio National Park or Arenal Volcano, provide the perfect backdrop for outdoor adventures. For an action-packed adventure take part in thrilling activities such as hiking, spotting exotic wildlife, or embarking on canopy tours to appreciate the verdant landscapes from a different perspective. For a more serene Christmas experience, unwind at stunning beaches along the Pacific or Caribbean coasts, enjoying sun-soaked days and engaging in water sports or simply relaxing amidst nature's beauty. Christmas in Costa Rica can also involve eco-friendly accommodations, allowing families to immerse themselves in sustainable living while appreciating the country's incredible ecosystems.
Tanzania - Christmas on Safari
Celebrating Christmas with family in Tanzania offers a once in a lifetime experience, where you can enjoy the festivities amidst the warm Tanzanian spirit. Christmas in Tanzania can include cultural encounters, like visiting local markets where vibrant displays of crafts and local art showcase the country's rich heritage. You can venture on safari in renowned national parks like Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater, witnessing majestic wildlife roaming against the backdrop of breathtaking African sunsets. Tanzanian cuisine during Christmas involves savoring traditional dishes like pilau, chapati, and succulent barbecued meats, providing a flavorful taste of local culture. Tanzania gives an unforgettable Christmas holiday for families seeking a blend of culture, adventure, and natural beauty.
Jordan - a blend of heritage and celebration
Spending the Christmas holidays with family in Jordan offers a rich tapestry of cultural immersion and historical exploration. Temperatures are cooler and the crowds in many of the sites are much lower, Petra has even been known to have a dusting of snow. Families can enjoy festive spirit mingled with the country's unique traditions, visiting iconic sites like Petra, adorned with seasonal decorations and offering a glimpse into Jordan's ancient history. Exploring the historic city of Jerash, families can witness live reenactments of Christmas stories amidst the well-preserved Roman ruins. The vibrant city of Amman offers delightful Christmas markets showcasing traditional crafts and local delicacies, while the Rainbow Street comes alive with festive lights and cultural performances. Or, venture to the Dead Sea, to indulge in relaxing spa treatments and floating in the buoyant, mineral-rich waters. Traditional Jordanian cuisine like mansaf, falafel, and sweet desserts such as knafeh become part of the Christmas experience, allowing you to savor local flavors. Jordan's fusion of historical marvels, cultural festivities, and culinary delights creates an extraordinary Christmas experience for families.
Barbados - A relaxed Christmas
At Christmas time Barbados has a vibrant holiday spirit, the island is adorned with festive decorations and a variety of exciting activities for families. Marvel at the enchanting Oistins Festival, a celebration of local culture featuring live music, traditional Bajan dishes, and the opportunity to mingle with friendly locals. Bridgetown's historic city center gets adorned with sparkling lights, and families can enjoy shopping for unique gifts and local crafts. The Crop Over Festival, though traditionally a summer event, sometimes extends into December, providing an electrifying experience with colorful parades and lively music. For a relaxed Christmas day, families can bask in the sun at stunning beaches like Crane Beach or Carlisle Bay, enjoying water sports or simply unwinding in the beautiful Caribbean ambiance. Indulging in festive Bajan cuisine such as jug jug, sorrel drink, and the renowned Bajan black cake completes the Christmas experience.
South Africa
Celebrate Christmas with family in South Africa against the backdrop of the country’s most iconic landscapes. In cities like Cape Town and Johannesburg, immerse yourself in the holiday spirit by exploring bustling markets, street festivals, and engaging in Christmas-themed events, such as carol concerts or theatrical performances. Embarking on a wildlife safari in Kruger National Park or exploring the scenic wonders of the Garden Route allows you to witness the country's majestic wildlife and stunning landscapes. Enjoying a relaxing Christmas beach day along the picturesque coastlines of Durban or the Garden Route, indulging in water activities or simply basking in the sun. South African Christmas cuisine, such as a braai (barbecue), traditional malva pudding, and spicy chutneys, provides a flavorful taste of local culture. The blend of cultural festivities, natural wonders, and diverse activities makes South Africa an ideal destination for families seeking a multifaceted and memorable Christmas holiday.
If you normally prefer sunny family holidays then Christmas need be no exception. We would be delighted to suggest the best Christmas escape for your family, where you can still enjoy the festivities and family time that come with this time of year.
We love nothing more than talking about family holidays, so if you would like to know more about any of these destinations please call us on 0118 3360363 or get in touch through our contact us page.
For more inspiration you can visit our Destination pages or read some more of our blogs.
If you have found this blog post useful please share it with your family and friends.
You can also read more of our family holiday inspiration by following us on social media on Instagram and Facebook. Or Join our Mailing list.