Now that we have reached December (really?!), it’s time to get into the festive spirit and roll out your Christmas trees, head to a Christmas market, take on new traditions, and maybe even escape to an alternative destination this Christmas!

Join us as we look at all of these and more in our latest blog.

Let’s begin – Ever wondered what it’s like to celebrate Christmas in another country? Presents, a big turkey and Christmas pudding are just a few of the things that we have come to expect, but how is this holiday celebrated around the world?

Christmas traditions around the world

Iceland

Like the 12 days of Christmas that we’re used to, Iceland celebrates 13. Each night before Christmas, Icelandic children are visited by the 13 Yule Lads. After placing shoes by the window, the children head upstairs to bed. In the morning, they’ll either have received sweet treats (if they’re good) or be greeted with shoes full of rotten potatoes if they’re bad. And you thought brussels sprouts were bad!

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Netherlands

The Dutch celebrate Christmas for 2 days – on the 25th and the 26th of December. In the Netherlands, people spend these two days with their family, enjoying similar quality time as us such as playing games, watching movies, and eating traditional Christmas food.

Spain

Each year between December 24 and January 6, Spain celebrates Christmas, or Navidad in Spanish. Although some Spanish families now give presents on Christmas Day, the main day for gift-giving is January 6th. That means most Spanish children will tell you it’s the three Kings who bring the presents – rather than Santa Claus. During this time of the year, Spaniards strive to fill their days with happiness, food, and family time.

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As we continue, how’s your Christmas tree looking? If you haven’t put your tree up yet, we have some inspiration for you as we look at 3 of the best Christmas tree displays around the world.

New York, USA

How could we not include one of the world’s most iconic Christmas trees?

The Rockefeller Christmas tree is decorated with more than 50,000 LED lights and its electrical wiring is longer than 8 kilometres! Turning on the lights of the Christmas tree is a real spectacle in New York.

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Rio De Janeiro, Brazil

Brazil goes all out when it comes to their Christmas tree display. Constructed on water, Rio’s tree is known as the largest floating Christmas tree in the world reaching heights of 278ft.

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Lisbon, Portugal

Competing for the tallest Christmas tree in Europe, Lisbon’s has seen hights as big as 249ft. Although artificial, Lisbon’s tree remains traditional and tasteful in lights and colours. Visitors can even step inside the tree and gaze up at the sparkling display, which is located on the large waterfront square, Praça do Comércio.

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As we edge closer to the big day, if you’re looking to get away to do a spot of Christmas shopping, we have three of the top Christmas markets from around the world.

Cologne, Germany

One of the most well-known markets in Germany, Cologne’s Kolner Dom sits in the shadow of the UNESCO-listed Cathedral. The heart of Cologne’s most picturesque market is a giant Christmas tree surrounded by dozens of mini chalets, while the stage hosts over a hundred performances during the festive season.

Florence, Italy

Christmas in Italy cannot be without the Christmas Market in Piazza Santa Croce, Florence. In front of the beautiful Basilica, you will find a small Christmas village where you can buy handmade gifts, Christmas decorations and typical products such as cold meats, cheeses, and wine.

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Vienna, Austria

With almost 200 market stalls below alleys of festive lights giving a charming night-time feel, this is the perfect place to sip a mulled wine (known locally as gluhwein). For the younger ones, there’s a special children’s area where they can learn to make cookies and candles.

Finally, considering a different kind of Christmas this year? Let’s discover three of the best alternative Christmas destinations with countries offering up everything from a crisp white Christmas to a sun kissed suntan.

Lapland, Finland

Lapland is one of the most magical places on earth to spend Christmas. Set your Christmas spirit alight, with crackling wood fires, snow-dusted forests, and a sea of reindeers deep inside the Artic Circle.

Thailand

Christmas isn’t a recognised holiday in Thailand, so if you’re looking to escape the festivities then this could be the place for you. Explore the best Thailand has to offer from tropical beaches and natural wonders to opulent Royal Palaces and hidden ruins. Spend Christmas day cooling off in the freshwater pools of Erawan waterfall, soaking up the sun’s rays on Phang Nga Bay or indulging in some traditional Thai cuisines off the beaten track.

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Paris, France

Visiting Paris at Christmas can be a charming experience, especially if you want to enjoy the Christmas markets, hit the January sales in some of Europe’s best shops, or enjoy the many cosy cafés and museums.

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Well, that brings us to the end of our Christmas blog. We don’t know about you but we’re feeling festive and excited for the arrival of Santa! We hope you take inspiration from us and can experience a Christmas market or two, take on some new traditions or even jet off this Christmas!

If you are planning a winter getaway or even looking ahead to your 2024 holiday, remember, we work with some of the world’s leading insurers and aim to provide high quality Travel Insurance for people of all ages, specialising in covering several pre-existing medical conditions, with no upper age limit.

As a festive treat from us, save 10% on your Travel Insurance using code XMAS10 online or over the phone. Get in touch today and see how we can help protect you and your loved ones on your next trip – get a quote here or call on 0800 294 2969.

Discount code valid until 31st December 2023.