In the past years, I spent the Christmas and New Year week around the world. This year is a special year for all of us. Even though we cannot travel to other countries or gather with family and friends during the holiday, we can still enjoy quality time with our love ones at home.
Do you know that different countries celebrate Christmas and New Year in different ways? Let me share with you my personal experience.
Europe
Hungary & Austria
I went on exchange to Belgium in 2017 so I toured around Europe during the Christmas and New Year holiday. With the historic and religious background, most European countries treat Christmas as an important festival.
Even though Christmas Market is originated in Germany, it is now held in many other countries. I visited several Christmas Markets in Hungary and Austria during my solo trip. Spend a few hours in the markets while drinking hot mulled wine was so enjoyable. I just loved the atmosphere there.
England
I spent the Christmas Eve and Christmas Day in England. People lined up a few hours in advance for the Midnight Mass. I saw long queues in front of churches since the afternoon. One thing to beware of is that most shops and restaurants close early or even do not open on Christmas Day. Plan your Christmas dinner in advance!
Asia
South Korea
South Korea doesn’t officially celebrate Christmas, but there are still Christmas decorations around. Seoul Christmas Festival at Cheonggyecheon Stream is one of the places that can give you a taste of Christmas.
Taiwan
Even though Christmas is not a public holiday in Taiwan, the government and large corporations organise different events during the periods, including Christmasland in New Taipei City, Christmas markets in different shopping malls and Christmas decorations around the cities.
I have spent New Year in Taiwan for three-time already. Twice in Taipei and once in Kaohsiung. The concert, count down event and firework at New Year’s Eve Party are just fantastic. Alternatively, you may want to watch the first sunrise at Alishan or Mount Hehuan.
Hong Kong
After all, I need to say that Hong Kong is one of the places with the most festive atmosphere. Christmas decorations and lighting displays are everywhere. Victoria harbour night view with Christmas carolling, Stanley Plaza Christmas Market, and the Christmas display at Landmark would be my top three.