Christmas Without a Budget
It’s December, and Christmas is upon us. All around the world, people celebrate the last few days of the year in various ways, and what better time than now to experience foreign culture? Anyone can string up a few lights and decorate a tree but when you travel you see more. Here are four destinations to visit and why:
New York City, NY
Rockefeller Centre is at the core of the New York Christmas. Its famed ice rink has been around for 80 years; the decorated tree has been a holiday tradition since 1931. Across the street, Radio City hosts the annual Christmas Spectacular, starring the Rockettes. The festivities generally end with the famed Times Square ball drop where the ball descends 141 feet down a specially designed flagpole beginning at 11.59pm ET.
Barcelona, Spain
Anyone who can extend their Christmas holiday until Three King’s Day (January 6 in 2019), can catch up with Melchior, Gaspar and Balthazar in Barcelona. On the evening of January 5, they arrive at the city’s port on their ship, the Santa Eulalia — in bearded and velvet-robed splendour. Cannons are fired, fireworks are set off, and as the mayor hands them the keys to the city, they parade through the streets in a magnificent cavalcade of floats that includes camels, elephants, giraffes and dazzling costumes.
Sydney, Australia
Why not spend Christmas on a beach? One advantage of traveling to Australia in the month of December is that you get to experience summertime weather. Sydney boasts of cultural dynamism and has a cosmopolitan vibe to its society. Visit some iconic monuments, scenic places and world-class restaurants that will leave you in awe.
Disneyland, California
Built in 1955 under the direct supervision of Walt Disney; it is termed ‘The Happiest place on earth’. Whether you’re losing wisdom teeth or trying to grow your first tooth, Disneyland will welcome, and leave you with a smile. From its over joyous rides, to fancy carnival food, Disneyland would be the perfect place to spend your Christmas holiday, with or without family.
