The slow approach of winter brings with it shorter days, falling temperatures and the prospect of sleet, snow and ice. While some people are more than happy to embrace the spirit of the season with extra layers, lights and decorations, others can’t reach for their thermostats fast enough, wishing they were somewhere else. If you’re looking for an escape from the typically miserable conditions at home, you’re in luck! We’ve put together a list of destinations that cater for all tastes: from winter wonderlands to sun-soaked coastal breaks.
Nuremberg, Germany
Christmas markets are a staple of the festive period. They’re a great way to while away the hours shopping, eating and drinking in a carnival atmosphere. You’ll find markets of varying size and quality scattered all over Europe but very few of them compare to Nuremberg’s. Steeped in history and tradition, the Christkindlesmarkt has been going for well over 400 years and has a focus on traditional wares and sustainable development. It’s famous for its food too: roasted almonds, gingerbread and bratwurst are all on offer and there’s mulled wine (gluhwein) and rum punch to wash it down with too.
Just around the corner from the Christkindlesmarkt is the Nuremberg Children’s Christmas. Expect to see Father Christmas, a mini Ferris wheel, a steam railway, a small merry go-round, as well as an old carousel complete with reindeer and sleighs. There’s also a range of activities for kids to get involved in, from baking to craft making, they won’t be disappointed.
New York City, USA
The Rockefeller Centre is the hub of festivities in the Big Apple with a 30m tall Christmas tree (usually a Norway Spruce) and an ice-skating rink. It features prominently in now-classic Christmas films including Miracle on 34th Street, Elf and Home Alone 2. Manhattan’s high-end stores throw themselves into the spirit of the season too, arranging glamorous window displays that illuminate the nights. It isn’t unusual for New York City to be doused in a sprinkling of snow in December, bringing the winter wonderland so many people dream about to life.
Malta
While Malta won’t be stiflingly hot this time of year, it’ll still be a world away from the bitterly cold temperatures at home. You can expect temperatures to regularly climb north of 20°C, hot, but not too hot, and perfect for exploring its castles, coves and beaches.
Malta has a strong religious tradition and this fervour seeps into its Christmas celebrations. As well as the ever-present presepju (nativity scenes that are the culmination of countless hours of hard work by highly skilled craftsmen) there’s a Christmas pantomime held at Manoel Theatre and groups of carollers can be found roaming through the streets spreading Christmas cheer.
A particular highlight is the ‘Living Crib’ in Ghajnsielem at Gozo. Hundreds of actors come together to recreate the Bethlehem of two thousand years ago. Visitors can wander through a bakery, a tavern and a blacksmiths – all filled with authentic characters. Cross the wooden rope bridge and you’ll see shepherds going about their day. In the grotto, you’ll find Mary and Joseph cradling a live baby Jesus.
New York, Nuremberg and Malta are all accessible from airports across the UK. If you live in the North West, however, you can book airport transfers to get you to and from your flight quickly and easily here. Each place has a unique approach to celebrating Christmas, creating a one-of-a-kind atmosphere that you’ll struggle to find anywhere else.
