Exotic Destinations to spend Christmas

Zee Media Bureau

Its that time of the year again when people around the world eagerly wait for the Santa Claus, gorge on some yummy plum cakes, sing carols and exchange gifts. Its indeed a time to unwind, relax and make the most of the festive spirit. And if you wish to move out of your city, explore Christmas celebrations elsewhere, then read on to find out ideal destinations around the world:

Budapest Christmas Fair:

Christmas occasion in Budapest is a party time where family and friends come together to enjoy mulled wine, ginger bread cookies, outdoor ice drinks, illuminated avenues and a wide variety of Christmas markets. Don't forget to dive into the outdoor pool of 'Szechenyi Bath' and take a ride on the trams decorated with fairy tales which like a dream spectacle can only be seen in children’s books.

Christmas in Ice North Pole, Alaska:

Christmas in Alaska is embraced with extreme cold temperature in places like 'Firebanks'. Christmas in Ice is an annual event that lights up the Christmas season in North Pole. This ice park features a Christmas-themed ice art competition with sculptures by local and international carvers. Special events include a 'Picnic Under the Stars' and 'Military Appreciation Day'. And if this wasn't enough, the winter solstice which occurs on December 21st is round the clock to give you around twenty hours of darkness.

Santa's Enchanted Forest, Miami Florida:

If you are done with celebrating Christmas in all covered up winter mode, then try planning a trip to Santa's Enchanted Forest, Miami Florida which offers you a warm spring like temperature with long days. Santa's Enchanted Forest boasts over 3 million lights that are sure to delight every age. At the center of the park is the 90-foot Christmas tree lit from top to bottom. Don't forget to stop by and see Santa while you're there, or drop him a letter in a special mailbox.

Winter Wonderland in London:

Winter Wonderland, located in London's Hyde Park is one of the capital's biggest open spaces transformed into acres of fun for all the family, with live shows, fairground rides, human circus acts, traditional Christmas market. The front and centre of the park is a massive ice rink which is the largest outdoor ice-skating surface in the United Kingdom.

Wassail Weekend in Woodstock, Vermont:

There isn't a better place than Vermont to celebrate Christmas. It brings a unique parade of decorated horses and riders adorned in holiday costumes and period dress.

Christmas Festival of Lights in Portland, Oregon:

If you are looking to enjoy your Christmas in an adventurous way then surely Portland in the state of Oregon is the coolest place ever. choirs from across the state daily concerts, singing Christmas carols inside the character-filled stone chapel on site, while puppet shows and a petting zoo will keep any one amply entertained.

Fiesta on Olvera Street in Los Angeles, California:

Las Posadas is a tradition followed by Mexico during the evenings of the nine days before Christmas. It depicts a short pilgrimage that re-enacts the Christmas Eve journey. Los Angeles has a version of the celebration on its Olvera Street that the public can participate in.