Love it or hate it, Christmas will soon be upon us. Want to try something different? Lisa de Silva explores some ideas for a festive getaway
Hollywood would have us believe that it’s a magical time of year of family get- togethers, delicious food, thoughtful gifts and fun games in front of a crackling fire as snow drifts down outside.
Too often though, it is merely a time of excess involving complex visiting schedules with lengthy journeys in hellish traffic, overeating, over drinking, overheating and enforced festive fun, not to mention all the expense. It is rarely a holiday in the true sense of the word, leaving us relaxed and recharged for the new year ahead, but often more of an endurance test.
While this may all sound a bit bah humbug, many people are now using the time off over Christmas and New Year to escape the festive period. So, whether you find the whole thing too stressful or want to indulge in the snowy spirit of it all, we’ve got some ideas to inspire you to break with tradition and leave the ghosts of Christmas past behind you. In fact, a trip away could turn out to be the ultimate gift to yourself.
HEAD FOR THE SUN
For those depressed by the cold dark days of winter, heading off to soak up some warm sunshine can be just the tonic. From the tropical paradise of the Caribbean and Indian Ocean, to the Canary Islands and California, you’ll still enjoy a festive atmosphere but can celebrate on the beach or with a barbeque. If you want to add some Christmas sparkle, maybe arrange to do something special on the big day itself, such as a safari, rainforest trek, visit to a site of historic importance or a gastronomic feast.
DIVE INTO THE CHRISTMAS SPIRIT
The festive season is a time for those who love everything Christmassy to really indulge their passion. The Christmas markets, outdoor ice rinks, bright lights and cosy warmth of many cities, make this a great time for a city break. Edinburgh, New York, Berlin and Prague are just a few places where you can soak up the magical atmosphere, enjoying mulled wine, hot chocolate, artisan crafts, long walks, cosy fires and superb local cuisine.
HEAD FOR SNOW
Even the hardest of heart cannot fail to be moved by a snowy Christmas village. Akin to a magical winter wonderland, heading to a European ski resort over the festive season is a chance to make memories. For skiers and snowboarders, it’s ideal, as the runs will be less crowded but there is also much to be enjoyed by non-skiers. Horse sleigh rides, dog sledding, tobogganing, snowmobiling, snowshoeing, ice skating and cross-country skiing, are just some of the activities on offer. For the non- active, just sitting in front of the fire or in a hot tub on your chalet’s balcony, enjoying the snowy landscape and watching the world go by, will be a Christmas moment to treasure.
IMMERSE YOURSELF IN SPIRITUALITY
Often the whole spiritual aspect of Christmas is forgotten amid all the festive frenzy. For those seeking deeper meaning, this time of year might be a good opportunity to visit a retreat. This could be a silent retreat or one that focuses on quiet meditation, reflection and mindfulness, anything really that recharges your spiritual batteries and leaves you feeling a sense of calm and relaxation.
A TIME FOR REJUVENATION
In a similar vein, Christmas can provide the opportunity to indulge in some quality me time, with a trip to a spa. Treat yourself to a massage, facial, detoxing therapy, hydrotherapy and some gentle exercise and really take the chance to relax and unwind. This is a superb way to refresh and rejuvenate body, mind and soul, leaving you in a good place to begin the new year.
FAMILY & FRIENDS GATHERING
For those who would still like to celebrate with family and friends, another idea is to all decamp to a hotel. The advantage is that nobody needs to worry about catering or cooking the Christmas dinner and the hotel will be full of festive atmosphere to enjoy.
Alternatively, you could book a large house or cottage to host you all. To cover the cost, maybe agree not to buy presents, but all contribute to a food fund. This means the cooking can be shared, nobody needs to be the ‘designated driver’ to ferry everyone home and there’s plenty of people around for team games. If possible, choose a property with plenty of space or scope for walking, for those wishing to escape for a quiet moment.
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