SPENDING CHRISTMAS ABROAD
Photo by Chriswanders on Pixabay
Some people take advantage of the Holidays to go on a trip, others use this opportunity to visit their loved ones. It can be difficult sometimes for expats, volunteers, exchange students and nomads to go home for Christmas and it can be a melancholic time of the year. Here are some ideas to help you survive Christmas abroad.
Discover Local Traditions
If you are in a country that celebrates the Holiday season, what a great opportunity to discover new traditions! Immerse yourself in your host culture and participate in all possible thematic activities. If you have local friends or colleagues, try to be invited to a traditional celebration!
Photo by Drew Farwell on Unsplash
Party at a Restaurant, Bar, Hostel, Etc.
You can find Christmas celebrations in most large cities around the world. If you are not too introverted, going out and meeting people at one of these events can be a fun and original way to celebrate! Tips; hostels are usually full of lonely travellers and orphan Christmas parties are usually really awesome.
Host Your Own Celebration
Invite your friends over to celebrate Christmas in your own way! Cook a traditional dish from home, decorate like you usually do, you can even organize a little secret Santa! If you’re alone on Christmas Eve, try to do something comforting, like watching your favourite Christmas movie eating a bunch of homemade cookies.
Plan a Little Getaway
If you can't go home during the Holidays, that doesn’t mean you can’t go on an adventure elsewhere! A little getaway might be cheaper than a trip home, but just as rewarding. Find a special place to discover, plan a unique activity, do something unusual and exciting… Find a way to make this Christmas different, yet memorable.
Contact Your Loved Ones Virtually
Yay for technology; it is possible to keep in touch so easily these days, no matter where you are! Organize a virtual meeting with your loved ones on Christmas Eve or Morning; you can attend the gift exchange, traditional family dinner, annual carolling, etc. Who said out of sight out of mind?