Christmas is a time to relax and unwind. It’s a time to reflect on the past year and hopefully focus on what went well and what you’re grateful for. However, Christmas is also a time that some people like to get away from their day-to-day lives and see new things. There are pros and cons to traveling at Christmas time, but the pros of the following three cities far outweigh their cons. If you are thinking about taking a trip this coming Christmas season, let’s look at some of your best options.
New York, USA
The world is your oyster if you have a passport and a backpack. Indeed, there are so many places to see and so little time. But where is the best place to be around Christmas time? New York would be the number one for several reasons. The vibe in NYC leading up to Christmas is incredible and unique. The city that never sleeps seems to slow down just a little, and things move at a pace that are more manageable. Lights in the streets and Christmas trees in every department store really convey the message of a Merry Christmas. Another feature in the NY social calendar is the Radio City Christmas spectacular, starring the Radio City Rockettes is an annual musical holiday stage show presented at Radio City Music Hall in New York City. The 90-minute show features more than 140 performers and an original musical score, and combines singing, dancing and humor with traditional scenes This is a must-see to get you and your loved ones into the Christmas spirit.
While some people swear by traveling during shoulder season and say that there are many reasons to venture through NY in September, we believe that Christmas time is the most special time of year. Picture winter markets, bright lights and an air of gratitude that surround you when you walk through the five boroughs of NY, where the Hudson River meets the Atlantic Ocean. There is nothing better than exploring a new city dressed up warm and taking everything. Traveling is about experience and culture, it’s about getting to know yourself better by mastering challenges, it’s about finding perspectives and insights that you can take with you for your entire life. You will certainly never forget your Christmas in New York.
Metz, France
Depending on what time of year you visit France, Metz is absolutely stunning in the winter time and features one of the best Christmas markets in the entire country. Among the top ten places to visit in Northern France, Metz is both overlooked and underrated, making it the perfect place to escape to if you’re not too keen on tourists. Bordering three separate countries, namely Germany, France and Luxembourg, travelers are treated to different cultures and impressions all in one city. This varied history can still be found in the architecture today. From the Temple Neuf and the breathtaking Cathédrale de Metz, which is dedicated to Saint Stephen, to more contemporary modern architecture found in the Centre Pompidou-Metz, there is so much to marvel at and enjoy.
Metz is ideal to let the senses rest a little and unwind, to enjoy the simpler life of a city less frequented than a place like Paris. It’s a stunning backdrop for those who like to journal and take pleasure in the little things in life. People are often spotted with a coffee, the sun on their faces and a book in hand, either reading or even writing their own thoughts down. International influence can also be felt, for example if you visit Torii Japonais, located at the edge of Plan d’Eau de Metz. This special feature is made of wood and painted in bright red, commissioned for a Japanese exhibition in the 1980s, and becoming a popular tourist attraction since then as it’s said to act as a boundary between two different worlds, one physical and one spiritual. There’s a sense of appreciation for life in Metz, something that the locals are happy to share and generously pass on to travelers.
London, England
London is one of those cities that once you’ve had the fortune of visiting, you’ll never be able to forget. From the exquisite restaurants and cafes, to the historical architecture and world-famous soccer stadiums, all the way to the hustle and bustle felt on every street, London, and the United Kingdom in general, is a bucket list-worthy kind of place.
London is the number one most visited city in Britain. As the capital city, this makes sense. However, London offers so much more than just big city energy, there is a huge amount of culture, cuisine and architectural sights in the city, which all come to life around Christmas time. London houses some of the best museums this world has to offer, such as the Tate Modern, Natural History Museum and the Science Museum. Art pours out of this city, with areas such as Bricklane being adorned by local wall artists. Furthermore, the walks along the Thames, the Borough Market filled with delicious and classic Fish and Chips, and the general livelihood of the city make it one filled with art, culture and fun activities. Just be sure to dress well as one never knows what London weather will throw at you.
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