It’s that time of the year again where temperatures plunged to inconceivable degrees. I do not mean that Newcastle is a terrible place to be when winter descends; my motive is actually to highlight alternative destinations that would enable you to appreciate the beauty of winter in new surroundings. What better way to welcome the season of Christmas than to immerse yourself in other countries’ Christmas culture and experience their version of the winter wonderland? Or perhaps you miss basking in the Sun’s warm rays? Here is a list of countries that you could consider visiting based on individual preferences.
1. Tromso, Norway
I am willing to bet my bottom dollar that witnessing the Northern Lights is on everyone’s bucket list. What about taking the opportunity when you are young and carefree? Tromso has got amazing activities in store for its visitors, whether you like its architectural heritage, culture or wildlife, travellers are sure to get the best of all the worlds in Tromso. How does it feel like to slip out of your rented log cabin and huddle under a mound of thick duvets and coats to admire the night sky, only to capture the mystical lights with your own eyes when you least expected it? I would say the 4 hour flight is worth every bit of the experience.
2. Finland
Reindeers are always the first thought when Finland comes to mind, an iconic animal indeed when the number of reindeers roughly equates to the number of people over there. Hence, take advantage of the population of reindeers to take a different mode of transport, yes! A sleigh r
ide! Visit the real Santa Claus in Rovaniemi, Lapland. Don’t worry; he greets his visitors all year around whether they are naughty or nice. Last but not least, Finland boasts the cleanest air and best places for skiing; trust me when I say the liberating feeling is almost tangible when the winds are hitting you in the face with its full force as you whizz down the slopes. Not to mention, another place to spot the Aurora Borealis!
3. Tenerife Island, Canary Islands
No more snow for this year, your sun-kissed tan is slowly fading away revealing your displeasing pasty-white skin. Welcome to Tenerife, the largest of the seven Canary Islands! After you have successfully tear yourself away from its gorgeous beaches, you will find that there is endless to do from scuba-diving and participating in Segway tours down the coastline to watch dolphins and exploring the Teide National Park and La Laguna, the former capital of Tenerife. Thumbs up to the nightlife there too!
“The number of reindeers roughly equates to the number of people over there”
4. Caribbean Islands
Now that the hurricane season has passed, tourists will see more sun than rain in December. It gives you more reasons to hang out at one of their fantastic white-sand beaches, which offers secluded spots for those who want some privacy. The Caribbean is a haven for nature-lovers and water sports enthusiasts alike, whether it is kayaking, windsurfing, sailing or just hiking up mountainous terrains, you’ll get rewarded with a different sort of experience each time. The region is made up of more than 700 islands and reefs, making you literally spoilt for choice! No more excuses, just pick one and get ready to have a blast during winter. Who wouldn’t love Christmas on the beach!