Walking on the beach at 31°C, listening to the sound of the waves and watching the palm trees dance in the wind - doesn't sound much like Christmas, but it does sound like an idyll! And that's exactly what everyone longs for at the most wonderful time of the year. We show you the top 4 destinations where it's summer at Christmas.
Panama: enjoy fireworks a week early
If you want to experience a traditional Christmas in Panama, you can start the evening of December 24 in a good mood: Panamanians celebrate exuberantly and cheerfully. The traditional drink Ron Ponche is accompanied by turkey, which is eaten with family and friends.
After the Food church services are attended and television is watched until, at 0:00 a.m. sharp, numerous fireworks bathe the sky in colorful hues and turn Christmas Eve into an early New Year's Eve. Only then do the presents finally arrive.
Phuket: Pad Thai instead of Christmas goose
Thailand is considered the land of smiles and is characterized by Buddhism. This means that Christmas is not really an issue here. Nevertheless, even in the hotspots of Thailand, such as Phuket or Khao Lak, you will sometimes encounter Christmas trees and blinking Santa Clauses.
Unlike in Germany, instead of Christmas goose and red wine, there is delicious Pad Thai and a Singha beer to end the day. In addition, the months from November to January are considered the best time to travel to the region: little to no precipitation, pleasant humidity and the most Sunshine hours provide the ideal conditions for a contemplative Christmas.
If you also want to switch off digitally and escape the funny Christmas videos that are gladly sent via WhatsApp, you have the opportunity to stay for a few days in the Khao Sok National Park to the airport. There's no reception there anyway.
Cartagena: Experience Colombian Christmas
In Europe, Christmas is considered contemplative and quiet, but in Cartagena, travelers can expect the exact opposite: Instead of celebrating with a fireplace and mulled wine, the Colombian exuberant with rousing rhythms and fruity cocktails - often until the early hours of the morning.
No wonder, after all, temperatures of about 31°C invite you to relax on the beach or explore the streets, bars and restaurants on foot.
Tradition & party atmosphere in harmony
But don't worry, lovers of traditional Christmas will still get their money's worth in Cartagena: A visit to the midnight mass followed by the giving of presents is a great recommendation. As in Germany, December 25 is also spent with family and friends to commemorate the birth of Christ. But after that, it's party time!
To enjoy the ideal mixture of tradition and exuberant party mood, no destination is better suited than Colombia. A little tip: simply extend your vacation over New Year's Eve - then you can party twice with the open-minded Colombians.
Bali: Christmas in another world
The Indonesian island attracts Adventurer especially by overgrown volcanic mountains, long sandy beaches and colorful coral reefs. It's no wonder that over 5.6 million posts on Instagram are now tagged with the hashtag #bali.
Vacation the way I want it
Who it from the uncomfortable German winter to Bali verschlägt, which feels almost as in another world: On Christmas Eve a coconut on the beach drink, on Christmas morning go surfing or hiking through the lush forests - Christmas in Bali is one thing above all: free.
Who nevertheless longs for Christmas spirit over the holidays, is exactly right on Bali. Many restaurants, hotels and cafes now take up Christmas traditions. In addition to Christmas food, vacationers can look forward to Christmas carols and colorful decorations.
The sun and the next adventure are waiting for you
Now it's time to put an end to rain, snow and darkness. There are plenty of places in this world that are warm and sunny in our wintertime, with great landscapes and adventures waiting for you!
If you've now really got into the Christmas spirit, then take a look at our Travel calendar and find your perfect winter trip to the sun. Subscribe also to our Newsletter and follow us on Instagramto get more inspiration for your next winter trip.