5 must-visit destinations in Asia to celebrate Christmas (besides Singapore)

Unknown to many, Asia has many great travel destinations that you can go to with your family to celebrate Christmas. You don't have to empty his college fund to give your kids a special Christmas holiday when these great destinations are hassle-free and right at your doorstep.

Christmas is a magical time for family, and many Singaporeans go abroad to celebrate this occasion with their families.

But if you are a mum of young children, the last thing you want is to have to deal with the stresses of a long haul flight or extreme cold temperatures. This year you don't have to miserably listen to your friends plan that awesome Finland escapade - we have compiled a list of great Christmas destinations in Asia that are hassle-free and easy on the pocket.

Da Lat, Vietnam

If you are not a fan of sub-zero degrees or long haul flights, but want to experience the traditional cool weather of Christmas somewhere in Asia, definitely consider Dalat. Located 1,500 m above sea level on the Langbian Plateau in the southern parts of the Central Highlands region, Dalat was originally structured by the French colonists as a place they could retreat to as respite from the killing tropical heat.

It is not difficult to fall in love with Dalat, also popularly known as "City of Eternal Spring" with its average temperature hovering around the mid-20 celsius all year round. The month of December falls within its dry period so you don’t have to worry about monsoon rains.

Many of the hotels and hostels offer celebratory spreads and the city centre usually has pretty decorations and performances. It’s no rockerfeller light up, but for its proximity and price, it’s a pretty good deal!

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Hokkaido, Japan

Fancy doing some Christmas skiing without breaking the bank? While not exactly a budget trip, Hokkaido is near enough and offers a white Christmas within the Asian region.

While not an official public holiday, more and more Japanese are celebrating Christmas with the usual lights, decorations and food and Hokkaido, being one of the more Westernized regions of Japan is no exception.

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Goa, India

Whilst India is a predominantly Hindu country, there is a sizable population of Christians in Indian. Considered a major holiday in India, Christmas is celebrated with much pomp and gaiety in the typical multi-cultural spirit characteristic of the society.

If you love the twinkling lights that Christmas brings, nobody does light-ups as colourfully and spectacularly as the Indians do. India also puts their own twist on traditional Christmas dishes that are definitely worth a taste, especially if you like your spices!

In particular, Goa is a beautiful coastal town with deep Catholic roots and refreshing cool weather during the month of December

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Manila, Philippines

Home of the mega-malls of Asia, Philippines is also a place of residence for approximately 18 million catholics, making it the third largest catholic country in the world. This means Christmas is huge in the Phillippines, with Christmas carols starting from as early as September, lasting to January!

Moreover, the shopping during this festive season is great with amazing deals at their mega-malls. You can find anything you might want at a great discount there!

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Seoul, South Korea

As the only country in East Asia that officially recognizes it as a national holiday, South Koreans associate this festival with youthful romantic love more than with Jesus.

Seoul is a modernized city and it has a spectacular light-up in various places. If you are looking for a white Christmas in the Asian city, Seoul is the place to go. Lotte, the largest amusement park in Asia has a lot to offer young children with their Christmas events and festivities as well.

While you are there, do keep a look out for the South Korean version of Santa - Santa Haraboji!

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Written by

Leigh Fan

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