5 Great Places to Celebrate Christmas Abroad

Culture is defined as a society's total way of life. Languages are spoken, religions are practiced, foods are eaten, and traditions observed, all of which play a role in the uniqueness of culture. One of the world's most observed traditions is Christmas. Every tradition has to have a beginning and Christmas is no exception. Commencing in Bethlehem, Israel with the miracle birth of Christ, is the holiest of all holidays. Over the next 2,000 years, many new countries were established, bringing with them new customs and rituals during the holiday season. Some of these customs have been reenacted by billions of people for thousands of years. This week, I am revisiting 5 of my favorite world cities and how they celebrate at Christmas time.

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Salzburg, Austria

Salzburg is located in the central part of the country to the north, sharing a border with Germany. The Christkindlmarkt (Christmas Market) is rooted in customs and traditions traced back to the 15th century. For the two weeks leading up to Christmas, one can savor delectable foods and beverages. The market is also filled with handmade ornaments, toys, and dolls. Activities include sing-alongs, band concerts, and a viewing of the spectacular manger depicting Christ's birth. The Baroque architecture is on full display adorned with millions of lights throughout the town. The snow-capped eastern Alps create a postcard-like backdrop for this magical place.

Prague, Czech Republic

In Prague Christmas is truly a big deal. Every square provides a festive atmosphere. The most elaborate being at Wenceslas Square a name that is synonymous with Christmas. To tourists, some of the holiday customs may seem a bit unusual, but the locals have followed the same rites for 1,000's of years. The Christmas dinner features fried carp. Locals flock to merchants with enormous tanks filled with this holiday fish. They are prepped on spot and taken home where they are stored until Christmas Day. For the more traditional traveler, the Christmas tree at the Old Town Square is glorious. A night cruise along the Vltava River affords one a majestic view of the festive holiday lights.

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Sydney, Australia

Sydney, as we all know, is located south of the equator which means our winter is their summer. Outdoor activities dominate the day with one of the most popular attractions being a trip to the beach. You won't find skiers or snow here, rather surfers and sand. Bondi Beach outside of downtown Sydney is the most popular. Hoards of locals and wandering backpackers fill the shore enjoying picnic lunches. You can bring your own or purchase food from beach vendors or local markets just across the street. A pavilion plays host to several musicians, bands, and DJ's filling the beach with music all day. At night take a scenic boat ride around Sydney's iconic harbor to experience an incredible light show and fireworks display like no other.

Bath, England

Bath is always one of the more popular Christmas destinations for the entire family. Named for the Roman bathhouse unearthed in the early 20th century, the downtown area is transformed into a magical winter wonderland. For the children, an ice skating rink is erected and a Victorian Carousel is trucked in. Carolers and stores filled with holiday treats can be found around every corner. Bath Abbey's front facade is lit up by a gigantic Christmas Spruce. You will find plenty of seating outside of the Abbey to relax and enjoy some mulled wine. Or try one it's many pubs. Take your gifts to the Luxury Gift Wrap Station at Milson Place and have them wrapped by an expert. The attention to detail is worth the price.

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Vatican City

Vatican City is the smallest nation in the world coming in at 0.17 square miles in area. However, you won't find more people gathered in one square anywhere else in the world than during Christmas Midnight Mass. People flock to hear the Pope pay tribute to Christ's birth from all over the globe. St. Peter's Square is modestly adorned, making the Christmas tree the featured attraction ... outside of the Pope. Rome is literally across the street and Christmas Day is a great time to explore the major sites with fewer people and less congestion. They will be closed but it makes for some great picture taking. The Plaza Navona is a perfect place to spend Christmas Day. It is festive and smartly adorned with merchants and attractions for the kids.

The Christmas season allows us to gather with friends and family. Feasting and exchanging gifts is the norm in most countries. Although the food and gifts may vary from country to country the reason to celebrate is the same. The spirit of the season has become so popular that non-Christian countries like Japan and Hong Kong have adopted Yuletide traditions and customs. Gift giving, decorations, and Christmas trees are practiced by most of the population. Like Japan, Bethlehem is on my bucket list of places to visit. I have always loved Christmas and would relish the opportunity to visit the birthplace of Christmas. Next week, it's all about coming home to the U.S. and visiting the holiday traditions of five great U.S. cities. Merry Christmas!