Christmas in Asia

Travel, Wine and Dine — By 88DB Knowledge on November 1, 2012 9:10 am

As one of the most celebrated festivals the world over, it’s no wonder that one can travel anywhere during this time and soak up the Christmas atmosphere. Here are just some of the best places in Asia to experience them.

SINGAPORE

A melting pot of various cultures, major religious occasions such as Christmas, are given importance. Every year from late October onwards, Christmas lights and decorations are strewn all over the Central Business District, particularly along the famous shopping strip of Singapore – Orchard Road. Huge Christmas trees are set up outside shopping malls and office buildings, spreading festive cheer to residents as well as tourists who will be spending Christmas here. And of course, being along the famous shopping belt, malls set-up elaborate Christmas themes in their windows to advertise their sales. This is one place where you won’t be stuck without a gift for someone.

And of course, besides our shopping, Singapore is known for its great food. Locals and visitors alike can choose to have their Christmas Eve dinner at home or at hotels and restaurants. A special menu is normally prepared for the occasion, with the traditional dishes associated with the holiday. It also becomes a haven for desserts!

HONG KONG

If you want a white Christmas in Asia, the Hong Kong is the place to be. Tourists flock to Hong Kong during this season for the “Winterfest”, where shops, malls, theme parks, and other establishments all participate. It is during this time that an a giant Christmas tree will be set up in the center of Statue Square.

Several also head over to theme parks such as Disneyland and Ocean Park, who go all out to decorate their parks in time for Christmas.

PHILIPPINES

As the only Catholic nation in Asia, it is no wonder that Christmas is widely celebrated in the Philippines. They hold the record for celebrating Christmas the longest in this region, starting as early as September, with shopping malls and other establishments adorning their buildings with festive decorations.

In lieu of a Christmas Eve dinner, Filiipino families gather for their Noche Buena dinner. Here, the usual dishes you would see on the tables are the Queso de Bola (Edam Cheese), Christmas Ham, Pasta and Puto Bumbong (sticky rice cooked in bamboo tubes), just to name a few.

The next time you feel like spending the holiday and a change of scenery, keep these Asian destinations in mind and you might be pleasantly surprised.