Spending time with family, singing carols, and watching the Christmas tree lights twinkling in the evening while sipping on eggnog – This is what a traditional Christmas is all about. But everyone needs a break from tradition every once in a while.

Whether you’re looking for a thrill-seeking adventure or a relaxing beach getaway, here are some of the best ideas for a non-traditional Christmas.

Alternative Vacation Ideas To A Traditional Christmas

Ski Resort Christmas Holiday

Taking a trip to a ski resort is a great way to celebrate the holiday season in true adventurous style. Whether you want to stay at a ski resort or in a snowy cabin in the woods, skiing is by far one of the best ways to spend your non-traditional Christmas holiday.

Sliding down the slopes at tremendous speeds before heading inside for hot chocolate by the fire is any adventurer’s dream. It’s also a great way to bond with your family in an alternative way.

There are a whole variety of perfect family ski holidays to check out now. So, if you’re taking the family for a vacation in the mountains, be sure to assess all the best options.

Christmas Caribbean Cruise

When you think about Christmas, you may not picture crystal clear waters and an island getaway. But why not? An ocean cruise is one of the most relaxing ways to spend the festive season.

Step away from the crazy rush of Christmas time, cancel your plans, and book a cruise in the Caribbean. After spending a week or two in the sun, you’ll be more relaxed than you’ve ever felt post-Christmas. Watching the beautiful blue ocean and feeling the fresh sea breeze on your skin will be an absolute treat.

Often cruise lines offer discounted deals over the Christmas period, so it’s a great time to work on that sun-kissed look while welcoming in the new year.

Northern Lights Christmas Trip

What better way to spend your Christmas holiday than witnessing nature’s fireworks first-hand. The Aurora Borealis (or the Northern Lights) are not only beautiful and fascinating, but they’re a natural wonder experienced by very few people.

Visiting Norway on an excursion to see the gorgeous northern lights is on almost every explorer’s bucket list. If you decide that Norway is the place to be this festive season, know that you’re going at the very best time of the year.

Since Norway experiences winter over this period, there are fewer hours of light, and therefore a higher chance of seeing the elusive Aurora Borealis. You can expect the northern lights to be visible in the sky for at least 16 days over the December period – giving you more than enough opportunity to see nature’s glow.

It’s also a great idea to track the northern lights so that you know when to expect them and look out for them in the sky.

Christmas in Colombia

Columbia is one of the most festive places to celebrate Christmas. With traditions that are often a mystery to the westernized world, the cultural celebrations are great fun. Columbia’s Christmas celebrations start as early as the 7th of December, leaving you and your family with plenty of time to enjoy the festivities.

The 7th of December is the Day of the Little Candles when families place lit candles in front of their houses. This is to light the way for the Virgin Mary. Walking around the streets with candles flickering along the pathway is a truly magical experience.

Medellin is possibly the most festive city in Columbia, as 31 million bulbs light up the town. The lights are displayed for the entirety of December. Your Christmas in Colombia won’t be complete without a visit here.

When Christmas is said and done, there’s no need to press pause on the partying. Alborada is right around the corner, which is Colombia’s New Year celebration. It’s an exciting festival complete with artworks, fireworks, music, and dancing. An absolute must-see if you’re in Colombia over the Christmas period.

Festivities in Rio de Janeiro

Rio is not only known for its elaborate celebrations, but also for its vibrant culture, making it a great alternative destination for your Christmas vacation. Unlike other regions, Rio celebrates Christmas on the night of the 24th of December. On the 25th of December, you’ll find the beaches packed with locals and tourists, basking in the sun.

One of the best things to see in Rio de Janeiro over the festive period is situated in Lagoa. Here you’ll find the city’s lake decked out with a floating Christmas tree adorned with thousands of twinkling lights.

New Year presents yet another opportunity to celebrate in Rio. Although there are many great places to spot fireworks around the state, the best place for fireworks is the famed Copacabana beach. This is the party hub of Lapa and it offers celebrations to rival the world’s best.

December in India

December marks the end of the monsoon season in India. To celebrate, why not hit the beach with the masses of locals. Or sail down the Kerala backwaters on a houseboat for a truly unique experience.

The area of Kerala has a large Christian population, which means Christmas is a particularly festive time of year in these parts. Buy your Christmas gear in advance to get you and your family in the spirit before heading to this wonderful country.

Get the best of both worlds by experiencing the vibrant culture of India, while celebrating your favourite time of year in style.

Guatemala Celebrations

Guatemala is famous for its many sightseeing attractions and ancient ruins. What better way to spend your December holidays than by learning about an ancient culture, and taking in the beautiful sights.

But don’t worry, you won’t be missing out on all the Christmas celebrations. There are plenty of festivities leading up to and on Christmas day.

Guatemala kicks off their celebrations on the 7th of December with the Burning of the Devil. Locals burn paper and unused household items in massive bonfires outside their homes. This is to prepare for the holy weeks ahead.

There are numerous other festivals held in the lead up to Christmas, so be sure to join in on all the fun!

Wrapping Up Vacation Ideas for a Non-Traditional Christmas

If you’re tired of the same old Christmas traditions and the worn stockings hanging over your fireplace, you can be sure it’s time to spruce things up.

Christmas is a time for family, but why let it stress you out? Take a trip to one of these incredibly unique Christmas destinations for a chance to do things a little differently. Not only will you return home feeling refreshed for the new year, but your family will be grateful for the much-needed change, too.

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