The Christmas spirit is as lively and merry here in Asia as anywhere else in the world!

The mood starts with the weather itself. Our destination countries get cooler around December, and for those in mainland Southeast Asia – it is the perfect relief from the heat and rain. All of our countries, especially in bigger cities, have already put up trees and lights by the beginning of the month, brightening up the evening sky and spreading the festive cheer. In fact, some of these cities’ decorations may even rival those in the West!

With the cooler weather, lower humidity and overall holiday mood in the region, Asia is naturally many people’s favorite place to spend the joyful period. To prepare you for the holidays, let’s take a look and see what people in our destination countries do to celebrate Christmas.

Vietnam:

Christmas stockings are as synonymous to the season as Rudolph the red-nosed reindeer, snowmen and Santa Claus himself. But instead of stockings in Vietnam, children leave their shoes outside in front of the door on Christmas Eve.

Thailand:

December is a naturally merry month for Thais. The beloved King’s birthday (which is also Father’s Day) is celebrated on the 5th. Another holiday follows, this time it is Constitution Day on the 10th. Then it is Christmas, followed by New Year’s Eve. For some in the country, December features four holidays!

Japan:

In terms of lights, color and overall grandness of decorations, Japan sits right at the top. For the locals, the sights and sounds, of the environment is perfect for a romantic dinner with a loved one. Many also enjoy feasting on a Christmas tree cake on the 24th, a unique Japanese tradition.

Indonesia:

Many of the West’s traditions have made their way here. Turkey sale and consumption, cranberry sauce, pine trees and impressive light displays are prevalent amongst believers and enthusiasts. Many also organize charity functions and donations to help the less fortunate and spread the holiday cheer to them as well.

Laos:

Laid back Laos. The rhythm is relaxing and soothing as their Christmas celebration. There are patches of outdoor decorations scattered throughout the major towns. Expect to hear Merry Christmas from the locals as well!

Myanmar:

Myanmar is quite interesting when it comes to Christmas celebrations. The majority of the population is Buddhist, but there are some hilltribes (the Kachins in particular) who adhere to Christianity. Just like the West, they attend mass on Christmas Eve and participate in Christmas carols.

Cambodia:

Christmas celebrations are prevalent here with lights, snowmen, Santa Clauses and reindeer decorating the country’s major towns and cities. And just like the rest of the world, the locals enjoy wearing Christmas hats, especially those with flickering red lights.

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year from Exotissimo Travel!