Recently updated on August 14th, 2023 at 04:41 pm
Christmas is a special time, but it can also be hectic, stressful and heavy on the wallet. Next December, why not swap the snow for sand and embrace the sunny weather, delicious food and amazing shopping of a Christmas in Thailand? From the beautiful beaches to the stress-free living, here is why you should plan your great escape and spend a very merry Christmas in Thailand.
The weather is incredible
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If you’re tired of the cold and snow, spending Christmas in Thailand is just what you need. Instead of shovelling snow, imagine lounging on the beach in 30°C weather… Sounds good to us! Christmas in Thailand is all about sunny days, blue skies and a few refreshing afternoon showers, perfect for getting into the festive spirit.
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You’ll meet wonderful people
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There’s no Grinch or Scrooge in the Land of Smiles! Thailand is famed for its friendly locals, and you’re sure to be warmly welcomed wherever you go on your Thai Christmas. Even though December 25th isn’t an official holiday and there are no real Thai Christmas traditions, many locals will still go to the effort to wish you a Merry Christmas. Plus, you’ll likely meet many other travellers who are in the same boat as you – spending the holiday season in a new country!
The nature is extraordinary
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Christmas is all about giving thanks, and there’s no better way to feel gratitude than to get out into the spectacular nature of Thailand. From the world’s most stunning beaches to the misty mountains and lush jungles, you’ll be amazed by the beauty of our planet. Plus, with plenty of activities like rafting, hiking, snorkelling and more, you’ll come home feeling refreshed and energised.
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You can still enjoy a classic Christmas feast – or something different
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The food is one of the best parts of Christmas, and it’s no different in Thailand. You’ll find plenty of hotels and restaurants in the big cities serving up special Christmas dinners and buffets, while the upscale establishments put on such a luxury Christmas feast, you surely won’t miss the over-boiled veggies from back home! From roast turkey with all the trimmings to traditional Christmas puddings, this is festive food at its finest.
If you’re after something a little different for your Christmas in Thailand, why not tuck into some Thai Christmas food. The country is famed for its delicious cuisine and if you’re someone who’s not fussed about turkey and trifle, Thailand could be the answer to your food prayers. Instead of brussel sprouts, imagine a sizzling Pad Thai or a rich Massaman curry. Instead of mince pies, think fresh mango and fried ice cream on the beach. If you weren’t convinced about a Thai Christmas before, you definitely should be now.
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The buzzing nightlife
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Millions of people around the world love enjoying a drink over Christmas. It’s no different in Thailand, except instead of working your way through homemade eggnog or punch, you can enjoy all the tasty cocktails and craft beers in the most stylish rooftop bars in the country. Even better, you can whip out that summer dress for your nights out in Thailand. There’s no need to rug up in scarves and gloves here!
The incredible shopping
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When you spend Christmas in Thailand, not only will you get to buy yourself lots of amazing souvenirs, but you’ll also have no trouble finding the perfect gifts for your loved ones. The country is home to some of the world’s best shopping, from the towering megamalls of Bangkok lined with designer stores, to the markets of Chiang Mai, filled with artisanal treasures. Whether you’re after designer handbags or traditional handmade crafts, you’ll find it all in Thailand. Don’t forget to leave room in your suitcase!
Also, if you’re missing the magical Christmas decor, just head to the shopping malls in Thailand. They put up some dazzling festive decorations like giant Christmas trees, glittering lights and even a Santa Claus meeting the kids!
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The prices
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Let’s face it – Christmas is an expensive time of year. Even if you go for a smaller celebration, you’re likely still spending hundreds on gifts, parties, food, drinks and everything that goes with it. Why not spend all that on a trip to Thailand instead? The flights are the most costly part, but once you’re here, your trip can be as cheap or expensive as you like. You can indulge in the most delicious food and drinks for much lower prices, plus shopping and activities are all cheaper here too. Spend your hard-earned cash eating, drinking and having a merry time somewhere sunny!
You can still go to church
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Although 95% of the Thai population are Buddhist, you’ll still find plenty of churches to visit if you’d like to attend a Christmas church service. If you’re in Bangkok, you’ll find English-speaking Christian churches ranging from Catholic to Orthodox. If you’re not fussed about the specific religion, Thailand has hundreds of spectacular temples. From Wat Arun in Bangkok to Wat Doi Suthep in Chiang Mai, you can easily get your spiritual fix and spend hours exploring the temples of Thailand.
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A stress-free Christmas holiday
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Forget battling the crowds at the malls, getting caught in snowy traffic jams or arguing with the in-laws. When you’re in Thailand, it’s all about ‘mai pen rai’. You’ll hear this phrase all over the country and it roughly means “no problem” or “it’s okay”. Basically, it means no worries! Thailand is a laidback, fun-loving country, and once you’re here, all the stresses of your daily life will float away.
Even better, when you take a Thailand trip with Trafalgar, we’ll take care of everything from the transport and hotels, to organising the very best activities you’ll love. All you have to do is kick back and enjoy yourself, while we make sure everything runs smoothly. When you spend Christmas in Thailand, it really will be the most wonderful time of the year!
Are you dreaming of spending Christmas in Thailand? Let us know in the comments below!