My boyfriend and I are planning our holiday trip from December 21- January 6, but don't know where to go! We want to visit 2-3 places. One place for Christmas and the other for NYE. We're both mid-twenties and like to have a good time, but appreciate the more refined side of traveling as well. We're adventurous and athletic, and are looking to socialize and meet other young people. We do want a quaint Christmas that is relaxing and cultural, and we want an exciting NYE. Which cities should we visit or take day trips to? We just don't want to go somewhere only to have the city be shut down for the holidays. We want people to be out and about so we can celebrate with them!
Posted by
Charlotte, NC, USA
3428 posts
For New Years Eve consider Edinburgh. Hongmany (New Years) is a BIG thing in Scotland (bigger than Christmas). We had planned to be there this year, but foot surgery has made us postpone it. There lots of planned activities for 4 days. A 'torch' parade (everyone in the city buys a torch and marches, along with 'fireball' twillers from the center of the city to Arthur's Seat. Other parades, multiple fireworks displays, a street party, outdoor concerts, etc. As well as formal balls!
For Christmas, look into a 'country' hotel = maybe in the Cotswolds or Yorkshire Dales areas. I have seen holiday specials ads. They include dinner on Dec. 24, Christmas lunch, etc. Very scenic. Just be aware that ALL public transportation in the UK (especilaly London) shuts down from the afternoon of Dec. 24. There is some service on Boxing Day (Dec. 26).
Posted by
Germany, Germany
813 posts
The first place that comes to mind is Chamonix, France (or surrounding towns). You can ski and hang out in the cute towns for apres-ski. Salzburg and Helsinki are good choices also. Pick the priority town (like Salzburg or Chamonix, then look at surrounding towns you can get to in a reasonable amount of time, like Venice). You should book soon, most ski areas are already booked up.
Posted by
Florida, USA
12172 posts
Unless you change your dates slightly, you probably won't want to go to Spain. They celebrate Christmas on Jan. 6th (the Epiphany or Three Kings Day, also the twelfth day of Christmas). I think Edinburgh is a great idea for New Years. There are lots of good choices for Christmas.
Posted by
Lawrenceville, Georgia
693 posts
Berlin has the reputation of a wonderful party town for young people and for everyone at New Year's Eve, called Sylvester in Germany.