Are you the ‘Netflix & chill’ family or the ‘let’s plan a trip’ family? If you are the latter, no wonder you might be searching for some of the best places to visit on Christmas.
An ideal location might look like a tropical climate, gorgeous beaches, rich culture, magnificent hill stations, delicious food, AND low prices. We are talking about Southeast Asian countries. There are many best Christmas places in Southeast Asia that you might even get confused as to where to go.
While many people like the chilly, comforting winter customs in their hometown, why not change the script this year? Imagine being surrounded by Southeast Asia’s vivid colors, gentle seaside breezes, and swaying palm palms. Read this blog to discover the most magical and the best Christmas places in Southeast Asia.
Places to visit in Southeast Asia this Christmas
Vietnam
● Hanoi
Thanks to its cold climate, Hanoi is where you can experience the spirit of Christmas. The city is decorated in shimmering Christmas designs starting in early December, instantly making you feel at home.
Tourists are drawn to the pedestrian streets around Hoan Kiem Lake because of the many folk performances there. The festive ambiance around the lake at Christmas, complete with glittering lights and decorations, will enchant all visitors. On Christmas Eve, Hang Ma Street is full of colors, with green Christmas trees, red Santa Claus costumes, and an abundance of presents and postcards.
● Halong Bay
If you want to enjoy the most memorable Christmas night ever and make it the best tour of Vietnam, you can consider having a special dinner on a Halong Bay cruise!
For Christmas Eve only, the majority of the 4- and 5-star cruises in Halong Bay offer special menus that use premium ingredients and chef-created specialties. A glass of great wine, a delicious dinner on December 24th, and a Tai Chi workout in the fresh air on December 25th, surrounded by breathtaking scenery, sound like the ideal way to finish a demanding work year.
● Ho Chi Minh City
Ho Chi Minh City, traditionally known as Saigon, is the capital of Vietnam and the center of Christmas celebrations. A mystical atmosphere is created by the brilliant lights and decorations that line the main streets.
- Watch the vibrant marketplaces, savor delectable holiday food at neighborhood restaurants, and attend special Christmas activities at well-known sites like the Saigon Notre Dame Basilica.
- Go to malls like Vincom Centre and Diamond Plaza to see exquisitely adorned Christmas trees and take in holiday musical acts.
- Visit Nguyen Hue Walking Street for a unique experience; it becomes a breathtaking light extravaganza during the holidays.
- Do not miss Nguyen Hue Square’s Christmas Eve countdown, which features live music and fireworks to create a festive and energetic atmosphere.
● Hue
Hue, the royal city, is great for a unique Christmas party. Explore the Imperial Citadel’s magnificence, visit ancient temples, take in traditional dance and music performances, and make it the best tour of Vietnam.
Special Christmas services are held at the city’s churches, including St. Joseph’s Cathedral and Phu Cam Cathedral, adorned with festive decorations. During this festive season, savor the local food, visit the bustling night market, and take in Hue’s rich cultural diversity.
Cambodia
● Siem reap
The ideal starting point for your Christmas vacation in Cambodia is Siem Reap, home to the historic treasures of Angkor Wat. This charming city with a wealth of history has several accommodation options to meet the needs of every visitor.
Treat yourself to a festive dinner at one of Siem Reap’s best restaurants to make your Christmas Eve unforgettable. For a great time over the holidays, head down to Pub Street and join others as the street comes alive with celebrations. Also, check out any of the events taking place in the Western hotels.
● Phnom Penh
During Christmas, Phnom Penh, the capital of Cambodia, comes to life with festivities and vibrant parades. It is one of the best Christmas places in Southeast Asia. Lights twinkle in the streets, and people gather in churches to celebrate this occasion. Take part in the celebrations, eat some of the cuisine, and get a taste of Cambodia’s hospitable culture.
Laos
● Luang Prabang
If you want to plan holidays to Laos around Christmas, you really must visit Luang Prabang. The magnificent city, which is encircled by breathtaking mountains, served as the old royal capital. You can get up early on Christmas Day to see the Alms Giving Ceremony. As hundreds of monks solemnly go along the street, villagers give food offerings.
Treat yourself to a mouthwatering dish of “Khao Neow,” or “sticky rice,” a Laotian specialty, as your Christmas meal after this early wake-up. Next, you can visit the Laos Elephant Village, which serves as a refuge for rescued elephants. You will have experienced a Christmas unlike any other when you cap off the evening with a delicious dinner in the gorgeously illuminated city.
● Vang Vieng
It does not get any more serene and joyful than listening to the captivating sound of carols coming from riverbank pubs in Vang Vieng. Vang Vieng is a well-liked tourist site that is decked up with lights and trees along the streets during the holiday season.
It also offers some of the most breathtaking outdoor activities, such as kayaking, rock climbing, hiking, and cycling. Of which kayaking is the most enjoyable method to explore Vang Vieng. A Christmas on a boat with loved ones, some wine, food, and a few gifts is worth everything.
● Si Phan Don
Si Phan Don, or 4,000 Islands, is the place to go if you want to stay away from any Christmas-related commercialism! On these islands in the Mekong on the Lao-Cambodian border, you will be hard-pressed to find an ATM or any other contemporary facility. You will discover stunning landscapes and a laid-back vibe—even by the already laid-back standards of holidays to Laos.
