Holidays – Travel with KKday

Where to Go for Your Christmas Family Vacation

As exciting as it can be, traveling as a family can also be a challenge. Making sure the kids, parents, and grandparents, are relaxed and enjoying themselves can turn your Christmas vacation into more work than fun. With that in mind, we’ve rounded up 7 holiday destinations suitable for the entire family:

Taiwan

If you’re travelling with lots of family in tow, head somewhere with plenty of travel options. Taipei city is full of urban wonders like Taipei 101 or the picturesque National Palace Museum. Outdoorsy family are sure to enjoy a trip to Taroko Gorge, where they can hike through nature trails or trek through towering marbles mountains Or meet somewhere in the middle with a short day trip from Taipei to Northern Taiwan, where you can see bizarre rock formations, sip high mountain tea, and light a sky lantern.

Thailand

Looking to get away from all the typical holiday buzz? Head to Thailand; the weather is warm, the people are friendly, and the prices are cheap. Enjoy your Christmas shopping aboard a paddle board as you wade through their famous floating markets. And if you have the time, be sure to visit the famous Elephant Sanctuary, where you can feed and interact with these majestic creatures.

Japan

Japan has steadily grown as a family Christmas vacation destination, so take advantage of the kids’ holiday break to explore some of its top attractions. Everyone in the family will appreciate a visit to Mt. Fuji, with its breathtaking natural beauty, as well as the ancient temples of Kyoto. Bring the kids to Universal Studios Japan’s Wonder Christmas to experience a holiday like no other. Check out our guide to the holiday event, and purchase your tickets ahead with KKday!

Korea

Winter in Korea is an enchanting sight to see, whether you’re hitting up Seoul City or scenic outdoor sights, like Nami Island and the Garden of Morning Calm. Korea is also one of the *coolest* places to ski. This Christmas, adventure to Korea and hit the slopes with the family. Learn how to ski at one of Korea’s top ski resorts, and enjoy a great afternoon of snowy fun.

Hong Kong

Once the calendar flips to December, Hong Kong goes all out with its festivities. The family-friendly city is a great place to go for Christmas vacation, not just for the great shopping deals (READ: 10 Best Hong Kong Markets), but also for its fantastic food and city attractions. Kids are sure to enjoy seeing their favorite characters at Hong Kong Disneyland and Madame Tussauds

Singapore

Vacationing with kids in tow means you’ll need to be extra energetic to keep them entertained. Luckily, Singapore’s amusement parks and attractions will do most of the work for you. Make a splash at Adventure Cove Waterpark, soar to great heights at Skyline Luge Sentosa, meet wild creatures at the River Safari , or do a little bit of everything at Universal Studios Singapore.

Sydney

If your best family vacations are spent under the sun, escape to the Southern Hemisphere where it’s summer during Christmas. Trade ski lessons for surf lessons at Bondi Beach, or witness the incredible landscapes and wildlife of Blue Mountains National Park. Try to stick around until New Year’s Eve, where you’ll see the stunning fireworks show over Sydney Harbour.

10 Christmas Vacations for that Romantic Getaway

This Christmas, why not pack up the mistletoe for a kiss under a palm tree? We have 10 Christmas vacation ideas for couples so you can spend some quality time with your partner and explore a new destination. Grab your bae, book your tickets, and head on your way!

Christmas Vacation Idea for Couples #1: Wander the streets of Old Montreal, Canada

Christmas Vacation Ideas for Couples: Montreal, Canada (Flickr/Caribb)

Why it’s great for couples: Romantic atmosphere

What to do: Old Montreal 2-Hr VIP Walking Tour

Be transported to a quaint European city in Montreal, Canada. Hold hands with your better half, and stroll down the romantic streets of Old Montreal, stopping for warm cider and poutine.

Christmas Vacation Idea for Couples #2: Take a bite out of the Big Apple

Christmas Vacation Ideas for Couples: Montreal, Canada (image via Pexels)

Why it’s great for couples: Amazing entertainment

What to do: Watch The Lion King on Broadway or become part of Sleep No More, a fully immersive play

New York City is always a great idea, but the city transforms during Christmas into a winter wonderland. While you’re there, take in a Broadway show or experience one of New York’s unique performances. Enjoy ice skating at Rockefeller Center, then cozy up with a hot chocolate and your special someone. Afterwards, check out the incredible store windows and Christmas lights that line the streets.

Christmas Vacation Idea for Couples #3: Watch the sunrise in Cappadocia, Turkey

Christmas Vacation Ideas for Couples: Cappadocia, Turkey

Why it’s great for couples: Stunning landscapes

What to do: Hot Air Ballooning in Cappadocia

Make memories to last a lifetime and head to Cappadocia, Turkey. Hop in a hot air balloon and enjoy a bird’s eye view of the city. Witness ‘fairy chimneys’, tall, cone-shaped rock formation clusters and check out historic Bronze Age homes carved into valley walls.

Christmas Vacation Idea for Couples #4: Chill out in Iceland

Christmas Vacation Ideas for Couples: Iceland

Why it’s great for couples: Cuddling under the northern lights

What to do: Half-Day Northern Lights Exploration Tour

Adventure with your partner to Iceland and spend a day in a geothermal spa. Soak away in the warm pools, before heading out after sunset to observe the northern lights. Keep warm by cuddling with your S.O. as you gaze up at the night sky.

Christmas Vacation Idea for Couples #5: Bangkok, Thailand

Christmas Vacation Ideas for Couples: Bangkok, Thailand

Why it’s great for couples: Foodie paradise

What to do: Maeklong Railway Market and Damnoen Saduak Floating Market Day Tour

If you and your sweetheart have a love affair with delicious food, then head to Bangkok, Thailand. Tour the markets for local delicacies, tasty street food, and fresh fruits.

Christmas Vacation Idea for Couples #6: Make a splash in the Cebu, Philippines

Christmas Vacation Ideas for Couples: Cebu, Philippines

Why it’s a great for couples: Thrilling excursions for adventure-loving couples

What to do: Oslob Whale Shark Swimming and Tumalog Falls Tour

Head to Cebu, Philippines and swap cold winters for warm beaches, sunny days and picturesque islands. Kick this Christmas up a notch and try scuba diving, snorkeling and swimming with sea life.

Christmas Vacation Idea for Couples #7: Fall in love with Taipei, Taiwan

Christmas Vacation Ideas for Couples: Taipei, Taiwan

Why it’s great for couples: Street eats, natural beauty and cityscapes

What to do: Taipei 101 Observatory

Taipei, Taiwan has something for everyone: bustling night markets, scenic hikes, historic landmarks and enchanting panoramic views.

Christmas Vacation Idea for Couples #8: Hang out in Hong Kong

Christmas Vacation Ideas for Couples: Hong Kong (Wikimedia/Сидней シドニー)

Why it’s great for couples: Home one of the happiest places on Earth

What to do: Visit Mickey at Hong Kong Disneyland

Hong Kong has excellent food, impressive temples, and breathtaking views but a trip is not complete without a stop at Hong Kong Disneyland.

Christmas Vacation Idea for Couples #9: Seoulmates

Christmas Vacation Ideas for Couples: Seoul, Korea (Flick/Nestor Lacle)

Why it’s great for couples: City life and relaxing nature hikes

What to do: Nami Island and Petite France Day Tour

While Seoul itself is a bustling and vibrant city, it’s easy to slow down with a day tour to the surrounding areas. Enjoy a leisurely pace on Nami Island, as you stroll the pathways lined with trees and snow.

Christmas Vacation Idea for Couples #10: Make Memories in Malaysia

Christmas Vacation Ideas for Couples: Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia

Why it’s great for couples: Wildlife and dreamy sunsets

What to do: Kawa Kawa Wetland River Cruise

See incredible scenes of wildlife and lush forests in Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia. Watch the sunset and admire the twinkling fireflies at night.

This holiday season, escape with that special someone and head out on a Christmas vacation!

Europe’s Top 10 Christmas Markets

Nothing says Christmas like strolling through the illuminated aisles of a market, mulled wine in hand while carols play in the background. Add a little extra magic to this holiday season with a visit to one of the best Christmas markets in Europe. Wander through one of the oldest Christmas markets in Europe, in Strasbourg, France. Shop for gifts and souvenirs at one of Berlin’s 60 markets (yup, 60). A trip to one of these 10 best Christmas markets in Europe will grow any Grinch’s heart three sizes bigger.

1. Strasbourg, France

From November 24 – December 30

Best Christmas Markets in Europe: Strasbourg, France (Wikimedia/Michal Osmenda)

This Christmas market in Europe first took place 1570. While they’ve changed up a few of the attractions and stalls (since saddles are ‘so yesterday’), many of the traditional aspects still remain. You can still see the famed Christmas tree, sample spiced cake and mulled wine and pick up Christmas ornaments and souvenirs across themed areas and over 300 stalls.

2. Viennese Christmas Market, Vienna, Austria

From November 17 – December 26

Best Christmas Markets in Europe: Viennese Christmas Market (Wikimedia/VitVit)

One of the most well known Vienna Christmas markets is the Viennese Christmas Market that takes place in front of City Hall. The unique City Hall backdrop makes it one of the best Christmas markets in Europe. Join in the holiday fun and learn to bake cookies or make candles. Enjoy live music from international choirs singing your favorite Christmas carols.

3. Bath Christmas Market, United Kingdom

From November 23 – December 10

Head to the award-winning Bath Christmas Market to explore to over 200 stalls featuring gifts, homewares, tasty food, accessories, and more. Find handicrafts and treats made by local artisans. Stop by for the opening ceremony to hear live music and bring the children for storytelling by Snowflake the Elf.

4. Dresden, Germany

Most markets run until December 24

Best Christmas Markets in Europe: Dresden, Germany (Wikimedia/Daderot)

Scrooge’s beware—Germany is home to some of the best Christmas markets in Europe. Christmas markets happen all over the country and each city hosts multiple markets. Dresden has become synonymous with striezel cake, also called stollen. It’s a traditional Christmas cake and a must-try for tourists.

5. Zagreb, Croatia

From December 2 – January 7

Zagreb was actually voted best Christmas market in Europe in 2016, so you know it’s pretty darn excellent. Events take place all over the city, turning Zagreb into a winter wonderland. See a live nativity scene next to a cathedral, take in outdoor concerts or enjoy a date night skating at the Ice Park.

6. Berlin

From November 23 – December 31

With some 60 markets, Berlin is clearly big on Christmas. Berlin markets feature jugglers, acrobats, fire artists, dance troupes and choirs for an exceptional Christmas experience.

7. Tallinn Christmas Market, Tallinn, Estonia

From November 17 – January 6

Best Christmas Markets in Europe: Tallinn Christmas Market

The Tallinn Christmas Market first displayed a Christmas tree in the Town Hall square in 1441, making it the first Christmas tree to ever be put on display in Europe. Savor Estonian delicacies like black pudding, sour cabbage, and gingerbread. You may even spot Santa with his reindeer!

8. Munich

From November 27 – December 24

Best Christmas Markets in Europe: Munich (Flickr/Heather Cowper)

Immerse yourself in the nostalgia of the Munich Christmas markets. Meander the laneways, surrounded by lit up trees that become a glittering forest at night. Tuck into Bavarian cuisine and homemade specialties. If you’re hoping to hit up more than one of the Munich markets, opt for a tour and learn about German holiday traditions at some of the best Christmas markets in Europe.

Old Town Square and Wenceslas Square, Prague, Czech Republic

From December 2 – January 6

Best Christmas Markets in Europe: Old Town Square and Wenceslas Square (Wikimedia/Hynek Moravec)

You’ll find two Christmas markets in Prague within walking distance of each other so you can easily check out both in one day. Be sure to pick up klobasa (Czech sausage) and a cold Pilsner Urquell as you sit back and watch the tree lighting.

Winter Wonders, Brussels, Belgium

From November 24 – December 31

The Winter Wonders event takes place in Brussels across various neighborhoods. Discover the 200 stalls that make this one of the best Christmas markets in Europe. With a Ferris wheel, light shows, ice rink and live music, this market is guaranteed to get you in the holiday spirit.

Christmas Festivals and Traditions in Asia

Christmas is a great time to spend in somewhere new, but we can’t always travel far. But just here in Asia, there’s a lot of holiday cheer to go around. KKday rounds up 4 Christmas Festivals and Traditions worth checking out this year!

Hong Kong Winterfest

As soon as winter rolls in, Hong Kong becomes a glamorously festive. Hong Kong is in a holiday for a whole month long, which means one thing: Christmas shopping! Be on the lookout for all the great deals (READ: 9 Shopping Spots in Hong Kong). After a long day of shopping for everyone, unwind by taking a stroll through the iconic Statue Square Christmas Tree, or take your significant other to see the Hong Kong Pulse Light Show.

Dates: December 1, 2017 to January 1, 2018

Japan: Tokyo Disneyland

Christmas in Asia: Tokyo Disneyland (Flickr/othree)

Japan is always a great country to visit if you’ve got your family in tow, with its cultural sites, shopping districts, and kid attractions. And at Tokyo Disnyeland and DisneySea, they pull all the stops to bring you a Christmas that kids and kids at heart will never forget. Visit the happiest place on earth and see the famous Christmas parade, see your favorite characters dress up for the holiday stage shows, and take ride on your favorite attractions that have put on their own festive hats. Cap the day with some seasonal delights at the park stores and restaurants, and watch the holiday fireworks show with the whole family.

Dates: November 8 until December 25, 2017
Skip the lines, and book your tickets early with KKday! Choose from a 1-Day Pass, 2-Day Pass, or the popular E-ticket Passport

Korea: Garden of Morning Calm Lighting Festival

Christmas in Asia: Lighting Festival at the Garden of Morning Calm (Flickr/Travel Oriented)

The Garden of Morning Calm is a beautiful place to visit year-round, but becomes especially festive once the Christmas season kicks in. Catch Korea’s biggest and most extravagant light festival and see 30,000 colorful lights adorn the trees, the paths, and gardens. In the middle of the blistering winter cold, the lighting festival is sure to warm you up and have ready for the holidays.

Dates: Annually, from early December to late March
Catch the Garden of Morning Calm along with other exclusive sites when you book with KKday! See it along with Nami Island, the the Edelweiss Swiss Theme Park, or Petite France.

The Philippines: Simbang Gabi

Christmas in Asia: The Churches of Bohol

The Philippines will proudly claim to have the longest Christmas season in the world. As early as September 1, you’ll hear Christmas songs on the radio and malls start hanging up festive decorations. One uniquely Filipino Christmas tradition is what they call ‘Simbang Gabi’ (‘Night Mass’), a nine-day series of Masses held at 4:30 in the morning, leading up to Christmas. Many believe that if you complete the novena, you’ll be granted a single wish. Whether or not you’re Catholic, be sure to check out the beautiful Churches this time of year.

Dates: December 16 to December 24, 2017
See some of the country’s most beautiful churches and more when you book a Bohol Tour with KKday!

Where Should You Go for New Year’s Eve?

Out of all the holidays in the year, New Year’s Eve is the loudest and most celebrated of all. Spanning countries and cultures, each city has its own way of ushering in the new year. Here are our top picks for the best cities to celebrate.

Sydney, Australia

As one of the first cities in the world to enter the new year, Sydney constantly sets the bar high for celebrations across the world. As the whole city gears up to celebrate, you’ll find indigenous smoking ceremonies, mini-light shows, and boat parades. Cruise along Sydney Harbour, and see the city come to life with a brilliant light show before Sydney sets its sky ablaze with an incredible fireworks display.

Book theNew Year’s Eve 2018 Fireworks Cruise with KKday over here.

Paris, France

At the City of Lights, thousands gather to witness the Eiffel Tower explore into light as fireworks burst from the Parisian symbol to usher in the new year. The night is full of music and dancing, as Parisians and travelers celebrate all over the city with Champagne bottles in hand. But if you’re looking for a quieter place to share that New Year’s kiss, take a romantic boat ride and cruise along the Seine, where you’ll see the fireworks reflect magnificently on the river.

With KKday, you can book an Eiffel Tower Tour + Seine River Cruise with just a click!
Or opt for the Paris Seine River Cruise over here.

London, England

Milk the New Year’s celebration down to the last second when you head to London. Three hours before midnight, the city comes alive as residents and some 10,000 performers sing along to “Auld Lang Syne,” before gathering at the banks of the River Thames. There, you’ll witness a spectacular light show as Big Ben chimes in the New Year. Of course, for a truly unique view, take a ride on the famous London Eye. When you wake up the next morning, head out into the streets to witness the London’s New Year’s Day Parade.

Tokyo, Japan

For health and happiness, feast on a piping bowl of buckwheat noodles and listen to the temple bells ringing. Known as Joya No Kane, the Japanese-Buddhist tradition of ringing temple bells 108 times is said to banish evil passions and desires so we can begin the new year cleansed and renewed. Visit a temple to ring a bell and make a wish. And if you can, linger on until January 2 and visit the Imperial Palace—only one of the two days a year the Emperor opens the grounds to the public.

Visit some of Japan’s most beautiful Buddhist temples with a KKday temple hopping tour.

Rio, Brazil

For the best New Year’s Party, head to Rio. On December 31, its famous Copacabana Beach is filled with loud music, colorful costumes, live performances and attractions, and wild events that make for the world’s biggest beach party. For good fortune, come dressed in white and toss flowers into ocean as an offering to Yemanja, the Goddess of the Sea. Afterwards, drink and dance the night away, but pause to see the small fleet of boats set off incredible fireworks over the ocean.

New York City, New York

Best New Year's Celebrations in the World: New York City — New Year’s Eve: New York City (Flickr/Peter Stevens)

Last, but definitely not the least: New York City. The city that never sleeps is an exciting place year-round with over 80 attractions to see, but it pulls all the stops on December 31 with its blazing neon lights, fireworks, and of course: the crystal ball drop. For over 100 years, millions have elbowed their way past the crowds of Broadway and Seventh Avenue to see the Waterford crystal LED ball drop to usher in the new year. Don’t settle for the live stream this year, and experience one of America’s favorite traditions yourself.