It’s beginning to look a lot like (white) Christmas

For thousands across the globe, the end of Thanksgiving and the advent of Santa season means—sweaters and sleighs are tugged out of the far end of the closet, Christmas trees are decorated, sweets and candies are prepared and snowfall is eagerly awaited. It’s the White Christmas we all want (and need). But for those of us who live by sea, amidst coconut trees and humidity, sleighing down snow-capped mountains and ending Christmas night with a cup of hot chocolate whilst being surrounded by everything white seems quite far-fetched. Literally. But don’t fret just yet, we’re here to give you a glimpse of some of the most fairy-tale like white Christmases through these photos. And here’s a pro tip: take this as your cue to plan the perfect getaway to celebrate Christmas at these magical destinations. 

Lapland, Finland 

For the child within each one of us, the Santa Claus village in Lapland, Finland is definitely the place to be. Known for their festivities, celebrating Christmas in this winter wonderland comes with much hocus pocus! Home to Father Christmas, Lapland—much like every other city in Finland is decked with trees and lights that brighten the space in the dark of winter. Cross the Arctic circle—the circle of latitude that runs north of the equator, where the sun can stay below or above the horizon for 24 hours, play in the snow with Santa’s favourite huskies, and take in the sight of the indigenous reindeers that look right out of a fairy-tale. And all this amidst snow, a starry night, and if you’re lucky maybe even the Northern lights! 

New York City 

Alexa, play ‘Carol of the Bells’ from Home Alone: Lost in New York, because it definitely gives us all the vibes. Celebrate a White Christmas in the city that never sleeps. And there’s nothing you can’t do. Head to the Rockefeller Centre to witness one of the largest Christmas trees with sparkling lights and the prettiest ornaments you’ll see. Strap your knee-pads, buckle your helmet and take in the Christmas fervour with a few rounds of ice skating. Walk along brightly lit streets and take a hot-chocolate break at Max Brenner’s. End Christmas night with a kiss under the mistletoe at Time Square. 

Switzerland 

Truth be told, anywhere in Switzerland would be White Christmas well spent. Whether it’s driving through fairy-lit streets of Zermatt with a view of a snow-capped Mountain Matterhorn and pink-hued sky or being a part of the festivities in what is touted to be one of the most Christmassy town in the country, Montreux. Imagine walking along the shores of Lake Geneva and keeping yourself warm with mulled wine and cheese fondue. And just when you think it can’t get any better, go take a look at Santa’s workshop and office at Elves Square. You can even catch a glimpse of Santa flying overhead in his sleigh! 

Norway 

Here’s another recommendation for the lovers of stories and all things, red, white and green. Immerse yourself in a truly magical experience with wood-fires to keep you warm, more than seven different types of Christmas cookies to indulge in, a ride on an open carriage drawn by beautiful horses, and so much more. Experience the magic of Christmas under the northern lights in the city of Henningsvaer, visit the mountain village of Savalen to sleep in the world’s largest Gingerbread house or spend an adventure-filled Christmas, Skiing in the town of Lillehammer. 

Canada 

Canada offers a host of some of the best Christmassy affairs to choose from. For those who want to escape the din of city life, visit the town of Niagara for a visual treat of fireworks and a music show along the stunning Niagara waterfalls. But for all the city-lovers, visit Toronto which attracts nearly half a million tourists every year to witness one of the largest Santa Claus Parades in the world. Of course a good-old classic, fairy-tale escape would be the city of Quebec with white and fluffy snow and cobblestone lanes. 

Denmark 

Another European wonder, Christmas in Denmark is a snow-filled grand affair. Have yourself a warm, hygge-like Christmas, driving across the country from a beautifully decorated Tivoli Gardens in Copenhagen, to the artsy town of Aarhus. Celebrate the festival, Danish style with a Christmas feast, hanging paper lanterns and more. It’s definitely the place to be to experience and celebrate the end-of-the-year festival in all its glory.