If you think spending Christmas in a Buddhist country could be one of the most removed festive experiences ever then think again. Last year on deciding where to meet my future Australian in laws for Christmas we decided at the ‘half way point’ of Thailand.
Admittedly, sipping a Singha beer on a Phuket beach on 25th December was a tad surreal (though in a very enjoyable way of course !) but there are two notable traits about the Thai people – a) they are extremely fun loving and love to party and b) they are extremely tolerant to other religions in their country. So combine these two factors and a unique festive experience is guaranteed.
To the Thais it does not matter one bit if the festival originated from a completely different religion. As long as it’s fun. Although Christmas isn’t an official holiday in Thailand you’ll find shopping malls, hotel lobby’s and late night bars all kitted out in Christmas decorations and like us you might even see and hear the adorable Thai school children in the streets singing well known carols such as ‘Jingle Bells’ and ‘Silent Night’.
Christmas particularly makes in ideal family holidays to Thailand with the Centara Grand Beach Resort in Phuket, complete with it’s own water park, being a great choice whilst the Paradise Beach Resort in Koh Samui allows kids to have their own room free of charge and is one of the few hotels in Thailand to offer and All-Inclusive option for peace of mind.
All ages experiencing a Christmas holiday in Thailand will really have their eyes opened as to how different cultures can embrace each other and you certainly will not forget what time of year it is – just don’t forget to pack your sun tan oil !
