Do Something Different - Christmas In Australia

By Jennifer Schellington

It's nearly September and time to start thinking about what you are going to do for Christmas this year. in fact if you were ultra organized you would have decided straight after last Christmas and booked it.

Have you considered Christmas in Australia? For those of you in the northern Hemisphere, it tends to be a very cold time of year and there is something very nice about experiencing a cold Christmas, log fires, mulled wine and twinkling lights.

No doubt you have experienced plenty of cold Christmas' so now it is time to do something different. It is a great time of year to come to Australia as it is right in the middle of their summer. That means you can expect temperatures up in the high twenties most days.

The traditions from the United Kingdom still live on although very few families these days cook the traditional turkey with all the trimmings. It's just way to hot for any of that! Instead they tend to "throw another shrimp on the barbie" and enjoy lovely fresh seafood.Pavlova is also a traditional Christmas desert. The focus is definitely on families getting together, enjoying a few drinks and of course, some great food - usually on the Barbie.

Can you picture yourself on a beach sipping champagne with your Santa hat on?? Maybe camping in one of Australia's stunning National Parks or how about an island getaway to the Whitsundays?



There are a few things you should know before you embark on a trip at Christmas. It is a popular time to visit Australia so prices are at a premium, especially Christmas week. The Australia school holidays also start mid December and last all the way until the end of January. Most Australians therefore travel around this time too.

You shouldn't be put off by this especially if you have always wanted to experience the amazing Sydney Fireworks on New Years Eve. They are truly spectacular and worth the trip alone.

It's hard to find cheap accommodation but there are ways. Given many Australians go away at this time too, you can usually find a short term let or holiday let at this time. It works out much cheaper than a hotel, especially for a family. Would you consider a home exchange? Many Australians want to experience a cold winter so a swap could be perfect.

To do it properly though, I would suggest booking way in advance, like maybe 9 months in advance! The best places go so quickly, particularly if you are a family. Couples should be able to find good options but the Australians pretty much book before March for the following Christmas and January period.

Did you know that the well known National Parks in Australia have had to introduce a ballot system to help allocate spaces over Christmas? It is however a very affordable and fun way to experience Christmas in Australia. If you would rather be pampered and spend Christmas in total luxury then consider the Whitsundays. Or how about heading to the outback for a real Aussie adventure.

So, what are you waiting for? Come and spend Christmas in Australia

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