While Christmas is not officially observed in China, foreign visitors will not have to miss out on familiar sights and sounds: Plenty of Christmas decorations can be found in the malls, supermarkets, banks, and restaurants, - and don’t be surprised to find clerks wearing Santa hats and green and red accessories. Tree lighting ceremonies can as easily be found as the picture-ready Santa.
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| A Christmas Tree in front of the Birds Nest |
Chinese have not only adopted the habit of exchanging small, inexpensive gifts for Christmas but more and more also generously decorate Christmas trees (here called Tree of Lights) in their homes with paper chains, flowers, and lanterns. Since most Chinese are not Christian, the religious meaning is not of importance, it is however a great opportunity to get together with family members and to enjoy a luxurious meal, usually an elaborate Peking duck dinner.
Should you consider a visit to China in December, please keep in mind that Beijing shares the same climate as New York City, so come prepared with sufficient warm clothing.The country is huge, and while the south offers warmer weather the northeast lures with the famous Harbin Ice Festival (January 5 - February 5) and freezing temperatures. China is always worth a visit, and why not experience the Holidays in a different culture? China Special Tours creates special group tours exclusively to China. Visit China for one of the many unique holidays like Chinese New Year, Dragon Boat Race, and/or the Water Lantern Festival. Contact us today and request a customized proposal.
TRAVEL NEWS FROM CHINA
Nonstop flight between Beijing and Lhasa/Tibet - Just a few days ago, on December 15, China Airlines operated its first nonstop flight from Beijing to Lhasa/Tibet. The flight operates daily at 8am and lands in Lhasa about 4 hours later.
Hong Kong selected as Top City to visit in 2012 - Lonely Planet announced its top 10 list of cities to visit in 2012, and Hong Kong was the only city selected in China. In the description, LP suggests visitors "go shopping, gallery hopping, and check out the bars in Soho; explore walled villages or go hiking on Asia's most breathtaking trails." In the article, Lonely Planet tells readers "If you can't find it in Hong Kong, then it isn't available anywhere". And after an exciting day, enjoy a sumptuous meal in one of the 11,000 restaurants. 
