Best Places to Visit in Brunei for Christmas Cheer

As the festive season approaches, expats and digital nomads in Brunei may be looking for places to visit to get into the holiday spirit. While Brunei itself is a predominantly Muslim country and Christmas is not widely celebrated, there are still plenty of destinations around the world that go all out for the holiday season. From traditional Christmas markets to spectacular light displays, here are some of the best places to visit in December for a festive experience.

Strasbourg, France

Strasbourg is known as the "Capital of Christmas," and for good reason. Its Christmas market, Christkindelsmärik, dates back to 1570 and is one of the oldest and largest in Europe. The city transforms into a winter wonderland with its half-timbered houses adorned with festive decorations and lights. The market typically runs from late November to Christmas Eve, offering a variety of handcrafted goods, Alsatian Christmas delicacies, and the famous Vin Chaud (mulled wine).

We Recommend: Don't miss the chance to try the local bredele biscuits, a traditional Alsatian Christmas treat that comes in various shapes and flavors.

Nuremberg, Germany

The Nuremberg Christkindlesmarkt is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience a traditional German Christmas market. Held in the city's main square, the market is famous for its Nuremberg Lebkuchen (gingerbread), Rostbratwurst (grilled sausage), and Glühwein (mulled wine). The market usually starts on the Friday before the first Sunday in Advent and continues until December 24th. The highlight is the opening ceremony featuring the Christkind, a symbolic figure of the local Christmas festivities.

We Recommend: Be sure to try the Nuremberg Lebkuchen, which is protected by EU law and can only be produced in the city.

Vienna, Austria

Vienna becomes a magical city during the holiday season with its elegant Christmas markets and festive concerts. The Viennese Christmas Market in front of the City Hall is particularly enchanting, with its ice-skating rink, traditional handicrafts, and an array of sweet and savory treats. The market typically opens in mid-November and runs until Christmas. Vienna is also known for its classical music concerts, which are a perfect way to get into the holiday spirit.

We Recommend: Indulge in a warm Sachertorte, a rich chocolate cake that is a Viennese specialty, while enjoying the festive atmosphere.

London's Chelsea Neighborhood

London is a city that knows how to celebrate Christmas, and the Chelsea neighborhood is particularly festive. The area is known for its high-end boutiques and restaurants, all of which get into the holiday spirit with beautiful decorations and lights. The Chelsea Christmas Lights, which typically turn on in late November, are a sight to behold. Additionally, the Chelsea Christmas Shopping Weekend in early December is a great opportunity to find unique gifts while enjoying seasonal treats and entertainment.

We Recommend: Visit the Duke of York Square Christmas market for artisanal gifts and a taste of the famous mince pies.

New York City's Little Italy

Little Italy in NYC is a vibrant neighborhood that offers a unique Christmas experience with its Italian-American heritage. The Feast of the Seven Fishes is an Italian-American tradition celebrated on Christmas Eve, and many restaurants in Little Italy offer special menus for the occasion. Mulberry Street and the surrounding area are adorned with festive lights and decorations, creating a cozy holiday atmosphere. The neighborhood's Christmas parade, usually held in early December, is a fun event for all ages.

We Recommend: Enjoy a slice of authentic Italian panettone or struffoli, a Neapolitan dessert that's popular during the holiday season.

Edinburgh, Scotland

Edinburgh's Christmas is a six-week festival that transforms the city into a festive paradise. The Christmas markets in the city center offer a wide range of gifts and treats, including Scottish shortbread and hot toddies. The festival usually starts in late November and includes a variety of attractions such as an ice-skating rink, a Christmas tree maze, and the famous Edinburgh's Hogmanay to ring in the New Year. The city's historic buildings and streets provide a stunning backdrop for the celebrations.

We Recommend: Don't miss the chance to ride the Big Wheel for breathtaking views of the city lit up in Christmas lights.

Copenhagen, Denmark

Copenhagen is home to one of the most charming Christmas markets in Europe, located in the Tivoli Gardens. The amusement park is transformed into a winter wonderland with thousands of lights, a Christmas village, and traditional Danish yuletide decorations. The market runs from mid-November to the end of December. Visitors can enjoy Danish Christmas treats like æbleskiver (pancake balls) and gløgg (Danish mulled wine), as well as unique Scandinavian crafts.

We Recommend: Experience the hygge atmosphere by warming up with a cup of gløgg accompanied by aebleskiver, the perfect treat on a cold December day.

Quebec City, Canada

Quebec City is often described as a piece of Europe in North America, and its Christmas celebrations are no exception. The German Christmas Market, inspired by the world's great Christmas markets, offers a mix of European tradition and local charm. The market typically opens in late November and features wooden kiosks selling handcrafted gifts, festive decorations, and seasonal treats. The historic Old Town, with its cobblestone streets and snow-covered roofs, provides a picturesque setting for the holiday season.

We Recommend: Try the maple taffy on snow, a sweet Canadian delicacy that's especially popular during the festive period.