How to Celebrate Christmas Away from Home

How to Celebrate Christmas Away from Home

Celebrating Christmas away from home can be a bittersweet experience. Whilst the holidays are typically associated with cherished traditions and the warmth of family gatherings, there are many reasons why you might find yourself far from home during this festive season. Whether you’re living abroad or simply unable to return to your hometown, it’s important to remember that celebrating Christmas away from home can still be a heartwarming and holly-jolly experience.

At LHA London, we know how important holiday traditions can be during the Christmas period, and how disorienting the difference in cultural traditions can feel, which is why we’ve explored some of the most creative and meaningful ways to celebrate Christmas when you’re not in your familiar surroundings.

Connect virtually

By connecting virtually with your loved ones, you can maintain the sense of togetherness and celebration that Christmas is all about, even when you’re far from home. These digital interactions can be a source of comfort, joy, and love during the holiday season.

Remember, Christmas is not just about where you are physically; it’s about the love and connection you share with your family and friends.

You can connect through:

  • Video calls
  • Online games nights
  • Virtual gift exchanges
  • Baking and watching movies together virtually
  • Sending virtual hugs online

Create the atmosphere in your accommodation

Christmas is a nostalgic time, and this feeling can be evoked by creating an atmosphere that reminds you of home. Every family has those traditional decorations that result in you breathing a sigh of relief when you pull them out of the festive box, and the world feels magical once more.

It could be a table runner, a bauble that holds meaning to your family, a Christmas CD that your parents played in the car, or even a pine-scented candle.

The atmosphere you create doesn’t need to be anything fancy, but there are plenty of ways to emulate the warmth of Christmas from your home away from home.

How to create a budget Christmas atmosphere:

  • Bake some festive goods
  • Invest in spiced candles, diffusers or wax melts
  • Create DIY decorations
  • Collect pinecones, conkers, acorns and holly twigs for decoration
  • Buy a mini Christmas tree
  • Upcycle jam jars into candle holders
  • Play Christmas music
  • Watch holiday movies
  • Make things cosy with blankets
  • Use ribbon to hang Christmas cards

Christmas Friends-tivities

Christmas Friends-tivities

Deck the halls with laughter and invite your friends to spend the Christmas period with you.

If you’re spending Christmas away from home due to studying abroad or having relocated for your job, then the chances are you’re not the only one. There are plenty of people who’s schedule or budget doesn’t allow for them to return to their family, and what better way to channel the Christmas spirit than to bring everyone together for some friends-tivities.

One of the great things about celebrating with your second family is that you’re free to create your own traditions. Come together as a group and decide on your tinsel-tousled idea of the big day.

Do you want something simple, or extravagant? Are you hosting the event or is everyone contributing to the affair?

By spreading the cost, this can also help make the festive period a tiny bit more affordable for everyone involved, whilst maintaining all of your favourite elements of the Yuletide season.

When planning the ultimate friends-tivities, consider:

  • Hosting a secret santa
  • Assigning different elements of the meal to different people
  • Asking each attendee to bring their favourite board game
  • Brewing your own home-made mulled wine or cider
  • Hosting a gingerbread house decorating contest
  • Sledging in a local park
  • Stocking up on hot chocolate
  • Have a Christmas themed scavenger hunt
  • Going ice skating as a group

Prepare a festive meal

If you’re hosting your friends this Christmas then you might consider cooking up a big turkey dinner with all the sleigh-bells and whistles, but you don’t need to go big to make a fantastic home-cooked meal worth rejoicing over.

In fact, with just a few of the key ingredients, you can make some amazing Christmas goodies that Saint Nicholas himself couldn’t refuse.

For example, turkey trimming sandwiches are a staple for Boxing Day lunchtime, but provide a mouth-watering alternative to splashing on a full Christmas meal. Likewise, supermarkets are growing more in tune with alternative ways of celebrating Christmas through food with vegan options, solo dining delicacies and other culinary delights.

We also believe that adding cranberry sauce to any meal that centres meat and veg is a simple, effective and affordable way to elevate it from everyday to festive in seconds.

Prepare a festive meal

Wait until Christmas to open your gifts

Even though you won’t have the uproar that surrounds designated present opening time on Christmas Day or Christmas Eve – depending on your cultural tradition – committing yourself to unwrapping your presents all at once on the big day will help to retain the child-like joy we all crave at this time of year.

Additionally, this can be the perfect time to video call the special people in your life, so you can continue to open your presents together.

Christmas gift ideas for students

If you’re operating on a limited or student budget, then you might be feeling anxiety surrounding finding the perfect gifts for your loved ones, but sometimes the thought alone shows how much you care.

There are plenty of ways to locate presents that feel personal whilst allowing you to maintain your savings, and we would suggest taking a look at these suggestions for inspiration:

  • Plant a tree and send a personalised gift card
  • Peruse the Christmas markets
  • Send a donation to a charity on behalf of your loved ones
  • Find some cosy Christmas-themed socks
  • Handmake your cards
  • Browse the stocking fillers sections in shops
  • Find something inexpensive that can be nurtured like plant seeds

Christmas activities in London

London is a city that truly comes alive during the holiday season, with its streets adorned in dazzling lights, bustling Christmas markets, and an overwhelming sense of goodwill.

If you’re celebrating the holiday season away from home, but happen to be located in the glorious capital, then you’re in for a treat. Packed to the brim with enchanting Christmas activities, you’ll need to wrap yourself tightly in your winter warmers as you lose yourself in London’s streets.

Christmas activities in London

Christmas Decorations and Markets

One of the most delightful aspects of Christmas in London is the array of magical decorations and festive markets that pop up throughout the city. Christmas markets are one of the great joys of December and are a truly remarkable place to browse for one-of-a-kind gifts whilst the winter wind whips your cheeks.

Peruse some of the big city’s must visit locations and experiences:

Covent Garden

Covent Garden transforms into a winter utopia during the Christmas season. You can stroll through the cobbled streets, marvel at the giant Christmas tree, and take in the charming decorations that adorn the market. Don’t forget to visit the Apple Market for unique gifts and gourmet treats.

Southbank Centre Winter Market

The Southbank Centre Winter Market along the Thames is a magical place filled with twinkling lights, artisanal gifts, and delicious food and drinks. It’s a perfect spot to shop for unique presents and savour seasonal treats along the river bank.

Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park

Hyde Park’s Winter Wonderland is a grand Christmas extravaganza that offers everything from an ice skating rink to a Christmas market. Be sure to explore the Christmas markets, enjoy fairground rides, and indulge in traditional German cuisine.

Kingston Christmas Market

Kingston comes alive during December as its streets are lined with cosy cabins, lit overhead by mood-setting lights. Street food and seasonal entertainment are just two things you’ll experience when you indulge yourself in the atmosphere.

Borough Market at Christmas

Borough Market is a destination to visit at any time of the year. But at Christmas, watch the interior transform into a beacon of festive cheer, lined with carol singers and ornamental decorations. You can even browse their various events and cuisine whilst you delight in all that Christmas has to offer.

Christmas lights

London’s Christmas lights are renowned for their grandeur and creativity. These luminous displays add a special charm to the city, and they’re sure to put you in the festive spirit. Some of the most spectacular Christmas lights in London include:

Oxford Street

Oxford Street is famous for its stunning Christmas attractions. Each year, they put on an impressive display that never fails to captivate visitors. The twinkling lights and festive themed installations create a magical ambiance along this iconic shopping street.

Regent Street

Regent Street’s Christmas lights are equally impressive, often featuring themed displays that turn the street into a sparkling wonderland. Be sure to visit Regent Street to witness the mesmerising light show.

Covent Garden

In addition to its beautiful decorations, Covent Garden also boasts a stunning Christmas tree adorned with thousands of twinkling lights. It’s a great spot for a festive photo opportunity, or simply taking a moment to soak up the Christmas spirit.

Volunteering at a shelter

While enjoying the festive activities, it’s essential to remember the spirit of giving and gratitude that Christmas embodies. Volunteering at a shelter is a meaningful way to make a positive impact during the holiday season.

London offers various opportunities to help those in need, such as volunteering at homeless shelters or food banks. You can contact local charities or organisations to find out how you can contribute your time and efforts to support those less fortunate than yourself during this special time of year.

Ice Skating

London offers a plethora of enchanting ice skating rinks that pop up throughout the city during the holiday season. These rinks provide a charming and memorable experience for both locals and visitors.

Here are some of the best places to glide on the ice in London:

  • Somerset House Ice Rink
  • Natural History Museum Rink
  • Canary Wharf Ice Rink
  • Underbelly’s Skate West End at Hanover Square
  • Ice rink at Westfield, Shepherd’s Bush
  • Rooftop ice rink at Skylight Tobacco Dock

Ice Skating

Midnight Mass

For many, attending Midnight Mass is a cherished Christmas tradition. In London, you can find numerous churches and cathedrals that hold beautiful Midnight Mass services including the famed:

Westminster Abbey

Westminster Abbey, a historic and iconic London landmark, hosts a magnificent Midnight Mass service. The stunning architecture and rich history of the abbey create a truly unforgettable setting for a sacred Christmas celebration.

St. Paul’s Cathedral

St. Paul’s Cathedral is another awe-inspiring venue for Midnight Mass. The grandeur of the cathedral and the beautiful choir music make for a deeply spiritual and moving experience.

Christmas shows

London’s theatre scene comes alive during the holiday season with a variety of Christmas-themed shows and performances. Whether you’re interested in a classic Christmas tale, a pantomime, or a modern twist on the season’s stories, London’s theatres have something for everyone.

The Nutcracker

The English National Ballet’s rendition of The Nutcracker at the London Coliseum is a beloved Christmas tradition. This enchanting ballet brings the timeless story to life with exquisite choreography and dazzling costumes.

A Christmas Carol

Charles Dickens’ classic tale, A Christmas Carol is frequently adapted into heartwarming productions throughout the city. Enjoy the story of Scrooge’s transformation and the true meaning of Christmas at various London theatres.

Christmas Is A Drag

For a unique and entertaining twist on Christmas, consider attending Christmas Is A Drag. This show features drag queens and performers who infuse humour, music, and festive spirit into the holiday season. It’s a delightful and unconventional way to celebrate Christmas in London, offering a blend of comedy and cabaret.

If you’re spending Christmas away from home this year, there’s nothing like the comfort of your accommodation to keep you cosy, safe and warm whilst you celebrate in your own way. At LHA London, we provide cheap accommodation across London, covering all major points on the city’s map.

We are proud of the communities we create amongst students and young people beginning their lives in the capital city, and Christmas is the ideal time to celebrate together.

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