For British travellers weary of overpriced mulled wine and numb fingers at traditional Christmas markets, a stunning and affordable alternative awaits in Southeast Asia.
A Festive Escape to Vietnam
The UNESCO World Heritage port town of Hoi An on Vietnam's central coastline transforms into a magical festive destination throughout December. Forget the winter coat; here, the climate is so mild you can explore in a T-shirt, with daytime temperatures typically resting in the low- to mid-20s Celsius.
The historic streets come alive not with snow, but with hundreds of glowing lanterns, shimmering fairy lights, and tinsel decorating shopfronts. This creates a breathtaking, lantern-lit spectacle that offers a completely different kind of Christmas charm.
Unbeatable Prices & A Cinematic Atmosphere
Vietnam is famous for being budget-friendly, and Hoi An proudly maintains this reputation. The cost of festive cheer here is a fraction of what you'd pay in Europe. You can enjoy a glass of locally-brewed beer for as little as 30p, rising to a still-incredible 70p even at the popular riverside spots frequented by tourists.
A warming hot chocolate will set you back just £1.50. The market itself is a labyrinth of stalls where visitors can browse everything from local confectionery and handcrafted goods to unique keepsakes.
According to Asia travel experts TransIndus, December is one of the finest times to visit. A spokesperson noted that while occasional rain is possible, it only enhances the town's enchanting, cinematic feel.
"When the rain clears and the pavements start to dry, the reflections from the lanterns in the puddles are beautiful," they said. "You get steam rising off the street-food stalls, scooters back out within minutes, and the whole old town has this slightly surreal, cinematic feel."
A Unique Cultural Blend
Christmas in Hoi An is a fascinating fusion of East and West. You might spot a nativity scene or children wearing Santa hats, but the experience is anchored in Vietnamese tradition. The sight of a silk-draped, illuminated riverboat gliding peacefully across the water is a world away from a German Glühwein stand.
This unique market provides a compelling reason to break away from conventional Christmas habits and immerse yourself in a vibrant new culture, all while keeping your spending remarkably low. It's a festive bucket-list destination that proves you don't need a thick coat or a thick wallet to get into the Christmas spirit.
