Any ideas what you are going to do for Christmas this year? It’s nearly September so it really is the time to start thinking about it. But if you are the sort who is ultra organised, then maybe you have been wise, and booked straight after last Christmas

What about doing something completely different and spending Christmas in Australia? For those of you based in the northern Hemisphere, you are probably used to a very cold Christmas. There is certainly something very homely about wrapping up warm, sitting in front of a log fire drinking mulled wine and watching the twinkle of the fairy lights.

But, you’ve been there, seen it, done it, how many times? How about doing something different. It’s a great time to be in Australia as it is right in the middle of summer so you can expect temperatures in the high twenties.

Roast Turkey with all the trimmings is still the traditional dinner served on Christmas day in Australia. However, most families find it way too hot to prepare such a meal in 30 degree heat. So, it is much more common to see families sitting round a table enjoying a BBQ. Sea-food is usually on the menu and Pavlova is often served instead of Christmas pudding. Australians know how to enjoy themselves and so Christmas is usually a joyous occasion with a few drinks for good measure.

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.

Don’t let this put you off though. Have you always wanted to see the New Years Eve Fireworks in Sydney? These are worth a trip to Australia on their own.

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.

If you really want to do it properly though, I’d book at least 9 months in advance. That way you will get the best accommodation and there will be good availability. The really good places go first with some Australians booking before March for the following year.

As an example, the really popular National Parks like Freycinet National Park in Tasmania (home to the famous Wine Glass Bay,) have introduced a ballot system for spaces over Christmas week. Camping in general however is a very affordable and fun way to experience Christmas in Australia. There is something for everyone in this amazing country. From km of pristine beaches, amazing island getaways and if you can stand the heat, the red earth of the outback.

So how about it? Why not spend Christmas in Australia?

Jennifer Schellington has nearly half a decade of experience in traveling Australia and has recently become a new Mum. Her site, www.realaustraliatravel.com offers practical information for planning your trip to Australia as well as what to do and where to go. Click here for more information on spendingChristmas in Australia

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