Christmas is getting closer and everyone’s getting ready for the holiday season filled with shopping and family dinners. Along with the long office hours, a well-deserved break is coming up this season. Many people decide to spend the holidays abroad and emerge in another country’s culture. For that reason, we prepared a list of the best places to escape your routine this winter.

London

Not many places are like the British capital when it comes to the winter. You can spend your time shopping in locations like Oxford Street, Covent Garden, and Regent Street or you can enjoy the spectacular Christmas lights at night.

Oxford Street, Covent Garden

In this season you can enjoy the many pop-up bars and Christmas markets placed throughout the whole city, as well as the huge tree in Trafalgar Square. The city will be covered in festive decorations, from public places to local businesses.

If you get hungry, check out the Borough Market to try the local festive foods, and maybe even get some gifts. You can pick up great food here perfect for lunch on the go. You should also check the Southbank Centre Winter Festival as there’s always something fun happening there.

London will provide you with an endless stream of fun activities to try in the winter. If you want a Vegas Christmas, the Hippodrome Casino is always hosting Christmas gatherings. If you’re familiar with online casinos then you need to check out the live experience especially on holiday.

However, you might find the casinos full around this time of the year. The online experience is more enjoyable when it comes to this aspect as you can play from any place at any time. The best part is that you can always enjoy a Vegas Christmas as long as you’re surrounded by some festive lights and good people.

Another must in London around Christmas is ice skating. Somerset House has the most popular ring in the city. Make sure not to miss the activities from Hyde Park’s and you’ll have a great winter holiday in London.

Bucharest

If you want a White Christmas then Romania is the perfect destination for the winter holidays. The Christmas markets are present everywhere and snow is guaranteed near the mountains. If you visit this location, make sure to have some spare time for a trip out into the countryside as it’s very beautiful.

And, if you’re brave enough, visit Bran Castle in Transylvania the “birthplace of vampires”. This gem is getting more attention each year so you’ll certainly find something fun to do over there.

Food is a fundamental part of Romanian culture so you’ll have to try it. You must try the traditional stuffed cabbage rolls (sarmale). They will make up a consistent part of the Romanian Christmas dinner. As it’s the winter holidays, we can’t forget about sweets. The top treat is Cozonac, a traditional sweet bread popular across the whole country.

Romania is also full of sightseeing opportunities. The famous Piata Revolutiei is the perfect spot to start. You’ll find plenty of landmarks like the former Royal Palace (now the National Art Museum) and the Romanian Athenaeum nearby.

Cape Verde

While the temperature drops across Europe, there are usually around 25 degrees in December in Cape Verde. It’s quickly becoming a must-visit winter destination as it has year-round sunshine.

While there, try the national dish, Rica Cachupa, a delicious fish-based stew. Actually, fish dishes make up the majority of the menus here. But, you’ll also be able to enjoy the many exotic fruits that grow around the island.

Although most of the world will be freezing, you’ll be able to enjoy the beautiful white-sand beaches with clear, turquoise waters.

The winter and Christmas holiday season is right around the corner. If you want to have an abroad experience as soon as you get off from the office, make sure to consider the three places mentioned above. They are filled with amazing foods and authentic but also exotic Christmas experiences.