I’m dreaming of a white Christmas, but it’s 30C

For most of my life, Christmas has been a cold time of year. A few times we even had some snow. But this year I’ll be spending Christmas in Asia, and it feels quite odd.

I always associate Christmas with cold weather. I also always think of it as a quiet time of year, as many shops remain shut.

But here in Thailand, it’s hot. There are Christmas trees everywhere. Christmas songs are playing in stores and restaurants. But it still doesn’t feel like Christmas.

Those of you that live in hot countries are probably wondering what I’m talking about. After all, many Australians spend Christmas at the beach.

December 25 in Thailand is just another day. It’s on a Saturday this year, so life will just go on as normal.

We won’t even be in one place, as we’ll be driving around 200 km to visit our niece. On Boxing Day we’ll be driving again, to visit my in-laws. For Thais, New Year is the main celebration at this time of year. They love the cuteness of Christmas decorations, but they don’t celebrate it.

Our Christmas lunch will probably be a meal that includes rice.

The funny thing is that I like Christmas in Asia. It makes a nice change from all the stress that seems to be involved with Christmas in the UK.

Wherever you are and whatever you’re doing on the day,

I wish you all a very Merry Christmas.