Search Results forChristmas
AirHelp warns of Christmas flight chaos
Representative Image As millions prepare to fly home for Christmas, AirHelp, a leading passenger rights firm, warns of significant disruptions, with one in three European passengers likely to encounter delays. Last year, over six million passengers faced disruptions, with 236,000 eligible for compensation under EU and UK air passenger rights laws. The Christmas period is notoriously unpredictable for air travel, with winter weather, tight schedules, and increased passenger demand heightening the risk of delays and cancellations. In 2024, over 143,000 flights took place in the week leading up to Christmas across Europe. To help passengers navigate the festive rush, AirHelp has shared seven essential travel tips. These include checking flight status early, understanding passenger rights under EU 261/UK 261, and avoiding the most disrupted airports, such as London Gatwick and Paris Charles de Gaulle. Travellers are also advised to allow extra time for security, travel light, and keep travel documents easily accessible. The company has also launched a free app offering real-time flight tracking and disruption alerts, aiding passengers in managing their travel plans effectively. As the festive season approaches, AirHelp's insights and tools aim to equip travellers with the knowledge and resources needed to minimise stress and maximise enjoyment during their journeys. ```
Austrian Airlines unveils ‘Flynachten’ Christmas song
Austrian Airlines has launched a unique twist on holiday music with its new electropop Christmas song, "Flynachten," as part of its Fröhliche Flynachten campaign. The song, created entirely in-house, features lyrics and music generated by artificial intelligence and performed by the airline's own employees. This innovative approach replaces traditional Christmas sounds with urban beats and catchy rhymes, aiming to capture the essence of flying during the festive season. The "Flynachten" song is a key element of Austrian Airlines' integrated 360-degree campaign, showcasing the airline's modern and creative take on Christmas. Ingrid Gogl, Head of Brand Communications at Austrian Airlines, stated, "With the Flynachten song, we translate the energy of our teams into music and at the same time inspire people to fly with Austrian Airlines—directly, honestly, and with a lot of flow." The accompanying music video highlights the airline's cabin, technical, and ground handling teams, adding a personal touch to the campaign. The song and video have been released across social media, digital channels, and internal platforms, aiming to engage both employees and customers with a fresh perspective on Christmas. Austrian Airlines, Austria's leading airline, connects over 120 destinations worldwide and is part of the Lufthansa Group. The airline is committed to achieving a neutral CO2 balance by 2050, with significant reductions planned by 2030. Through its creative initiatives like "Flynachten," Austrian Airlines continues to blend tradition with innovation, offering a unique travel experience during the holiday season. ```
Brits favour Lapland over UK cities for Christmas
British travellers are increasingly opting for international destinations over local cities for their Christmas holidays, according to new data from Holidu. The holiday rental platform's December Price Index 2025 reveals that Rovaniemi in Lapland, Finland, is the most-searched Christmas destination among Brits, despite a hefty median price of $736 (€696) per night—double that of London. The study highlights a growing trend of Brits seeking festive experiences abroad, with six out of the top ten most-searched destinations located outside the UK. Spain's Barcelona and Adeje also feature prominently, ranking fourth and fifth, offering more affordable options at $288 (€272) and $244 (€230) per night, respectively. France emerges as a popular choice, with seven destinations making the list, including Chamonix-Mont-Blanc and Paris. The allure of Christmas markets and alpine escapes appears to be a significant draw for British tourists. Rovaniemi's appeal as the official home of Santa Claus and its winter wonderland setting make it a top choice, albeit at a premium. Other expensive destinations include Zermatt and Grindelwald, with median prices of $570 (€539) and $371 (€351) per night, respectively. Conversely, Adeje and Rome offer more budget-friendly options at $244 (€230) per night, proving that memorable winter holidays can be affordable. Holidu's analysis is based on searches made by British travellers over the past year for stays in December 2025. As Brits continue to prioritise international travel for Christmas, the trend underscores a shift towards seeking unique and magical experiences abroad. ```
TAT brings the Sakhon Nakhon Christmas Star Parade to global heights
This year, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) elevates the Sakon Nakhon Christmas Star Parade into a festival of global standing under the Signature Event Thailand initiative. Slated for 20th to 24th December in Tha Rae Municipality, Sakon Nakhon, this year’s event features expanded programming, enhanced storytelling, and immersive lighting and drone displays designed to enrich visitor experiences while supporting sustainable economic benefits for local communities. According to TAT governor Thapanee Kiatphaibool: “The Christmas Star Parade reflects the enduring spirit and creativity of the Tha Rae community. By elevating its storytelling and visitor experiences, we aim to introduce this remarkable tradition to wider international audiences while ensuring that local communities benefit meaningfully from tourism. With its strong cultural roots and contemporary creative appeal, the festival has the potential to stand alongside Thailand’s most iconic cultural events on the global stage.” For 2025, TAT has integrated contemporary creative elements that complement the festival’s spiritual and cultural foundations while strengthening its international appeal. Immersive lighting installations illuminate key heritage settings, including the Cathedral of St Michael the Archangel and Tha Rae’s century-old stone houses, reinforcing the destination’s distinctive historical character. Visitor experiences extend across the five-day programme through AI-driven photo spots; creative, sustainability-focused workshops; a family-friendly snow experience; and Amazing Thailand–branded illuminated star vehicles. Hands-on DIY activities, such as cupcake decoration, star ornament making, and recycled-material jewellery workshops, encourage active participation while reinforcing community involvement and responsible event practices. Spectacular and sacred From 20th to 22nd December, and continuing through the daytime programme on 23rd December, festival activities take place along the walking street and Martino Pavilion, creating a continuous, community-led celebration that blends culture, heritage, and festive life. On 20th December, activities begin at 14.00; on 21, 22, and 23 December, daytime programmes start at 10.00. Visitors can browse local indigo textiles and locally made products, enjoy regional cuisine, and join heritage walks through the historic Christian community. Throughout these days, creative showcases and performances by local musicians, schools, and youth groups animate the area, with evening variety music programmes beginning from 19.00. A visual highlight on 22nd December is the public showcase of large, illuminated star vehicles along Ratcharoen Road from 17.00. Programmes from 20th to 23rd December run through the evening and conclude at 22.30; while on the evening of the 23rd, the festival reaches its central highlight. Float registration begins at 15.00, followed by formation from 16.00 at the Martino Pavilion. At 18.00, the illuminated star procession is released, with ornate star vehicles parading along the designated route before returning at 20.00. The programme then continues with Christmas performances by local schools and community groups, followed at 20.30 by the official opening ceremony. The evening programme features Christmas blessings, a festive candy shower, gift-giving, a sacred nativity drama, presentations for the best illuminated star floats, variety music performances, and TAT’s special drone light show. On 24th December, the festival transitions into a more traditional and sacred Christmas Eve observance. The handheld star procession gathers from 18.00 at the Martino Pavilion and departs at 18.30 for a full circuit around the Cathedral of St Michael the Archangel before entering the church. The evening continues with Christmas Mass, followed by a sacred nativity performance by local youth at the Grotto of the Infant Jesus. In keeping with Christmas Eve tradition, the programme concludes following the completion of religious services. A reflection of Thailand’s rich cultural diversity Held annually for more than a century, the Christmas Star Parade is a defining cultural tradition of Sakon Nakhon and one of the most distinctive Christian celebrations in Northeastern Thailand. Inspired by the guiding star that marked the birth of Jesus Christ, the procession has evolved into a living expression of spiritual heritage, creative craftsmanship, and shared community identity. By positioning the Sakon Nakhon Christmas Star Parade as part of Thailand’s growing portfolio of culturally distinctive festivals, TAT aims to strengthen global awareness of the country’s diverse cultural landscape. This momentum builds on the international recognition of Songkran in Thailand as a UNESCO-inscribed cultural heritage and the growing global appeal of Loi Krathong as one of Asia’s most captivating light festivals, reinforcing Thailand’s commitment to sharing culturally rich, community-rooted experiences with the world in meaningful and memorable ways.
RateHawk reveals Christmas travel trends in Europe
RateHawk, a B2B travel booking platform, has unveiled the latest Christmas travel trends for European holidaymakers. From 22 December 2025 to 5 January 2026, European travellers are showing a keen interest in both traditional festive destinations and lesser-known gems. The data highlights that 35% of bookings made by European travel agents are for destinations within Europe, with France, Spain, the UK, Italy, and Germany leading the list. The USA, despite a year-long decline in visitors, remains a top choice for Christmas, particularly cities like New York and Orlando. Thailand is also popular, bolstered by new direct flights to Bangkok and Phuket. The UAE attracts those seeking sun, with Dubai and Abu Dhabi being the most booked cities. Japan has seen a remarkable 188% increase in bookings, with travellers exploring both major cities and quieter locales like Kanazawa and Hakone. Astrid Kastberg, Managing Director of RateHawk, noted, “This year, we see more travellers looking for new experiences and choosing less crowded cities, even within well-known destinations.” RateHawk provides travel agents with access to over 2.9 million accommodation options, facilitating tailored and last-minute bookings. The UK’s top outbound destinations include the UAE, USA, Saudi Arabia, Thailand, and France. These trends reflect a blend of traditional holiday experiences and a growing appetite for unique travel adventures. As the festive season approaches, RateHawk's insights offer a glimpse into the evolving preferences of European travellers. ```
Advantage Travel sees 12% rise in Christmas bookings
Representative Image Advantage Travel Partnership has reported a 12% increase in bookings for Christmas 2025 compared to the previous year, highlighting a shift in consumer preferences towards festive destinations. The data, collected from January to October 2025, reveals a significant rise in trips to Lapland, up by 30%, and city breaks to Prague, Krakow, and Berlin, which account for 13% of overall bookings. The popularity of cruise and ski holidays has also grown, with bookings increasing by 5% and 6% respectively. Whilst the search for winter sun remains strong, with a 10% rise in bookings. Although long-haul travel remains stable, Dubai and the Caribbean have seen a decline, whilst the Far East has experienced a 13% increase in bookings. The Canary Islands continue to be the top short-haul destination for British travellers, with a 16% rise in bookings. Looking ahead to 2026, Advantage Travel Partnership is already tracking a 24% increase in bookings compared to the previous year. Summer holidays are leading the charge, with a 27% rise, whilst ultra-early bookings for winter holidays are also gaining traction. The US is seeing a 20% increase in bookings, driven by events like the FIFA World Cup and immersive experiences in the deep south states. Julia Lo Bue-Said, CEO of Advantage Travel Partnership, noted the importance of value in consumer decisions, stating, “Consumers are continuing to focus on getting the best deal from their spend.” With cruise and touring bookings expected to grow, the travel sector is poised for a robust 2026. ```
Vilnius launches unique Christmas currency
Vilnius, Lithuania, marked a festive milestone on 13 December 2025 by launching a unique currency as part of its "Vilnius Christmas Before Christmas" event. This initiative, in collaboration with the Bank of Lithuania, invited residents and visitors to exchange childhood Christmas memories for limited-edition notes. These notes, valid only for the day, could be used at over 40 participating venues across the city for festive treats. The event, which celebrated Vilnius as the European Christmas Capital of 2025, featured a ceremonial first minting by the Governor of the Bank of Lithuania outside the central bank's Money Museum. Gediminas Šimkus, Chairman of the Board of the Bank of Lithuania, remarked, "This is a rare moment that is simultaneously serious and playful, when the world of finance meets a city in festive celebration." The currency, reminiscent of childhood tokens like pine cones, was available at five locations, including the Money Museum and the Christmas market. Participants could swap the notes for treats such as hot chocolate and sweets. The event also included a choir of over 200 voices, transforming Vilnius into a citywide family celebration. Eglė Girdzijauskaitė, Head of Communication at Go Vilnius, expressed hopes for this to become a new tradition. Vilnius continues its festive celebrations with Christmas markets, an ice rink, and more until 6 January. Meanwhile, Barcelona was announced as the European Christmas Capital for 2026, highlighting its rich traditions and sustainable celebrations. ```
Park Hyatt Bangkok hosts inaugural Christmas tree lighting
Park Hyatt Bangkok recently celebrated its first Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony, blending luxury with meaningful values of art, community, and sustainability. The event, held at the hotel, featured a stunning Christmas tree crafted from upcycled metal by Thai artist Saruta Kiatparkpoom, showcasing the transformative power of art. Angelica Aliberti, Executive Assistant Manager – Sales and Marketing, emphasised the significance of the event, stating, “Tonight is not just about lighting a tree. It’s about celebrating values that truly define who we are at Park Hyatt Bangkok, art, community and sustainability.” Extending a helping hand The ceremony also underscored the hotel's commitment to empowering local communities through a partnership with AKHA MA-DE, an artisanal community from Chiang Rai. Guests participated in a macramé workshop led by Nathan Chocard and Nichanan A-Ngi, receiving handcrafted tokens made from recycled cotton, symbolising cultural heritage and sustainable livelihoods. Adding to the festive atmosphere, Alba Santos performed jazz renditions of classic Christmas tunes, whilst attendees enjoyed culinary delights paired with Ruinart Champagne. The evening concluded with a toast of “Merry Christmas” as the tree came alight. This celebration marks a new chapter for Park Hyatt Bangkok, demonstrating that luxury can be both responsible and inspiring. The event set the tone for a festive season rooted in creativity, sustainability, and shared joy, aligning with the hotel’s guiding philosophy of art, community, and care. ```
Iconic Vilnius Christmas Tree is Lit heralding Christmas Season
Vilnius Christmas Tree 2025 Photo: Mantas Gudzinevičius The festive season in the European Capital of Christmas 2025 officially opened, with thousands gathering in a sparkling Vilnius to celebrate as the city's Christmas tree was lit. Vilnius was named Capital of Christmas by the European Parliament's Christmas Cities Network in large part thanks to its iconic Christmas trees, which have become internationally renowned. The Vilnius Christmas tree was ranked first by European Best Destinations for two consecutive years. Every year, Vilnius adopts an original theme for its Christmas tree that sets trends, with past themes including fairytales, birthday cakes, and clocks. This year's tree embraces a traditional aesthetic featuring red and gold colors, resonating with a growing desire for nostalgia and authenticity during the holidays. In PwC's 2025 Holiday Outlook, survey respondents mentioned a wish to return to tradition amid economic uncertainty, with rituals and meaningful experiences prioritized even if holiday spending decreases. "This is a special Christmas for Vilnius as we are the European Christmas Capital and the European Green Capital. Our tree this year sends a message to the whole continent that this is the season for genuine emotion and quality time. Joyful moments spent together are the most precious Christmas gifts we can have, and this stunning natural spruce, decorated in an original and classical way featuring red and gold colors, will create many of these moments for residents and visitors alike," said Mayor of Vilnius, Valdas Benkunskas. Vilnius Christmas Tree 2025 Photo: Domantas Kancleris An authentic 205-square-meter installation that is 20 meters high With the Old Town of the city adorned in sparkling lights and forest-inspired motifs, revellers gathered in the Cathedral Square for the unveiling of this year's 20-meter Christmas tree, decorated with 25,000 warm white LED lights and 400 ornaments, showcasing an authentic, timeless aesthetic. Visitors can enjoy the tree from a purpose-built, 3-meter-high viewing platform before exploring the surrounding Christmas market. The entire structure for the Vilnius Christmas tree covers 205 square meters. It includes a platform, reminiscent of stepping onto a red carpet, allowing visitors to walk along it and take photographs. This platform stands 3 meters high and extends 17 meters in width. For the 3rd consecutive year, the tree itself is a natural spruce, donated to the city by residents of Vilnius District.
Navi Mumbai International Airport to Begin Operations on Christmas, 25 December 2025
Navi Mumbai International Airport (NMIA) will begin commercial operations on 25 December 2025. The launch will add capacity to the growing aviation needs of the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR). In the first month, NMIA will operate for 12 hours between 08:00 hrs and 20:00 hrs, handling 23 scheduled daily departures. During this period, the airport will manage up to 10 flight movements per hour. The inaugural flight to arrive at NMIA will be IndiGo 6E460 from Bengaluru, scheduled to touchdown at 8:00 AM. Shortly after, IndiGo 6E882 will depart for Hyderabad at 8:40 AM, marking the first outbound service from the new airport. During the initial launch period, passengers will benefit from services operated by IndiGo, Air India Express, and Akasa Air, connecting Mumbai to 16 major domestic destinations. NMI Connectivity • Ahmedabad (AMD) Aurangabad (IXU) • Bengaluru (BLR) • Chennai (MAA) • Cochin (COK) • Coimbatore (CJB) • Delhi (DEL) Goa (GOI & GOX) • Hyderabad (HYD) • Jaipur (JAI) Jammu (IXJ)* • Kolkata (CCU) • Lucknow (LKO) • Mangaluru (IXE) • Nagpur (NAG) • Vadodara (BDQ) Starting February 2026, the airport will transition to round-the-clock operations, expanding to 34 daily departures to meet the increasing needs of the MMR. Operational phase Total Daily Departures 25 December 2025 to 31January 2026 23 1 February 2026 onwards 34 To ensure a seamless start, NMIA is conducting comprehensive Operational Readiness and Airport Transfer (ORAT) trials in collaboration with all stakeholders, including security agencies and airline partners. Further strengthening its preparedness, the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) was formally inducted at NMIA on 29 October 2025, with deployment across key airport functions.
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