In just a little more than 2 months, it will be Christmas day. The thought may be exciting for those who yearn for the cheery season and for many it also means planning a gateway for the whole family. Gozo is a magical Christmas destination for young and old. Read on to discover why you need to visit the island during the holiday season.
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What to do in Gozo at Christmas time:
- Enjoy the Christmas spirit which engulfs the island in the early days of December. This is not just about the streets and houses all gaily decorated to mark the holiday, but it is also about the fact that true to its nickname, the ‘Island of Joy’, many events are held to celebrate the season. Wandering around the island’s town and villages you will notice that the Gozitans are really serious about this holiday and you will enjoy the feast of light set out to create a winter wonderland atmosphere.
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Events such as the Santa Parade, choir singing, musical concerts are held throughout the season and include annual Christmas and New Year’s Day concerts in various locations. If you’ll be on the island during the season, make sure you get hold of the Christmas Season programme of events that will be published in the coming months.
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- Watch out for the crib exhibitions. Cribs are an old tradition of which the Gozitans are truly fond and they take time to create these nativity representations in the most unique and original ways.
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- Cribs come in different shapes and sizes. Some are life-sized ones complete with real-life actors. Topping the list is Bethlehem in Għajnsielem, a real life-representation on an expanse of land that every year is transformed to represent the village of Bethehem.
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- Away from all the ‘Christmassy’ stuff, Gozo is a welcome respite for anyone seeking to indulge in nature under the winter sun. The crisp air, the green slopes and the coastal routes beckon all sorts of hikers, cyclists and wanderers. It is up to you whether you want to take a short or a long route, a challenging one or a more relaxed path, but there is no doubt that it will be rewarding at this time of the year.
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6. You cannot visit the island at Christmas time without tasting the sweet delights of the season. The traditional honey ring might be at the top of the list followed closely by the chestnut and chocolate beverage known as l-Imbuljuta tal-Qastan.
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Where to stay:
In the town of Victoria – Be right in the middle of all events and activities and book your stay at one of the hotels or rent an apartment.
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In one of the villages – Mingle with the locals as they prepare to celebrate Christmas. Less busy but still enough to get a good dose of cheer, staying in a rented place or at a hotel in a village is a good option.
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At a coastal town like Xlendi, Marsalforn or Mġarr Harbour – The sea is always a delight in the winter months. It might be tad cold for swimming but you can still enjoy picnics and walks along the shores.
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In the countryside – Escape to the countryside and book your holiday at a traditional Gozitan farmhouse.
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Check out different accommodation options in Gozo.
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