Different Christmas trips: 1st Advent is written by The editorial staff RejsRejsRejs
Christmas Carols
Christmas is also Christmas, even if it is kept away from the cold and other. In this series of Advent stories, we take you on a different Christmas journey.
Enjoy.
1. Advent: Christmas on a prison lake
I love Christmas, but I must admit I love warmth at least as much. That's why my boyfriend and I decided last year to spend Christmas abroad - and preferably a place that could be combined with beach and experiences.
We had several places up to turn; at least 25 degrees and sun was a must though. We stumbled upon Con Dao, which is a relatively pristine archipelago in the south Vietnam . The main island Con Son is an old prison island and therefore offers both good weather, exciting history and unspoilt beaches. We packed the Santa hats a few days before Christmas and left.
The road to Christmas spirit and palm trees
From Ho Chi Minh City to Con Son it took 1 hour by plane. From airport to hotel we drove only 15 minutes before arriving at something reminiscent of paradise.
Six Senses is one of the nicest hotels and places I have ever seen. With private pool and views of the beach from the room it could hardly be better. Despite the 30 degrees and palm trees, it was easy to get in the Christmas spirit as the whole hotel was decorated for Christmas.
From prison island to holiday paradise with a Christmas atmosphere
Con Dao, however, has more to offer than beautiful scenery and white beaches. The island is known for its bloody past and served as a prison until 1975.
When visiting the prison, one must be prepared for an exciting but gruesome experience. It's not hard to imagine how horrible the prison has been. As the picture shows, figures have been erected depicting the prisoners' lives as they were.
After the jail visit, we took our rented scooter and drove to the Van Son Pagoda. An impressive temple on a hilltop with beautiful views, wild monkeys and local Vietnamese who come here to pray.
Then the Christmas bottles were lit.
Finally, it was December 24th. We were prepared for the menu to be on Vietnamese spring rolls instead of roast pork. But to our great surprise, the hotel had made a Christmas buffet for all the guests, which offered both brown sauce, potatoes and duck. The atmosphere was good, the Christmas tree lit, it smelled of Christmas atmosphere and despite unfamiliar surroundings, we still felt at home for Christmas.
Happy 1st Sunday in Advent from here the editorial staff
