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Heading off for a break at Christmas can be a great way to get into the festive spirit - or to really unwind. Whether you want a sun-soaked trip or are keen to experience the holiday season in another nation, cruises may prove to be the ideal way to travel.
There is a wide variety of Christmas cruises available, with the following routes being among the most popular.
Canary Islands
If you are hoping to enjoy some winter sun, a cruise to the Canary Islands could be the way to go. This well-loved destination is within easy reach of the UK and travelling by ship will give you the opportunity to get a flavour of various different isles in the archipelago.
You will also have the chance to call in at a few ports on the Spanish mainland and possibly Portugal, depending on the itinerary you select. This could be a great opportunity to experience the Christmas customs in the Mediterranean.
Europe's Christmas markets
Visiting some of Europe's biggest and best Christmas markets is a fantastic way to get into the festive spirit. There are a number of river cruises on offer during the winter months that can take you to destinations such as Cologne.
Here you can step ashore and soak up the atmosphere among the seasonal stalls, as well as being able to taste some delicious yuletide delicacies. If you do decide to choose a cruise that stops in Germany, make sure you sample some gluhwein, which is similar to mulled wine, while you are there.
New York
As one of the ultimate winter destinations for a city break,last minute cruises cruises to the Big Apple in the midst of the Christmas period could be a wonderful option if you want to really get away from it all.
This vibrant city really comes alive in December, with fantastic decorations and beautiful window displays decking out the city's streets and shops. Make sure you pay a visit to Time Square to see the giant Christmas tree outside the Rockefeller Center, as well as indulging in some retail therapy in a few of New York's most famous stores, such as Macy's and Bloomingdales.
The Caribbean
Renowned for its beautiful islands boasting white sand beaches and surrounded by azure-blue sea, the Caribbean is a great destination to choose if you want to enjoy some warmer weather this winter.
The beauty of exploring the islands by cruise liner is that you can stop off at several ports on your holiday, giving you the opportunity to discover the diverse cultures and attractions the region has to offer. Many itineraries depart from and return to Fort Lauderdale in Florida, with stops including St Lucia, Barbados, Grenada and Aruba.
Australia and the South Pacific
If you are keen to escape the British winter for a little longer, why not head to the southern hemisphere? December is the middle of its summer, so you can certainly look forward to a warmer climate.
Joining a cruise on the other side of the world presents a fantastic opportunity to visit destinations such as New Zealand, Australia, Fiji and Tahiti. Why not enjoy a traditional Aussie barbecue on the beach instead of the customary roast turkey? Or you could spend your Christmas Day strolling along a palm-fringed beach with your loved ones.
With all these choices for a memorable Christmas break, what are you waiting for?
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