Travel enthusiasts were in for a treat this week with a blend of holiday journeys, unique hotel experiences, and an extraordinary winter theme park in Croatia. While millions of passengers embarked on holiday flights, a fascinating story unfolded on Christmas Island, where residents enjoy the Christmas spirit every day. For those seeking an alternative to the crowded sections of the Great Wall of China, Commune by the Great Wall provided an exclusive and picturesque getaway. Additionally, a former royal residence near Jaipur, India, transformed into the opulent Villa Palladio, offering a unique blend of Indian and Italian aesthetics.
Amid the holiday hustle, travel disruptions made headlines. Cruise ships faced unexpected challenges, including itinerary changes, power losses, and inclement weather. Meanwhile, rail travelers using Eurostar encountered obstacles due to a last-minute strike by Eurotunnel staff.
In the midst of travel tales, a heartwarming story emerged from Croatia, where Zlatko Salaj turned his family home into a winter theme park adorned with an astonishing 5 million lights. This spectacular display has become an annual tradition, attracting over 100,000 visitors and spreading holiday cheer.
Away from the holiday frenzy, the spotlight turned to Commune by the Great Wall, located an hour north of Beijing. This unique hotel, set against the backdrop of the Great Wall of China, offered travelers a serene and less crowded experience, allowing guests to enjoy the iconic landmark without the typical tourist hustle.
Meanwhile, on Christmas Island, residents described their daily lives in this jungle paradise, highlighting activities such as free diving, snorkeling, and walking through the jungle to hidden beaches. Despite its relatively small population, Christmas Island boasts a vibrant and diverse community, representing various cultural backgrounds and languages.
As travelers embarked on holiday journeys worldwide, the stories of unique experiences, breathtaking hotels, and festive displays added a touch of wonder to the travel landscape. From the enchanting lights of Zlatko Salaj’s winter theme park to the exclusive views of the Great Wall at Commune by the Great Wall, these tales captured the essence of exploration and the joy of discovering extraordinary destinations.