The festive season is upon us as we’re now less than a week from Christmas! There is a ton going on in Hong Kong as it seems this city celebrates every holiday in a major way. As soon as the pumpkins and gourds came down, the bright lights, real Christmas trees and Santa Clauses’ came out. Now that things have finally slowed down with the apartment (I chucked the last box a week or so ago), my plan over the next few days is to cram as much Christmas spirit in as possible.

On a serious note, the past few days have been hard being away from family. I’ve never not been home for Christmas, let alone, on the other side of the world. I allowed myself a day of sulking and now I’m bound and determined to have a merry freaking Christmas. So, that’s what I’m going to do.

Here’s what’s on deck this week:

Wednesday, Dec. 21

Dinner at Café Deco in Tsim Sha Tsui (TST), followed by the Nutcracker ballet (I have ALWAYS wanted to see this ballet).

Thursday, Dec. 22

Thursday, I’ll be spending much of the day at Disneylands Sparkling Christmas. I’m a little Disney-obsessed in general, but am also looking forward to seeing the decorations and holiday parades. Merry freaking Christmas, remember?

Friday, Dec. 23

My awesome sister in law gifted us afternoon tea at the beautiful Peninsula Hotel. Remember when I said tea at the Peninsula was next on my tea bucket list? Super excited about this one.

Saturday, Dec. 24

Christmas Eve. All that’s planned on this day is relaxing at home with a home cooked meal, followed by a midnight church service at Union church, just a few blocks from where we live. We may also be visiting with friends as well. Did you take note of the “home cooked meal” mentioned above? Even as I typed it, I could feel the heat from the last time I tried to make something at home.

Sunday, Dec. 25

A big breakfast (that I’ll attempt to cook) followed by Facetiming with family while opening gifts and staying in my pajamas until it’s time to get ready for dinner at the Mandarin Oriental Hotel.

A packed and exciting week ahead followed by a NYE party on the harbor with fireworks. I hope everyone near and far has a truly joyous holiday filled with family and love.