The end of the year is coming and, along with it, the holidays. Christmas and New Year are dates that most Brazilians devote a lot of time and energy to. Australians have different traditions, but they can easily adapt to Brazilian customs. So don't despair at being away from home.
For those who don't have great culinary skills, some restaurants are open on public holidays. However, it's important to book a table in advance. So hurry! Another custom, which already appeals to Brazilians who spend the holidays with friends, is to eat outdoors. Many Australian parks and beaches have barbecue areas and public toilets. Best of all, the facilities are free.
Australian Anna Mattiuzo's family often prepares refreshing punches for the date and to combat the summer heat. "The ingredients are tea, ginger, seasonal fruits (berries, nectarines, peaches) and beer," explains Anna. But remember, in some cities it is forbidden to consume alcoholic beverages in public spaces.
The culture is also a little different when it comes to food. According to the Australian, seafood is the main ingredient in the dishes. "We usually eat prawns, oysters and big fish like salmon," she says. The dishes, however, don't usually go into the oven. "We usually do everything on the barbecue," explains Anna.
The cities also offer various New Year's Eve activities. Lights, movies and even lego trees are on display for locals and tourists to prepare for the new year. It's worth visiting the official websites of each event and keeping an eye out for activities.
Traditions
Unlike Brazilians, Australians celebrate Christmas on December 25th. "The day before, the children put personalized bags to receive presents from Santa Claus. We also leave food and a message for him," explains Anna. "On Christmas morning, we open Santa's presents and, after lunch, we exchange gifts with each other," she adds.
Another tradition, but this one for shopping aficionados, is the Boxing Day. Those televisions and computers that we've all been looking forward to all year get huge discounts on the day after Christmas. If you're a sports fan, the 'Sydney to Hobart' yacht race is a great event. "A lot of Sydney residents come down to the harbor to watch the start," says Anna. According to the Australian, the cricket Test match takes place in Melbourne on the same day. Many locals watch it on television and radio.
New Year
Many students take advantage of the holidays to travel. Anything goes to enjoy the arrival of a new year. Some people visit the Outback, others take to the road and get to know the entire Australian coastline and there are also those who choose a particular paradise and make the most of the trip. It all depends on taste.
Those staying in the big cities have nothing to complain about either. For those interested in seeing the fireworks, a tip: go in advance. Many people plan to arrive a few hours early. Others spend days in beach chairs waiting for the celebration. If you prefer to celebrate New Year's Eve, various companies offer packages such as parties on boats, cruises or celebrations on beaches all over the country.
No matter the style, the arrival of a new year is a time to reflect and enjoy. Whether with family, friends or the gang who share flats/classes/jobs with us.
So, Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to us all!
