Christmas in Ningbo, Hong Kong

What is the name of the city or town that you are reporting on?

Ningbo

How long have you lived there?

Seventeen Years

If locals celebrate Christmas or Hanukkah where you are living now, how is it celebrated differently?

Not really interested in Christmas but the the question included holidays. I have a lot of holidays in China. One basic rule.. Never take a holiday during a public holiday. Too stressful with all the travel and crowds. I am writing stories about "holiday" things as I ride motorcycles and play with sailing boats. I have a blog at www.simplesite.com/jonsims which is quite a nice look at china from a different view.

If locals do not celebrate Christmas or Hanukkah (and you do), what do you do for the holidays?

Because Christmas and the Chinese new year are quite close I often join in on local TV chat shows and we talk about the differences and commonality of the two events. Essentially they are both about the family.

Do you mix your own traditions with those of your expat location? If so, describe.

I think traditions and religious dogma should be quite separate. Though.. the tradition of getting the family together for at least once a year is important.

What is your favorite thing about celebrating Christmas or Hanukkah in your overseas location?

I get on a plane.. go somewhere warm and surf for a couple of weeks. The wife hates it.. heh heh.

Beside family and friends, what do you miss from home during the holidays?

Nothing.

How is New Year's typically celebrated in your expat location?

Ningbo does not really have a good expat population when it comes to westerners.