i have been in australia for two months now on a business trip and i am leaving brisbane in march 2008, to go back home,
an australian friend invited me to spend christmas with his family, and i never celebrated christmas because my parents never believed in god, and i never cared to celebrate it, i used the free time from work to travel,
my questions, what are the christmas customs in australia, what should i do, and how to behave, should i get him a gift, a gift for his wife, a gift for his mother, what type of gift should i get them,
i want to be polite to him, because although i don't want to come he kept insisting,
2007-12-04 02:43:24 · 8 answers · asked by ilovelife 4 in Travel ➔ Australia ➔ Other - Australia
what should i wear, for example formal or casual
2007-12-04 02:45:08 · update #1
The answer above is correct about what to wear.
Neat and quite casual clothes would be appropriate.
It will be hot in Brisbane, so don't wear long pants and closed shoes, (no tie either) you'll die in the heat.
Do they have a pool?
If they do, you may be wise to have your swimsuit in the car.
As for the gift, I'd take one of those speciality hampers you can buy.
The ones in the basket that contain special jams, chocolates and teas etc. That has something in it for everyone.
They are available from good department stores.
Be careful about taking a bottle of wine not everyone drinks wine. It wouldn't be a suitable gift for me or my family.
I hope you have a wonderful Christmas day.
2007-12-04 06:26:23 · answer #1 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Christmas Customs In Australia
2016-12-14 15:28:23 · answer #2 · answered by ? 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Usually Christmas gatherings in Australia are somewhat casual affairs. They often consist of a barbecue, or big family meal, or sometimes eating out if you can. It varies a bit between different classes of society and whether you live in the city or country. It's rare in my experience that christmas day is ever celebrared formally, it's just too hot. Neat casual wear is normally the go. The religious side of christmas (again, this will vary) is rarely pushed overmuch.
As for gifts, that's a little tricky. It all depends on your judgement as to whether he will give you one or not, and would they be comfortable with it. If in doubt, bring a small gift, a bottle of wine would be more than sufficient, and quite apt.
Let yourself enjoy the day. If nothing else it'll be a different way to spend the day, and I think you'll enjoy it.
Have fun now
2007-12-04 04:07:25 · answer #3 · answered by Mr Smarty Pants 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Remember casual, Aussies love bbq's and eating outdoors during the summer. It really is about getting together with family and friends. Obviously youre considered a friend and just your presence will be enough. If you want to do something, a bottle of wine or something like that. You could take something like a gift for the kids...think water orientated toys (those things you hook up to the taps like a sprinkler). Aussies aren't too big on church these days, its become more of getting in touch with folks. Going to the beach is popular. In most instances you'll find that its a BIG lunch (not a lot of traditional HOT meals) and everyone just hangs out in the afternoon.
2007-12-04 19:56:04 · answer #4 · answered by wotzthepoint? 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
No Christmas is very laid back and casual. Dress cool + casual and flip flops and bring a case of beer. People don't expect gifts a bottle of wine,chocolates or plant if you feel the need too but it's not necessary. Christmas day here in OZ is too hot to eat a traditional dinner so expect a bbq cold salads and ham etc. Just enjoy yourself if they have a pool bring a towel and trunks.
2007-12-04 08:17:48 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Spending Christmas with the family will be a great way to spend the day. If they are going to church, they will have done so before you get there and it needn't bother you. It probably won't be mentioned. Casual and relaxed is the best attitude. It would be appropriate to take a small gift, perhaps a bunch of flowers and a bottle of wine.
2007-12-04 19:52:32 · answer #6 · answered by tentofield 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Hi
I agree that casual dress is the way to go - as it may be very hot - definately no tie!
I think you should buy one present for the household - something like a nice plant, gourmet hamper, cinema ticket voucher or something similar - don't try to buy specific gifts for everyone as it will drive you bonkers!
Your friend must want you to share Christmas Day with them or he would not keep insisting - I'm sure you would enjoy the day!
2007-12-04 07:55:43 · answer #7 · answered by lynlands 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
In Australia i think Christmas is more about friends and family getting together and enjoying themselves than anything else
just enjoy yourself and act as you normally would. they would of asked you because they enjoy your company.
maybe just a simple gift like bottle of wine box of chocolates
2007-12-04 06:15:50 · answer #8 · answered by AndyM 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋