Last year was a dreadful time for a lot of people, and one most of us would probably rather forget. But just when our friends and family in the UK thought 2021 was going to be better they are now worried it could be the same as the last. With new travel restrictions in place, who knows when we will have a 'traditional Christmas' again. So maybe it's time to start some new traditions. Alright so it might not be your typical festive season, but sometimes change is good isn't it? Let's make this Christmas holiday the best it can be until we can all meet up again. And we mustn't forget that we are also members of an ever-growing (slightly crazy) happy hot tub family!
What time is it? It's hot tub time!
If you've been watching I'm a Celebrity... this year then you'll know that the campmates have created a new catchphrase. Every time someone leaves the camp to do a task, or because they've been voted off, the remaining members form an arch, and the French footballing 'legend' David Ginola says 'Hey camp mates, what time is it?' They all reply 'It's showtime!' or 'It's home time', depending on the circumstances. So I've coined my own new catchphrase and I'm sharing it with you. Use it every time you are heading out to your lovely warm tub. Forming a human arch if there's only the two of you might be a bit difficult, so that bit isn't mandatory.
Make it extra festive
Baby it's cold outside, but a hot tub is a fun solution to the low temperatures. Sliding into a warm bubbling hot tub on a cold winter evening isn't as bad as it sounds is it? And if you can make it extra festive then it could be the start of a new tradition and the making of some wonderful memories. To get you started I have done the research and created a festive hot tub holiday checklist - just for you.
Winter wonderland
First things first, and to get you into the holiday spirit is to transform your hot tub area into a winter wonderland. You can festoon your hot tub and the surrounding area with a few non-breakable baubles, strands of weatherproof tinsel and twinkly lights. This will help you and your guests get in the holiday spirit. If you are of an artistic nature then why not create a garland of foliage and berries to decorate around the base of your tub (just keep it away from the wood-burner and chimney area)?
You can also create a festive feel by placing inflatable snowmen and reindeer decorations around your hot tub space. I'm thinking of hanging a Christmas stocking on the side of our tub in the hope that père Noël, or one of his little helpers will drop off a few extra little treats when they're passing.
Now that's what I call Christmas music
It wouldn't be Christmas without a Top Ten play list and here's mine, in no particular order.
'Fairytale of New York’ by The Pogues and Kirsty MacColl.
‘White Christmas’ by Bing Crosby.
‘Do They Know It’s Christmas?’ by Band Aid.
‘Stay Another Day’ by East 17.
‘Last Christmas’ by Wham!
‘All I Want For Christmas Is You’ by Mariah Carey.
‘Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree’ by Brenda Lee.
‘Driving Home for Christmas’ by Chris Rea.
‘Merry Xmas Everybody’ by Slade
‘Peace on Earth/The Little Drummer Boy’ by Bing Crosby and David Bowie.
Kindle the festive spirit with some cheerful Christmas carols that everyone can sing along to. Tell me what's your favourite festive tune?
Keep your hat on
You might not normally wear a hat when you're bathing but the chances are that it will be quite cold outside. Most of the body’s heat is lost through your head, so when most of your body is immersed in the warm soothing, bubbling water, wearing a hat helps to keep your head warm and stops you from catching a chill. Since it’s Christmas, you could have a selection of warm, festive hats, complete with bells on! Not only to keep you and your guests warm, but to make you smile and for some great photo opportunities.
Grab some extra towels
Remember to get the Christmas towels and robes ready for when you're getting in and out of the tub. Keep them warm by wrapping them around hot water bottles.
Serve up some Christmassy drinks and snacks
Whilst it’s always a good idea to keep your alcohol consumption low whilst relaxing in a hot tub, you could serve some mulled wine or cider. Or even mulled apple juice. For me, nothing beats a glass of fizz when I'm sharing my bubbly hot tub with family and friends.
You might not want to gorge on too many treats and snacks when you are lazing in the tub before or after a big meal, but I couldn't resist sharing this Christmas tree cheese board idea with you.
Although this might not be your usual family Christmas, it might turn into a new tradition.
If you have some other ideas for a festive hot tub holiday time, feel free to share them on our Facebook page, along with your Christmassy tub and garden decorations.
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