This national holiday celebrated by Americans brings together families and friends who will spend the day tucking into a delicious traditional feast of turkey, stuffing – and of course pumpkin pie, whilst watching the football or spectacular Thanksgiving Parade.
For those expats living beyond American shores, it’s still possible to get a slice of home comfort in cities all over the world on November 24th.
You just need to know where to look and with eight million American expats worldwide[1], Thanksgiving is becoming something of a global holiday celebration.
Booking.com, shares some of the top destinations to celebrate Thanksgiving, whether you’re an American far from your homeland or simply want in on the tasty turkey action.
Berlin, Germany
Berlin has been praised for its quality of schools, political environment, safety and transport, making it a great place to live, and with its history, museums and sightseeing opportunities (for which it was endorsed by Booking.com travellers for) it’s also a great place to visit.
Come Thanksgiving make sure you head to Midtown Grill where you can get a traditional turkey feast complete with delicious cranberry gravy.
If you’re visiting Berlin you’ll want to stay in a central location and these lavish studios are perfect, located just a 15-minute walk from Alexanderplatz Square and 11 minutes’ walk from the beach. There’s plenty of cafes and restaurants nearby too, not that you’ll be hungry after you’ve tucked into your Thanksgiving meal.
Amsterdam, Netherlands
Amsterdam is known for its cycling culture, laid back atmosphere and plethora of tourist attractions – Booking.com users endorsed it for museums, city walks and sightseeing.
If you’re here over Thanksgiving head to Seasons to indulge in a traditional lunch or dinner. This restaurant incorporates fresh seasonal ingredients into its turkey dinner and although you might be miles away from the USA, you’ll get a real taste of home here.
This characteristic townhouse is a beautiful stay, overlooking Oosterpark. The two suites have an atmosphere of the 1800’s with its antique furnishings, Italian chandeliers and luxurious bathrooms. Start the day with a delicious breakfast too – complete with champagne to celebrate Thanksgiving in style.
Sydney, Australia
Full of breath-taking natural beauty, beautiful weather and a relaxed atmosphere, this bustling city is a great place to be with Booking.com travellers endorsing Sydney for sightseeing, the iconic harbour and shopping.
It may be the other side of the world but the city has a great choice of places to celebrate Thanksgiving – Hard Rock Café is a classic or The Soda Factory if you fancy some live music alongside your turkey.
For a bit of luxury try The Darling at The Star which boasts amazing views of the city skyline, a casino, day spa and 20 bars and restaurants which include the award winning Momofuko Seiobo and celebrity chef Luke Nguyen’s Fat Noodle.
Copenhagen, Denmark
Considered one of the happiest places in the world, expats are attracted to its beauty and welcoming nature. Copenhagen is endorsed by Booking.com travellers for culture (as well as sightseeing and architecture) and it’s no wonder as their concept hygge, meaning cosiness, is a feeling that comes from taking genuine pleasure in making everyday things more meaningful, beautiful or special.
For a home away from home feeling this Thanksgiving visit MadMad Mad Bodega and join expats over delicious food whilst listening to stories about Thanksgiving traditions.
Located in the centre of Copenhagen are these modern and luxury apartments.
This lovely stay is on the 17th floor and offers great views of either Tivoli Gardens or the beautiful canals around Copenhagen Harbour. Tivoli Gardens Amusement Park, Copenhagen Central Train Station and Strøget Shopping Street are all within 10 minutes’ walk of the apartments.
Beijing, China
If you think being in China means you’ll never be able to track down a traditional Thanksgiving dinner then think again – the large number of expats here means there are a surprising amount of pop ups and turkey dinners being served at restaurants around the city.
Try Lily’s American Diner if you crave a genuine imported US turkey. Booking.com travellers endorsed Beijing for its history, culture and sightseeing.
An artistic masterpiece of modern and old, Rosewood Beijing is a glorious gem positioned in the central hub of Beijing. Guests can chill out in the beautiful garden, take a swim in the outdoor pool or explore the city by hiring a car.
London, UK
London is a great place to live for expats – this amazing city has everything you could ever need and Booking.com travellers endorsed the capital for shopping, sightseeing and museums.
While it’s not an official holiday in Britain, Londoners love a celebration and so have embraced the Thanksgiving tradition with eateries offering up the perfect pumpkin pie and traditional turkey dish. Try Christopher’s or Balthazar in Covent Garden or the Breakfast Club venues all over the city.
In the heart of London’s theatre district, Haymarket Hotel is surrounded by restaurants, bars and great shopping.
Guests can enjoy a swimming pool, gym, and a spa with a range of treatments. Afternoon tea is available if you fancy indulging in some British culture, perhaps after a walk around the nearby St James Park and Buckingham Palace.
[1] The Association of American Resident Overseas