The sun is out, the sky is blue and the air is balmy, which can only mean one thing...it's Christmas time in Australia!
With the island’s annual summer festival in full swing, it’s easy to see why plenty of people make their way to the island every year to spend their festive season. From lively beach parties and delicious pop-up bars to decadent dinners and show-stopping entertainment, the whole family will be spoilt for choice.
Still, even with all this action on, sometimes it’s hard to go past the show-stopping views and relaxed atmosphere of spending time in your WAHI apartment. It’s the perfect place to wind down and soak up some quality chill-time with your loved ones. And with a fully equipped kitchen at your fingertips, Christmas Day lunch is no exception.
If you’re one of the lucky ones spending Christmas Day with us at WAHI (or planning on visiting us at Christmas next year), the WAHI team has put together a step-by-step guide on how to have the perfect Christmas Day lunch at WAHI.
1. Make the most of your WAHI apartment
Just because you’re not at home with your favourite cooktop it doesn’t mean you can’t have a traditional Christmas lunch with your family. At WAHI, all of our apartments come with a fully equipped kitchen and everything you need to set up your own traditional Christmas spread.
Plenty of guests also enjoy lunch out on the balcony, which means that every course is served with a generous side of incredible views. Not to mention our spacious self-contained apartments sleep up to 5 people, meaning the entire family can roll into bed in just a few steps at the end of the day too.
2. Stock up on goodies at the IGA
Whether you’re planning a full-on Christmas bonanza or you’re treating yourself to a much-deserved quiet night-in, the highlight of Christmas is always the beautiful food that’s shared between loved ones. Luckily, when you’re staying at WAHI, the local IGA is just a 15-minute walk or 5-minute buggy/bus trip from your doorstep.
At the IGA you’ll find everything you need to whip up your favourite dishes, treat yourself to some festive delights or grab some last-minute ingredients to spice up your meals. If you want to keep things super low-key, you’ll even be able to find some pre-made meals ready to go or our favourite—fresh prawns.
3. Don’t forget the bubbly!
We think celebrating Christmas Day on the island is worth making a toast to! You can find all of your favourite beverages at the local bottle shop, including everything you’ll need to shake-up your own cocktails. You can also stock-up on supplies to store in your apartment so that you’ll have a fully-stocked fridge for the entire time you’re at WAHI. Don’t worry though, if you run out (or forgot to grab something) you can simply pop down to reception for a selection of available beverages.
4. Meal prep the day before
Did you know that Christmas puddings taste even better after you let them sit for a few days? Or that it’s best to make your gravy and cranberry sauce a week before the big day? If you’re like us and don’t want any fuss on Christmas day, then trust us when we say Christmas meal prep is the way to go. You can check out some of these awesome recipes to make ahead of the busy day!
5. Keep it simple
Christmas mornings are usually the kitchen’s busiest time of the year. With many mouths to feed, plenty of meals to prepare, and little time to cook, it’s best to stick to quick and simple recipes.
Looking for a stress-free creative appetizer? Try this Wild Rice Salad recipe that is guaranteed to make your family come back for seconds! Or what about this Easy Maple Sticky Glazed Ham recipe for an easy, hassle-free & delicious Christmas lunch. Once you’re done with the main, why not opt for a Fruit and Cheese Platter for dessert?
6. Leftover party
The best part about Christmas is that you won’t have to worry about what to eat for the next few days. Now that Christmas is over and all the dishes are clean, kick back and relax while you wait for your leftovers to heat up in the microwave. Because who doesn’t love munching on some Christmas leftovers?
It’s never too early to start planning your Christmas getaway. Take some time to explore and experience the beauty of the Whitsundays and spend Christmas the right way at WAHI. Book your Christmas getaway directly with WAHI on our website or call our reservation team at +61 7 4969 9905.
