10 best places to spend Christmas 2011

Of course Christmas is the time to travel.

You don't think the three wise men had some sunscreen and travel snacks packed in their robes?

Hitting the road in December can add an international shine to your festive cheer.

Other than your living room, these are the best places to do Christmas.

10. San Juan, Puerto Rico 

Three months of celebration -- perfect for the guy who leaves his Christmas lights on all year round.

Why: Can't get enough of Christmas? In San Juan, Christmas is a marathon. 

Celebrations run from November through mid-January with the city enjoying carols, feasting on roast pork and watching holiday fireworks. 

On Christmas Eve, many Puerto Ricans attend Misa de Gallo (midnight mass) to catch a re-enactment of the nativity.

On New Year’s Eve, locals might make you eat 12 grapes for luck at the giant government-hosted party.

The climax of the season is El Día de los Tres Reyes Magos, or Three Kings Day, when children can get free gifts at the San Juan governor's house. Three Kings Day is on January 6, 2012.  

When: November to mid-January.

9. London

If you can't make it to the Olympics, settle for Christmas in London -- there's less madness and more turkey.

Why: Meet Santa Claus

Numerous Santa grottos are open around the city.

Parents can choose from a theatrical experience, to the more conventional Santa's lap, to a time-traveling journey to see Santa with Doctor Who. 

When: Until December 24

8. New York City

Jabbing through crowds at Rockefeller Center is a great way to prepare for the traditional Barney's post-season sale.

Why: No Christmas list would be complete without a mention of the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree, which is illuminated by eight kilometers of lights.

Skating around the Rock's outdoor rink gets you the quintessential “I’m in New York during Christmas!” Facebook photo.

A walking tour from Bloomingdale's through Barneys, Bergdorf Goodman, Saks and Macy's gets you the "I was in New York during Christmas!" receipts for your tax accountant.  

When: The Ice Skating Rink at Rockefeller Center is open through April 2012.

More on CNNGo: 24 Christmas travel ideas 

7. Tokyo

When Tokyo twinkles, even Godzilla is charmed.

Why: After the spring disaster in Fukushima, Japan is decking itself out with some large-scale Christmas cheer.

With thousands of solar-powered and LED fairy lights, entire streets -- notably Keyakizaka in Roppongi Hills -- will be lit up as part of the traditional Japanese Christmas light shows. 

When: Some light displays stay up through January, others even through February. www.japan-guide.com

6. Mouans-Sartoux, France 

Don't bother, no one in France will find your "Child's Play" references funny.

Why: Dating to 1802, the Foire aux Santons, or Christmas figurine fair, in Mouans-Sartoux is one of the oldest fairs of its kind. It focuses on very specific items: figurines from nativity scenes. 

Not only can visitors pick their favorites among Mary, Joseph, the baby Jesus, shepherds and angels, they can enjoy street performances and other activities that take place around the Christmas fair. 

With more than 20 santonniers displaying thousands of santons, Christmas tree ornaments and books, this is the place to be when it comes to a nativity figurine fest.   

When: Until December 24