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How to survive ‘crimbo limbo’ with your family

Dec. 26, 2020
4 min read
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Editor's Note

/strong> This story has been updated.
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Editor's note: This story has been updated.

On December 26 after the presents are opened, you're finishing up the leftovers and the children have already played with their new toys -- "crimbo limbo" can set in.

This usually refers to the days between Christmas and New Year when you start to get itchy feet but still have a few days before New Year's Eve. For those with school-aged children, crimbo limbo can be a challenge.

Here are a few things to do to during that week to keep everyone entertained.

LONDON, UNITED KINGDOM - 2018/11/22: Hello Winter and a smiley face, is seen on a car windscreen covered in frost in London following a very cold night. According to The Met Office blizzards and freezing temperatures are set to arrive in Britain next week as an Arctic blast sweeps across the country. Temperatures are likely to plunge to -10C and the bitter freeze - with gales from Siberia and heavy snow - is expected to last through Christmas. (Photo by Dinendra Haria/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images)
(Photo by Dinendra Haria/SOPA Images/LightRocket/Getty Images)

Start planning a new trip

One of the best ways to get out of a bad mood is to start planning your 2021 trips. If you are subject to a strict school calendar, you can book great fares for next October half term in the current New Years' sales.

Plan your points and miles strategy for 2021

Are you going to commit to one alliance for status this year? Is 2021 your year to fly business class as a family for the first time? Do you have an idea of where you are going to transfer your American Express Membership Rewards? 2021 could be the year that your family stops hoarding points.

(Photo by Peter Muller/Getty Images)
(Photo by Peter Muller/Getty Images)

Read more: How to plan a family holiday on points and miles

Experience some culture

Museums normally operate in the period between Christmas and New Year. Though make sure to check opening times as some may have changed due to COVID-19 restrictions.

The National History Museum. (Photo by fazon1/Getty Images)

Start your resolutions early

Kitchen seller Wren Kitchens did a study that found that the average Briton, for example, consumes 6,000 calories on Christmas Day alone. So rather than waiting until January 1, start moving your body now. Get your family out to the parks.

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Go back to work

This year, there are four working days between Christmas and New Year. While that may give you a splendid amount of time with your family, for some, work could feel like more of a holiday than being at home. Arrange some playdates for the kids and take a break back at your desk.

Many workplaces are mostly deserted during crimbo limbo and people often work shorter days. Some people swear by working the week between Christmas and New Year with unofficial reduced hours to save their precious days for a more extended summer vacation.

YouTube binge-watching

You could always cozy up with your family in pajamas on the sofa with leftovers and turn them into AvGeeks by binge-watching the TPG U.K. Youtube channel.

Read more: Watch TPG U.K. review all four classes on Singapore Airlines' A380

Bottom line

There are plenty of things to do between Christmas and New Year rather than arguing with your family or letting the kids drive you crazy. Do some planning, get out and about and remember, it's the season of goodwill!