“A Spaceman Came Travelling” by Chris de Burgh is a captivating Christmas song, and at familycircletravel.net, we’re diving deep into its meaning, history, and impact. This exploration will not only enrich your understanding of this classic tune but also provide context for creating lasting family memories during the holiday season. Let’s explore the enchanting story behind this timeless Christmas carol and discover why it continues to resonate with listeners of all ages, with family travel tips, holiday travel plans, and Christmas vacation ideas.
1. Who Is Chris de Burgh, the Writer of “A Spaceman Came Travelling?”
Chris de Burgh, an accomplished British-Irish singer-songwriter, penned “A Spaceman Came Travelling.” He included it on his second album, Spanish Train and Other Stories, released in 1975. While this song marked an early point in his career, de Burgh didn’t achieve mainstream success in the UK until the release of “The Lady in Red” over a decade later.
2. What Is the Meaning Behind “A Spaceman Came Travelling?”
The song “A Spaceman Came Travelling” tells a unique version of the Nativity story. Chris de Burgh himself has explained the song’s origins:
Chris de Burgh – A Spaceman Came Travelling
Newly signed to A&M Records but struggling financially, de Burgh was staying at a friend’s apartment when he read Erich von Däniken’s Chariots of the Gods? This book proposed the theory that ancient astronauts influenced early human civilization.
This concept led de Burgh to ponder some interesting questions:
- What if the Star of Bethlehem was actually a spacecraft?
- What if a benevolent being in the universe is watching over Earth and our follies?
Drawing inspiration from Irish poet William Butler Yeats, who believed that major cataclysmic events occur roughly every two thousand years, de Burgh viewed the birth of Christ as one such event. He then imagined a similar event occurring two millennia later.
He envisioned the Nativity scene with a spacecraft hovering above, shepherds in the fields, and “weird, ethereal music” filling the air, leaving them bewildered. The spaceman represents a messenger bringing a message of peace and goodwill to mankind, symbolized by the birth of Jesus. It encourages reflection on the deeper meaning of Christmas and the hope for universal peace.
3. How Did “A Spaceman Came Travelling” Perform on Music Charts?
Initially, “A Spaceman Came Travelling” didn’t achieve significant success in the UK, failing to chart upon its release. However, it did reach the top of the charts in Ireland in 1976.
In 1986, following the immense popularity of “The Lady in Red,” the song was re-released, reaching number 15 in Ireland and number 40 in the UK.
De Burgh himself stated that he “had no ideas about trying to write a hit record” when he created the song. Despite its modest initial chart performance, “A Spaceman Came Travelling” has become a beloved Christmas classic, frequently included on festive compilation albums. He noted that having a regularly recurring song has been “much better than a hit for three weeks.” The song’s enduring popularity makes it a staple of holiday music, demonstrating its lasting impact beyond initial chart success.
4. Are There Any Cover Versions of “A Spaceman Came Travelling?”
Yes, several artists have recorded their own versions of “A Spaceman Came Travelling,” showcasing the song’s broad appeal and adaptability across different genres:
John Gibbons – A Spaceman Came Travelling (feat. Nina Nesbitt)
- Smokie: The rock band Smokie has covered the song, bringing their distinctive rock sound to the Christmas classic.
- Celtic Woman: The Irish vocal group Celtic Woman has also recorded a version, adding their signature ethereal and harmonious style.
- John Gibbons feat. Nina Nesbitt: In 2018, Irish producer John Gibbons released an electronic dance version of the song featuring singer Nina Nesbitt, offering a contemporary twist to the original.
These covers demonstrate the song’s versatility and its ability to resonate with diverse audiences, further solidifying its status as a Christmas favorite.
5. What Are the Lyrics to “A Spaceman Came Travelling?”
The lyrics of “A Spaceman Came Travelling” tell a poignant story of a visitor from another world who witnesses the birth of Jesus and brings a message of peace to mankind:
A spaceman came travelling on his ship from afar,
‘Twas light years of time since his mission did start,
And over a village he halted his craft,
And it hung in the sky like a star, just like a star
He followed a light and came down to a shed,
Where a mother and child were lying there on a bed,
A bright light of silver shone round his head,
And he had the face of an angel, and they were afraid
Then the stranger spoke, he said “Do not fear,
I come from a planet a long way from here,
And I bring a message for mankind to hear,
“And suddenly the sweetest music filled the air
And it went La La
Peace and goodwill to all men, and love for the child
This lovely music went trembling through the ground,
And many were wakened on hearing that sound,
And travellers on the road, the village they found,
By the light of that ship in the sky, which shone all round
And just before dawn at the paling of the sky,
The stranger returned and said “Now I must fly,
When two thousand years of your time has gone by,
This song will begin once again, to a baby’s cry”
And it went La La
This song will begin once again
To a baby’s cry
And it goes La La
Peace and goodwill to all men, and
Love for the child
Oh the whole world is waiting, waiting to hear the song again,
There are thousands standing on the edge of the world,
And a star is moving somewhere, the time is nearly here,
This song will begin once again, to a baby’s cry
6. What Are Some Great Christmas Getaways for Families in the USA?
Looking for the perfect Christmas getaway with your family? The USA offers a wide array of enchanting destinations that promise memorable holiday experiences. Here are a few top recommendations:
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Orlando, Florida: Experience a magical Christmas at Walt Disney World or Universal Orlando Resort, where festive decorations, special parades, and holiday-themed shows create a wonderland for all ages. Enjoy the warm weather and explore other attractions like SeaWorld Orlando.
Address: 710 E Buena Vista Dr, Lake Buena Vista, FL 32830, United States.
Phone: +1 (407) 824-4321.
Website: familycircletravel.net. -
New York City, New York: Witness the iconic Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree, go ice skating in Central Park, and marvel at the holiday window displays along Fifth Avenue. Catch a performance of the “Christmas Spectacular Starring the Radio City Rockettes” for a classic New York Christmas experience.
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Aspen, Colorado: For a snowy Christmas, head to Aspen and enjoy world-class skiing, snowboarding, and other winter sports. The town is beautifully decorated, offering a cozy and festive atmosphere with its charming shops and restaurants.
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Leavenworth, Washington: This Bavarian-themed village goes all out for Christmas with twinkling lights, carolers, and festive markets. Enjoy sledding, sleigh rides, and the annual Christmas Lighting Festival for a truly enchanting experience.
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Branson, Missouri: Known for its family-friendly entertainment, Branson offers a variety of Christmas shows, light displays, and attractions. Don’t miss Silver Dollar City’s “An Old Time Christmas” for a spectacular holiday celebration.
These destinations offer diverse experiences, ensuring there’s something for every family to enjoy during the Christmas season.
7. How Can You Make Family Travel During the Holidays Less Stressful?
Traveling with family during the holidays can be challenging, but with careful planning and a few smart strategies, you can minimize stress and maximize enjoyment. Here’s how:
- Plan Ahead and Book Early: Secure flights, accommodations, and rental cars well in advance to avoid last-minute price hikes and limited availability.
- Pack Smart: Create a packing list to ensure you don’t forget essentials. Consider packing cubes to organize luggage and keep items separate.
- Travel During Off-Peak Times: If possible, travel on less popular travel days to avoid crowds and delays. Early morning or late-night flights are often less busy.
- Prepare for Airport Security: Arrive at the airport with ample time and be prepared for security checks. Have travel documents and IDs readily available.
- Keep Kids Entertained: Pack books, games, and electronic devices to keep children occupied during flights or long drives. Download movies or TV shows in advance.
- Snacks and Drinks: Bring along snacks and drinks to avoid expensive airport or roadside purchases and to keep everyone satisfied.
- Build in Downtime: Plan for downtime during your trip to relax and recharge. Avoid over-scheduling activities, especially with young children.
- Stay Organized: Keep important documents, such as flight confirmations and hotel reservations, in a designated folder or travel app.
- Communicate: Keep everyone informed about travel plans and any changes. Clear communication helps manage expectations and reduce anxiety.
- Be Flexible: Unexpected delays or changes can happen. Stay flexible and be prepared to adjust your plans as needed.
By implementing these strategies, you can create a smoother and more enjoyable travel experience for your family during the holidays.
8. What Are Some Fun Christmas Activities for Families to Enjoy Together?
Creating lasting memories during the Christmas season is all about engaging in fun and festive activities with your family. Here are some ideas to get you started:
- Decorate the Christmas Tree: Make decorating the tree a family affair. Play Christmas music, serve hot cocoa, and let everyone participate in hanging ornaments and stringing lights.
- Bake Christmas Cookies: Get in the kitchen and bake a batch of Christmas cookies together. Decorate them with icing, sprinkles, and other fun toppings. Share your creations with friends and neighbors.
- Visit a Christmas Market: Explore local Christmas markets and enjoy the festive atmosphere. Shop for unique gifts, sample holiday treats, and enjoy live entertainment.
- Go Caroling: Spread Christmas cheer by going caroling in your neighborhood. Invite friends and family to join you and sing classic Christmas carols door to door.
- Watch Christmas Movies: Cozy up on the couch and watch classic Christmas movies together. Enjoy favorites like “Home Alone,” “Elf,” and “Miracle on 34th Street.”
- Build a Gingerbread House: Challenge your family to build and decorate a gingerbread house. Get creative with candies, icing, and other decorations.
- Attend a Christmas Concert or Show: Enjoy a live Christmas concert or show. Many communities offer performances of “The Nutcracker,” Christmas carol concerts, and holiday-themed plays.
- Visit Santa: Take the kids to visit Santa Claus at a local mall or Christmas event. Have them share their Christmas wishes and take memorable photos.
- Create Christmas Crafts: Get crafty and make Christmas decorations, ornaments, or cards together. Use supplies like construction paper, glitter, and paint to create unique and personalized items.
- Read Christmas Stories: Gather around the fireplace and read Christmas stories aloud. Share classic tales like “A Christmas Carol” and “The Night Before Christmas.”
These activities can help create a joyful and memorable Christmas season for your family, filled with laughter, love, and cherished moments.
9. What Are Some Tips for Traveling with Children of Different Age Groups?
Traveling with children of different age groups requires tailored strategies to ensure everyone has a comfortable and enjoyable experience. Here are some tips for each age group:
Infants (0-12 months):
- Pack Essentials: Bring plenty of diapers, wipes, formula or breast milk, bottles, and baby food.
- Comfort Items: Include familiar items like a favorite blanket or toy to provide comfort in new surroundings.
- Flexible Schedule: Maintain a flexible schedule to accommodate naps and feeding times.
- Car Seat or Bassinet: Use an appropriate car seat for car travel and a portable bassinet for easy sleeping arrangements.
Toddlers (1-3 years):
- Engage with Activities: Pack books, toys, and games to keep toddlers entertained during travel.
- Snacks and Drinks: Bring along healthy snacks and drinks to prevent hunger-related meltdowns.
- Safety Measures: Ensure childproof locks or barriers are available in hotel rooms or rental accommodations.
- Frequent Breaks: Plan for frequent breaks during long journeys to allow toddlers to move around and burn energy.
Preschoolers (4-5 years):
- Involve in Planning: Involve preschoolers in the trip planning process by letting them choose activities or destinations.
- Interactive Games: Play interactive games like “I Spy” or “20 Questions” to keep them engaged during travel.
- Storytelling: Share stories or create imaginative tales to entertain them during downtime.
- Educational Activities: Incorporate educational activities like coloring books or simple puzzles to stimulate their minds.
School-Age Children (6-12 years):
- Age-Appropriate Entertainment: Provide age-appropriate books, movies, or video games to keep them occupied during travel.
- Travel Journals: Encourage them to keep a travel journal to document their experiences and observations.
- Responsibility: Assign them small responsibilities like carrying their own backpack or helping with navigation.
- Engage in Local Culture: Involve them in learning about the local culture, history, and customs of the destination.
Teenagers (13-19 years):
- Respect Independence: Respect their need for independence by allowing them to explore on their own (with appropriate supervision).
- Involve in Decision-Making: Involve them in decision-making regarding activities, dining options, or excursions.
- Social Media: Allow them to stay connected with friends and family through social media (with parental guidance).
- Meaningful Experiences: Provide opportunities for meaningful experiences such as volunteering or engaging in local community initiatives.
By considering the unique needs and interests of each age group, you can create a more harmonious and enjoyable travel experience for the whole family.
10. What Are Some Essential Items to Pack When Traveling with Kids?
Packing for a family trip requires careful consideration of everyone’s needs, especially when traveling with kids. Here’s a list of essential items to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey:
- Clothing: Pack comfortable and weather-appropriate clothing for each child, including layers for changing temperatures.
- Toiletries: Include kid-friendly toiletries such as shampoo, body wash, toothpaste, and sunscreen.
- Medications: Bring any necessary prescription medications, as well as over-the-counter remedies for common ailments like fever, allergies, or motion sickness.
- First-Aid Kit: Pack a basic first-aid kit with bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and any personal medical supplies.
- Snacks and Drinks: Stock up on healthy snacks and drinks to keep hunger at bay during travel.
- Entertainment: Include books, games, electronic devices, and headphones to keep kids entertained during flights or long drives.
- Comfort Items: Bring along favorite blankets, toys, or stuffed animals to provide comfort and familiarity.
- Travel Documents: Keep passports, tickets, and other important travel documents organized and easily accessible.
- Car Seat or Booster Seat: Use an appropriate car seat or booster seat for young children during car travel.
- Stroller or Carrier: Bring a stroller or baby carrier for infants and toddlers to make navigating airports or crowded areas easier.
- Diapers and Wipes: Pack plenty of diapers and wipes for babies and toddlers, along with diaper rash cream.
- Hand Sanitizer: Carry hand sanitizer to keep hands clean and prevent the spread of germs.
- Plastic Bags: Include plastic bags for soiled diapers, dirty clothes, or any unexpected messes.
- Change of Clothes: Pack a change of clothes for each child in case of accidents or spills.
By packing these essential items, you can be well-prepared for any situation and ensure a comfortable and stress-free travel experience with your kids.
FAQ: “A Spaceman Came Travelling” and Family Travel
1. What is the main message of “A Spaceman Came Travelling”?
The main message is one of peace, goodwill, and hope, suggesting that the message of the birth of Jesus is universal and timeless, brought by a messenger from another world.
2. How does “A Spaceman Came Travelling” relate to family travel during Christmas?
The song inspires reflection on the true meaning of Christmas, encouraging families to seek meaningful experiences and create lasting memories during their holiday travels.
3. What are some family-friendly destinations that capture the spirit of “A Spaceman Came Travelling”?
Destinations like Bethlehem (Pennsylvania), historical churches, and quiet, reflective natural settings can capture the song’s spirit of peace and wonder.
4. How can I incorporate the themes of “A Spaceman Came Travelling” into our family vacation?
Consider visiting places with historical or spiritual significance, engaging in acts of kindness, or simply taking time for reflection and gratitude as a family.
5. What activities can families do to celebrate the message of peace and goodwill during their travels?
Families can volunteer at local charities, participate in community service projects, or simply spread kindness and cheer to those they meet along the way.
6. What kind of travel planning resources does familycircletravel.net offer for Christmas vacations?
Familycircletravel.net provides destination guides, travel tips, accommodation reviews, and activity suggestions to help families plan memorable Christmas vacations.
7. Are there any travel packages on familycircletravel.net that align with the themes of “A Spaceman Came Travelling”?
Check familycircletravel.net for travel packages that include visits to historical sites, cultural experiences, and opportunities for reflection and community engagement.
8. How can I ensure our family travel experiences during Christmas are meaningful and memorable?
Prioritize quality time together, engage in activities that align with your family’s values, and be open to new experiences and cultural encounters.
9. What are some tips for discussing the meaning of “A Spaceman Came Travelling” with children during our trip?
Use the song as a starting point to talk about the importance of peace, kindness, and helping others, and relate it to your family’s travel experiences.
10. How does familycircletravel.net promote responsible and ethical travel during the holiday season?
Familycircletravel.net encourages travelers to support local businesses, respect cultural traditions, and minimize their environmental impact while exploring new destinations.
At familycircletravel.net, we understand the challenges of planning family travel and the need for reliable information and support. That’s why we’re here to provide you with the resources and inspiration you need to create unforgettable family vacations. Explore our website today and start planning your next adventure.
