I'm in the same position as you, having spent only three out of 29 Christmas' in Australia. We have tried the BBQ Christmas, and the big family Christmas (someone else's family, twice) which were always lovely. But the best Christmas was the one we spent at home by ourselves. I cooked the traditional turkey dinner with all the trimmings, we go to church and open all our pressies, then phone the UK or skype to see our family back home. We stay at home and play in the garden, and let the kids explore all their new toys whilst eating too much and eventually watching a Christmas movie on TV. Boxing day is then a day for catching up with friends (usually other expats, all in the same situation as us).

Carols by Candlelight is a new tradition for us though. The kids love it, and this year we will go to our church one where there will be fireworks. Sitting late in the evening singing is not something you can do in Scotland but it's a lovely thing to get into the habit of every year