Christmas in Europe

Clifton Mill in Clifton, Ohio is the site of this Christmas display with over 3.5 million lights. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Der Erfurter Weihnachtsmarkt bei Nacht von der Zitadelle Petersberg aus gesehen. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

English: Christmas lights on South Molton Street, Central London, UK. Christmas season 2010. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

A gathering of Carol Singers in front of the Christmas Tree in Trafalgar Square, London England. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

English: Picture of the Ferris Wheel at the Hyde Park Christmas Market (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

English: Cologne Christmas market lit up during the evening (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

English: Christmas lights Nederlands: Kerstverlichting (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

the sexy santa assistants were there to take a photo of you in front of the xmas tree or you could just ask them to take a photo with you and pretend that your girlfriend is a sexy santa assistant See where this picture was taken. [?] (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

By []Christopher Walters

The ancient and historic lands of Europe have town, villages, and cities where some of them date back to the day of the first historic Christmas. Other mostly established in the centuries that followed but their long histories are closely tied to the holiday of Christmas. Some of have dramatic festivals and snow covered scenery straight out of a storybook. No matter what you're particular religion, spending the Christmas season with your family in the fabled lands of Europe can be a one of kind and all together magical experience. Here are a few of the towns and villages with some of the best Christmas celebrations anywhere in the world.

1. Salzburg, Austria

The town of Salzburg is not only the birthplace of the legendary composer Mozart and the setting for the iconic "Sound of Music", it has one of the largest Christmas markets in Europe. It attracts millions of visitors every season to shop the hundreds of stalls, shops, and celebrations as the air fills with the amazing sounds of the season. There are children's puppet shows and choir singing songs, making this place a magical Christmas setting high in the stunning snowy mountains of the Alps. The town is light with million of lights and horse drawn sleighs trot along the cobblestones. There are countless places to find one of kind Christmas treasures, toys, treats, and ornaments. Step into a quiet caf� and warm yourself with a hot cup of cocoa or a glass of wine.

2. Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Germany

This historic medieval town nestled deep in the Black Forest of Germany is probably one of the most magical and enchanting places to visit around Christmas time. Christmas is so important here that they even have a massive Christmas market that is open all year around. The city is transformed into a winter wonderland and the market, known as Reiterlesmarkt, dates back to the 15th century. Aside from the fantastic shopping where shops and stalled are filled with toys, ornaments, and heavenly treats, the town itself will have you swearing Santa's workshop might be just around the corner. The buildings are hundreds of years old and the cobblestone streets give the entire town a very romantic feel. Make sure to stop by and nibble on their signature treat, the Schneeball or snowball, which is essentially sweet fried dough, rolled in sugar. It's truly a winter fairyland.

3. Dresden, Germany

The Christmas market began in here in 1434 and is the oldest and most popular in Germany. The entire city is alight with Christmas lights and there is no shortage of holiday fun to have. From the Gingerbread Festival in early December to the Stollenfest to the Christmas Arch Festival, the holiday events last all month long. Each one brings to life the history, traditions, and customs through carols and dances and the entire city delights in the cheer of the Christmas season. The children are front and center for the season too. Santa and his elves meet with the little ones and there are enchanting storybook cottages that will have the kids sure they have stepped into one of their fairytales. There is also a children's railway and merry-go-round in the children's adventure land. Kids can enjoy puppet sows, story telling or simply sinking their teeth in delicious treats and chocolates. Enjoy authentic gingerbread in the very land where it originated or stop in and a local pub or restaurant to warm your toes.

4. Prague, Czech Republic

The Christmas season lasts all month long in the Czech Republic and the capital city of Prague hosts one of the largest Christmas markets in Europe. The city is wrapped in Christmas lights and the air is filled with the sounds of Christmas carols emanated from both the streets and any one of the gothic churches. The Old Town Square and the Wenceslas Square host the main Christmas markets where you can not only buy ornaments, winter gear, jewelry, traditional souvenirs or toys, but also hearty food and hot wine on a chilly winter evening. Enjoy some traditional seasonal food such as roasted ham, sausage, or Trdelnik, which is a delicious sugary pastry. The pubs are a place where you can relax, socialize and enjoy some of the local beer. The children will enjoy the Nativity scene and a chance to pet the goats and sheep or awe at the massive Christmas tree in Old Town Square. You can also enjoy phenomenal operas and symphonies as well. All month long, the city becomes even more spectacular than usual.

5. London, England

In the land of Charles Dickens, the classic Christmas tales come to life in front of your eyes. Seems as though every inch of the city is covered in Christmas lights. During the holiday season you can enjoy ice-skating and Christmas choirs singing into the chilly night air. A visit to the annual Winter Wonderland and you can see ice sculptures and shop until you drop. There are several Christmas markets that offer all kind of treats, toys, souvenirs, clothing, ornaments, etc, There are shows, plays, and symphonies to get yourself in the mood for the season. There are sleigh rides and Santa's Grotto along with a stroll through the 105-acre wildlife oasis. You can hear the story of Scrooge in London's Wetland Centre. The famous store Harrods also gets a visit from Santa giving the family a chance for shopping, photos with Santa, and even real-life reindeer. You can also see real reindeer at the London Zoo along with Santa and his elves as well. The list is endless and you are sure to stay in the Christmas spirit for a long time.

For more information on traveling to Europe please visit http://www.destinationeuropeonline.com/blog/?page_id=510

Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Christmas-in-Europe&id=7946826] Christmas in Europe

Related articles

• Amazing Christmas Markets around the World (totallyinspiredpc.wordpress.com)
• Piazza Navona Christmas Market (oyiabrown.com)
• Christmas Markets in Munich (matraveldilemma.wordpress.com)

Thinking of Moving to Europe?

Europe - Satellite image - PlanetObserver (Photo credit: PlanetObserver)

By []Jene Pedder

If you like to go on holiday each year, you may go to Spain or to France or even to the Caribbean wherever you go you always think oh I wish I could stay and live here.  Well now that's what many people are doing, there packing their old lives up in the UK and moving on to new pastures usually in and around Europe.  I think many people move to Europe because there not too far away from the UK and so can easily hop on a plane or a boat and visit family and friends.

Introducing the Glamorous City of Dusseldorf

Düsseldorf - Stadterhebungsmonument (Photo credit: jaime.silva)

By []Alice Rice

Dusseldorf in Germany is one of the business hubs of the region. It is famous for its fashion houses, and banking and telecommunications industries, making it one of wealthiest cities of Germany. Airline tickets to the city are plenty, with close to 200 flights to Dusseldorf every day.

The city is located on the banks of the Rhine River and during the evenings the backdrop of the lights makes the river look spectacular. Vacationers can even take a cruise of the river if they like to get a glimpse of the attractions along the banks of the river. The city is known for its nightlife. There are plenty of bars and nightclubs which tend to get crowded during the weekends.

Travel Tips: Best Five-Star Hotels in Berlin, Germany

'Schlosshotel im Grunewald', accommodation of the German World-Cup football team 2006 (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

By []Brian Willett
With a vast trove of cultural treasures, awe-inspiring architecture, museums of all kinds, historical landmarks and other displays of German heritage, Berlin is a must-see destination in Germany. Berlin is the nation's capital and in many ways seems to be the nations' cultural capital, given the rich history and modern entertainment, from shops to theaters to spas. It would be impossible to take in all that is Berlin in one day, so staying the night is a must. Thankfully, Berlin has no shortage of fine hotels, which offer the utmost in German service and comfort.

How To Do Berlin In 48 Hours

Image via Wikipedia
By Katy Hyslop


For two cities within a city Berlin has so much culture, history and nightlife to experience 48 hours hardly seems adequate. This guide will help to give you the most out of it in a short space of time.
For close to 300 years Berlin has been the centre point in almost every modern historical European conflict. Unless you are familiar with the orchestrations of the Franco-Prussian War, the establishment of the first German Empire, World War I, World War II, the Cold War and the reunification, not to mention the figures behind the events, the weight of the history alone can seem totally overwhelming.

Germany Travel Tip - Discover Cologne

Image by tamburix via FlickrBy Monika Petra


There are many ways to discover a city. One way is definitely through the taste of local foods and drinks. It's fun, delicious and tells a lot about the cultural heritage. Some dishes are only served or liked in a particular season, depending on the availability. Typical winter dishes will be a bit heavier while starting in early summer; people prefer fresh salads, fruits and vegetables. Tradition also still plays a role in the daily lives of Germans and thinking about the winter season in Cologne, one might picture Spekulatius, freshly roasted chestnuts and Reevkoche.

Best Museums in Berlin, Germany

Image via Wikipedia
By L. H. Jais


How many museums do you think there are in Berlin, the capital of Germany? I'll tell you: over 170, and that's not counting the numerous small exhibition rooms and private galleries. There is something for almost everyone. If you don't know where to start, try out these museums:

A sojourn to Germany

Image via Wikipedia
Author: Matrix

Besides the usual fetish for beer, there is a lot more that Germany has to offer. And believe it or not, people from all parts of the world swarm to the country, a significant portion of them waiting to indulge in the Oktoberfest. Although much of beer flows like a river at one the world's greatest parties as well, the point is, while one is enjoying liquor from green stemmed glasses, there are quite a few questions that are floating around the environs, like whether one should buy a BMW or Mercedes, hand out at the club, or soak in royal ambience at the castle, revel in Munich, or burn the roof in Berlin!

Top Six Christmas Markets To Visit In Europe

Image via Wikipedia
Author: Lindy Howard

At Christmas time, Europe comes alive with Christmas markets. These are set up in all major cities throughout Europe, in one form or another, during the Christmas season, and have been for centuries.
Magical and fascinating, Europe's Christmas markets excite visitors with handicrafts, mulled wine, gingerbreads, large Christmas trees, wooden craft stalls, carollers, free mugs of ale and sell delicately hand-crafted holiday decorations.
We've put together a list of the top six Christmas markets to visit in Europe:

Cologne Market
Cologne's glitzy Christmas markets take place in four locations in the city attracting as many as two million guests every year. The most famous location is 'Am Dom' located in Cathedral Square, overlooking the Cologne Cathedral and featuring the largest christmas tree. There are 160 stalls set up which are visited by wandering street musicians. This is a very special area for children and the young at heart boasts a merry-go-round, puppet theatre and Santa's Grotto.
Nuremberg Market
This market which first opened in 1628 features 200 stalls situated on a cobblestone area. Nuremberg Market is specially known for hand-crafted wooden figures. Specialty foods to be found at this market are spicy sausages known as Bratwurst and sweet gingerbread. Visitors are alerted to watch for 'the Christ Child' who may on market opening day encounter a young child dressed in a gold and white robe, wearing a golden crown and seen moving quickly about the market welcoming visitors with Christmas greetings.
Munich Market
A special Christmas market takes place in the Marienplatz area, dating back to the 17th century. The official opening takes place on the first Friday before Advent featuring the lighting of a very tall Christmas tree. The Crib Market features handmade nativity figurines from Braveria and Austria. Special music is rendered daily by Alpine choirs and musicians.
Vienna Market
'Christkindlmarkt', opening in mid-November, features wooden huts surrounding the town hall. This is believed to be the oldest market in all of Europe. There is a special section 'Vokshalle'. Perhaps the best translation of this word for American visitors is 'tot drop and shop'. Many large shopping malls and chain stores such as WalMart have special areas where children will be cared for by specially-trained and designated employees while parents shop. In the Vokshalle, children spend time making gifts and cookies while parents shop. World-famous choirs perform programs especially on each weekend in December.
Dresden Market
This is the oldest market in Germany, dating back to 1434. Special foods include a sweet fruitcake drizzled with sugar icing. The Stollen Festival takes place on the second Sunday in December. Today's visitors view a 3000kg Stollen being borne through the city. There are 250 stalls featuring glass-blown balls, Saxony ceramics and blue and white print cloth known as 'Blaudruck'.
Berlin Market
The main attraction of this market is Kaiser Wilhelm Gedächtniskriche which is the ruins of a church left untouched from a WWII bombing incident. Berlin's Christmas markets take place in Potsdamer Platz, Alte Potsdamer Strasse (small), in front of Charlottenburg Castle, and the most beautiful, Gendarmenmarkt.
They're definitely worth a visit, and certainly a must-do if you ever visit Europe in winter time.
Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/travel-tips-articles/top-six-christmas-markets-to-visit-in-europe-3781124.html
About the Author

About the Author

This article is contributed by Anytrip.com, a budget travel company which offers cheap hotels in Germany so that you can enjoy the Christmas season and markets for less!

Top Reasons to Go to Germany

Image via WikipediaBy Pollux Parker


Germany is a place of wonder. Dotted with an impressive array of cultural and historical attractions that range from old churches and museums to medieval villages and castles, this country has so much to offer to any visitor that there is no way you should pass on this when you go on a vacation to Europe. Here are the top reasons why it is a must to go to Germany.
World War II Landmarks and Memorials
Even though most countries have World War II landmarks, nothing can compare to those that Germany has. One of the most distinguished landmarks is the Holocaust Memorial in Berlin. Apart from that, you would also want to visit the memorials in the German concentration camps, Eagle's Nest, Military Museum in Dresden, the Palace of Justice in Nuremberg, and the Jewish Museum.


Beer
Germans are known to be beer lovers. Beer, which is the world's alcoholic drink, is plentiful in this country. The close association is despite the fact that beer did not originate in Germany. Even so, over 1,300 breweries are located in the country, and over 5,000 brands can be tasted here. If you're a beer lover, you should definitely attend the annual Oktoberfest in Munich, which is held usually during the last week of September up to the first week of October.
German Castles
Another famous landmark that Germany is known for are its castles. Some of those worth checking out include Castles Along the Rhein River, Heidelberg Castle, Neuschwanstein Castle, and the Salzberg Castle.
Pollux Parker is an adventurer who loves discovering secret island getaways in each country he visits. Pollux also likes to collect German flag and buy German flag for sale.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Pollux_Parker
Search Amazon.com for vino con vista

http://EzineArticles.com/?Top-Reasons-to-Go-to-Germany&id=5431759

Holidays in Alsace, France

Image via WikipediaBy Phil Hanlon
Alsace is one of the most industrialized regions in France. Historically, this province was used by the Romans for viticulture. Currently situated at the junction between France and Germany this happens to be a bilingual and multicultural region which distinct local identity. Owing to its strategic location, this has become a powerhouse of pan European business development. This part of France has one of the best standards of living with a strong per capita GDP. Apart from being a modern and development oriented the Alsace also has a long historical background.

Place for Holiday and Leisure

Alsace presents a varied form of leisure as well as adventure activity. It has seven high quality green golf courses on offer for the lovers of this sport. Those with explorer's spirit would undoubtedly enjoy cycle rides across various landscapes. Evenings can be best spent in the neighboring theaters or enjoying cabaret and gambles at local casinos. The luxurious spas across hills and forests offer super quality health and beauty treatments for its visitors. It is an idyllic way to rejuvenate your spirit and sense of well being.

Adventure and Sports

The Vosges Mountains gives the adventurous a perfect recipe for escapade though a series of airborne sports like hang gliding, Paragliding, and parachuting. Discovering the changing landscapes and beautiful natural spots by mountain biking and cycling is a favorite way pastime during family holidays. Alsace plays host to a lot of different kind winter sports activity owing to its 11 different ski resorts

History and culture

For those with an interest in heritage and culture, the Alsace has lots to offer. Ranging from pre history to modern arts, the 250 museums spread across the region is a treat for history lovers. The region of Alsace has had a turbulent history marked by wars of different kingdoms. The sheer number of feudal castles stands testimony to the ages of warfare witnessed by Alsace. This area has the highest concentration of castles in whole of Europe. Haut Koenigsbourg castle happens to be most visited and highly popular among local as well as international tourists.

Vineyards and culinary delights

Alsace is a heaven for wine and food lovers. Traditional Alsatian festivities offer perfect way to enjoy various culinary specialties in their entire customary splendor. Be it the apple pie or the famous bredele Christmas cakes, or traditional Alsatian sauerkraut, it is well known for its startling range of modern and traditional cuisines. The vineyards of Alsace present a wide range of flavored wines, which can surprise the taste buds with its enchanting variety.

Alsace thus amalgamates history with modern industrialization offering its visitor a delightful time on all levels.

The Author writes for Holiday Home Rentals who have a selection of Gites in Alsace and Villas in France which can be rented direct from their owners.
Search Amazon.com for vino con vista
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Phil_Hanlon