While the various regions of France have several Christmas traditions in common, many regions have their own holiday customs that vary depending on the foods served, climate, and the local activities on offer.  Here is a guide to the top 3 places to spend Christmas in France.

Strasbourg

If you believe that Christmas just wouldn’t be Christmas without an abundance of beautiful decorations and frosty weather, Strasbourg is the holiday destination for you. Strasbourg is in the Alsace region of France, just on the border of Germany. Every year, Strasbourg transforms itself into a Christmas fantasy, full of twinkling fairy lights, garlands of pine, wooden trinkets, ornaments, and toys. This transformation primarily occurs courtesy of the Strasbourg Christmas markets, which are the biggest in France and have existed for over 400 years. Centered around the city’s enormous Gothic cathedral, the markets are composed of a few hundred wooden chalet-style stalls that sell a variety of items, from handcrafted Christmas ornaments to jewelry with semi-precious stones, to knit sweaters. There’s also ample opportunity to sample the regional cuisine, which is Franco-German, and a features items such as choucroute (sauerkraut), glüwein (warm spiced wine), and sausage. In addition to checking out the Christmas markets, you can visit the Alsace Museum, which offers storytelling (in French) for children about the spirit of Christmas, or go ice-skating at the Place du Chateau.

Top Strasbourg hotel for a Christmas holiday in Alsace: Hotel de l’Europe

2. Paris

For a thoroughly urban Christmas, Paris is the natural choice. In Paris, you’ll never lack for interesting gift ideas, no matter whether in a fashionable department store such as Le Bon Marché or a folksy Christmas market (several of which exist throughout the city). You can also get your fill of traditional Christmas experiences by strolling down the fairy-lighted Champs-Elysees at night, attending midnight Mass at the Cathedral of Notre Dame, or admiring the cheerful, mechanical Christmas decorations in the window of the fashionable department store, Galeries Lafayette.

Top Paris hotel for a Christmas holiday in France: Grand Hotel du Palais Royal

3. Aix-en-Provence

If you’re hoping for mild Christmastime weather and would like to engage in Christmas traditions very different from your own, head to Aix-en-Provence. Like most French towns and cities, Aix has a bustling Christmas market at Place Jeanne d’Arc that features all the handcrafted goods and local tidbits that one typically finds in Christmas markets. But during the month of December, Aix also hosts an olive oil and truffle fair (also at Place Jeanne d’Arc), where you can buy all you desire of these delicious, locally produced products. At the Place General du Gaulle, you’ll find a unique crèche (Nativity Scene) composed of small hand-painted terracotta figurines, called santons (“little saints”). The Provencal crèche stands apart from most nativity scenes in that not only does it have the usual biblical figures, such as Mary, Joseph and baby Jesus, but also includes figures from Provençal village life, such as a woman carrying an armful of lavender, or a man playing boules.

The most interesting aspect of Christmas in Aix, however, is the way the locals observe the holiday. On Christmas Eve, Provence natives traditionally eat a large dinner called Le Gros Souper (“the big supper”), which consists of seven meat-free courses – usually dishes like L’Aigo Boulido (garlic and herb soup), and Brandade de Morue (purée of salted cod with garlic, olive oil and cream). Afterwards, they attend midnight mass at their local church, only to return home to continue eating for another hour or two. This post-mass meal is known as Les Treize Desserts, which symbolizes Christ and his twelve apostles. The 13 desserts fall into three categories: dried fruits and nuts, fresh fruits, and sweets. If you want to observe this Provençal tradition, your best bet is to make the dinner yourself. Or better yet, just stick to eating the thirteen desserts. From mid-December through the end of the month, there is a Marché des Treize Desserts at the Place Jeanne d’Arc at which you can buy all the traditional goodies for this special meal.

Top Aix hotel for a Christmas holiday in Provence: Hotel Des Augustins

Photo of traditional bakery in Strasbourg, Alsace, by Massonth

The stores are not mobbed with shoppers frantically searching for last-minute Christmas gifts. Nor are you bombarded with Christmas carols in every store and elevator you enter. And only rarely do you see homes wreathed in fairy lights or lit up with kitschy Santa Claus displays. For some people, this may be a welcome relief from the crazy commercial scene that Christmas can be. For others, however, the season might not feel ‘right’ without a few carols, fairy lights, and a couple of hours of shopping mayhem. Here’s how to get your Christmas fix in Paris.

1. Take a Stroll on the Champs-Elysées at Night

You can’t help but feel festive on the Champs-Elysées at Christmastime. Every year, the trees lining the “most beautiful avenue in the world” are swathed in thousands of sparkling blue lights infusing the street with a magical feel. In addition, many stores create special red-carpeted entrances to their establishments, complete with white awnings adorned with pine branches or white fairy lights, to celebrate the season. The lower half of the Champs- Elysées plays hosts to a vast Christmas market, and at the very foot of the avenue (Place de la Concord) rests an enormous, brilliantly-lit Ferris Wheel. If you’re not afraid of heights, be sure to end your walk by taking a ride on this huge wheel – it offers an unforgettable view of the city.

2. Shop at the Galeries Lafayette

If you’re missing the hustle and bustle of Christmas shopping, you’ll get your fill at the massive department store, Galeries Lafayette. The store has everything you could wish for, from designer clothing, jewelry, and cosmetics to gourmet food, electronics, and home furnishings. What’s more, if Christmas spirit was based solely on the extravagance and beauty of Christmas decorations, you couldn’t deny that Galeries Lafayette is bursting with Christmas spirit. The exterior of the store is covered with thousands of softly colored lights such that the building is transformed into several magnificent stained glass windows. The interior is just as stunning, and features a glittering Christmas tree so enormous that it seems to rise all the way to the top of the store’s elegant glass dome roof.

Galeries Lafayette, 40, boulevard Haussmann 75009 Paris – galerieslafayette.com

3. Browse the Christmas Markets

At the beginning of December, Christmas markets begin to pop up all over Paris. Each market has dozens of cozy wooden stall wreathed in pine branches and fairy lights that can’t help but make you feel cheerful. Stroll around the market and contemplate potential purchases while sipping on vin chaud (hot red wine spiced with cinnamon), or munching on pain d’épices (French-style gingerbread), both of which will surely be available at whatever market you visit. Handcrafted items feature big at these markets, and you may come away with some handmade wooden toys, hand-painted Christmas ornaments, or even a homemade knit sweater or two. You’ll also find plenty of French delicacies, including foie gras, chocolates, fresh honey, and jam, which comes in unexpected flavors such as “milk” and “caramel.”

Christmas Markets can be found at:

• Place St. Germain-des-Prés (6th arrondissement)
• Place St. Suplice (6th arrondissement)
• Avenue des Champs-Elysées (8th arrondissement)
• Gare de l’Est (10th arrondissement)
• Place de la Nation (11th arrondissement)
• Gare Montparnasse (14th arrondissement)
• Place des Abbesses (18th arrondissement)
• Parvis de la Défense (La Défense, line 1 metro, just outside of central Paris)

4. Attend a Church Service

With all the fuss relating to presents and decorations and Santa, a person can almost forget about the religious basis of Christmas. If you want to get back to the origins of the holiday (and sing a few Christmas carols), there are plenty of Anglophone churches in Paris that will be celebrating Christmas. Check out the following churches’ websites for their Advent schedules.

• American Cathedral of Paris (Episcopalian): americancathedral.org
• American Church in Paris (Interdenominational): acparis.org
• St. Joseph’s Catholic Church: stjoeparis.org
• St. George’s Anglican Church: stgeorgesparis.com

Great Paris Hotels near the Champs-Elysées

• Hotel Warwick Champs-Elysées – 4-star hotel – room price: €230
• Hotel Christal Champs-Elysées – 4-star hotel – room price: €260
• Hotel Residence Lord Byron – 3-star hotel – room price: €130
• Hotel Sofitel Paris Champs-Elysées – 4-star hotel – room price: €201
• Hotel Marignan Champs-Elysées – 4-star hotel – room price: €203

“The Wonder of Christmas in Paris” picture by CharlesFred

This city of illusions proves itself as the weaver of magic and dreams during this time of the year like it never does at any other time. While walking outside on the strip might seem like you are in a time warp with nothing Christmas-y about the city, inside any one of the several hotels the scene is completely different. Artificial these winter wonderlands may be, but a lack of splendor and opulence wouldn’t be its fault. You can enjoy this city whether you plan ahead or make this a last minute trip, though if you are the former kind of tourist you are bound to enjoy much more for a much smaller hit on your pocket. Air tickets rates take a sharp upturn, hotel rates are higher the closer you are to the holiday season when making the booking. That being said, the list of things you can enjoy without paying a dime is pretty long.

Kids’ winter wonderland

Contrary to popular belief, Las Vegas is actually a great place to vacation with kids during Christmas. For one, it is the only place where all shops, all restaurants, everything is open during Christmas. If you can manage a room at Circus Circus then you might not even have to leave the hotel at all during your entire vacation. Such a Christmas playground this hotel turns into! There are beautifully decorated Christmas trees in every hotel, each outshining the other. Also a must is a trip to Henderson, Nevada, a short distance from the glitter of the Las Vegas strip. The Chocolate Wonderland put up every year at the Ethel M chocolate Factory is every kids’ dream come to life. Other than the half a million lights and more that light up the cactus garden, the decorations feature chocolate houses and chocolate sculptures. This is also one of the best places for a tête-à-tête with Santa Claus that is an essential Christmas ritual if you are the size that can fit on Santa’s lap.

For those who are kids only at heart

This city allows for varied romantic possibilities the way no other place can. Witness the fountains at Bellagio dancing to Christmas tunes or step into the Atrium there to see splendid decoration. Drift on a gondola, or hold hands and walk through the streets of Paris! This year is the special opening of the Aria Resort and Casino. The worlds’ greatest shopping experience receives another boost this holiday season with the opening of Crystals at City Center so go ahead and shop till you drop. The Winter Lights festival at the Springs Preserve is also an experience not to be missed. And please book ahead to see at least one of the several special holiday shows.

Prepare to have a wonderful holiday in  Las Vegas. Dress warm and dream big!

Top 5 Popular Las Vegas Hotels on Venere.com

• Hard Rock Hotel & Casino
• Travelodge Ambassador Strip Inn
• Best Western Mardi Gras Hotel & Casino
• Hotel Emerald Suites
• Hotel Las Vegas Platinum Suites

Photo of Christmas tree on Fremont Street, Las Vegas, Nevada, by Roadsidepictures

However, Strasbourg’s most endearing feature appears during the holiday season when the entire town adorns itself in ribbons and lights. For the four weeks leading up to Christmas, the town transforms into a veritable winter wonderland (amidst an appropriately snowy backdrop) and offers activities for visitors of all ages.

Here, Strasbourg’s top Christmas attractions!

1. Strasbourg Christmas Market

Strasbourg’s Christmas markets are infamous, both in France and in other countries. With a history dating back to 1570, they are the oldest Christmas markets in France! Make your way from one market to the next, sampling local treats like hot wine and traditional Christmas bredle cakes. Kids will love a cup of spiced cider or hot orange juice spiced with cinnamon, topped off with a German pretzel or donut. Though there are over 300 local markets, the best are undeniably located at Place Broglie and Place de la Cathedrale.

2. Strasbourg Ice Skating

The local ice rink is a natural way to warm up during a chilly day in Strasbourg and have fun with your children. Open from November 25 to December 31, the rink is located in the Place du Château. Games and activities for children, such as storytellings in the Alsace Museum and sending letters to Santa, are other popular diversions held throughout the holiday season.

3. The Great Christmas Tree

The Christmas Tree in central Strasbourg is a must-see during the holidays, for both children and parents. Located in Place Kléber, this massive tree receives a new colourful display each year to entertain its many visitors. Families can also purchase their own tree at the Christmas tree market in Place Broglie. Also worth checking out are the richly decorated houses and streets of Strasbourg, which are gaily strewn with Christmas lights all season long.

4. La Petite France

La Petite France, literally “Little France,” is a charming neighbourhood filled with timbered houses, winding roads, and the welcoming scent of gingerbread. The best way to enjoy this section of town is by walking (La Petite France is very pedestrian-friendly) and stopping whenever you’re tempted by a local restaurant or Christmas bakery….

5. Alsatian Cuisine

Strasbourg borders two countries known for their cuisine and the results are omnipresent. Choucroute (sauerkraut), sweet or salty pretzels, kouglof (traditional Alsatian cake), three-meat baeckeoffe stew, flammenqueches, streusel, crepes……the list goes on. And with more five star restaurants than any other city in France, you can have your pick of where to sample Strasbourg’s culinary offerings. More often than not, however, the best meals can be found in the city’s winstubs, or traditional wine pubs, most of which are more than family friendly.

Top 5 Family-friendly Hotels in Strasbourg, Alsace

• Hotel Kyriad Strasbourg Centre Gare – Family room: €98 per night
• La Résidence Jean-Sébastien Bach – Family room: €130 per nigth
• Best Western Hotel de France – Family room: €160 per night
• Hotel Arc-en-Ciel – Family room: Family room:  €70 per night
• Hotel Grillon – Family room: €98 per night

Photo of Christmas Mark, Strasbourg, France, by Vidame

Things to see: Christmas Shows and New York Sights

Just walking around the streets of New York during Christmas feels like a walk in a winter wonderland. The window displays at the various department stores turn the average walker into a theater audience. You must catch at least one of the major window displays during your trip. The largest displays are at Macy’s, Bloomingdales, Barneys and Saks Fifth Avenue.

The next on the list of must-see things have to be the Christmas Trees sprinkled all over New York. Of course, first on the Christmas tree tour has to be the one at Rockefeller Center. More than five miles of lights decorate this more than seventy feet tall tree. This year the lighting ceremony will take place on the 2nd of December. Another famous tree is the Origami tree at the American Museum of Natural History, decorated with a different theme each year. The tree is open for viewing from late November. The Chorus Tree at South Street Seaport is often referred to as the singing tree because of the carollers who highten the holiday feel of the city with their performances. Pass by the tree on Friday evenings or around 3 pm on Saturdays and Sundays to hear them. Also a two and a half mile stretch between the 97th and the 48th street on Park Avenue comes alive with several Christmas trees making it a wonderful walk or drive.

Don’t want to walk outdoors in the cold? The show continues indoors too. Walk into department stores to see Christmas decorations and that grand old man of Christmas, Santa Claus sitting amidst them. Even if you are not a child yourself or don’t have one accompanying you, the sight of all the children standing in line waiting eagerly to meet Santa is bound to warm the cockles of your heart. And if you are tired of all the free stuff buy a ticket to one of the several Christmas shows like the Radio City Christmas Spectacular or The Nutcracker Ballet or anyone of the several shows. Be advised, however, that the tickets for these do sell out very fast.

New York Hotels near Rockefeller Center: Hotel Omni Berkshire Palace

Things to do in New York at Christmas

A visit to the Rockefeller Ice Skating rink is one of the essentials of a Christmas trip to New York even if you can’t skate yourself. Shopping is fun at anytime but the specialty Christmas markets and fairs make it even more special. The holiday shops at Bryant Park and in Union Square are great places to pick up handmade stuff. And the Grand Central Holiday fair held inside the Grand Central Terminal transforms a simple train ride into a unique Christmas experience. A slightly more expensive to-do is a dinner at one of the specialty restaurants that are open during Christmas, but a reservation is a must at these places.

New York Hotel near Grand Central Terminal: Hotel Dylan

Photo of Rockefeller Plaza at Christmas, New York, NY, by Thomas Hawk

Tourists along with the city’s populace then throng the numerous joyfully illuminated shops, restaurants and bars to revel in the immensely festive ambience. If you are planning to be in London with your family for the Christmas holidays then you will not be disappointed for aside from the millions of twinkling Christmas lights, London also offers a plethora of ‘Christmassy’ events to keep all the family happy.

1. Santa’s Grottos

Your children will love the chance to visit jolly Santa at the various Santa’s Grotto’s which are constructed all over London at popular stores like Harrods’s, Selfridges and Hamley’s. This year the Santa’s Grotto at Harrods celebrates the seventieth anniversary of the movie the Wizard of Oz and accordingly sports a décor that depicts scenes from the movie. Tickets sales for the Santa’s Grotto at Harrods have been on sale online at the store’s website since September.

At Selfridges, the Santa’s Grotto usually features a Santa Express which offers train rides for children through a winter wonderland that features real to life polar bears and penguins. Not to be outdone Hamley’s the greatest toy store in the world offers a ‘Breakfast or tea with Santa Claus’ every day until the 24th of December. This event cannot be booked online but you can reserve a spot for your kids by calling the store’s hotline at 0844 855 2424 once you are in London. Other Santa’s Grotto’s can be found at Kew Gardens, Canary Wharf and various other shopping centers located all over London.

2. Winter Wonderland

London’s iconic patch of green – Hyde Park will be transformed into a winter wonderland from Saturday, 21st November until 3rd January and this spectacular, magical Christmas playground will feature attractions like the largest ice skating rink in the city, the Zippos Christmas circus, a giant Ferris wheel equipped with heated pods, a thrilling Santa Land and a traditional German Christmas Market. A similar Winter Wonderland will be constructed in the renowned London suburb of Wimbledon which will feature a fireworks display, a parade which will feature, Miss Christmas and Santa Clause and many other festivities.

3. Ice Skating

Outdoor Ice skating rinks appear all over London during the festive season and offer hours of entertainment for ice skating enthusiasts of all ages. These outdoor ice skating rinks can be found at many major London landmarks like Somerset House, Alexandra Palace, The Tower of London, Hampton Court Palace, Canary Wharf, Wembley Stadium, and the Natural History Museum.

4. Pantomimes and Theater Shows

Pantomimes are a typical English Christmas tradition that consists of performances where men dress as fat ugly women and women star as male leads. Traditional family ‘pantos’ as they are popularly known as contain song, dance, comedy, slapstick, magic, innuendo-riddled word-play, cross-dressing and enthusiastic audience participation. This year’s Christmas Pantomime schedule in London features shows such as Aladdin, Cinderella, Mother Goose and Dick Whittington which will be held at various venues all over the city. Aside from these Christmas pantos, London’s Christmas theater schedule also includes performances by the English National Ballet which will perform the traditional Christmas favorite, the Nutcracker as well as other perennial favorites like the Snow Queen and Giselle at the London Coliseum.

5. Christmas Trees, Christmas Lights and Christmas Carols

The Christmas events in London also include ceremonies that are held ‘to switch on’ the city’s famed Christmas Lights that adorn London’s famed shopping districts like Oxford Street and Regent Streets. These ceremonies are usually held in early November and feature many well- known celebrities who are given the honor to switch on these lights.

The Trafalgar Square Christmas tree is London’s most famous Christmas tree. This tree is presented to the city of London every year by Norway as a gesture of appreciation for the help that the British gave the Norwegians during the Second World War. The gifted tree is usually approximately 20 meters high and over half a century old. The tree lighting ceremony for the Trafalgar square tree usually takes place on the first Thursday in December.

The site of the Trafalgar Square Christmas tree then becomes popular spot for Christmas caroling as various groups assemble at the base of the tree for two weeks in December to sing Christmas carols for various fund raising efforts. So if you and your family enjoy this traditional Christmas time activity you can head out to the Trafalgar Square to spread some Christmas cheer.

Photo of Santa Claus and the London Tower Bridge by Pineapplebun

The Hungarian Girl invites you to attend the 16th Stollen Festival in Dresden, Germany.

In occasion of the festival, a giant stollen bread will be baked and paraded through the Old Town towards the Dresden Christmas Market.

Gay Christmas Market

Patroc.com gay travel guide announces that Amsterdam will host a special Pink Christmas Market. Oragnized by the ProGay foundation, the event will take place 18-28 December 2009 right in the center of the Dutch capital.

New London Guide

The Londonist reviews ‘Not for Tourists Guide to London‘ and announces that they will be giving out a few free copies of the guidebook via their Twitter account soon.

Spoleto Guide

On GotSaga.com, read a blog post on Spoleto, Italy, a lovely city located  only 39 miles from Perugia and 78 miles from Rome. The short guide includes Spoleto’s most interesting landmarks and sights, such as the Roman Amphitheater and the Duomo of Santa Maria Assunta cathedral.

Photo of stollen by Birger Hoppe

1. Visit the Winter Wonderland in London’s Hyde Park

The annual Winter Wonderland brings festive spirit to London’s Hyde Park from 21st November 2009 to 3rd January 2010. The 2009 Winter Wonderland features an ice skating rink, Santa’s Grotto, a Snow Ball Bungee Dome, an Observation Wheel with views over London, and a German Christmas Market with dozens of stalls that sell arts, crafts and gifts. There are also bars and restaurants, mulled wine and other Christmas treats, and entertainment by bands and choirs. Entrance to the Winter Wonderland is free, but some attractions require pre-booking via the Winter Wonderland website  hydeparkwinterwonderland.com.

2. Catch A Christmas Carol Concert In London

Get into Christmas mood in one of London’s many Christmas Carol concerts. The 18th-century St Martin-in-the-Fields church has a special Christmas Program in December that includes family carols and carols by candlelight, and visitors can also enjoy mulled wine in the church’s café. The Royal Albert Hall features several Christmas concerts including a Christmas Carol Singalong in the run-up to Christmas, and the St Paul’s Cathedral offers classical concerts and a special Christmas Eve Carol Service.

3. Take A Christmas Cruise Along River Thames

Those who are in London for Christmas can take a Christmas Day Lunch Cruise along the River Thames. The City Cruises company offers a lunch cruise on Christmas Day, giving visitors the opportunity to sample a traditional English Christmas lunch while cruising along the Thames and taking in many famous London landmarks.

Photo of snow in London, UK,  by E01

Christmas is one of the most eagerly anticipated holidays in London. The Christmas break in London usually extends over four days and features cheerful family get-togethers that are characterized by much feasting and gift- exchanging.

Gift exchanging is an important tradition of the Christmas celebrations though shopping for gifts for friends and family is often considered by some folk to be a highly stressful experience as they have to battle hordes of other shoppers in the high street stores which are always jam packed during the festive season. For this reason London, like many other cities around the world hosts animated Christmas markets which give shoppers the opportunity to do all their Christmas shopping in one spot.

The Greenwich Christmas Market

Maritime Greenwich is a World Heritage Site which is situated on the bank of the River Thames in South East London. This area is famous for historic landmarks like the National Maritime Museum, the Royal Observatory, home of Greenwich Mean Time and the Meridian Line and its Greenwich Market. The Greenwich Market is a covered market which is made up of nearly 120 stalls whose vendors are market traders, up and coming artists and crafts people who retail their works at the market and make it London’s best source for unique gifts , arts and crafts and antiques. The Greenwich Market hosts a special Christmas market every year that features live entertainment, Christmas lights and various other festivities. This Christmas market will be launched this year on Friday, 27th November. Besides the Greenwich Christmas Market, other popular London markets like Camden Market and Carnaby Street also host Christmas Markets which are extremely popular with shoppers they feature products like exclusive jewelry, bespoke fashion items, toys which are perfect as gifts and stocking stuffers.

London Hotel in Greenwich : Holiday Day Inn Greenwich London

Covent Garden Christmas Market

Traditional British Christmas foods like mince pies, Christmas pudding, Figgy puddings and cider are a big part of the Christmas revelry. London’s Convent Garden market which hosts the popular Real Foods Market all year long also has a special Christmas themed market for the festive season which features several traditional British Christmas delicacies which are sourced from local farmers, artisan producers and vendors. The Convent Garden Christmas market also features much live entertainment and music and is open every Thursday and Friday until December 18th for the Christmas season. Similar Christmas food markets are held at London’s other popular foodie heavens like Borough Market, the Slow Food Market at the South Bank and the Cabbages and Frocks Market at Marylebone High Street.

London Hotel near Covent Garden : Euro Hotel

Festive Fairs

Along with specialty Christmas Markets, London also hosts several annual festive fairs like the Country Living Magazine Christmas Fair and The British Red Cross Christmas Fair which offer shoppers an additional avenue to shop for gifts for all the family from a wide range of vendors. Both these fairs are held in mid-November and provide early birds a chance to get all their Christmas shopping done before the traditional rush starts.

Christmas Shopping on London’s High Streets

London’s most famous shopping districts like Oxford Street, Regent Street and Bond Street which are collectively known as the West End are usually all dressed up for Christmas adorned as they are with elaborate illumination displays which are popularly known ‘Christmas Lights’. These Christmas Lights are switched on by celebrities at special ceremonies which are held in early November and these lights usually stay on until early January. All the famous British stores that are located here like Marks and Spencer’s, Fortnum and Mason, Selfridges and Hamley’s have their own Christmas promotions and events for the festive season but one of the best days to shop at these stores is on the Traffic Free Shopping Day London which this year is scheduled for Saturday 5th December. On this day, the entire West End like it has for the past five years is transformed into a huge car free pedestrian shopping zone that features much entertainment and festivities along with its many shopping opportunities.

Hotel in London’s West End : The Summer Hotel

Photo of Christmas store in London, UK,  by JohnBurke

1. Celebrating Christmas in Italy

A blog post for travelers curious about how Italy celebrates Christmas and planning a trip to Rome or Naples during the festive season. Check out what are the most beautiful Christmas native scenes to see, the greatest Christmas markets to visit and the best traditional Christmas food to sample in Italy during the winter holidays season.

2. Swedish Christmas Recipes

A blog post on Swedish Christmas food for cooking fans who want to celebrate the holiday season in traditional Scandinavian style: three Swedish Christmas recipes to try during winter holidays in Sweden, including Potatis Korv (Sweden Christmas Sausage), Ham a la cajsa warg (Swedish Ham) and Swedish Cabbage Pudding.

3. New Year’s Eve in London

A blog post on how to celebrate the new year in London. For a romantic gateway with your loved one, have dinner at one of London’s finest restaurants and enjoy a Medieval banquet at the Ivory House. And if you are on a family stay in London, go ice skating and shopping at the London Christmas Fair, take a river cruise down the Thames and see London fireworks.

4. New Year’s Eve in Paris

A blog post on the best things to do when celebrating the New Year in Paris.  Recommended attractions include the Moulin Rouge – one the most famous cabaret shows in Paris, partying, playing with firecrackers and seeing fireworks displays in the streets, and having a festive dinner with foie gras and champagne at a Paris brasserie.

5. Christmas in Spain

A blog post on the best Christmas markets in Spain for travelers planning to celebrate the festive season in the Iberian peninsula.  The Spanish Christmas markets reviewed in this article include Plaza Mayor Christmas Fair in Madrid, the Feria de Santa Lucia in Barcelona, and more family-friendly attractions and Christmas shopping spots in Andalusia.

The venere.com team wishes you a happy holiday season!

The main course meal of a traditional German holiday is Goose. This tradition is nationwide and upheld per German household without fail as only authentic traditional German Christmas dish.

The marvelous Goose dish is usually stuff with a delicious mixture of prunes and apples to entice the taste buds all the more. While sides dishes do vary per household once consistent element remains when this dish is served with wild rice stuffing.

Other great enhancers to this dish include adding apples that have been both peeled and cored. It is highly suggested to allow for one cup per pound of goose to get it just right. The traditional German meal tends to be served a la buffet style. A table is prepared adored with the finest in German holiday complementary to the main course cuisine. This buffet table most certain will feature a selection of the nationwide loved German wursts.

Another must have for the quintessential holiday dining experience is the German stollen. It is consider a most wondrous invention for the German palette. The most Christmas element for this festive meal is hands down the German baked goods. German baking takes on a whole new meaning when it is featured at a Christmas holiday meal.

Roast Goose with Wild Rice Stuffing

• 1 goose, 9-12 pounds
• Salt and Pepper to taste
• 3 1/2 cups wild rice, cooked
•   2/3 cup pignolia nuts
• 2 large Granny Smith apples
• 1/2 cup chopped scallion
• 2 teaspoons marjoram
•  2 cloves
•  1 bay leaf
• 1 cup boiling water
• 3 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
•   1 – 2 tablespoons flour
•   1/2 cup applesauce

Preheat oven to 325°F. This meal has a preparation time of 1 ½ hours per side roasting time. Firstly, the gizzards are removed along with the neck and heart from the cavity of the Goose. Then Place into a small pan with 4 cups of boiling water. Next reduce the heat and simmer for two hours or until the liquid has reduced to 2 cups under a partially covered lid.

Next is the stuffing preparation. Mix rice, pignolia, apples, scallions, marjoram and parsley and season with salt and pepper to taste. The mixture is then stuffed into cavity of goose and followed by the closing with laced skewers and trusses the legs. The Goose is then place breast side up on a baking rack in a pan. Add boiling water, cloves and a bay leaf then bake for 1 ½ hours. Once golden turn over and bake for another 1 ½ hours until done. When the juice appears to run clear this Goose is ready.

Once ready take the goose from pan, pour off all but 1 1/2 tablespoons fat and place the pan on stove top over low heat. This is followed by 1 tablespoon flour sprinkled in the bottom of the pan. Whisk rigorously while scraping up browned bits on bottom of pan, and pour in reserved stock. Next whisk the mixture well and add applesauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Photo of Christmas in Berlin, originally posted by Eirik Newth

Quaint and rustic, this seaport town will mesmerize you from the moment that you arrive. The nearest airport is Göteborg Torslanda Airport making it easily accessible by way of this international airport.

No winter holiday in Göteborg is complete without taking in the Gothenburg’s Liseberg theme park. Here you will be treated to the largest Christmas market in Scandinavia. More than 80 rustic market stalls and shops will entice you with arts, crafts and festive foods. Remember to bring you purse for those last minute gifts as you are bound to find that certain something for that certain someone here. Five million twinkling lights and 700 Christmas trees will bedazzle you. The illumination of the lanes extends from the Liseberg amusement park, past Götaplatsen, along and beyond the main boulevard Avenyn.

For those who have brought their skates enjoy the ice rink and an ice bar to further experience the winter holiday atmosphere. The winter festivities official commence at the end of November so by December they are most certainly in full swing. While the festivities do conclude by the end of December the city’s illumination of lanes and parks remains a vision of gloriousness well into the New Year holiday season for your continued pleasure.

It is clear to see why this special Christmas atmosphere in Göteborg has made Göteborg a famous winter holiday stop for good food, music and a festive Christmas atmosphere. This city has itself own holiday tradition which is brought to life annually at this time of the year for additional Christmas enchantment. This tradition is known as include Christmas at Liseberg, the crowning of Lucia. This entertaining Christmas light show is held outside the Museum of Art and the Christmas lights in the city centre. The show is held as many as three times a day and commences between 5 to 23 December. Christmas in this Nordic region will be like none other.

Photo of Christmas decorations in Goteborg, Sweden, originally posted by Mikael Miettinen

The city undergoes such a magical transformation that every night in December feels like a holiday. Christmas lights, in all of their elegant variety, dangle over the city’s otherwise dark streets; trees set within wooden boxes line the wide Via Callimala; and nearly every shop is decorated with colorful Christmas wreaths and ribbons. In the Piazza della Repubblica, a giant tree stands in the center, and next to it spins the bright red and gold carousel.

And then there are the activities: there are so many wonderful — and inexpensive — things to do in Florence that you may not have time to do them all.

Florence Christmas Market

First, there are the Christmas markets. In Florence, the most well-known market is the German market in Piazza Santa Croce, otherwise known as Mercato Tedesco di Natale. From December 3 through December 21, Florentines and tourists alike wander the aisles of decorated booths selling everything from German strudel to traditional pottery to handcrafts and Christmas candy for the kids. At the end of the market is a large “carousel” for adults (it spins very slowly): here you can partake in some hot spiced wine and a bratwurst.

Ice Skating in Florence

After visiting the markets, why not spend the afternoon ice skating? Because it’s not quite cold enough in Florence to skate on the Arno, the city of Florence offers an outdoor rink at Parterre, near Piazza della Libertà, from December 1 through January 13. For just six euro you can rent skates and glide on the ice listening to Christmas music. On Christmas Day, Santa Claus will stop by for a visit. Note that ice skating isn’t just for children: on the weekends you can skate until 1am.

Florence Nativity Scenes

You could also make a day of visiting one presepio (nativity scene) after another. Usually beginning December 8, which is the day of the Feast of the Immaculate Conception, until the end of the season, churches throughout Florence display their nativity scenes. While they are beautiful to see during the day, at night they can be stunning (pictured is the presepio of the Church of Santa Maria Novella).

Free classical concerts in Florence

And yet another gift from Florence is the gift of music: free classical concerts take place nearly every night in the city. Spend an evening listening to Debussy in Orsanmichele or Mozart in the Church of San Frediano in Cestello, and then the same evening listen to Haden at the Church of San Firenze.

In Florence it’s easy to get swept up in the magic of Christmas. While there may be a recession going on, here you forget about not having enough and to instead reflect on how much you have. Florence has a way of teaching you how to appreciate the simple joys in life, and during Christmas, this lesson hits home even more.

1.  Vienna Christmas Market

Traveling to Austria during the festive season and want to know how to celebrate Christmas in Vienna? Check out this article on Christmas markets in Vienna to know where to buy Christmas decorations, traditional Austrian treats and gifts

2. Top Things to do in Tokyo

Planning a holiday in Japan and looking for the best things to do in Tokyo? Check out this “Top 5″ tourist attractions in Tokyo including Tsukiji Fish Market,  the Tanabata festival, the Imperial Palace, the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Office and Akihabara Electric Town.

3.  Best Christmas Markets in Europe

Looking for a destination for a winter vacation or wondering what are the best places for Christmas shopping in Europe? The Venere Travel Blog reviews five of the best Christmas fairs in Europe: Nuremberg, Munich, Strasbourg, Vienna and Bolzano.

4. Vienna for kids

If you’re planning a family vacation in Austria check out this “Top 10″ things to do in Vienna with kids : 10 family-friendly places and attractions in Vienna including the ZOOM Children’s Museum, Demel pastry shop,  carriage rides through Vienna, Zanoni & Zanoni ice cream shop,  the Spanish Riding School,…

5. Best Opera Houses in Europe

An article for classical music enthusiasts and opera fans traveling to Europe. This “Top 5″ opera houses in Europe include the Naples Teatro di San Carlo, Barcelona Gran Teatre del Liceu, Stuttgart Wurttemberg State Theater, Prague Estates Theater, and East Sussex opera theater.
Picture of Christmas ball originally posted by krisdecurtis

If you are heading to Barcelona over the Christmas break with your family and don’t really know much about the city at this time of year, then below you will find a few ideas to make the most of your festive break, as well as some basic information for the Christmas period.

Christmas Trees

For something a little bit different, you should try and head over to one of four locations where you will be able to find huge solar-powered Christmas trees up to 12 metres high. These work by storing the power of the sun during the day in order to charge them up, and then at night you are treated to a real spectacle as the huge trees really do look spectacular. They can be found at Pg. Fabra i Puig-Avinguda Meridiana, Pg. Lluís Companys-Parc de la Ciutadella, Av. Pau Casals-plaça Francesc Macià and Plaça España, so take the kids over and give them a real treat.

For more Christmas tree delights, head over to Mercado de Santa Caterina or the Jardinets de Gràcia, where the eco theme continues with two large Christmas trees that are lit up by members of the public powering the nearby stationary bicycles. It’s a fun way to inform the public about the environment, and the trees look great as well.

Shopping in Barcelona

Most shops should be open up until Christmas Eve, but be warned that many of them may close for business in the afternoon and will not open until after Boxing Day.

However, for a really special experience had to the Feria de Santa Llúcia, which you can find it right outside the cathedral, and this also goes on right up until Christmas Eve. It is a very traditional fair, with countless Christmas trees, decorations, figurines, and everything Christmassy that you can imagine.

Keep a special eye open for the caganers. These are figures dressed up as Santa Claus which have their trousers in preparation to relieve themselves, and are very unique to Barcelona. They might not seem particularly traditional to us, but they are certainly part of Catalan Christmas celebrations and the kids will love them.

Other Information

As Barcelona is a large tourist centre, you can expect most restaurants to stay open throughout the festive season, allowing you plenty of time to check out some of the fantastic restaurants available. Most of the main attractions in the city will also be open on Boxing Day, but be warned that on Christmas Day pretty much everything will be shut.

One other thing to watch out for will be different operating hours on the Metro over the festive season, but these should be clearly explained at any station.

If you are expecting snow on your holiday then you will probably end up disappointed. It hardly ever snows in the city, and even when it does you won’t be seeing any snowmen around as it is unlikely to settle.

Photo of Christmas lights in Barcelona, Spain, originally posted by papalars

Adventskalender, Weihnachtsmarkt, and the Tannenbaum all count as important staples in the German Christmas celebrating season. And, should you find yourself in this cold, dark, kitsch-ridden country during the holiday season, don’t despair; there are a number of wonderful Weihnachtsmärkte that will keep your eyes busy, your ears laughing and your belly glowing with Glühwein as you mingle with the natives and spill Senf all over your nice new coat.

Here’s a short list of the best Christmas markets in Berlin.

1. Weihnachtszauber Gendarmenmarkt

Like all Christmas markets, the Weihnachtszaubermarkt (the Christmas magic market) on the beautiful Gendarmenmarkt is filled with the usual children’s rides, food and sweets stalls, and crafts ranging from the very tasteful to the oh-so-tacky. I like this market not merely because of its central location (it’s very close to Unter den Linden and is flanked by the lovely the German church and the French church as well as the austere Konzerthaus), but also because of its delightful, care free feel. This isn’t a market that demands much time but as such I’ve found myself browsing these stalls much longer than at other markets. If you’re still feeling the Christmas spirit but you’re done with this market, go to the nearby Schlossplatzmarkt and take a ride on the giant Ferris Wheel. It’s cold up there, but it sure is pretty.

Gendarmentmarkt (Mitte)
Nov. 24 – Dec. 31 2008

2. Spandauer Altstadt

An absolute classic market and anyone looking for the ‘real deal’ should opt for Spandau, even if it is a bit out of the way. This market is rather sprawling (there are 150 stands during the week and over 450 on the weekends), and with a variety of goods and musical stages, this market is well worth the thirty minute S-Bahn or U-Bahn ride. Go on the weekend and watch the local police department stomp out German Christmas hits mixed in with, yes, full brass covers of ‘I had the Time of My Life’ and David Hasselhoff. Prepare to have your mind blown.

Marktplatz Spandau (this can be arrived at from the U7 or S9)
Nov. 26 – Dec. 23 2008

3. Winterwelt am Potsdamerplatz

The Christmas market at Potsdamerplatz is particularly nice for families with teens or those looking for a quick thrill. That’s right, even though there are no real mountains for hundreds of miles, every Christmas a little piece of Austria is brought to Berlin in the form of a toboggan run and traditional Austrian dishes (and beer) at this Christmas market. It’s particularly fitted out for teenagers with the nearby Sony Center and the Arcaden (a good sized mall) with all your modern shopping needs.

Potsdamerplatz
Nov 24 – Dec 28 2008

4. Lucia Weihnachtsmarkt

This market is a modest simple Weihnachtsmarkt, aimed more at younger children –or, perhaps it just feels that way since its located in Prenzlauerberg (one of the heaviest baby and toddler populated districts in Europe). I’ve had many a fine candied apple at this market and have fond memories of the Glühwein (lit: glowing wine, but don’t worry, nothing radioactive here, just some mulled wine with a shot of Amaretto). Highly recommended for a quick stop when you’re checking out the streets of Prenzlauerberg.

In the Kulturbrauerei
Sredzkistrasse 1
10435 Berlin (Prenzlauerberg)

Happy Holidays!

Photo of Weihnachtsmarkt concert in Berlin, Germany, by Shane Anderson

Italy’s national airline Alitalia is to sell its modern art collection including works by Giorgio De Chirico, Salavador Dali and Giacomo Balla, in order to help reduce debts.

The city of Paris  has been using wind energy and eco-friendly light bulbs for its Christmas street decorations.

Check out the World’s 10 Most Secluded Beaches according to Forbes.com. This top 10 beaches include Whitehaven Beach, Australia and White Sand Beach, Bali.

Take Vagabondish’s travel quiz and name as many summer Olympics host cities as you can.

The Chlausjagen Festival

The Chlausjagen Festival or Feast of St. Nicholas is celebrated at sunset on 6 December. This celebration features a procession of ‘lifeltrager‘ wearing gigantic illuminated lanterns in the shape of a Bishop’s mitre on their heads. Swiss traditions sees the masses awaiting the arrival the Christ child called Christkindli carrying with gifts for all in his reindeer-drawn sleigh. Silver bells are said to herald in the arrival of the Christkindli making the momentum leading up to his appearance wonderfully exciting for child and adult alike.

Very popular holiday activities during this time includes cross country, snow skiing, snowboarding, skating, ice fishing. Other must try activities are horseback riding, sleighing, snowmobiling just to name a few. Lake Geneva is perfect for exploring all the wonderful elements that make up this winter wonderland location as an ideal holiday spot. Lake Geneva has something for everyone.

 The Great Electric Christmas Parade

The Annual Great Electric Christmas Parade is an annual night parade that sees the locals and foreigners alike come out to partake of the festivities. This Christmas parade features floats, lights, bands, horses. A Christmas parade could not possibly be a Christmas parade without Santa & Mrs. Claus. Holiday theater productions are also highly recommended for those who appreciate the arts and a little drama as it were. Productions are held throughout the winter holiday season so be sure to get your tickets in advance.

Another celebration to attend is the Festival of Lights which takes place the weekend of the Great Electric Christmas Parade. It is at this time you will find the hospitality of downtown shops, special holiday dishes in local restaurants, carriage rides, and tree lighting ceremony in front of the Riviera Ballroom, entertainers, and live reindeer, Father Christmas at your disposal and for your entertainment.

Snow Sculpting Competition

The Annual Winterfest & National Snow Sculpting Competition  is fun for everyone. Lake Geneva is also the proud location for the National Snow Sculpting Competition which later becomes the focal point of the Winterfest, held the first weekend in February.

Recreational activities are an enormous part of the holiday celebration. It is for this reason that Lake Geneva makes for a fantastic holiday spot for couples, families and singletons. Most popular celebration activities include a wealth of food and great entertainment, helicopter rides and excursions around the lake area itself.

Competitions are available for those with the winning spirit to join during the holidays. With as many as fifteen teams compiled from states throughout the country – Alaska to Florida – brought together to compete for the national title the competition is stiff. Team consists of three members who spend approximately three days using a various hand tools carving a 6′ x 6′ x 10′ block of snow. So, safety first.

The Riviera Park (Wrigley Drive and the lakefront) during the first weekend in February is where this most prestigious competition takes place. With on watchers and competitors gathered this is sure to be one challenging yet fun day out. Other fun yet competitive events to join is the sample snow blocks voting in the “Peoples’ Choice” sculptured award.

Happy Holiday and don’t forget to have fun!

Photo of Lake Geneva, Switzerland in winter originally posted by 1Suisse

Candle lighting has always been the foundation of the Swedish holiday traditional but it is the Swedish holiday dishes that annually are the supreme element. With the following Swedish traditional dishes such as “Potatis Korv,” “Ham a la cajsa warg” (Swedish Ham) and cabbage pudding (Casserole) you will not go wrong for the holidays. These three very traditional Swedish dish recipes are fairly comprehensive and easy to follow.

1. Potatis Korv (Sweden Christmas Sausage)

2 lbs. lean pork, ground
2 lbs. lean beef, ground
6 med. potatoes, shredded (uncooked)
3 tsps. salt
2 tsps. ground allspice
1/2 tsp. pepper
1 med. onion, chopped

Must be mix very well together then formed into rolls about 4 inches long, 2 inches in diameter. Once completed cut waxed paper or parchment paper into 6-inch lengths and warp sausage well. Remember to tie both ends tightly with string. Next prick waxed paper with a fork (do not prick parchment) then place in kettle of simmering salted water. Cook slowly for about 45 minutes.

2. Ham a la cajsa warg (Swedish Ham)

7 to 9 lb. ham, slightly salted
2 tsps. whole cloves
2 tsps. marjoram
2 tsps. allspice
2 tsps. rosemary
6 bay leaves

The Ham must be placed in plenty of cold water for approximately 12 hours then roasted. Take care that the ham is not too salty.

Firstly, remove the rind then place the ham on a large piece of baking foil. Add crush allspice, cloves, rosemary, marjoram and bay leaves in a mortar. This mixture must be rubbed into ham on all sides then wrapped entirely in foil. Next, insert a meat thermometer through the foil so that the tip reaches the thickest and meatiest part of the ham then place the ham in baking pan and bake it in the oven at 350F. When the thermometer shows 170F the ham is ready. This dish is served hot or cold and usually with boiled potatoes, mustard, red cabbage or other vegetables.

3. Cabbage Pudding (Casserole)

1 to 2 lb. head white cabbage
41/2 tbls. rice
Salt
11 oz. ground beef
Butter for frying
2/3 cup water
1/4 tsp. pepper
1 cup milk

Firstly, cut off the bottom part of the stem of a head of white cabbage the chop the cabbage into pieces. Then brown them in butter in a frying pan. In another pan boil rice in 2/3 cup water and 1/2 tsp. salt for approximately 20 minutes. While the rice cools mix ground beef with 1 1/2 tsps. salt and 1/4 tsp. pepper. Then add the rice and 1 cup milk. Place the cabbage and meat in alternate layers in a buttered oven-proof dish. Remember to keep the top and bottom layers cabbage only. Next bake in an oven at 350F. for 3/4 to 1 hour and serve with boiled potatoes.

Enjoy!

Photo of Swedish Christmas dinner originally posted by plindberg