Tag: christmas

Christmas Markets: Germany & Austria

by sahilyq, posted in Destinations, Travel

European Christmas markets are magical and offer a festive atmosphere with unique traditions, local food, handcrafted gifts, and beautiful decor. I recently traveled to Germany and Austria and had a truly magical experience. I experienced a true winter wonderland as it was snowing and made the trip even more memorable.

munich

Germany is known as the birthplace of the Christmas markets. We traveled to Munich and they alone have approximately 12 markets, having only have visited six or so, it left me with the desire to make this trip a tradition, visiting them all over Europe. Between the smell of mulled wine and gingerbread, the markets were just incredible to visit and explore.

salzburg

Salzburg is the location of Mozart’s hometown, it features Alpine traditions, nativity scenes, and local delicacies. The markets were illuminated with many twinkling lights and smell of deliciousness. The second day in Salzburg we woke up to a winter wonderland since it had snowed all night. Several of us ventured out to St. Wolfgang, Austria where we took a boat to three villages to experience once again more Christmas Markets.

st wolfgang


St. Wolfgang, Austria, is a picturesque lakeside town located on the shores of Wolfgangsee in the Salzkammergut region of Upper Austria. We drove an hour via bus before taking the boat to three different villages. See for yourself how magical this was…

The markets in the villages were my favorite, they felt homie is the best I could describe them. During the Advent season, St. Wolfgang transforms into a magical Christmas wonderland with festive markets, lights, and holiday decorations. The vendors were locals and they sure were lovely. The made us feel at home with their tasty delights and beautiful hand crafted gifts.

vienna

Vienna is renowned for its Christmas markets, where visitors can enjoy traditional food, warm drinks, and handcrafted goods. Rathausplatz is the the largest market, located in front of City Hall, with over 150 stalls and a beautifully lit ice skating rink. Vienna’s streets and landmarks are beautifully adorned with Christmas lights.

London

by sahilyq, posted in Destinations, Solo Travel, Travel

Celebrating Christmas in London is a magical experience, as the city comes alive with festive decorations, lights, markets, and events. I spend two days and definitely need to go back. Here are a few things you can see and do while visiting this beautiful city.

Visit the Christmas Markets

London has several Christmas markets offering unique gifts, delicious food, and mulled wine. Some popular markets include Southbank Centre Winter Market and Leicester Square Christmas Market.

Admire the Christmas Lights

Oxford Street, Regent Street, Carnaby Street, and Covent Garden are known for their stunning Christmas lights and window displays. London is truly magical at this time of year, a must visit.

Afternoon tea bus tour

This was a highlight of my trip. As we sip tea and indulge in delicious treats, you will pass by famous attractions such as Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, the London Eye, and more. The tour typically includes live commentary about the history and significance of the landmarks you pass, providing an informative and entertaining experience. Best part was the Christmas theme bus with onboard caroling.

and of course SIGHTSEEING

London is a vibrant city with a rich history and a multitude of attractions to explore. From iconic landmarks like Big Ben, the Tower of London, Buckingham Palace, and the London Eye to neighborhoods, such as Notting Hill, Camden Lock, London Theatre District, there is no shortage of things to see and do in London.