Christmas markets originated as a means to support local communities in the German, French, Dutch,…read moreScandinavian regions during the winter months when agricultural activity has winded down. If you ever make it there after December 3 until January 6th, these markets are everywhere. Probably one of the liveliest of the Christmas markets, was the Weihnachtsmarkt in Strasbourg, FR. The French Xmas markets in Strasbourg seem to have a unique vibe and active participation from the town. I loved this town, it's French but there are lots of German customs, traditions, food in addition to French cuisine. Lots of families and locals drinking vin chaud (warm wine, gluhwein at German stands), hot apple cider, hot orange tea (so amazingly good), eating local fare (waffles with various toppings, bratwurst and many many sandwiches) and more vin chaud et beaucoup vin chaud. This is the Alsace region also so I totally loved the locally produced Gewurstraminers and Rieslings (German whites) that taste uniquely delicious---unlike the lackluster varieties we get in the states. I was never really a fan of these wines but, I was drinking it every day with a passion-- 'cause it was too good to pass up. The fun and almost frenetic crowds woke me up and brought me immediately into the Christmas spirit. Traversing Place Kleber (the center of town), one gets to experience the vibe to the holiday traditions, the really busy local businesses and market stalls to the grand and expansive Christmas markets in the center of town. As I walked into the main square I was smacked with the blaring romantic flashback. Instead of Christmas carols loudly amplified, the sound of my favorite songster (Aznavour) singing one of my fave songs echoed throughout the expanse of the plaza and bleeeeeewwww my mind!!! That put me in a holiday mood with a romantic edge in a jiffy. Only the French!! :)) So to all my Yelpers & Yelpies, I hope that this year your holiday brings you much happiness, your spirit fervent, your outlook in life looking up and forward. Merry X'mas, Happy Holidays, Happy Kwanzaa, happy end of Chanukah, much warmth and prosperity. Tip: Cash only at the markets. Some will take cards but there will be surcharge. ATMs and banks abound. Visits: 1

This was my first time at this Christmas market and it was awesome. They had a stand with…read morenutcrackers so that was exciting. People standing outside singing Christmas songs and playing instruments. They literally had people dancing to their music. It was super cute and gave off the Christmas spirit. We went with another couple so they decided to get their portrait painted together. Everyone was standing around watching the artist draw pictures some were portrait others character style drawings. They had a stand with the warm wine I had white for the first time I normally drink red. I been missing out the white wine was perfect. It's called gluhwein they had some stands that add a shot of whisky it's perfect because it's cold out side and the gluhwein warms you up. I went on a Sunday so none of the shops were open just the Christmas stands for the market. Thrust had salmon hanging I believe they were grilling it and it looked super tasty everyone was trying it because the line was super long. I just ate so I didn't try it. I will defiantly go back to the Christmas market next year.

Located in Karlsruhe, in-between Heidelberg and Stuttgart, Germany - you will find Majolika. We…read morewere there right before Christmas and many beautiful items were on display. Stunningly beautiful art, tea sets, vases, lamps, figurines, cups, tiles.... One of a kind magnificent pieces of art. Majolika is located in a quiet and peaceful area in town. A nice, uncommon place to visit, but well worth the trip.

Wunderschönes Schloss und Anlage. Es ist auf jeden Fall einen Besuch wert. Zum Relaxen und…read moreabschalten ist dieser Ort besonders im Sommer geeignet. ich bin dort im Sommer mindestens 1 x im Monat. Aber auch im Winter ist es sehr schön dort.