Share the Magic of Christmas Abroad

The holidays at home are familiar to the senses – the smell of peppermint and cinnamon, the twinkling of string lights on every street, and the warm sense of cheer even in the cold. But a holiday abroad? That is something special. Traveling to an unfamiliar country or region during the holidays is not just a vacation. It’s a cultural exchange. Make yourself at home for the holidays wherever you are by embracing these uniquely regional holiday traditions and historical origins.

EUROPEAN CHRISTMAS MARKETS

In global holiday events, one of the world’s most sought-after wintertime experiences are the European Christmas Markets. A 600-year-old tradition in some of Europe’s most picturesque cities and villages, shoppers will find an unfathomable number of handmade trinkets, decorations, foods, drinks, and more.

For the quintessential experience, pass through some of the most famous markets in Germany, Austria, and France.

France
A stop in Strasbourg, France, the self-proclaimed capital of Christmas, is a must. The city is the home of one of the oldest Christmas markets in Europe, the “Christkindlesmarkt,” dating back to the 1500s. Pick up some classic treats from the market food stands, such as vin chaud – mulled wine with spices and fruit – or pain d’epices – the French version of gingerbread, minus the man. In between shopping sprees, take a tour of the “Petite France” and admire the melding of Roman, French, German, and Alsatian cultural influences.

Germany
Move on to Germany, where Christmas markets range from magnificent to modest in Würzburg, Nuremburg, and Munich. The market of Würzburg is quaint, settled within an ancient wine town rich in historic sites. The town is home to a number of 18th-century residences of prince-bishop, boasting the largest ceiling mural in the world. Browse the market for local specialties after a tour with a local expert.

Visit one of Germany’s oldest and most famous Christmas markets in Nuremburg. Dating back to the early 1500s, the Nuremburg marketplace holds tight to its traditions. Sip glühwein and sample an original Nuremberg bratwurst – legally exclusive to the region with traditions dating back to the 1300s. Peruse through more than 200 market vendors and search for both classic and unique holiday treats. Search for the exclusively-Nuremberg prune people, figurines made from dried prunes, figs, almonds, and birch wood. These charming knickknacks are only meant to be a feast for the eye, not the stomach.

HISTORIC TRADITIONS

England
Christmastime in London is full of history. Many of its holiday traditions date back to the Victorian era. Dine with the ghosts of Christmas past at a Victorian-style dinner inspired by the Charles Dickens classic of the era, A Christmas Carol. Visit the city’s most historic sites, such as Buckingham Palace, Windsor Castle, and Trafalgar Square, adorned for the holidays with hues of royal red, pine green, and glittering gold.