Visiting Europe during Christmas
by Louis Patterson
http://www.yahoo.com
One of the best times of the year to visit Europe is
during the Christmas season. Most European
countries come alive with the many festivals and
celebrations that take place during the holiday
season. This is the perfect time for you to treat your
family to a Christmas that you~ll never forget.
Food is very important to Europeans, and no more
so than at Christmas. Many countries have special
foods that are only baked during the month of
December. Be sure to try any traditional foods in
each country that you visit. The people of Germany
take pride in their delicious Christmas cake, stollen.
People look forward year round to this tasty cake
which can be eaten at almost every meal. Italy
makes a similar Christmas cake called a panettone,
which is also enjoyed only during the month of
December. Don~t forget to sample the many
delectable chocolate treats that are abundant during
Christmas as well.
Christmas traditions also differ in Europe from
North America. Where North Americans open gifts
on Christmas morning, most Europeans do so on
Christmas Eve. Santa Clause comes early enough
that all gifts can be opened that night rather than the
next morning. Most families also go to church on
Christmas Eve and enjoy the Christmas story and
candle light carols. Church is followed by a large
meal, gifts, treats, and plenty of festive cheer.
Since there is no gift opening on Christmas Day,
families and friends spend time visiting and
relaxing while the children play with their new toys.
Christmas is a day when virtually no shops are open
so everyone has the opportunity to share it with
loved ones.
Flying to Europe during the month of December is
actually a very expensive time to go, and flights are
snatched up quite quickly. If you are planning your
holidays during this time be sure to book everything
well in advance to avoid disappointment. Not only
are many North Americans planning visits to family
in Europe, but those who have no family there are
discovering what a great vacation Europe at
Christmas can be.
If you are flexible in your traveling days, the time
between Christmas and New Years are much
cheaper than before Christmas. There are still
plenty of festivities during this time, but if you can
afford it, the days leading up to Christmas are
unparalleled. Any trip to Europe during Christmas
will make for an enchanting holiday.
Submit An Article
Who else wants their Link to be placed here?
Who else wants their Link to be placed here?
|
|
|
