Category Archives: Germany

Breads around the world

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Bread around the world takes many, many forms, but it is universally recognized as a beloved staple of every culture. It is the oldest food form that requires work, and sometimes artistry, to complete. It has an amazing history. We are all about history and tasty vacations at GetAway Travel. We can create a vacation for you, with our without fermentation, that has plenty of history and yummy bread options. Since there is reportedly more than 6,000 types of bread in the world, we can guarantee there will be bread involved in your adventure! Let’s look at some of the bread options from around the world.

Africa and Asia

 The national bread of Ethiopia is Injera. Made with a sourdough starter, it has a unique spongy texture and you can eat it with toppings, or use it as a rolled up vessel for stew and vegetables. There’s also dabo which is generally reserved for special occasions. It is a thicker flatbread made with wheat flour, but it can also contain barley and other flours.

Injera

Enjoy Mielie bread in South Africa. Mielie means maize and the bread is made by steaming cornbread, chock full of while kernels of corn, over a campfire.

Mielie Braai (corn on the grill)

Krachel is a brioche-like roll that you’ll find in Morocco. It is flavored with sesame seeds, anise and orange flower water.

Krachel

Agege is Nigeria’s version of white bread and in South Africa, try roosterkoek which is balls of dough cooked on grates over a grill. Lavish is a soft, thin flatbread baked in a tandoor oven that you can find in Turkey, Iran, Armenia and Azerbaijan. In Turkey you can find simit, a ring-shaped sesame coated flatbread.

Simit, cheese, and turkish tea

Nan-e barbari is Persian flatbread dusted with sesame seeds it has a similar texture to focaccia.

In Turkey you’d eat pide which is a flatbread topped with lots of tasty options. Vacationing in the Arab Emirates? Try Khameer, a soft, pillowy flatbread topped with sesame and black cumin seeds. Made with dates, water, milk and cardamon, it has a sweet, nutty flavor. In Jordan, Lebanon and Syria there is manakeesh. This flatbread is covered with a mix of za’atar (a spice mixture of sumac, herbs and sesame seeds) and olive oil.

Manakeesh

Your meals in India will be accompanied by naan, made by mixing flour with milk or yogurt and baking it in a tandoor.  Or, dosa could be served. Dosa is more labor intensive than naan or chapati. Roti and chapati are more like pancakes and they are baked on a grill. Dosa is made by soaking rice and lentils overnight, grinding the mixture into a paste and then letting it ferment for eight hours. It is grilled.

Masala dosa with chutney and sambar

Paratha is Indian flatbead with layers folded over with ghee in between. It is then pan fried and it heavier than a chapati. It is often served stuffed with vegetables and paneer cheese.

Aloo Paratha with butter and curry

Japanese milk break is fluffy white bread also called Shokupan. It is baked in a rectangular pan and has a flat top. A popular sweet in Japan is anpan. This fluffy, sweet dough ball is topped with sesame seeds and filled with a sweet red bean, chestnut or white bean paste.

Shokupan – Japanese milk bread

A popular street food in China is manton or steamed buns. They have a soft, puffy texture and a mild sweet flavor. It can be filled with sweet or savory ingredients.

Steamed bun with pork filling

A fluffy, sweet bun is called pai bao in Hong Kong and a popular street food in Korea is cream cheese stuffed garlic bread. A round, yeasty loaf is stuffed with cream cheese and garlic filling and topped with herbs.

Korean cream cheese and garlic bun

Options abound in Europe

Germany takes the prize for most kinds of bread and most rules designating what goes into specific bread. That’s why their bread traditions earns recognition from UNESCO and you can read about it here.

But UNESCO has also recognized France’s baguette. That long thin loaf with the crisp outside crust and chewy interior is an icon. You can try brioche in France, it’s an uptick on the baguette with lots of eggs and butter.

French baguette

France’s Provence region has fougasse. It is an olive oil rich round loaf with slashes on top to resemble wheat. It can be topped with rosemary and olives or stuffed with an olive tapenade or sun-dried tomatoes. You can also find sweet filled versions.

Fougasse

In Iceland try the Rúgbrauð, it’s a rich, thick chewy rye that is baked underground courtesy of the hot geothermal springs.

Icelandic volcano

The Netherlands has an interesting breakfast, or sometimes lunch, tradition. Hagelslag is buttered toast with chocolate sprinkles. Tijgerbrood is equally interesting. A loaf of bread is spread with a paste of rice flour, yeast, caster sugar, salt and oil. When the loaf is baked, the top turns golden and speckled — similar to a tiger coat.

Hagelslag, may be an aquired taste

Lefse is a Norwegian potato-based flatbread. A holiday classic, it is served with butter and jelly or with deli meat and cheese. In the southern most area of Norway you can find sunnmersbrod, a rustic bread made with wheat and rye flour.

Lefse

In Jewish communities throughout the continent try challah, a rich, eggy bread with a braided top. Chocolate babka is a sweet twisted bread with, of course, chocolate.

Challah bread

Spain’s pan de payes is a round loaf with a thick crispy crust with lots of nice air pockets inside. Slices of the bread are served with olive oil, tomatoes and salt rubbed on top. Pan gallego is similar, but made with more wheat flour and it can be shaped in a ring or baguette.

Pan gallego

Korovai in the Ukraine is a beautiful, artfully decorated bread that sits near the altar during marriage ceremonies.

Korovai – ready to get married

Obwarzanek krakowski in Poland is an important part of the culture. As a sign of hospitality, visitors are greeted with salt and bread. Bagels were invented in Poland. They are bigger than a bagel in the US and are usually topped with poppy or sesame seeds. Paska is a braided bread made with lots of butter, eggs and milk.

Bread stand in Krakow, Poland selling obwarzanek krakowski

Baking powder and buttermilk give Ireland’s soda bread its lift and distinctive taste and texture.

Ireland soda bread with currants

Italy excels as a bread country! There’s ciabatta, a bread created recently shaped like a slipper and used as a sandwich vessel. Focaccia is a bread brushed with olive oil and the top is sprinkled with salt and aromatic herbs. Sometimes there are elaborate edible scenes on top of the round or square loaf.

Focaccia

Limpa is a Swedish rye bread with orange, fennel or anise flavor. In Finland try pulla, a sweet, braided bread flavored with cardamon.

someone dropped the pulla – 5 second rule in force

In Hungary try the beigli, a stuffed brioche like dough with nut or poppy seed filling.

Beigli stuffed with poppy seeds

Next up on the blogs — bread options, alternatives in South America, Mexico, the Caribbean and Oceania.

Can’t decide on a bread or a destination? Travel advisors at GetAway Travel have options! We can be reached at:  (262) 538-2140, e-mail: sue@getaway.travel or paul@getaway.travel

Berlin blends past and present

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All free men, wherever they may live, are citizens of Berlin, and therefore, as a free man, I take pride in the words “Ich bin ein Berliner!“    John F. Kennedy, 1963

Oberbaum Bridge, Berlin

Germany’s capital city has a vibrant cultural and art scene. It has overcome its difficult past with resiliency and grace — preserving iconic landmarks and not forgetting lessons taught by history. It is nine times bigger than Paris, has more waterways than Venice, three UNESCO World Heritage sites, its own beer, its own snack and its own doughnut! How about it? Ready for GetAway Travel to make you a Berliner?

Hit the island for some museum time

 Museum Island is a UNESCO World Heritage site with five world-class museums encompassing 6,000 years of history and art. Museum Island, or Spree Island, is in the heart of Berlin between the River Spree and Spree Canal. It is easily accessible.

Museum Island

With five museums to choose from, you can pick your art interests. One of the museums, the Pergamonmuseum, is closed until 2027 for renovations. But there are plenty of options in the other four.

Altes Museum in Winter

The Altes Museum was built by order of King Frederick William III and its considered a major example of German Neo-classical architecture. Here you can find Greek antiquities Fromm the 10th to the First century. There’s early portraits of Caesar and Cleopatra, stone sculptures, vases, craft objects, jewelry, gemstones, coins, urns and tablets.

Classic hallways of the Neues museum in Berlin

The Neues Museum building is a blend of old and new. Heavily damaged during WWII, the remains were used in the new construction. There are bullet holes, chipped paint and the ceilings are partially destroyed. The Egyptian collection, including the famous bust of Queen Nefertiti are housed here. Included in the 9,000 objects are a burial chamber from Egypt dating back to around 2500 BC, art, artifacts, statues, vessels and manuscripts.

Alte Nationalgalerie museum

Art from the period of the French Revolution and WWI are in the Alte Nationalgalerie museum. Browse among paintings done by Adolph Menzel, Sabine Lepsius, Dora Hitz, Manet, Monet, Renoir, Degas and Cézanne.

Bode Museum on Museum Island

The Bode-Museum is renowned for its Byzantine art and coin collection. There are glazed terracottas by Luca della Robbia and masterworks by Donatello da Settignano.

Berlin Palace (Humboldt Forum)

The Humboldt Forum is also on Museum Island. Originally built as an imperial palace in the 15th century, it now has exhibits dedicated to human history, arts and culture.

Many of the artifacts are displayed in context. The Berlin Global exhibit examines Berlin’s impact on the world referencing categories such as entertainment, revolution and fashion. A Nature Exhibit looks at the interplay of climate change and democracy around the world.

More museums, historic sites, palaces

Charlottenburg Palace

Charlottenburg Palace was build in 1699 as a summer retreat for Sophie Charlotte, wife of King Fredrich I. The massive, multi-wing Baroque style structure as damaged in WWII and then restored and rebuilt through several decades. The reconstructed rooms feature ornate plasterwork, gilding, frescoes, all from original designs. There are priceless collections of silver, crown jewels and royal porcelain. The 18th century paintings include works from French masters. The gardens are fabulous. Designed in English and French styles, there are fountains, ponds, tree-lined paths and hedges.

Brandenburg Gate

The Brandenburg Gate is one of Berlin’s most famous monuments. The Neo-classical arch is the only one of 14 that remains in the city. About a block from the arch is the Holocaust Memorial or the Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe. The maze of 2,711 concrete blocks is a stark, modernistic, abstract reminder of the 2.6 million Jews who were victims of the Nazis. There is a museum/information center at the memorial.

Section of Berlin Wall

The Berlin Wall Memorial is an indoor/outdoor museum and memorial. The one-mile stretch along Bernaur Strasse is an open air exhibit that includes photographs, signs and a preserved piece of the original wall. One of the original watchtowers is there and an indoor center has exhibits chronicling the historical and political events around the wall. The East Side Gallery is also a wall memorial. The stretch of Berlin Wall runs parallel to the Spree River. The concrete canvas has murals from 118 artists from 21 different countries.

Berlin Cathedral on the river Spree

The Berlin Cathedral is a 19th century church that fronts the Spree River on Museum Island. It is one of the largest religious landmarks in the city. The Protestant church is a mix of Italian, Renaissance and Baroque architectural styles. The cathedral’s most striking feature is the 374-foot high dome topped with a gilded cross.

Entertainment, snacks, etc.

 The Mauerpark Flea Market is located in Wall Park, The largest and best outdoor market in the city gets going every Sunday. Visitors can buy anything and everything there and also enjoy jugglers, have a picnic and participate in the giant karaoke party at Bearpit Karaoke.

Escalators at KaDeWe

Speaking of shopping, Berlin is home to Europe’s largest department store, KaDeWe.

The Berghain used to be a power station. This gigantic warehouse draws techno music fans from all over the world for three-day pulse-pounding music extravaganzas every weekend.

Giraffes at the Berlin Zoo

Tiergarten is a 519-acre oasis of green that used to be a royal hunting ground. Now its a series of lakes, bike paths, English gardens and the very romantic beer garden, Café am Neuen See. The Berlin Zoo is here and there’s a great panda exhibit.

Prater Garten is Berlin’s oldest beer gardens. Sit at the communal tables or benches, people watch and enjoy a bratwurst, Bavarian pretzel and, of course, a beer. Bratwurst is ordered either spicy or standard.

Berlin has its own specialty beer, Berliner Weiße, this slightly sour brew is made with wheat and barley. It has a high acid content and can be served with a shot of either raspberry or woodruff syrup.

Currywurst is a Berlin snack with a cult following. Get it at restaurants or from street vendors. The fried sausage is sliced, doused with tomato sauce, dusted with curry powder and served with bread or a roll. There is a vegan option.

If you are a late-night snacker, there are 1,000 kiosks around the city that dispense food, snacks and beverages.

Ooooh, pretzels, warm, golden brown served plain or with coarse salt. They are also served with cheese sauce, sesame seeds and even sunflower seeds.

Berliner Pfannkuchen

Then there’s the Pfannkuchen. This sweet, yeasty beauty of a filled doughnut is known as a Berliner or Krapfen in the rest of Germany. Topped with powdered sugar, the pfannkuchen can be filled with chocolate creme, but is most often filled with marmalade.

Ready to “be a Berliner?” The travel advisors at GetAway Travel can help you with that! We can be reached at:  (262) 538-2140, e-mail: sue@getaway.travel or paul@getaway.travel

Enjoy the Netherlands with a river cruise

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Taking a river cruise in the extensive river and canal system in the Netherlands opens up the country in a fascinating, new way. View architectural marvels, feats of amazing engineering, windmills and, depending on the time of year, fields of tulips. Unpack once and settle in your cabin, take day excursions and waste less travel time because you sail while you sleep. Since most of the Netherlands’ river cruises have options to connect to the Rhine, that means some time in Belgium and Germany.

Puffy pancakes, flower power, cheese and Delft pottery, how about letting GetAway Travel find you a cruise you’ll love!

Start off in Amsterdam

 Amsterdam has a well-developed cruise port and proximity to an airport, so it makes sense cruises start here. With its Dutch, German and Flemish influences, there is something for everyone to see and enjoy. The museums are fabulous, from shipbuilding to Dutch masters to hemp, there are museums devoted to almost anything.

Amsterdam Cruise Terminal

There are bikes everywhere. The first bike ride share program was invented in Amsterdam. It didn’t last, but the commitment to cycling did.

Keukenhof Gardens is home to the “Greatest Flower Show on Earth” each Spring. Seven million flowers on 70 acres — everyone agrees it IS the greatest flower show. There’s tulips, daffodils, hyacinths, lilies, bluebells and crocuses. The blooms form lovely swaths of color along paths and the brooks. There are at least 100 varieties of tulips in the fields here.

The Keukenhof Gardens, known as the “Garden of Europe,” actually hosts over 7 million tulip bulbs annually.

From Amsterdam most cruises hit the following cities and offer a variety of free shore excursions as well as some that cost a small fee.

Hoorn, Enkhuizen, Kinderdijk

Hoorn

Throw a rock and you’ll hit a monument in Hoorn, a quaint city founded in 1300. It was named for the horn-shaped harbor along the Ijsselmeer, an artificial lake created by dam construction. Prior to access to the North Sea being blocked, Hoorn was a bustling port city and one of the Dutch East India Co. six home bases. It boasts 1,000 monuments, charming cobblestone streets and cheese warehouses.

Enkhuizen was a small fishing village, but during the 17th century it became the center of maritime trade. That ended when the North Sea inlet was sealed off with a dam. Still, there’s some pretty impressive landmarks here. The Drommedaris is the former city gate and watchtower. It’s the city’s most famous building, but the Gothic-style hall church from the 15th century it’s also pretty cool The floor consists of gravestones.

Enkhuizen Drommedaris

Take a short ferry ride to the Zuiderzee Museum.The outdoor museum is a traditional village showcasing the culture and maritime history of the city. There’s 140 buildings on site including workshops, a fish smokery and a home from the 1920s. Taste local cheeses and smoked fish.

Zuiderzee Museum

Get your windmill fix in Kinderdijk. This area of South Holland was shaped by the Rhine Delta waters. There are 19 well-preserved 18th century windmills here. The village is surrounded by polders, tracts of land reclaimed from the sea using windmills. Here, learn all things windmills, why they were built, how they operate and see the mechanical workings as well as living quarters inside,

Idyllic Kinderdijk

Dordrecht, Delft and Gouda

The famous Delft Blue

 The Netherlands loves its monuments, indeed, there are hundreds in Dordrecht. The oldest city in Holland has a stunning inner city and along the harbor, grand warehouses have been transformed into elegant homes. The Grote Kerk, or Church of Our Lady, is the largest church in the city. Restored in Gothic architectural style, it is beautiful and the tower at its side contains 67 bells. Climb the tower (more than 200 stairs, be warned) for amazing views of the area.

Town of Drodrecht

A scenic drive/shore excursion, takes you to Delft. Royal Delft is the last remaining earthenware factory left over from the 17th century. Watch the centuries-old process to create the pottery. The 400-plus year-old factory is set up as a museum. You can score some of this sought-after pottery in the gift shop.

Eastern Gate in Delft

Perhaps you’d like to visit Gouda as a shore excursion? Surprise, Gouda is not made here, but stroopwafels are. Gouda Cheese is actually made all around Gouda, and it was brought to the weigh station in Gouda where taxes were levied depending on the weight. The Gouda city council had strict rules on the manufacture. Now, a cheese museum is in the weigh house.

Gouda cheese

 

Next door is St. John’s Church, the longest church in the Netherlands, it has a fabulous collection of stained glass windows. The stained glass is considered the most significant collection in the country.

Clocktower at St John’s church in Gouda

The stroopwafel was invented here and workshops are offered for visitors. What is a stroopwafel? It is two crispy cookies pressed into a waffle pattern held together with tasty toffee syrup. Yum.

Nijmegen, Maastricht, Antwerp and Wesel

 Home to one of the Netherlands largest universities, Nijmegen has an eclectic, vibrant blend of sidewalk cafés, unique eateries, and quaint shops that show off the city’s artistic bent. Indeed, you can trace the steps of Van Gogh who lived in nearby Nuenen the early 1880s and created more than 195 paintings. The Vincentre Museum has a great audiovisual presentation on Van Gogh and his time in Nuenen.

Nijmegen

The Noordbrabants Museum is home to an extensive collection of Dutch art — from Hieronymus Bosch to Van Gogh. Take a beer break at Brouwerij de Hemel. A brewing pioneer, learn all about the process as well as how to distill spirits. Try a flight and some snacks.

Maastricht is one of the Netherlands oldest and most picturesque cities.There are 1,677 Heritage buildings here and the lovely inner city is car-free.  The Maastricht Treaty was signed here in the early 1990s, establishing the euro as the single European currency. In nearby Margraten is the American Military Cemetery where 4,800 Americans who lost their lives during the march into Germany after D-Day, are buried.

Aerial view of Maastricht

Depending on your cruise, you may get a chance to go to Antwerp. Diamonds and chocolate! What’s not to like? Diamond cutters abound, next to shops with fabulous chocolates.

Grote Markt in Antwerp

Wesel, Germany might also be on your itinerary. An important trading center which reached its peak in the 15th century, Wesel nearly surpassed Cologne as a major commercial presence. Visit the lovely Willibrod Cathedral.

Rhine river near Wesel

Tulips, Van Gogh, tasty cookies and some great cheese all while relaxing on a great ship moving down the river. Interested? Contact GetAway Travel and an advisor will help schedule your cruise.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Tour the castles of “Mad King” Ludwig II – “The Fairytale King”

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Southern Bavaria has some great attractions, but few can compare to the castles of King Ludwig II. If you are spending time in Munich or Salzburg, it’s worth a day trip or two to check out the castles. If you are in Munich, you can start your adventure by checking out the Moon King’s boyhood home.

Munich

Thrown into power at age 18, Ludwig II longed to be as awesome as Louis XIV, but sadly, his country had neither the budget nor the patience to let the boy king plow ahead with fabulous construction projects that threatened to bankrupt the monarchy.

King Ludwig II (1845-1886)

Fascinated by art, history, literature, opera and composer Richard Wagner, he didn’t travel much, but longed to emulate places he had read about. He wrote in his diary: “I want to remain an eternal mystery to myself and others.”

Ludiwg Otto Friedrich Wilhelm – Ludwig II of Bavaria – ascended the throne at the age of 18.

Declared incompetent at age 40, he was found mysteriously drowned just days later, along with the psychiatrist that declared him incompetent. His younger brother Otto, whom he had bequeathed the monarchy to upon his death, was immediately declared mentally ill and Ludwig II’s uncle ascended to the throne.

Neuschwanstein

If you are up for touring castles with features that are stunning, remarkably high-tech, and always awe-inspiring, GetAway Travel is ready to set up your itinerary so you can soak up the ambiance of the ill-fated boy king and his many residences.

A fairytale without an ending

 Ludwig left his mark on a number of castles and properties. He built three castles, but spent quite a bit of time living in manors and alpine retreats. His most famous castle was built last, but not finished before he died. Neuschwanstein, or New Swan Stone Castle, near the border of Austria, was constructed in the Romanesque Revival style. It looks like a castle that just appeared in a fairytale and it so charmed Walt Disney, he used it as a model for Sleeping Beauty’s castle

Ludwig and Otto spent a large part of their childhood at Hohenschwangau Castle and from there Ludwig could see castle ruins on the opposite hill. There, he vowed, he would build his dream castle in the style of the authentic German knights’ castles. The castle was to be his personal retreat and honor composer Richard Wagner.

Hohenschwangau Castle

Ludwig concerned himself with every detail of Newuschwanstein, from the murals to the dishes. Construction proved to be quite a bit of an endeavor. Because he wanted it perched on the hillside, it took a serious quantity of explosives to blow through 27 feet of solid rock to set the castle foundation. His use of steel T-beams and plastered cast-iron pipes was modern for that time.

Singers Hall in Neuschwanstein Castle

The castle is decorated in Wagner opera themes. The dining room murals are scenes from the Wartburg Singers Festival. The bedroom has scenes depicting the doomed love affair between Tristan and Isolde on the carvings on the oak walls. The story of Tannhauser is showcased on the walls of the study and Lohengrin, Ludwig’s hero, and Lohengrin’s swans, are everywhere! They are painted on the walls, carved into the ceiling and door arches, cast in porcelain and woven into tapestries.

He had a fake grotto with fake stalactites constructed where he could enjoy performances of Wagner’s operas. Here, as he did in other residences, gardens were constructed so he could look out the windows and enjoy them, and they would block the outside world.

Richard Wagner (1813-1883) one of the world’s most influential & controversial composers

The throne room is the centerpiece of the castle. In the Byzantine style, it’s decor was inspired by St. Sophia Cathedral in Istanbul. More than two million small tiles are used on the floor to illustrate forest animals and the columns, with gilded tops, are painted to appear that they are made of bright lapis lazuli.

Neuschwanstein Throne Room

It was not finished before he died and sadly, he spent only 11 nights sleeping there.

Herrenchiemsee Palace, Ludwig’s Versaille

 Ludwig juggled multiple projects, much to the consternation of those watching the monarchy’s funds, and he began building Herrenchiemsee Palace in 1878. A great admirer of France’s Sun King, Louis XIV, Ludwig wanted a castle that matched the opulence and panache of Versailles. He also wished to rule like Louis XIV, without constitutional restraints.

Herrenchiemsee island

The island of Herrenchiemsee was purchased from timber barons who hadn’t managed to harvest trees there as they had planned. Constructing a castle on an island in the middle of Lake Chiemsee had its challenges. The lake was very wide and deep and tugboats were used to haul construction materials to the island. Steam-driven pumps were installed to power the extensive array of water features around the palace.

Herrenchiemsee palace

Ludwig’s “must haves” for the palace included the Hall of Mirrors, modeled after the Versailles hall, and the Latona Fountain.

Latona fountain

The wishing table, from the Grimm’s Fairy Tale of the same name, was installed in the dining room. It was a table that would be set with dishes and a meal and rise up through the floor so Ludwig didn’t have to be bothered with interacting with servants. Rumor has it that the table was set for imaginary guests that Ludwig would converse with during the meal.

Herrenchiemsee Palace

The monumental marble staircase is under a roof constructed of iron and glass. This was new for that time and, a special system was designed to heat water and interior rooms by Ludwig. A special system could lower the spectacular chandeliers so they could be cleaned and serviced.

Twelve rooms of the palace are set up as a museum detailing the story of Ludwig II in portraits, busts, historical photos, furniture and clothing. The exhibits also explore Ludwig’s patronage of Wagner in portraits, documents and model theaters and set design.

Main fountain pool at Linderhof

Linderhof, his only completed castle

 The smallest of the three castles, this was the only palace he completed. Built in the 18th century Rococo style, it was originally a humble hunting lodge used by his father. Ludwig moved it on the property to allow for a bigger footprint and then transformed it into a close replica of Marie Antoinette’s chateau that was on the grounds of Versailles.

Linderhof Palace

Technological marvels included a wishing table, that elevated from the kitchen to the dining room and electric lights in the Venus Grotto he had constructed. There was a water heater, wave machine and rumor has it, attendants were ordered to wrangle wild swans into the grotto so Ludwig could float on a mussel-shaped boat in the water and enjoy his favorite fowl.

Linderhof

Bavaria’s first electricity was used here to power the lights in the grotto, the wave machine and the fountain.

Linderhof interior

Ludwig renovated the King’s House on Schachen into an opulent Turkish style den. He re-designed the Munich residence, the Residenz, the largest city palace in Germany. There are ceiling frescoes, a beautiful fountain and courtyard sculptures and an antique collection. He was born in Nymphenburg Palace in Munich. There are several museums on the grounds including ones that house his carriage collection and his sleigh collection. He would go for night-time sleigh rides and had elaborate sleighs equipped with battery-operated light bulbs. He received guests at, and renovated Rose Island in Lake Starnberg. The new palace there wasn’t completed, but the villa is surrounded by fabulous gardens.

Rose Island on Lake Starnberg

In your travels to Bavaria, do make sure you check out the residences and castles of the ill-fated  mad king — a travel advisor at GetAway Travel can include that in your travel adventure! We can be reached at:  (262) 538-2140, e-mail: sue@getaway.travel or paul@getaway.travel

 

Munich: Oktoberfest and so much more

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Bavaria’s capital has what is recognized as one of the most beautiful town squares. The largest state, by land, in Germany, also has internationally acclaimed museums, historic cathedrals and, of course, Oktoberfest. And, here at GetAway, we can certainly tell you that you don’t have to go to Oktoberfest to enjoy the beer. So while you are wrapping your head around that, and the fact that Oktoberfest is barely in October, we invite you to let GetAway help you getaway to Munich.

Let’s get Oktoberfest, beer and food out of the way…

 Oktoberfest actually runs from mid to late September until the first Sunday in October. It was originally a giant wedding reception when Bavarian Crown Prince Louis decided to invite all of Munich to celebrate his marriage to Theresa von Sachsen-Hildburghausen. The fields where the celebration was held were named Theresienwiese.

So each year the giant beer fest, with 14 beer tents, as well as food tents, carnival games and rides, occupies 420,000 square feet of the fields. Six local breweries provide the beer and there’s a whole set of rules and reservation requirements to get into some of the beer tents. Read up before you go. Also, remember these two words: alcohol content. The average beer in the US is about 5% alcohol. The average alcohol content in the beer in those giant tankards you’ll be guzzling at Oktoberfest is between 5.9 and 6.2%. Drink responsibly.

Beer, beer, beer, beer and beer

Pork, potatoes, sausage, bread, while that seems to be a weighty list, it’s all in the preparation and moderate servings. Weisswurst is a traditional Bavarian sausage that is usually eaten with between breakfast and lunch with mustard. Typically the sausage is removed from the casing before eating – tradition says to suck it out , but you can be more discreet and cut it lengthwise and roll the meat out of the skin with a fork.. Open and consume.

Griessknockerlsuppe, a long name, but it is chicken soup with lovely semolina dumplings instead of noodles. Bavarian goulash and semmelknoedel is a fabulous smoky-flavored concoction which includes semmelknoedel, a bread dumpling which is almost like a stuffing ball.

Bavarian Goulash with dumpling

Knoedel is a giant potato dumpling or two served with a roasted ham hock (schweinehaxe) or roulade (filled, rolled meat). Käsespätele (think Bavarian macaroni and cheese) is noodles or mini-dumplings with lots and lots of cheese topped with carmelized onions baked until a crispy crust forms on top. In the spring, there’s plenty of dishes with delicate white asparagus.

Bavarian Krapfen

Sweets? Oh, yes. Kuchen is cake and it’s an art form in Munich. Kuchens are piled up in cases at bakeries and you can choose among the awesome selections.

Apple Kuchen

Krapfens are huge jelly-filled powdered doughnuts. Windbeutels are cream puffs for giants, split and filled with plain cream or strawberry or raspberry cream dipped in chocolate.

Windbeutels

To drink, there’s beer. You can try beer with carbonated lemonade or grapefruit called radler. It is an easy to acquire taste. Apfelsehorle is apple juice and carbonated water. You can find this in vending machines around the city as well as carbonated water with other fruit flavors.

Lemon Radler

Palaces, parks and gardens

 Munich is laid out like most European cities with a central town hall and a nearby plaza. Marienplatz is a beautiful town square ringed by some the most architecturally fabulous buildings in the city. Don’t miss the glockenspiel on the front of New Town Hall, a very imposing neo-Gothic building. At 11 a.m. and noon, 32 life-side figures with tunes playing, perform a royal wedding, jousting tournament and ritualistic dance. The show lasts about 15 minutes and concludes with the golden bird up the top emerging and chirping three times. Tunes are played on the clock’s 43 bells.

Glockenspiel on the “New” Town Hall

The Munich Residenz is a palace/museum. Divided into multiple areas, one consists of 150 “living” rooms — bedrooms, banquet halls, common rooms, living areas, they are well preserved and show the living style of the former occupants. The Treasury is a collection of precious items, one of the best collections in the world. There are crowns, collections of jewels amassed by rulers of Bavaria, goldsmith items, enamels, crystals and ivories.

Munich Residenz

Nymphenburg Palace was the summer residence of the Bavarian rulers. It is considered Munich’s most beautiful palace. It is surrounded by a gorgeous landscaper park complete with water canals, smaller hidden castles and romantic walkways.

Nymphenburg Palace

The English Garden is one of the largest city parks in the world. On the grounds is Monopteros, a Greek-style temple. The Chinese Tower is also an interesting attraction and it’s next door to the second largest beer garden in the city. There are a total of four beer gardens in the park.

At the southern end of the park is Eisbach Wave, where you can go surfing (yes, surfing) year round.

Surfing in Munich

Augustiner-Keller is Munich’s largest independent brewery with a huge beer garden.

Olympic Park is where the Olympic Games were held in 1972.

Olympic Park Munich

Museums and cathedrals

 There are more than 80 museums in Munich. It’s a city that takes its culture and its preservation seriously. The German Museum is the world’s largest science and technology museum. The 20 exhibits feature science and technology from aviation to chemistry, robotics and health. There are interactive exhibits and experiments.

The German Museum

Three separate art museums, Alte Pinakothek, Neue Pinakothek and Future showcase art from different time periods. The Brandhorst Museum is dedicated to contemporary art.

The BMW Museum showcases the company’s 100-year-old history through cars, motorbikes and engines. Next door is Welt which houses BMW’s exotic models that were never imported to the United States as well as models from its other companies, Rolls Royce and the Mini.

The Church of Our Dear Lady, referred to as Frauenkirche, with its two towers topped with domes dominates the city skyline. Built of bricks, it is considered a landmark symbol of Bavaria.

Frauenkirche with its 2 iconic towers – easy to spot in Munich

Asam Church, also known as St. Johann-Nepomuk-Kirche, is a masterpiece. The unique exterior has intricate detailing and the interior ceiling and walls are covered with frescoes and statues.

Asamkirche

St. Peter’s Church is the city’s oldest place of worship. The interior is done in white and gold and the nearly 200-foot high tower has a viewing platforms that offers amazing views of the city. There are eight bells and eight clocks in the tower.

“Alter Peter” – Old Peter, is the oldest parish church in Munich

Intrigued by the idea of visiting Munich? GetAway Travel can craft and adventure including Munich and beyond! We can be reached at: (262) 538-2140, e-mail: sue@getaway.travel or paul@getaway.travel

Castles, cathedrals and cruising on the Rhine

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A river cruise is hard to beat and here’s why: you get to visit quaint villages, charming towns, cultural centers and scenic areas without unpacking. You go to bed and sleep during the travel time and wake up to a new venue and new adventures. River cruise ships are smaller than ocean-going vessels so there won’t be long lines disembarking, embarking or at the lounge!

Taking a cruise on the Rhine offers multiple options because you’ve got Germany on one side, France on the other side and you may start out in Amsterdam. GetAway Travel will be taking a group on a fabulous cruise on the Rhine. The information in this blog gives an overview of where the group will be going, but most cruises take similar routes. So if you can’t join us next year, file this away and GetAway will be happy to help you with a similar cruise.

Starting or ending in Basel, Switzerland

 Take on an extra day at the end or start of your Rhine cruise to explore Basel. The hometown of tennis great Roger Federer is the cultural capital of Switzerland.

Basel Switzerland on the Rhine

There are museums (at least 40), art galleries and historic landmarks to enjoy. There are murals, sculptures and public art installations everywhere. And, Basel is on the “sunny” side of Switzerland. The city logs about 300 days of sunshine each year.

The Kunst Museum has been described as the “palace of arts.” The oldest public art institution in the world, it houses collections from the 17th century to contemporary. There are exhibits dedicated to fashion and decorative arts and a Picasso collection.

Base; city hall

Why so many museums? The city is home to a university and collections used for teaching and research became museums for all to enjoy. Museums are dedicated to pharmacy, design, the history of the Upper Rhine, anatomical, paper and toys.

The toy museum, with a collection of more than 2,500 teddy bears, is interesting for all ages. The toys are in exhibits placed to interact with each other. Display screens teach visitors about the toys and history of the collections. There are amazing collections of dolls, dollhouses, carousels and miniatures.

Basel Minster Cathedral

Basel Minster is a stunning Gothic cathedral. With its red sandstone walls and twin spires, it commands attention and thats before you notice the jaw-dropping intricate facade.

Stained glass in the Basel Minster

Breisach, Strasbourg and Speyer

 Breisach, Germany is considered the Gateway to the Black Forest. The region is on a basalt rock outcropping and it is across the river from French Alsace, a famous wine-growing region. But Breisach is no beverage slacker, it is home to Europe’s largest wine cellars.

Breisach, Germany on the Rhine

Nine wine growing regions with more than 500 different wines are represented at Badischer Winzerkeller. Take an underground train tour of the cellars and learn about the winegrowers and cellarmen and, of course, there’s tasting involved.

Geldermann Privatsektkellerei is a sparking wine cellar. Its tour includes the bottling process and, of course, more tasting.

Medieval door, Breisach, Germany

St. Stephen’s Cathedral dates from the 12th century with a major remodel in the 15th century. Much of the historically significant interior was preserved, including the 1,000 square-foot mural “The Last Judgement” created by Martin Schongauer. There are other amazing frescoes and carvings inside and the view from the roof is fabulous.

St. Stephens Cathedral – Briesach, Germany

Strasbourg, along the Alsace Wine Route, has picturesque canals, quaint half-timbered homes and stunning architecture. It is no wonder it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site

Strasbourg

The Cathédrale Nôtre-Dame de Strasbourg represents eight centuries of architectural history. One of the oldest churches in the world, with a spire height of nearly 450 feet, it is also one of the tallest churches in the world. Visitors are awed by the 12th century stained glass windows as well as the astronomical clock in the interior.

Cathédrale Nôtre-Dame de Strasbourg

Speyer is named for the four red towers on the city’s Romanesque cathedral. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, with its four towers and two domes, it is considered one of the most important Romanesque monuments from the Holy Roman Empire. Eight different German emperors and kings are buried here.

Imperial Cathedral of the Assumption of Saint Stephen, Speyer

There are modern exhibits from land, sea and air at the Technik Museum in Speyer. There are  more than 2,000 exhibits include space shuttles and submarines. The Historical Museum of the Palatinate explores the history of the region, including a wine museum that has exhibits and collections dedicated to the culture of winemaking and wine consumption.

Rüdesheim, Boppard, Koblenz, Cologne

 Rüdesheim is known for winemaking, especially its Rieslings. There are a number of vineyard tours to choose from. But, you can start your tasting experience while touring the city on Drosselgasse, a quaint street lined with shops, taverns and restaurants.

Rudesheim Winery

You can’t miss the clocktower on Drosselgasse, try to be close when it strikes the hour. It plays music, rings bells and animated figures dance.

If you are starting your day early, get a cup of the famous Rüdesheimer coffee. Made with a generous splash of Asbach Uralt brandy, it is topped with a big dollop of fresh whipped cream.

You can take a cable car ride to the Niederwald monument which commemorates the founding of the German empire. The panoramic views of the Rhine Valley and Rüdesheimer are amazing.

Niederwald

Seigfried’s Mechanical Music Cabinet is a museum of automated musical instruments and more. There are exhibits featuring intricate music boxes, self-playing instruments and vintage jukeboxes.

Rheinstein Castle

The Rheinstein Castle will make you think you walked into a fairytale. Its well-preserved architecture, which is why it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, gives one a sense of medieval Germany. Tour the historic halls, courtyards and gardens complete with period furnishings as well as weaponry and armory.

Brömserburg Castle houses the Rheingau Wine Museum. Learn all about the history of winemaking, the art of viticulture and, of course, sample regional wines.

Boppard, in the Rhine Gorge, is the largest wine town in the central Rhine region. Take advantage of the many wine tours that are offered, and do some of your sampling at Weinhaus Geilig Grab. It is the city’s oldest wine tavern, more than 200 years old, and you can try Rieslings, pinot noirs or Müller-Thurgau.

High on the bluffs are two castles, formerly owned by feuding brothers, Burg Liebenstein and Burg Sterrenberg. Burg Liebenstein is nearly restored and functions as a hotel now.

You can tour Electoral Castle. It is one of the few castles on the Rhine that was not destroyed and then rebuilt. It is on the water’s edge instead of on the hills because castle owners collected tolls on the Rhine. It houses the Thonet Museum which honors the city’s famous furniture maker.

Electoral Castle, Eltville

Koblenz, a UNESCO World Heritage Site because it is the gateway to the Upper Middle Rhine Valley, has some great castle. The gardens and park at Stolzenfels Castle are stunning. It was the summer residence of King of Prussia Friedich Wilhelm IV. Deutsches Eck or German Corner, rises up from the waters where the Rhine and Moselle rivers meet. There’s a 120-foot bronze statue of Kaiser Wilhelm on the land.

Eltz Castle, Koblenz

Ehrenbreitstein Fortress is the second-largest preserved fortress in Europe and the only 19th century Russian fortress left in Europe. It houses several museums including a wine museum as well as archeology, photography and history museums.

Ehrenbreitstein Fortress, Koblenz

Cologne is a major cultural center with dozens of fabulous galleries and museums.

If you are interested in joining GetAway’s Castles on the Rhine group, having us plan your own cruise — or perhaps taking back-to-back cruises, we can be reached at:  (262) 538-2140, e-mail: sue@getaway.travel or paul@getaway.travel

Experience the Magic of Back-to-Back River Cruises in Europe

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For those who love the idea of leisurely exploring Europe’s stunning rivers, back-to-back river cruises are the ultimate way to immerse yourself in the beauty and culture of multiple regions. Imagine drifting from one enchanting city to the next, without the hassle of unpacking, connecting flights, or switching hotels. Whether you’re passionate about history, wine, or simply soaking in the scenery, combining two or more cruises allows you to create a truly unforgettable European adventure.

Double the Adventure, Half the Effort

One of the biggest perks of back-to-back cruises is how easy they make travel. You get to experience multiple itineraries in one seamless vacation, without ever needing to repack or worry about logistics. With smaller, boutique-style river ships, the transition from one journey to the next is effortless, leaving you free to enjoy the adventure at your own pace. This is the perfect solution for travelers who want to make the most of their time without the stress of planning a complicated itinerary.

Explore More of Europe in One Trip

Why settle for just one destination when you can explore more? A back-to-back cruise lets you sail through multiple countries and regions, from the romantic Rhine to the enchanting Danube, all in one extended journey. One week you could be admiring Cologne’s Gothic cathedral, and the next you’re exploring Vienna’s elegant palaces. It’s a chance to see Europe’s most iconic cities and landmarks in one amazing trip, all while traveling in comfort and style.

Best of Both Worlds: Western and Central Europe

A popular option for combining itineraries is the “Castles Along the Rhine” followed by a journey down the Danube. This allows you to experience the charming towns and towering castles of Germany one week, then continue on to the grand capitals of Vienna, Budapest, and beyond the next. It’s the perfect way to enjoy both Western and Central Europe, giving you a taste of different cultures, histories, and landscapes.

Middle Rhine Valley

A Feast for the Senses: French Food & Wine

For foodies and wine lovers, combining river cruises through France’s best regions is a perfect pairing. Imagine starting with a culinary journey through Burgundy and Provence, with stops in Lyon and Avignon, and then continuing on to Bordeaux, the heart of one of the world’s most famous wine regions. From tasting fine wines to savoring gourmet meals, this combination offers a true feast for the senses.

Enjoy the Intimate Luxury of Smaller Ships

One of the most enjoyable aspects of river cruising is the intimate, boutique experience offered on smaller ships. With fewer passengers, you’ll enjoy personalized service and a relaxed atmosphere that’s more akin to staying at a luxury hotel than being on a large ocean liner. This makes extended back-to-back cruises even more appealing, allowing you to unwind and enjoy each leg of your journey without distractions or crowds.

Whether you’re looking to explore Europe’s rivers in depth, indulge in world-class food and wine, or simply relax as you sail through breathtaking landscapes, back-to-back cruises are the perfect way to experience it all. With so much to see and do, these extended journeys offer a leisurely yet luxurious way to discover Europe’s best-kept secrets.

Expert Guidance from GetAway Travel

At GetAway Travel, we specialize in crafting personalized, unforgettable travel experiences, and our expertise in European river cruising is second to none. Whether you’re interested in combining itineraries or looking for the perfect back-to-back cruise, our team is here to help every step of the way. We’ll guide you through selecting the ideal routes, handling logistics, and ensuring you get the most out of your journey. With years of experience in luxury travel, we know how to tailor trips to meet the desires of baby boomer travelers, providing seamless planning and exclusive perks to enhance your European adventure.

Christmas Market River Cruises: A Festive Adventure of a Lifetime!

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🎄✨ Ahoy, holiday adventurers! Ready to sleigh your vacation game? Buckle up (or should we say, hoist the anchor?) for the most magical, twinkling, mulled-wine-sipping journey of your life – a Christmas market river cruise! 🚢🎅

Deck the Decks with Boughs of Holly!

Picture this: You’re gliding along Europe’s enchanted rivers, your cozy ship decked out like Santa’s own luxury liner. As you approach each port, the air sparkles with the scent of roasted chestnuts and the sound of carols. Welcome to your floating winter wonderland!

Christmas Market in Vienna

Christmas Markets: Where Elves Go Shopping!

European Christmas markets aren’t just markets; they’re festive explosions of joy! 💥🎉 Imagine town squares transformed into glittering gingerbread villages, where every stall is a treasure chest of quirky ornaments, scrumptious treats, and gifts so unique, even Santa would be jealous.

Your Sleigh Awaits: Top Cruise Lines for Yuletide Fun

Hold onto your Santa hats as we zoom in on three cruise lines that’ll jingle your bells:

1. Uniworld: The Fancy-Pants Christmas Experience

Uniworld doesn’t just do Christmas; they deck the halls with glitz and glamour!

Unique Sparkle: Their “Taste of Christmas” program. Forget boring old cooking classes – here, you’ll be whipping up Yuletide treats alongside chefs so jolly, they might actually be elves. German Stollen? Austrian Linzer cookies? You’ll be the star baker of the North Pole in no time!

2. Avalon Waterways: Choose Your Own Christmas Adventure

Avalon says, “Why settle for one Christmas when you can have them all?”

Unique Jingle: Avalon Choice®. It’s like a Christmas adventure buffet! Fancy a guided tour with commentary so merry it’ll make your bells ring? Or perhaps you’re more of a “blend-in-with-the-locals-and-accidentally-join-a-carol-flash-mob” type? With Avalon, your Christmas story is in your hands!

3. AmaWaterways: Pedal Your Way to Christmas Joy

AmaWaterways knows the best way to earn that second helping of Christmas pudding.

Unique Tinsel: Christmas market e-bike tours! 🚲⚡ That’s right, folks – zoom from stall to stall on your very own electric sleigh (bike). It’s all the Christmas fun with zero guilt about that extra mug of eggnog. Plus, you might just overtake Santa’s reindeer!

The Ho-Ho-Holiday of a Lifetime

Imagine waking up every day in a new Christmas card-perfect town. One day you’re waltzing in Vienna, the next you’re clinking Glühwein in Nuremberg. It’s like someone stuffed all of Europe’s best bits into one fabulous Christmas stocking!

Back on board, the party never stops. Feast on gourmet goodies that’ll make your taste buds sing carols, enjoy entertainment so festive it puts Rudolph to shame, and make merry with fellow travelers who’ll become your new Christmas squad.

Rudolph (the dog)

So, are you ready to sleigh this holiday season? Don’t be a Grinch – book that Christmas market river cruise and prepare for a yuletide adventure that’ll make even the elves envious. It’s not just a holiday; it’s a ho-ho-whole new level of Christmas magic! 🎄🚢✨

Cologne: castles, cathedrals and beyond the city

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This 2,000-year-old city spans the Rhine and its cathedral is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Spelled like the French world for perfume, the German pronunciation of the city is Köln.

There are fabulous examples of Gothic architecture and opportunities to peruse some great museums and tour some pretty cool castles within a stone’s throw of the city. Pop over to Cologne if you’re visiting Belgium or Luxembourg. Maybe make it a stop if you are considering a cruise on the Rhine. If you are interested in a visit to Cologne, GetAway Travel can map out a great adventure for you!

One of Europe’s most stunning cathedrals

 Cologne Cathedral is one of the most visited tourist sites in Europe. Construction on the cathedral, which is the seat of the archbishop of Cologne, started in 1248, and then stalled for almost 300 years so construction took 600 or so years!

The twin-spired high Gothic marvel of architecture dominates the city skyline. It is the world’s third largest Gothic-style cathedral and it took more than 300,000 tons of stone to construct. It has the largest facade of any church in the world.

Christmas Market in front of Cologne Cathedral

One of the most important pilgrimage sites in Northern Europe, it is host to the Shrine of Three Kings. Perched on the high altar is a massive gold shrine that is said to contain relics of the Magi. It is thought to be one of the finest examples of medieval gold work that is available for viewing. The vaulted ceilings are breathtaking, but it is the Richter window that makes visitors gape in wonder.

Stain glass in Cologne Cathedral

The 515-high window in the southern transept contains 11,000 hand-blown panels in 72 different colors. The other 14th century windows in the cathedral are also impressive. Along with the historic furnishings, such as the choirs stalls that were carved from 1308 to 1311, there is also a modern bronze altar created by Elmar Hillebrand between 1960 and 1971.

St. Martin Church, Cologne

There are at least a dozen other churches in the city including St. Martin Church, a Romanesque church with lovely stained glass windows. St. Maria in Kapital Church is another great example of Romanesque architecture with beautiful frescoes.

 An eclectic mix of museums

 The Museum Ludwig is next to the cathedral. Chocolatier and industrialist Peter Ludwig gave his name to this museum which features an amazing collection of modern art. The third largest collection of Picassos in the world is here. There are pieces by Salvador Dali and Roy Lichtenstein as well as multi-media exhibitions, photography and sculptures.

Farina Fragrance Museum – can you smell it?

The Farina Fragrance Museum has been in existence since 1709 and is one of the oldest perfume museums in the world. Several floors detail the complex process of creating a fragrance from start to finish. Create your own!

The Wallraf Richartz Museum has art pieces from medieval times to the 20th century and you can find modern and classic Christian artwork in the Kolumba museum. The Schnütgen Museum also has Christian artwork as well as prints and textiles from medieval to modern times.

Who doesn’t want to go to a chocolate museum?

And when you need a break from artwork and artifacts, track the 5,000-year history of chocolate making at the Chocolate Museum. Yes, there’s a chocolate fountain, several gift shops, you can make your own creations and museum staff offers samples to visitors along the tours.

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Experience the joy of the season at European Christmas Markets

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While it’s true there’s no place like home for the holidays, there’s no reason why you can’t start your holidays at one or more of the fabulous Christmas markets held all over Europe. This year when you gather for the holidays, start thinking about making some new holiday memories starting with a fabulous getaway that includes some stops at Christmas markets. Your travel advisors at GetAway can plan your trip including some stops for shopping and enjoying some new holiday experiences. 

 Markets got their start in Vienna 

 Christmas markets are street markets designed to celebrate the holiday during the four weeks of Advent leading up to and sometimes, depending on which country you are in, past Christmas into January. They are thought to have originated in Vienna, but were made popular in Germany. 

Vienna, Austria, City Centre Christmas Market

The first Christmas market supposedly was in 1296 in December when Emperor Albrecht I of Austria granted shopkeepers a one-to-two day market so the townspeople could stock up before the winter. Christmas markets are held in town squares and the little, decorated wooden stalls offer arts and crafts items, candles, toys, Christmas decorations and figurines as well as food and drinks. Some town halls transform into giant Advent calendars with different windows lighted each night. 

Nutcrackers in Rudesheim Germany Christmas Market

Now, virtually every country including Germany, Denmark, France, Austria, Portugal, Spain and England have Christmas markets. So your GetAway advisor can plan plenty of sightseeing in a country and have your trip end with a fantastic Christmas market experience. You can fill that second empty suitcase you brought with your holiday gifts, and, of course, a couple of items for yourself! 

 Festive sights, sounds and food 

 The most famous Christmas market is in Vienna, which actually has a dozen or more markets located throughout the city. The largest market is in Rathausplatz, in the square facing Vienna City Hall. Markets in Vienna are, well, grand — like the residents strive to match the fabulous, grand architecture of the city. There’s lots of light displays and Rathausplatz has an ice skating rink. And, just a note, when markets are described as having stalls with items, we are taking upwards of 200 stalls. 

Christmas Market Mainz, Germany

Markets, no matter what city in what country, serve a variation of gluhwein. Gluhwein is hot mulled wine spiced with cloves, anise, cinnamon and citrus fruits. Red wine is the most prevalent, but you can find it done with white wine. There is usually a version of apple cider if you want a non-alcoholic beverage and, of course, hot cocoa. Gluhwein, where ever you are, is served in a mug which you put a deposit on. You can return for a refill, or keep the mug for the price of the small deposit. They make great keepsake souvenirs. 

Make sure to go to the markets hungry. In France, where you should wait until dusk to go shopping because the twinkling lights are magical, you can get oysters, champagne, caviar, poutine and freshly grilled meat. 

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