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TR A VEL

the largest one in all the world continues date back to the 15th century. Located in a constant reminder of the reason for the
to rank as one of our favorites. the Old Town of this charming city, tradi- celebration in the first place.
tional huts line the perimeters and fill the
Officially known as the Rathausplatz centers of the squares. Both the distinctive
Christkindlmarkt, this market is an Austri- starry sky lighting that hovers over the While we spent the majority of our time in
an icon that dates back to the 18th cen- markets and the regular pealing of church Switzerland and Austria, there are Christ-
tury and is located near Vienna’s historic bells only adds to the sensory overload of mas markets throughout Europe. If you
City Hall and attracts nearly three million the aromas of fresh baked goods, mulled decide to spend a Christmas holiday in
visitors each holiday. One hundred booths wines, and other delights. Europe for the first time, here are some
lead up to and surround the often bustling things to keep in mind. The first is that
ice rink, and the neighboring park is dec- While each of the Christmas markets we most markets generally open at the start
orated with elaborate festive lights as are visited has its unique appeal, there are of Advent, which is December 1st and will
so many of the neighborhoods in Vien- several things they all have in common. remain open until Christmas. Some will
na. The unique background of City Hall’s Even the casual observer cannot overlook remain open until the New Year. Online
Gothic towers gives this market a charm the strong family ties that exist among the schedule information is readily available.
of its own. One can spend hours circling generations as the local residents partici- Depending on the city, some markets
through the booths filled with handmade pate in long worn traditions. will be heavily visited, so plan according-
items, nativity sets, and other religious ly. While we prefer to visit markets on our
mementoes, ornaments, and a variety of Despite the heavy consumption of gluh- own schedule, market tours are available
culinary delights. wein, glogg, and other customary liba- which might accommodate a brief stay in
tions, in and around the markets, everyone a particular city. In any event, you will not
Not to be outdone, the Christmas mar- is able to enjoy the moment and remain be disappointed. The only thing missing
kets in Salzburg can be stiff competition well behaved. Finally, in every market on this trip was a little snow which arrived
for those in Vienna. Its premier markets one will find a wide variety of nativity sets shortly after we returned home. Maybe
in Residenzplatz and Cathedral Square and other religious symbols that serve as next time!

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