Munich might be best known for its Oktoberfest beer celebration, but it also throws one heck of a party at Christmastime. The historic city center is given a holiday makeover with traditional market stalls and festive lights. Revelers pack the pretty squares, glühwein mugs and bratwurst sandwiches in hand. Ready to join them? Here’s my […]
Europe
A Wonderful Weekend in Toulouse, Albi, & Carcassonne
Toulouse is France’s fourth largest city, but you wouldn’t know it to walk around its historic center. The narrow, winding streets and red brick architecture make it feel more like a medieval hilltop village. And yet its many university students impart a young artsy vibe. The city is packed with coffee shops, wine bars, restaurants, […]
Kew Gardens Day Trip: A Beautiful London Escape
While technically still within London’s city limits, Kew Gardens feels a world away. The vast park is nestled in the leafy Richmond suburb along a southwest bend of the River Thames. Thanks to convenient train access, a Kew Gardens day trip is an easy and relaxing way to escape the hustle and bustle of Central […]
Two Days in Munich: An Itinerary for Culture Lovers
Munich is the capital of Bavaria, the second largest state in Germany. Until 1918, Bavaria was an independent kingdom ruled by the House of Wittelsbach. These dukes and kings were very wealthy and it shows in their former residences and art collections. Locals remain proud of their regional heritage, so much so that signs at […]
A Guide to the Magical Nuremberg Christmas Market
Nobody does Christmas like the Germans. Perhaps it’s because they came up with the Christmas market idea in the Middle Ages and have had plenty of time to perfect the tradition. The Nuremberg Christmas Market, considered one of the best in Germany, dates back to the early 1600s. There are actually three distinct holiday markets […]