So, summer's over, and it's only a matter of time until we see our high-street shops filled with festive goods. Lavish windows adorned with red and green tinsel, shelves loaded with Christmas gifts and the tinkle of carols fill the air. It’s the same story each year.
May we suggest something a little different? Purchase unique family gifts, soak up a different atmosphere and experience a different culture. Book a short trip away to one of our suggested destinations and enjoy the festive season at one of the following Christmas markets:
Brussels Winter Wonderland
Held in a stunning setting, the Brussels Winter Wonderland Christmas Market provides a wonderful festive atmosphere, complete with illuminations, giant Christmas tree, an ice rink and over 200 exhibitors from across Europe.
http://www.belgiumtheplaceto.be/christmas_markets_20072008.php Bath Christmas Market
Each year, the historical spa town of Bath hosts its Christmas market, attracting hoards of visitors looking for a memorable seasonal experience. Located in the main shopping area, the market boasts unique handmade gifts, toiletries, toys, locally sourced food and drink and much, much more.
http://www.bathchristmasmarket.co.uk/Winter Wonderland Hyde Park
Rated as one of the best Christmas markets in Europe, Hyde Park’s Winter Wonderland is situated in the heart of London and last year attracted over half a million visitors. Skate on the ice rink, visit Santa, sip gluhwein, and don’t forget to buy your Christmas gifts!
http://www.hydeparkwinterwonderland.com/Prague Christmas Market
Around Christmas time, the gothic city of Prague comes alive with festive fun. The main Christmas markets are scattered around Wenceslas Square and the Old Town Square and run daily. Relax with the seasonal sounds of Christmas carols whilst absorbing the breathtaking atmosphere.
http://www.pragueexperience.com/events/christmas_markets.aspSchonbrunn Christmas Market – Vienna
Said to be one of the most popular markets in Vienna, the Schonbrunn Christmas Market delights visitors with its Austrian crafted products, special atmosphere and activities designed to keep children entertained. Visitors might also like to take the Christmas in Schonbrunn Guided Tour.
http://www.weihnachtsmarkt.co.at/engl/kinder.htmlLille Christmas Market
From mid-November, through to the end of December, Lille hosts a popular Christmas market. The idyllic town of Lille is the perfect venue for this festive market and provides visitors with Christmas entertainment, delicious French delicacies and numerous arts and craft stalls.
http://www.frenchconnections.co.ukLuxury hotels in Brussels:Metropole HotelBedford Hotel & Congress CentreLuxury Hotels in Bath:The Bath PrioryMacdonald Bath Spa HotelLuxury Hotels in London:The Landmark LondonGrosvenor HouseLuxury Hotels in Prague:
Ambassador Zlata HusaEsplanade Hotel PragueLuxury Hotels in Vienna:
Hotel ImperialHotel Bristol