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A Christmas in Europe
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.
Many Christmas traditions take place on Christmas
Eve since many countries in Europe celebrate the
arrival of Santa Claus on this holiday evening.
Families will head to church to listen to the
Christmas story and sing hymns that are only heard
at this time of year. After the church service is
over, families will head home for a huge Christmas
celebration which usually involves plenty of food
and the opening of gifts. The festivities linger long
into the night as people sit by warm fires visiting
with each other.
Christmas Day is spent relaxing and followed by a
big fancy evening dinner. As in North America,
almost all shops are closed on Christmas Day to
allow friends and family to relax and enjoy each
other~s company.
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.
You may find that flights to Europe are cheaper if
you travel in the week after New Years, since by
then Christmas is over and cities are getting back
into the groove of daily life. You can count on the
holiday celebration lasting throughout the month of
December so no matter time of the month that you
go you~ll be able to participate in the many
Christmas activities.
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