Emilia-Romagna might be Italy’s top foodie destination, but it is also home to a hidden gem called Ravenna. This small city on the Adriatic coast became capital of the Roman Empire in the 5th century. Byzantine artists flocked there and went wild, blanketing churches and tombs with vivid mosaics. Eight of these structures still stand […]
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A Guide to the Wonderful Winchester Christmas Market
The Winchester Christmas Market is not only one of the best in the United Kingdom, it’s one of my favorites in Europe. Held on the grounds of Winchester Cathedral, this charming market is a must if you are visiting the UK for the holidays. There are around 120 wooden chalets packed into courtyards around the […]
A Guide to the Düsseldorf Christmas Market
Düsseldorf is the capital of Germany’s North Rhine-Westphalia region and is a major hub for the banking and fashion industries. But from late-November to the end of December, this sleek urban landscape is transformed for the Düsseldorf Christmas Market. Hundreds of wooden chalets are spread around the city, with a large concentration in the Altstadt, […]
A Guide to the Aachen Christmas Market
Aachen, Germany is famous for three things: Charlemagne, a 1,200-year-old cathedral, and gingerbread. It is also home to one of the most charming Christmas markets in Germany. Dozens of stalls surround the cathedral and town hall, once part of Charlemagne’s royal palace. Twinkling lights and the aroma of warm spices create an irresistibly festive atmosphere […]
When the Cows Come Home in Annecy, France
The Annecy Cow Festival is one of my favorite cultural events from around the world. Held on the second Saturday of October, it celebrates the return of the cows from their summer pastures. The cattle make their ascent in June and graze happily all summer. Then in autumn, back down the mountain they come. This […]