We're going to Germany!

So, we've been enduring the cold weather while our bodies are expecting summer... and it's only going to get colder! So what do you do? Make the most of what Australia doesn't have! In this case, we are heading to Germany, to visit the lovely Christmas markets in Munich. We are going the weekend of 11-12 December, and are looking forward to sampling the lovely Gluewein (warm wine) and other delicious German Christmas favourites.

I am, of course, particularly looking forward to practising my German again, and riding the trams, while Peter is envisioning the beer and yummy German food. If we're lucky, it will also be a white Munich, something else to look forward to (if not rug up for)..

The Christmas markets in Germany (and in other countries - they are just most well known in Germany) have a long tradition (from about the 14th century). In Munich, there are four different Christmas markets, not to mention countless others in neighbouring towns. The major market is in Marienplatz, with a 30-metre decorated Christmas tree in the market place. The manger market specialises in nativity scenes, while the other Christmas markets are dotted around the suburbs in Munich. The markets sell a huge variety of Christmas-related products. Tree decorations are, of course, very popular, but at the markets you'll also find lots of different types of candles, nutcrackers, ornaments to create your own Christmas scene, ceramic or wooden, toys, all imaginable types of Chrissie craftwork, bottles of Gluehwein, ... The Marienplatz market has over 140 stands.

And, no market is complete without Christmas treats. Generally, all markets offer Lebkuchen (gingerbread), in packets or individual personalised hearts or circles of Lebkuchen, roasted almonds and Bretzel (bread pretzels). In Munich, local specialties include baked apples, Springerle (aniseed-flaboured biscuits), Schmalzgebaeck (deep fried cakes), and, of course, all kinds of sausages! There are also Christmas carols performed over the course of every evening.

The link provides a more detailed description (in English!) of Munich and its markets.