On Friday the 16th, Birgitte, Ole, and I packed up the car for a weekend of fulling indulging in Christmas... in Hamburg, Germany. I had heard about how wonderful German Christmas markets are, and was extremely excited when it was decided that we would go to the markets as a family. Hamburg is a lovely city; with nice architecture, and a lively spirit. It was a fantastic weekend in Germany due to the terrific company as well as all the Christmas cheer.
A Christmas market is basically a designated area where merchants set up festive stalls to sell wares or food (particularly Glühwein - a hot spiced red wine). My first impression was that they look like what I would imagine a Santa's village to look like.
With the large amount of Christmas cheer, decorations, potential gifts, and seasonal food that initial observation is not too far from the truth.
If you are ever in Hamburg, you must go to the city hall and take a tour. With the tour you get to go behind the impressive doors to see ebony banisters, marble, precious metals, exquisite detail, and the best show of power that money could buy at the time of the hall's construction.
Despite the cold, it was a fantastic weekend with Ole and Birgitte. As always, I can not thank them enough for allowing me into their family and for sharing great adventures with me.
Glædelig Jul!
Merry Christmas!
