Travel for a German Christmas

by Edward Cardona

Normally, I prefer to travel to warmer climates in winter, so why would you want to go to Germany in December?  I went to experience the German Christmas Market. 

Christmas Markets Are Unique

December is the only time you experience the feeling of a German Christmas. So, what do you need to do? First, it is best to research the best time to visit. I prefer between December first and the sixteenth, because you can save on travel expenses before the holiday rush. To get the full experience, I recommend a ten day or more trip. All cities and towns have a market, but the small villages' Christmas Markets are only open Friday, Saturday, and Sunday evenings. Larger cities markets are open every evening during the season ending December 23rd. I enjoyed the several markets this past Christmas.  Heidelberg is now a town for students and tourists.  That is who you meet there.    Ladenburg’s market has few tourists if any.  The people of the city come out to meet and greet each other.  It has a nice community atmosphere.  Deidesheim is where German tourists visit and the streets are packed like sardines.  Mannheim’s market has become more commercialized, but I still like it.  We have nothing like any of these that I know of.  

Dress In Layers

So, you want to go! Pack so you can dress in layers. I like a light wind proof jacket with a hood for plane travel while the long-johns, sweater, fleece cap, gloves, and wool socks are tucked away in the suitcase.  

Good Light Capturing Camera

Though, the most important item is a good camera. In order to capture the essence of the experience one needs a good light capturing camera. It could be a point-and-shoot, a DSLR (Digital Single Lens Reflex), or something in between. But, most of all know how to use your camera. Now, I said light capturing, yes, many of your pictures will be at night so test your camera in poor light. A good camera person at a reputable camera shop can help immensely in this endeavor.  

Tripod

Lastly, you will need something to steady the camera, large or small, like a tripod or bean-bag. Tripods come in many sizes. Use the appropriate size for the camera you have chosen. Some tripods have legs that will wrap around a pole would be great for a point-and-shoot camera.  If you have a DSLR, a bean-bag is good to hold the lens up and cushion the camera body.  

Enjoy your trip! 

Edward Cardona