Destination Spotlight: Munich, Germany

Did you know that today marks 5 months until Christmas?  In honor of those who have been counting down the days to Christmas 2015 since December 26th, 2014 (you know who you are), as well as a friend's upcoming trip to Germany, this Destination Spotlight is dedicated to one of my top 3 favorite cities in Europe that truly shines during the Christmas season: Munchen, or, in English, Munich!  I was lucky to visit Munich twice, each time during the Christmas season when the city's Christkindlmarkt (Christmas Market) was taking place; the smell of fresh lebkuchen (gingerbread) paired with gluhwein (warm mulled wine), the sight of children (and me) ice skating in the seasonal rinks and everyone shopping for handmade decorations and toys.....these are just some of the reasons why I love visiting Munich at this time of the year, and what I would like to share with you!

One fun and unique yet lesser known Christmas celebration in Munich is the Tollwood Festival.  Side note/fun fact: Tollwood is held in the same location as Oktoberfest!  I visited the Tollwood Festival at night, so it was pretty to see the bright holiday lights contrasted with the white snow.  Just as with the Marienplatz location, this Christmas market was filled with people mixing and mingling; however, Tollwood has an international influence and features both local cuisine and regional handicrafts as well as those from other countries.  This is one example of how Munich really has become a city that focuses on the future while retaining its heritage.

After you've had your fill of holiday sweets and treats, take an excursion to Nymphenburg Palace which is located on the outskirts of the city and was the main summer residence of Bavaria's rulers.  The palace's grounds are quite extensive, and a walk around them is a beautiful way to feel a little less guilty about indulging in Deutschland's delicacies.  While on your walk, don't forget to look for Christmas trees located on the various staircase landings!



Munich's Marienplatz plays host to the city's largest Christkindlmarkt that is located in front of the Town Hall.  It's a festive scene, and I enjoyed seeing both locals and visitors come together to drink gluhwein around makeshift tables surrounded by traditional decor.  There isn't an air of commercialism like with our Christmas in the States; it's more about camaraderie and celebrating the season in an authentic and delicious way!



Camaraderie and delicious are also words that describe the scene at Munich's famed Hofbrauhaus, which serves a Bavarian feast combined with a side of holiday decor in the restaurant's blue and gold colors; you'll find patrons sitting at long tables and enjoying their beer underneath festively decorated wreaths.  Prost to the (upcoming) holidays!