Christmas Markets (Christkindl Markets)

A European tradition that goes back centuries and is becoming popular in the US, Christmas markets are a staple for many people’s holiday. If you go to a larger city near you, though, it’s likely you’ll find one. A simple Google search for Christmas markets around a number of large cities revealed that almost every city seems to have one. Some are certainly larger than others and some are more established, but this is a great way to spend an evening. Getting chilled by the cold winter air, warmed by fire, and drinking warm wine or hot chocolate is basically my ideal evening.

Christmas markets are a perfect idea for Christmas family activities.

Concerts

Christmas concerts are such a staple of the holiday that entire bands exist to do nothing but that. If you’ve never done a Christmas concert, I truly recommend it, they are a blast! They are also plentiful. Here are some things to look for around you:

• Check out the local college or university hosting a concert with their music program.
• If you live near a city with its own philharmonic or symphony orchestra, without a doubt they will host a Christmas concert.
• Touring bands, like the Trans-Siberian Orchestra or Mannheim Steamroller are legendary for their Holiday concert series. Look up their tour dates and see if one comes near you.

Light Displays

Obviously, Christmas lights are one of the defining characteristics of the season. For many years now, public spaces like zoos and botanical gardens have been hosting illumination events that last the month of December. These events are all over the place and often get missed by people because they just didn’t see the flyer. These are often a fun evening of walking paths and some hot chocolate as you take in lighting display that would leave Clark Griswald feeling inadequate.

Don’t overcomplicate it – even taking a walk down the street makes for perfect Christmas Family Activities

Theater

Your first thought here is probably for the movies, which is certainly an option, but that’s not what I was referring to. What I mean is going to see a live performance of something like A Christmas Carol, The Nutcracker, or any of the countless Christmas themed plays that pop up every year all over the place. When I was a kid, my dad took my brother and I to see both The Christmas Carol and The Nutcracker (they were different years, to be clear). I still remember those evenings nearly thirty years later.

Ouch. I just wrote that sentence…

Regardless, I remember them, with great fondness and love. What I don’t remember much is going to see a movie near Christmas, which we also did. There’s nothing quite like a live performance to really capture your imagination and create a memory that lasts.

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If you have never been to Universal Studios and Island of Adventure in Orlando for the Holidays, you need to go! You will step into an exhilarating world of holiday magic as soon as you step into the park!  

Your yuletide journey starts as soon as you enter your hotel. From Christmas to Hanukkah to New Year’s, each Universal Hotel is adorned with festive décor that sparks holiday cheer. Hotel guests will enjoy exclusive theme park benefits as well.  

The enchantment intensifies as you walk through a canopy of shimmering lights in both Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure. Witness the spectacular transformation, as every corner mirrors the joy of the holiday season. You will feel as if you’ve been transported to the town of your favorite classic holiday movie.  There will be ice skating, carolers singing and fairy lights everywhere.  

The Park doesn’t disappoint with its holiday treats. There will be exclusive food and drinks available throughout the parks as well as Universal CityWalk.  There will be specialty Holiday Cocktails as well.  Make sure you try an Earl’s Salted Caramel Hot Chocolate Acorn bomb! 

Minions!

Universal Studios Florida Holiday Parade

If you can’t get to NYC for the Macy’s Parade, don’t worry. In the evening you can enjoy Universal’s Holiday Parade. The holiday parade features Macy’s larger than life balloons. You will see your favorite characters from Shrek and the Madagascar films. As well as Minions from Despicable Me. You can see the parade each night along the streets of Universal Studios Florida. And you don’t have to bundle up in your winter coat!

Harry Potter!

Christmas with Harry Potter

Christmas in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter will make you feel like you have been transported to Hogsmeade when Harry when Harry Potter celebrated his first Christmas at Hogwarts with friends. The streets of Hogsmeade in Universal Islands of Adventure and Diagon Alley in Universal Studios Florida are brightly decorated. Ride the Hogwarts express between the two parks (a Park-to-Park pass is required). The Magic of Christmas at Hogwarts Castle  will mesmerize you with the evening light show and fireworks display. Don’t forget to enjoy a Butterbear while listening to the Frog Choir! 

Universal Studios Seuss Landing

Seuss Landing in Universal’s Islands of Adventure is decorated with the charm of Dr. Seuss’s WhoVille where you get to hang out with the resident Whos. Don’t miss the Grinchmas Who-liday Spectacular, a live show featuring The Grinch and his story.  The show is full of music, dance and Grinch “who-jinks”. You might be able to meet The Grinch himself for a photo opportunity. 

A visit during this season promises nothing less than a spectacular, unforgettable festive treat at Universal Studios Orlando! 

Jurassic Park

While it might not be as Christmas-y, don’t miss the new Jurassic Park Velocicoaster Roller Coaster!

Universal Studios Resorts

Universal has many resorts, from budget to luxury. All include easy access to Universal Studios Orlando. Certain resorts offer free Express Unlimited passes for everyone in the party, making them an exceptional value. The Universal Express Pass can range in price from $135 to $330 per person per day. The $330 is for Saturdays during the holidays and during high season. 

Save money when we help you find the perfect package of resort and park tickets for your family.

Take a free water taxi to the Parks from Select Resorts

We at Far Far Away Travels are here to help you in making your Holiday vacation at Universal Studios Florida memorable for your entire family.  

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Condé Nast Traveler named Chicago the best American big city to visit. Not only did they rave about Chicago, but they also hailed it as one of the ultimate holiday season destinations – and we’re wholeheartedly on board with that! So, without further ado, here’s our guide to Christmas in Chicago!

Bursting with boundless energy, a Chicago holiday season is unlike any other. Here are some of our cherished Chicago holiday events and traditions! With its vast array of top-notch restaurants and bars, spectacular museums, shopping havens, and exhilarating events, your Christmas in Chicago will surely help you make great memories. Thanksgiving in Chicago is fabulous too! 

Christkindlmarkt are always a magical experience you don’t want to miss!

The European Christmas Market in Chicago

Chicago has a European-style Christmas market! We think the Christmas market is a must visit for any Chicago visitor. Officially called Christkindlmarkt, the original is on Daly Plaza, although two other locations have been added as well. Modeled after the European Christmas markets, it has vendors from Germany. Looking for Krampus items? You will find them here! 

And not only can you buy great holiday gifts and ornaments, but it’s also a fun place for a drink or a snack. You will find candies, cookies, pretzels, potato pancakes, sausages, and more.  You must try the gluhwein, a mulled wine you can get in an adorable souvenir mug.

Once you Have enjoyed the Market, it’s only a couple of blocks to Macy’s where you can check out the famous holiday tradition, the Macy’s holiday window displays.  

Chicago Christmas Shows

Of course, you can see A Christmas Carol and the Nutcracker, but there is also Christmas with C.S. Lewis and plenty of other holiday shows.

And if you have been wanting to see Hamilton, it is back through January 28.

If the symphony is more your speed, make sure to check out the perennial favorite at the Chicago Symphony Orchestra.

Christmas Parades

Chicago has terrific parades. We love the Magnificent Mile Lights Festival on November 23^th, because they light the magical lights on Michigan Avenue as the parade proceeds south; but the Thanksgiving Day parade is awesome too.  

Always on the first Sunday in December, make sure you don’t miss the Chicagoland Toys for Tots Motorcycle Parade, which helps do fundraising for the Toys for Tots charity which helps bring joy into the lives of underprivileged children across the country. Motorcyclists are encouraged to join, with the entry fee just being an unwrapped toy donation. 

Less a parade, but no less spectacular, check out the Morton Arboretum’s Illumination display. 

New Year’s Eve

Finally, New Year’s Eve always brings great fireworks off Navy Pier. These fireworks can be enjoyed by anyone with a clear view of the pier, but you can get up close and personal on the pier itself. 

If you’re the party type, a lot of Chicago hotels hold New Year’s parties, but perhaps the biggest, most famous of them is the one held at The Drake Hotel, just off Michigan Avenue.

Chicago’s many bars and restaurants also will be hosting their own parties. There are so many choices, you’ll have a hard time just choosing one! 

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A white Christmas is not your speed? Looking to escape the winter blues? Or are you just looking to take advantage of the kids being off of school for a while? Change the Christmas trees for palms and consider one of the many popular destinations for a Christmas vacation.

Cruising for a Tropical Christmas

While last-minute cruise deals are much harder to find than in the past, they still exist. You do need to be flexible as to dates and cabins. 

Virgin Voyages Bimini Beach is beautiful.

Richard Branson’s new cruise line is winning every award in sight and they do things differently. Virgin Voyages has done away with the main dining room and buffet; every night is specialty dining with 20+ eateries.  And there is no extra charge for any of them! Virgin fares include crew gratuities, wi-fi, group fitness classes, gelato-style ice cream, and much more.  No one under 18 allowed but adults are encouraged to embrace their inner child. Virgin sails the Caribbean out of Miami. Contact us about December sailings, and we will put together some special offers not available by booking directly through the website.

Celebrity Cruises, the upscale cruise line known for its food and excellent service, still has space.  When you sail in December you enjoy traditional holiday meals created by a Michelin-starred chef and decorating with no prep or cleanup. You experience festive holiday shows and carolers. Everyone gets to enjoy downtime during the holidays to spend with those who matter most. Corks pop on New Year’s Eve.

We love Princess Cruises because it not only offers a high-quality cruise experience, but also lets us help you pile up the perks. The December 16 sailing of the new Sky Princess looks especially fun for a tropical Christmas. If booking Princess be sure to consider the high-value Princess Plus add-on.

A Hawaiian Tropical Christmas

If you’re looking to stay in the U.S. for Christmas, look no further than Hawaii for a tropical Christmas vacation.

Hawaii Wants Visitors

After the devasting Maui wildfires, tourism to Hawaii has understandably declined.  As a result, flights and accomodations are much more inexpensive than usual.

Now the islands are asking for the support of the traveling community and are making excellent travel offers for the holiday season. Also, you can our Best Hawaiian Travel Tips. We also share how to choose the best Hawaiian island to visit.

Christmas in Mexico

Because of its strong Christian traditions, Mexico is a fantastic place to get into the Christmas spirit without dealing with the Christmas weather.

A Tropical Christmas in Brazil

As another strongly Catholic nation, Brazil knows how to do Christmas. While not as famous as their Lent celebration, Carnival, there is a lot to do in Brazil for Christmas. And the weather is warm enough to hit the beaches.

Attending a “Missa do Galo” (Midnight Mass) at one of Rio’s historic churches, such as Candelária Church or the Metropolitan Cathedral can be ver memorable.

Merry Christmas for the Santa Chamelon

Subdued Tropical Christmas Choices

If you are looking for a relaxing tropical vacation with fewer Christmas-themed festivities, consider traveling to some of the non-Christian parts of the world. Malaysia and Vietnam offer beautiful views and beaches without decking the halls.

Ready for More Great Travel Tips?

We share our favorite travel secrets and tips every week. You can see them all here.

The post You Can Still Have a Tropical Christmas in 2024 appeared first on Far Far Away Travels.

Where and When?

European Christmas markets can be found throughout northern Europe in Germany, Austria, France, Norway, Italy, Belgium, Scandinavia, the Netherlands, and the even the United Kingdom. Generally, they run from mid-November to a few days before Christmas. However, a few will run until New Year’s.  We use this helpful annual guide to make sure the ones we want to visit are open when we go.

Our favorite country for European Christmas markets is Germany. After all, Germany is the country that developed most of the traditions that Americans follow for celebrating Christmas.

Fairy Tale Dioramas In Lubeck Germany

What Will You Find at a Christmas Market?

Every market has a distinct vibe. Some are very child-oriented with carnival rides for the kids. Others are high-end shopping extravaganzas.  There are medieval themed Christmas markets, which are great fun. We saw one in Lubeck that featured adorable fairy tale dioramas.

In many traditional markets, especially in smaller towns, there will be at least one vendor selling household goods.  Of course, most will sell beautiful ornaments for your Christmas tree.  And it is a rare German Christmas market where you don’t see vendors selling giant Gingerbread necklaces with sayings in frosting like “Princess” or “I love you.”

You’ll see stands like this everywhere

Christmas Market Food and Drink

There will be food, almost always with vendors roasting sausages and wurst. Usually, there will be fried fish and vegetarian options. Try a flammkuchen, a flatbread usually topped with cheese, onions, and ham. Of course, you can get them topped with a variety of other items. By the way, you will often see a German favorite, currywurst. We are not fans.

You will find baked goods, including German pretzels, usually called bretzels.

Most markets will have stollen, gingerbread, and marzipan. Oddly, you will probably not find peppermint candy canes. But don’t fret, there are so many other treats.

Be aware the some of the treats are regional in nature, so you may not find everything we mention here at every market.

One of our favorites is a delightful sugar dough treat called Baumstriezel, also known as Chimney Cake. Picture this– spiraling wisps of yeasted dough, twirled lovingly around a cylindrical spit, and baked till it hits that golden brown sweet spot. You end up with a confection that’s caramelized just right on the outside and fluffily soft on the inside! Don’t blame us if you’re left wanting more!

The Divine Baumstreizel

And you MUST try the ubiquitous warm gluhwein, which is mulled wine. You can add a shot of rum or other liquors to make it even better. While there will be many outdoor stands, some will have a big indoor tent or temporary building where you can sit and warm up. The significant consumption of gluhwein appears to be the point of many Christmas markets. It does warm your tummy!

What’s The Best Way to Visit Christmas Markets?

We think the very best way is to take a special river cruise with a Christmas market itinerary. Imagine waking up each morning in a new town with new markets to explore! No packing and unpacking as your hotel is your transportation.

We love AMAWaterways which offers many Christmas market cruises. If you have never taken an AMAWaterways river cruise, you can read about our experiences here.

Popular Viking cruises also offers many Christmas Market itineraries.

Christmas Markets to Consider

Trier, Koblenz, and Mainz are particularly famous and are large markets. We loved the several markets in the charming Lubeck in northern Germany. Berlin has MANY markets to choose from and we have gone to most of them! In fact, if you tire of Berlin’s, Potsdam and Dresden are short train rides away so you can visit more. We also enjoyed markets in Erfurt and Weimar.

Strasbourg is a charming French town along the Rhine featured on many river cruises. It is a picture-perfect town for a Christmas market visit. And of course, there is the famous Romantic Road with lovely markets.

We hope you love these best Christmas markets in Europe as much as we do.

Ready for More Great Travel Tips?

We share our favorite travel secrets and tips every week. You can see them all here.

While you’re in Europe, visit some Great Art in Paris not the Louvre.

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Our Best Travel Gift: Travel Journals

For the traveler who loves to explore, a great gift is a travel journal. It’s a great way to document your experiences and capture all the special moments from your trip. Travel journals are the perfect “Bon Voyage” gift for your traveler friend. Of course, you can always buy one for yourself. We think travel journals are the best travel gifts.

Peter Pauper Press creates beautiful small books, including gorgeous journals like these. This company is a small U.S. business which has been family owned and operated since 1928. We think they are very inexpensive for the quality. While we have featured some examples below, there are many choices you can consider here.

Passport Holder — A Great Travel Gift

Passport holders are essential for any globe-trotting traveler, and we make sure ours do more than just keep your passport safe. The ones we prefer are designed with convenience and security in mind, offering plenty of space for cash, credit cards, and boarding passes, while also providing a secure latch or zip closure. And, to ensure your security and peace of mind, get a passport holder that features RFID blocking technology. Give your traveler friend the protection and convenience they need with one of the best travel gifts.

For Your Frequent Flier

It’s not pretty but it is incredibly practical. I won’t get on a plane without mine. This handy pouch fits in most airline seat pockets. It holds most e-book readers or tablets. One side is clear so you can see what is in it. It has two additional zipper pouches. You can keep tissues, wipes, whatever you want. It makes you much less likely to leave something on the plane as you just grab it and go.

Pashmina Wrap

Airplanes can get chilly, so it’s always a good idea to have a warm wrap with you. A large pashmina is a great choice – it’s lightweight, soft and easy to pack. And you don’t have to break the bank to get a great one – you can find affordable options, or if you really want to treat your friend, cashmere is a luxurious way to go. You won’t regret it!

Gifts For Readers

I was a bit hesitant to try out an e-reader at first—after all, nothing beats the feel of a real book! But when I had to pack an entire suitcase of books for a month-long cruise, I quickly realized that an e-reader was the way to go.

Now, I love having all my favorite books in one lightweight, easy-to-carry device! So if you’re looking to pack light for your next cruise, consider taking an e-reader—it’ll make your trip that much easier and more enjoyable. We consider an e-reader to be one of the best gifts for travelers.

Another great thing about ebooks is that you if have a public library card, you can get free e-book, audio-book, and magazine loans, even for new releases. There are also many free books available at sites such as Project Gutenberg and Manybooks. Amazon often has free Kindle format books, especially if you are an Amazon Prime member.

One thing to consider before you buy–do you want to connect via a cell-phone service or are you OK to use wi-fi only for downloads. We typically use the less expensive wi-fi only style and load up on books before the trip.

For all these reasons, we feel a good e-reader is one of the very best travel gifts.

Other Choices

Because Kindle uses a proprietary file format, some people prefer e-readers that accept other formats such as e-pub. There are many choices of good e-readers. In fact, you can usually download the app for e-reading onto your tablet. Just be sure you understand the formats your device can handle.

Best Gifts for Travelers’ Photography

Portable Tripod

Perhaps the best gift for travelers interested in photography, is a small, lightweight portable tripod. Not only will it help them get better images, it can also double as a selfie-stick. Look for one that weighs less than a pound and comes with a remote and a gimbal so they can film smoothly while they’re on the go. There are many to choose from. With this handy device, they’ll be able to capture stunning shots and wow their friends with their travel photos!

Gimbal Camera

Does your friend want to take their video blogging to the next level? There are incredibly small video cameras also called pocket cameras. We use this DJI 2 and it takes beautiful videos. It is incredibly lightweight and fits easily into your pocket. You can also take still photographs with it.

Want to help your friend take video blogging to the next level? We use this amazing pocket camera, the DJI 2, which takes stunning videos with its lightweight design that fits easily in your pocket. And you can also take still photographs with it! It’s the perfect choice to take your video blogging to the next level. If the DJI 2 doesn’t suit you, there are many other choices.

Looking for Travel Bags?

We lovel travel luggage and bags so much, we needed a separate post.

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Every week we share our favorite travel secrets and tips. You can view them all here.

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The enchantment intensifies as you explore both Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure, bathed in a canopy of shimmering lights. But it doesn’t stop there! Get ready to be dazzled as the Hollywood City Walk comes alive with festive brilliance. Witness the spectacular transformation, as every corner mirrors the joy of the holiday season.

A visit during this season promises nothing less than a spectacular, unforgettable festive treat at Universal Studios Orlando!

Minions!

Universal Studios Florida Holiday Parade

The holiday parade features Macy’s larger than life balloons. You will see your favorite characters from Shrek and the Madagascar films. As well as Minions from Despicable Me.  You can see the parade each night along the streets of Universal Studios Florida.

Harry Potter!

Christmas with Harry Potter

Christmas in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter will make you feel like you have been transported to Hogsmeade when Harrywhen Harry Potter celebrated his first Christmas at Hogwarts with friends. The streets of Hogsmeade in Universal Islands of Adventure and Diagon Alley in Universal Studios Florida are brightly decorated. Ride the Hogwarts express between the two parks (a Park-to-Park pass is required). The Magic of Christmas at Hogwart’s Castle will mesmerize you with the evening light show and fireworks display.

Universal Studios Seuss Landing

Seuss Landing in Universal’s Islands of Adventure is decorated with the charm of Dr. Seuss’s Who-ville where you get to hang out with the resident Whos. Don’t miss the Grinchmas Who-liday Spectacular, a live show featuring The Grinch and his story.  The show is full of music, dance and Grinch “who-jinks”. You might be able to meet The Grinch himself for a photo opportunity.

Jurassic Park

While it might not be as Christmas-y, don’t miss the new Jurassic Park Velocicoaster Roller Coaster!

Universal Studios Resorts

Universal has many resorts, from budget to luxury. All include easy access to Universal Studios Orlando. Certain resorts offer free Express Unlimited passes for everyone in the party, making them an exceptional value. These passes have a value of $164.99 per person, so the inclusion makes these resorts a fantastic very worthwhile.

Save money when we help you find the perfect package of resort and park tickets for your family.

Take a free water taxi to the Parks from Select Resorts

We at Far Far Away Travels are here to help you in making your Holiday vacation at Universal Studios Florida memorable for your entire family.  

Ready for More Great Travel Tips?

We share our favorite travel secrets and tips every week. You can see them all here.

The post Universal Studios Holidays 2023 appeared first on Far Far Away Travels.

Cruising for a Tropical Christmas

While last-minute cruise deals are much harder to find than in the past, they still exist. You do need to be flexible as to dates and cabins. 

Virgin Voyages Bimini Beach is beautiful.

It’s the new Richard Branson cruise line that is winning every award in sight. Virgin Voyages has done away with the main dining room and buffet; every night is specialty dining with 20+ eateries.  And there is no extra charge for any of them! Virgin fares include crew gratuities, wi-fi, group fitness classes, gelato-style ice cream, and much more.  No children allowed but adults are encouraged to embrace their inner child. Virgin sails the Caribbean out of Miami. Book a balcony cabin through us on December sailings, and you will receive $300 toward your beverages, and $100 on board credit from us.

Celebrity Cruises, the upscale cruise line known for its food and excellent service, still has space.  When you sail in December you enjoy traditional holiday meals created by a Michelin-starred chef and decorating with no prep or cleanup. You experience festive holiday shows and carolers. Everyone gets to enjoy downtime during the holidays to spend with those who matter most. Santa brings gifts to all the kids and the halls will be decked to perfection. Corks pop on New Year’s Eve.

We love Princess Cruises because it not only offers a high-quality cruise experience, but also lets us help you pile up the perks. The December 16 sailing of the new Sky Princess looks especially fun for a tropical Christmas. 

A Hawaiian Tropical Christmas

If you’re looking to stay in the U.S. for Christmas, look no further than Hawaii for a tropical Christmas vacation.

Hawaii Wants Visitors

After the devasting Maui wildfires, tourism to Hawaii has understandably declined.  As a result, flights and accomodations are much more inexpensive than usual.

Now the islands are asking for the support of the traveling community and are making excellent travel offers for the holiday season. Also, you can our Best Hawaiian Travel Tips. We also share how to choose the best Hawaiian island to visit.

Christmas in Mexico

Because of its strong Christian traditions, Mexico is a fantastic place to get into the Christmas spirit without dealing with the Christmas weather. We can find you an all-inclusive resort at a Four Diamond Cancun resort for under $4,000 per couple, including air.

A Tropical Christmas in Brazil

As another strongly Catholic nation, Brazil knows how to do Christmas. While not as famous as their Lent celebration, Carnival, there is a lot to do in Brazil for Christmas. And the weather is warm enough to hit the beaches.

Attending a “Missa do Galo” (Midnight Mass) at one of Rio’s historic churches, such as Candelária Church or the Metropolitan Cathedral can be ver memorable.

Merry Christmas for the Santa Chamelon

Subdued Tropical Christmas Choices

If you are looking for a relaxing tropical vacation with fewer Christmas-themed festivities, consider traveling to some of the non-Christian parts of the world. Malaysia and Vietnam offer beautiful views and beaches without decking the halls.

Ready for More Great Travel Tips?

We share our favorite travel secrets and tips every week. You can see them all here.

The post You Can Still Have a Tropical Christmas in 2023 appeared first on Far Far Away Travels.

Bursting with boundless energy, a Chicago holiday season is unlike any other. Here are some of our cherished Chicago holiday events and traditions! With its vast array of top-notch restaurants and bars, spectacular museums, shopping havens, and exhilarating events, your Christmas in Chicago will surely help you make great memories. Thanksgiving in Chicago is fabulous too! 

Christkindlmarkt are always a magical experience you don’t want to miss!

The European Christmas Market in Chicago

Chicago has a European-style Christmas market! We think the Christmas market is a must visit for any Chicago visitor. Officially called Christkindlmarkt, the original is on Daly Plaza, although two other locations have been added as well. Modeled after the European Christmas markets, it has vendors from Germany. Looking for Krampus items? You will find them here! 

And not only can you buy great holiday gifts and ornaments, but it’s also a fun place for a drink or a snack. You will find candies, cookies, pretzels, potato pancakes, sausages, and more.  You must try the gluhwein, a mulled wine you can get in an adorable souvenir mug.

To learn more visit here. 

Once you Have enjoyed the Market, it’s only a couple of blocks to Macy’s where you can check out the famous holiday tradition, the Macy’s holiday window displays.  

Chicago Christmas Shows

Of course, you can see A Christmas Carol and the Nutcracker, but there is also Christmas with C.S. Lewis and plenty of other holiday shows. Don’t miss Christmas favorites like Pentatonix or the Queen of Christmas herself, Mariah Carey. 

And if you have been wanting to see Hamilton, it is back! 

If the symphony is more your speed, make sure to check out the perennial favorite at the Chicago Symphony Orchestra: Merry, Merry Chicago. If you’re a Home Alone fan, there is even a symphony performance of music featured in the film at a Home Alone Concert.  

Christmas Parades

Chicago has terrific parades. We love the Magnificent Mile Lights Festival on November 18^th, because they light the magical lights on Michigan Avenue as the parade proceeds south; but the Thanksgiving Day parade is awesome too.  

On December 3^rd, make sure you don’t miss the Chicagoland Toys for Tots Motorcycle Parade, which helps do fundraising for the Toys for Tots charity which helps bring joy into the lives of underprivileged children across the country. Motorcyclists are encouraged to join, with the entry fee just being an unwrapped toy donation. 

Less a parade, but no less spectacular, check out the Morton Arboretum’s Illumination display. 

New Year’s Eve

Finally, New Year’s Eve always brings great fireworks off Navy Pier. These fireworks can be enjoyed by anyone with a clear view of the pier, but you can get up close and personal on the pier itself. 

If you’re the party type, a lot of Chicago hotels hold New Year’s parties, but perhaps the biggest, most famous of them is the one held at The Drake Hotel, just off Michigan Avenue.

Chicago’s many bars and restaurants also will be hosting their own parties, there’s even a New Year’s Eve in the Sky at the bar atop the Hancock Center. There are so many choices, you’ll have a hard time just choosing one! 

Ready for More Great Travel Tips?

We share our favorite travel secrets and tips every week. You can see them all here.

The post Christmas in Chicago 2023 appeared first on Far Far Away Travels.

We’re Growing! Ready to Plan Your Next Trip?

Thanks to you, our loyal clients, Far Far Away Travels is growing. Our big travel news in November is that we are happy to announce that Karen Dziadosz-Evans is joining Far Far Away Travels.  Karen will be focused on theme parks in Orlando: Disney, Universal Studios, Sea World, and Discovery Cove. She visits Orlando often and keeps abreast of the continually changing theme park environment.  And of course, she knows Disneyland and Universal California too.

Remember Fast Passes? Gone. It can take hours and hours of online research to figure out even a simple Disney or Universal trip. Karen does the work, so you don’t need to.  You can reach her at Karen@farfarawaytravels.com.  She will be sharing many tips for saving time and money. 

Karen has the highest level of training with Universal, SeaWorld, and the Disney College of Knowledge. 

As always, please reach out to Nichole, Gretchen, and Karen with any travel questions. 

Karen Dziadosz-Evans on her last Virgin Voyage

Travel Abroad, the Travel News You Need This November

We understand that the Israel-Hamas War, along with the war in Ukraine, causes concerns about traveling abroad for some. Personally, since these wars have broken out, we have traveled to Germany, Iceland, and Norway without incident or concern.

However, we recognize that everyone has a different tolerance level.

We always suggest checking the Department of State site for alerts about specific countries.

Finally, it is interesting to remind ourselves that some countries warn their citizens that travel to the United States can be dangerous.

Whether you travel at home or abroad, you should always take normal precautions and buy travel insurance.

Global Entry Just Got Better!

We have long said that Global Entry is a great deal. There is great travel news this November about this exceptional program.

When returning to the US, Global Entry lets you breeze through Passport Control in minutes, letting you bypass the very long lines of those without it. We estimate it easily saves us 30 minutes or more of wait time whenever we use it. It includes TSA Precheck for domestic travel and costs only $15 more than Precheck alone.

Now Global Entry is even better. You can download a free app on your phone, fill out the needed information, and upon arrival take a picture of yourself, submit it into the system and you get a digital receipt to show the agent. Amazing!

For now, the Global Entry app is only available for use by travelers arriving at seven airports. Hopefully, the list will grow.

• Seattle–Tacoma International Airport
• Los Angeles International Airport
• Miami International Airport
• Orlando International Airport
• Washington Dulles International Airport
• Pittsburgh International Airport
• Houston’s George Bush Intercontinental Airport

And Global Entry without the app can be used at a long list of airports.

Remember, many major credit cards will fully reimburse you the cost of Global Entry so be sure to check your card’s benefits.

The only drawback is the background check and initial interview where you are fingerprinted. This year though, we were able to renew with a video interview.

Too busy to schedule an interview? They will let you interview upon your next return to the U.S.

News from Delta

Are you a Delta Medallion member? We can book you through Delta Vacations and you earn toward Medallion® Status on your flights, hotels, cars and activities.

Travel News November: Visiting Europe

This is a great time to visit Europe. The currency exchange rate is exceptionally good as the Euro and the dollar are generally at par. In past years, Americans would pay a 30-50% premium. We recently wrote about the joys of the Christmas market.

If you have followed matters, you know that Americans were slated to have to file for an electronic visa before visiting Europe beginning in 2024. However, that has now been postponed until 2025.

Eventually, international travelers will need to seek pre-approval prior to their journey into the group of 30 EU countries.

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