Kia ora! Hello!

After spending my second Christmas in Europe in 2023, it is safe to say it is one of my favourite parts of the world to be at that time of year. Growing up in Aotearoa it is the beginning of Summer but there is still a high chance you are spending Christmas in the rain and our markets look just like any other weekend market however there is a couple themed Christmas decorations and if you are lucky, a Christmas parade through town.

I am one whom struggles with the cold - more often than not I’m tucked up in a blanket when watching telly at night, will find I am wearing gym tights and a long sleeved merino under my corporate outfit to keep warm and will never leave the house without a jumper or jacket. So for me to love Europe at this type of year requires a lot of mental strength, preparation with my outfits and pit stops for hot drinks!

Below is my list of things I think make traveling Europe in Winter the best, and then a much shorter list of the not so best.

Best things:

1. The cold - I do enjoy being able to wrap up with a beanie, hoody, jacket and gloves.

2. Christmas Markets - Are everywhere! The Europeans really know how to create a Christmas vibe throughout December.

3. Not overpacked with tourists - Whilst it is not considered off-peak time, it can be very quiet still in a lot of places.

4. Snow covered landscapes - The views were incredible!

5. The shopping - So much more variety, giving more options for winter jackets and clothing that really does keep you warm.

6. Mulled wine - Available everywhere and I love it!

7. Traveling is still cheap - International European flights are still a lot cheaper than flying domestically throughout Aotearoa, don’t even worry about comparing the cost to flying to our closest destination - Australia.

8. Houses are made for the cold - They are built differently, so you only feel it when you are running around outside meaning if you are sensitive to the cold like myself you will be fine!

Least favourite things:

1. The cold - In Scandinavia I was wearing up to 5 layers to keep warm! This also means limited luggage space as winter clothing takes up a lot more space.

2. The snow - Beautiful to look at, but a pain in backside to spend weeks walking on!

3. (This is all year around, but still deserves a mention) Paying for public bathrooms - I have a terrible bladder, so this was the bane of my existance!

4. Increased chances of rain - But honestly, across 9weeks in my latest trip we maybe had it 3/4 days. However if you are only spending a short amount of time in places it can be restricting to what you can accomplish.

   Haere rā! Goodbye!