It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas (markets)

Christmas treasures at Marché de Noël, held annually near Strasbourg Cathedral in Strasbourg, France. Credit: Vincent Desjardins.

By Joe Brancatelli

Business travelers rarely have the time or inclination to shop, but frequent travelers to Europe know it’s the perfect time of year to make an exception. All throughout Europe, charming and quirky “Christmas markets” pop up outdoors in town squares and parks. The offerings vary from market to market, of course, but savvy frequent flyers will find bargains everywhere: tree ornaments, local jewelry and crafts, stocking stuffers, small pieces of furniture, and even specialty foods and fashions. One example: Several years ago, at a Christmas market in Cracow, Poland, I purchased four exquisite glass ornaments in a rustic wooden box for about $10. The same item was offered by a major U.S. retailer for $85.

Need to know the location of the Christmas market in the European city you’re visiting? Check about.com and search for “Christmas markets in Europe.”

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Joe Brancatelli is editor and publisher of JoeSentMe.com, a non-commercial Web site for business travelers. Copyright 2010 by Joe Brancatelli. Licensed by contract for Orbitz use.

Tagged: Europe