Traveling Teacher: Finding Myself in Christmas Markets

I am striving to build a bit of balance into my life, I say this as I am blogging on Christmas Eve.  :)  

One of the things that gives me absolute pleasure is European Christmas markets.  I began my obsession with them during the four years I lived in Koeln, Germany beginning in 2009.  What a place to get introduced to markets!  

Now that I live in Europe again, I had to continue my quest to visit more markets and see beyond Koeln.  To be honest, they will always remain my favorite, because of four beautiful, difficult, and growing years.  They are part of the fabric of my life's journey. 

Did I make Traveling Teacher videos?  No.  I was so enthralled by the experience that I completely forgot. This must be what it means to enter your second childhood. 

I was fortunate to visit three markets in Belgium: Bruges, Gent, and Brussels.  Some people might want to compare the Beligan markets to German, but there is no point.  They are two different countries with constrasting cultures.  The things that I found were the same: good food, glühwein, and handicrafts.  

In Germany, I was able to go back to Köln, but it was jam-packed.  I could barely walk in Heumarkt and Neumarkt.  It was not fun.  I realized that when I lived in Germany, I would avoid the weekends, which made it so much fun. 

On the flipside, I was also able to visit Aachen, München, and Garmisch-Partenkirchen.  I was fortunate to find lesser populated spots in each of these markets and really enjoy the environment.  There is something magical of being cold, drinking a hot beverage, and being amongst people.  

Seven markets in total is amazing.  Next year, I plan to visit Stuttgart, Weimar, Strasbourg, and Vienna.  I can so do this!

For those who don't celebrate Christmas, these markets are still fun.  There are non-alcohol and veggie options.  It's about being together, celebrating happiness, and enjoying the season.  

More the merrier, I always say!  Join me next year for more market mayhem.