sharonann24

Yes thank you. That is a family tradition and I plan on continuing it. My own children had boxes of ornaments once they moved out.

So, I am wondering what the prices are like for some of the typical souvenirs at the markets. We are coming prepared with euros since it seems as if that is best for the markets. For example, what would be considered reasonable for a nutcracker, or hats? I plan on doing some Christmas shopping. We also have two toddler grandchildren (ages 15 and 22 months) so I am very excited to see what kind of toys or trinkets I can bring back for them to put under the tree or stuff a stocking. 10 days to our flight and 11 days to the cruise on the Viking Alruna!

I also have been debating the shoe/boot issue. We have lightweight waterproof hiking boots which I have actually worn in lieu of snow boots when we have had light snow or just very rainy conditions. You may want to try EMS (Eastern Mountain Sports). They still have online shopping but many of their brick and mortar stores have closed.

I was so excited to see this link! We leave for Basel exactly three weeks from today. We are on the Viking Alruna from Basel to Amsterdam. We have cruised many times but this is our first ever river cruise and the fact that it is to the Christmas markets makes it all the more special. This is a retirement cruise and a trip I could never have made working full time. The link was very informative and I will look for additional tips and suggestions. And, yes, this is our first winter trip so any suggestions for packing, cold weather gear and clothing would be appreciated. We are from Connecticut so cold winter weather is the norm.