Roll Call - Christmas Markets 2010 - all lines...

[germanyboy]

Myself and DD 28 and DD 24 will be spending 2 days in London, fly to Frankfort, then cruise Frankfurt to Basel. This will be my first river cruise, I have cruised the Caribbean 9 times. I know the ship will be much smaller and not as many evening activities.

 

I am happy to see the postings on this thread - trying to figure out what to pack! Living in Charlotte NC - we don't get much snow - I am going to have to start looking for boots to keep my feet warm and dry. Sounds as if rain maybe more of a problem.

 

One traditional Christmas treat is Gluhwein (sp?) - a red spiced wine served warm. I am planning on purchasing a bottle to bring back. I discovered wine can be transported safely by inserting the bottle in swim wings (inflatable arm 'life preservers'), and inflating the wings. I wrap jeans around the entire package and double bag it in a 2 gal ziplock bag. I was able to bring Pineapple Wine from Hawaii using this method.

 

I will keep checking this thread for more information. Hopefully, someone else will be on the same cruise!

 

You can buy the gluwien spice mixes in sachet like containers or even a box of tea bags --up to 20 per box. I serve at my super bowl parties. Takes about 5 per regular size bottle of wine, plus sugar. Directions are in several languages. They do sell at Christmas markets, and I have ound it at Cost Plus Imports and foreign markets in USA. ANd just google gluwien recipes to see what is in the packets.

 

We made the Christmas markets in 3 cities before they close Dec 23. Each town has their own commemorative cup decorated for the year. You can rent the cup, or pay deposit and buy it. We collected 8 cups in 3 cities.

[robthens]

Add us to the Christmas Market 2010 list. We start with a pre-trip to Prague for 3 nights, then, begin the river portion in Passau. Stops include Linz/Salzburg, Melk, Krems, Vienna, Bratislava and Budapest.

 

Tips for packing:

-Space bags & large zip lock bags great compressing air

- Fill extra space in suitcases with bubble wrap (keeps cloths from shifting and the trip over.....great for wrapping souviners

[AZPam]

I have been purchasing some winter weight black slacks for our upcoming trip. They are difficult to find here in FL so I have to shop online or when I travel to larger cities.

 

I keep my packing simple as I have learned that layers for daytime are the best option and for evenings on the ship, a nice pair of slacks with a pretty sweater or top are just right.

 

Only 5 months to go!

 

Another idea instead of buying heavy slacks that you might not wear much in FL, get a pair or two of silk long johns that you can wear under your normal slacks. In the two trips I've done, I only needed them a few days total for the extra added warmth. A nice velour warm up suit is also a great thing to bring along. Perfect for the travel days and great to lay around in on the boat if you might have a day or two of river cruising during the day.

[Windy56]

You can buy the gluwien spice mixes in sachet like containers or even a box of tea bags --up to 20 per box. I serve at my super bowl parties. Takes about 5 per regular size bottle of wine, plus sugar. Directions are in several languages. They do sell at Christmas markets, and I have ound it at Cost Plus Imports and foreign markets in USA. ANd just google gluwien recipes to see what is in the packets.

 

We made the Christmas markets in 3 cities before they close Dec 23. Each town has their own commemorative cup decorated for the year. You can rent the cup, or pay deposit and buy it. We collected 8 cups in 3 cities.

 

Germanyboy, it sounds like you did a similar itinerary to the one my huband and I will be doing. We will be on the River Queen from the 21st of December to the 28th and will be missing some of the markets as well. What line were you on and what special activities did they plan for Christmas Day?

[Windy56]

Ooops...note to self...scroll up before you post a question!:o The last questions stays, though, about events on Christmas Day.

[germanyboy]

Germanyboy, it sounds like you did a similar itinerary to the one my huband and I will be doing. We will be on the River Queen from the 21st of December to the 28th and will be missing some of the markets as well. What line were you on and what special activities did they plan for Christmas Day?

 

We were on Grand Circle Travel River Harmony. Arrived in Cologne Christmas Eve at 10 pm, some went to the big cathedrral for late mass. Most singing was in English.

25th am Walking tour of Cologne, most everything closed but shops in train station. Hiung around there for beer and lunch. Bought cologne.

free time in pm for church or touring, activities on ship. Happy hour, port talk, dinner with Santa.

Ship left after midnight and we went to dusseldorf on 26th.

Bus and walking tour. Giant snowstorm for 3 hours.

[montu6]

Silk long underwear is ordered, I'll order my cane seat Mon., found 2 sweaters to buy! Can you tell I'm getting excited!!!! I like the idea of taking some bubble wrap for gifts on the way home.

 

This thread is great. As people think of things it can jog our memory so that we can add to our todo or pack lists. Its 90 degrees here today. Fun to think of crisp late Fall days and nights in Germany along the Rhine. Paris in the Fall sounds almost as good as Paris in the Springtime.

 

Happy planning everyone. Keep those ideas coming.

Carol

[franski]

When the fall/winter clothing comes in, I will be looking for an all weather coat... I know that Columbia sells what I am looking for - which is basically a multi-layer garment - with a weather/water resistant outer lining. This way I will only need to take 1 coat - but can add or remove layers based on the temperature. Already bought a new purse (cross body) that has an umbrella. I am not convinced there will be snow - but know that I need to be prepared for rain.

[caviargal]

Another idea instead of buying heavy slacks that you might not wear much in FL, get a pair or two of silk long johns that you can wear under your normal slacks. In the two trips I've done, I only needed them a few days total for the extra added warmth. A nice velour warm up suit is also a great thing to bring along. Perfect for the travel days and great to lay around in on the boat if you might have a day or two of river cruising during the day.

 

I have a set of silk underwear and only wore them once in 4 trips at this time of year. But I always pack them just in case as they take up no room.

 

I bought two pairs of stirrup pants in a nice knit that are a very nice weight and that will tuck into my Uggs. I have some cords that work well for daytime walking. We travel up north a good bit so a few pair of warmer slacks are always in my closet.

 

For around the ship I pack black yoga pants and a long sleeve Dri Fit top. It is also my outfit for the long flights to and from Europe.

 

I like to wear a half zip top over a camisole for daytime.

 

I wore a full length down coat last year that keep me warm and dry. Some days were too warm for it and I was happy I packed my Marmot jacket that comes to mid thigh. It packs in a space bag very well and I wore it at least half the time. And I was really happy to have a hood as there is always a good bit of rain.

[vipalpinetours]

I highly recommend traveling to Europe in early December for Christmas Markets. I am known as the 'Christmas Market Queen', since I have visited over 500 markets in the last 15 years. There are so many types of markets, but many are becoming very overated and run with Chinese goods. Thank goodness for the smaller off the beaten path markets. It all depends on what you want to see on your tour of Europe, and if you want to add more sightseeing to your 'shopping' since many markets carry the same goodies.

I also like AMA's cruises, but normally visit via bus/self to keep up with the newest events/future markets.

[vipalpinetours]

Im known in this industry as the Christmas Market Queen, I have been escorting groups for 14 years to Germany/Austria/Switzerland (plus 9 other countries) with Christmas Markets and have around 516 different towns/markets under my belt (7 new ones coming up 12/10).

 

I highly recommend everyone to experience Alpine regions Christmas Markets. There is nothing more magical than Europe during Advent Season. I love the cruises as well, but be careful whom you choose and their itinerary. I am seeing so many of these port towns becoming overly touristy as well as the larger markets. It breaks my heart seeing so many items coming in from China, and they do not have to label them as we do in the States. It all depends on what you want to experience on your tour. I also mail items home 1/2way thru a tour, its much cheaper than extra suitcases (great for dirty clothing/brochures/chocolates) and there are so many great reasonable souvenir ideas without breaking the bank and budget. Have been packing bubblewrap/extra box/roll of tape and pass it around the bus. Keep in mind...do you want more crowded areas or less? do you want more scenery or are you ok with larger cities/towns? There are so many ways to experience Europe during the holiday season. I just returned from my Oberammergau Tour last week and I visited some off the beaten path cities in Bavaria to plan for markets 2011! I will post some of my favorite markets, best souvenirs and tips and soon...

after I return from Zuiderdam July 3 Alaska sailing (hosting 63 people on this one, no market but at least I will get my Alpine scenery fix!)

[montu6]

My packing list:

Winter Silks has some long underwear that comes just below the knee. I'm going to try that. DH is in The Hague right now and it can be very chilly even in summer. The low was 49 but when you add in the wind off the North Sea and the rain I may need another layer in Nov. Can you tell that I am a wimp?

 

I bought a "puffy" water resistant longer jacket that I am very pleased with. Cords for the day and some basic black pants for the evenings on board the ship. Sweaters, turtlenecks and a few teeshirts to layer. A couple fancier tops. Of course hat and gloves.

 

Shoes will be good quality, but ugly, tie walking shoes and a pair of flats for dinners. Maybe boots. I don't think I'll need them but if I don't take them you can bet I'll wish I had them. I'll see how much room I have left in my suitcase.

 

Underwear, socks, and a nightgown round out the list. Am I forgetting anything?

 

Happy planning everyone!

[caviargal]

I wore my Uggs every day of the last three Christmas market trips, river cruise and by land. My feet stayed warm and dry and the style I purchased has Vibram soles so good cushioning. I also added an arch support which made them even more comfy.

 

I wear them on the plane to save space.

 

For evenings, I pack a pair of dressier leather ankle boots to wear on the ship and also out and about since we have dinner in port whenever possible to do so. And we also spend time in Europe pre and post cruise.

 

A small umbrella came in handy when we had heavy rains.

 

Cords are great and dry out faster than jeans.

 

I have a cross body bag that is waterproof and large enough to carry a bottle of water and daytime necessities.

 

I pack an adapter/converter combo to charge my netbook, our iphones and DH's camera batteries.

 

LOTS of good body lotion and facial moisturizer are also important to me in cold weather and eye drops which I carry everywhere.

[AZPam]

Don't forget to pack a sparkly Christmas sweater! ;)

[gsar65]

We were on Grand Circle Travel River Harmony. Arrived in Cologne Christmas Eve at 10 pm, some went to the big cathedrral for late mass. Most singing was in English.

25th am Walking tour of Cologne, most everything closed but shops in train station. Hiung around there for beer and lunch. Bought cologne.

free time in pm for church or touring, activities on ship. Happy hour, port talk, dinner with Santa.

Ship left after midnight and we went to dusseldorf on 26th.

Bus and walking tour. Giant snowstorm for 3 hours.

 

That is the tour we are doing. We leave for Basel on Nov 29th, but do not board the Harmony until Dec 2nd.

 

Wow, we went away for a weekend and this thread exploded!!:D Looks of good ideas about clothing and packing. I am still catching up on reading all the posts.

 

Glenn

[cruisingmimi]

Im known in this industry as the Christmas Market Queen, I have been escorting groups for 14 years to Germany/Austria/Switzerland (plus 9 other countries) with Christmas Markets and have around 516 different towns/markets under my belt (7 new ones coming up 12/10).

 

I highly recommend everyone to experience Alpine regions Christmas Markets. There is nothing more magical than Europe during Advent Season. I love the cruises as well, but be careful whom you choose and their itinerary. I am seeing so many of these port towns becoming overly touristy as well as the larger markets. It breaks my heart seeing so many items coming in from China, and they do not have to label them as we do in the States. It all depends on what you want to experience on your tour. I also mail items home 1/2way thru a tour, its much cheaper than extra suitcases (great for dirty clothing/brochures/chocolates) and there are so many great reasonable souvenir ideas without breaking the bank and budget. Have been packing bubblewrap/extra box/roll of tape and pass it around the bus. Keep in mind...do you want more crowded areas or less? do you want more scenery or are you ok with larger cities/towns? There are so many ways to experience Europe during the holiday season. I just returned from my Oberammergau Tour last week and I visited some off the beaten path cities in Bavaria to plan for markets 2011! I will post some of my favorite markets, best souvenirs and tips and soon...

after I return from Zuiderdam July 3 Alaska sailing (hosting 63 people on this one, no market but at least I will get my Alpine scenery fix!)

 

I guess we can call you the resident expert for Christmas Markets. Wow, that's wonderful how many markets you have visited.

 

We did our first this year and started in Nuremburg, ending in Vienna. We loved the experience of mingling w/ all of the local people in the different stops we made. It certainly changes your perspective of what Christmas is about when in Europe.

 

We are considering doing Prague and Budapest (don't know what other towns they visit). Do you know when the markets open this year? The cruise we are looking at leaves 11/13. I'm not sure of the exact dates yet. Is there a website that shows when they open?

 

Thank you. Good luck w/ your tours.

 

We will be in Alaska 7/1!

 

Mary

[gypsy lady]

My dh and I are booked on the AMA back to back river cruises from Paris to Amsterdam and then from Amsterdam to Zurich.....in reading thru the threads I see a couple of other people who are also on one or the other of these river cruises. I have only done one other Christmas Market river cruise in the past and it was on Uniworld. They did an excellent job. We sailed in Dec 07 from Passau to Budapest and it was wonderful. I went well prepared for the cold and damp weather. I found that warm and waterproof boots are a must as well as "Cuddle Duds" and of course a warm coat with hood. Don't forget to pack a small umbrella as it did rain on us that year. On the boat we did not dress real fancy, just nice pants and top for dinner. Most men wore pants and turtleneck shirt or nice dress shirt. Looking forward to the pre days in Paris as we have never been there and hope to be able to see lots in those 3 days. My name is DeAnna and my dh is Mike. I believe Carol is on our first cruise and on the 2 cruise is "Cruiser-too". Where are all of you guys from? We live in SW Florida. This is going to be a wonderful trip.I have read lots of good reviews about AMA so am looking forward to these cruises. Only 5 months to go?

[montu6]

Hi Deanna and Mike,

It will be fun comparing notes about our upcoming cruise. Have you been doing research about how to fill our 3 days in Paris? We are both extremely excited! I contacted AMA about their optional tours in Paris so that we can work around them. Lots of ideas on Trip Advisor. Planning is half the fun.

 

Where in Florida are you from? We lived 24 years in Seminole County but now have moved to the Shenandoah Valley in VA.

 

Are you doing air through AMA or on your own? We are using frequent flyer miles and Les is coupling this with a business trip. We will be flying on United out of Dulles. I will fly back on the 28th and Les will stay in Holland for 3 more weeks.Flight gets in around 6:30 AM. That will give us the whole day on Tues. to explore a little of Paris.

 

My Wintersilk long underwear came today. I think I'm pretty much ready in the clothes department. I'm glad we can pick your brain since you have done this before. It will be more of a challenge for DH since he will be gone for 5 weeks. You must have the same challenge. Some things can be washed out by hand in the sink and others laundered on the ship.

 

Great talking to you.

Carol

[webfoot]

Hi Carol ... we live at Lake Monticello, which is just east of Charlottesville ... where in the Shennandoah Valley are you? We often attend antique auctions on the week-end in the area around Staunton / Harrisonburg.

[montu6]

Hi Pat,

We live in Stuarts Draft, between Waynesboro and Staunton. Small world isn't it. I have a daughter who used to live in Monticello. She works for UVA. My other two kids work for UVA also. One lives in Stuarts Draft like we do and the other in Faber.

 

I bought two travel books about Paris today. My DH and I are really starting to get excited!

 

Have a great day and happy planning.

Carol

[webfoot]

Hi Carol ... Stuart's Draft ... home to one of my favorite stores ... the cheese shop.

 

We took the Avalon Grand France trip earlier this year and would love to go on a Christmas Markets cruise but it won't be this year ... we are looking at the information that one of the posters put out on the Chicago Christmas Market ... perhaps we will go to that one this time.

 

Have fun with all of your planning!

[gypsy lady]

Yes, it will be fun comparing notes about the cruise. I have actually done a little research on the 3 days in Paris....lots of things available to see and do.....You stated that you talked to AMA about optional tours in Paris...I'd love to hear about these.

 

We actually live in Naples,FL so we will be flying out of Miami via American Airlines and arrive in Paris at 9:30am, we also have the whole day to explore. We did not book our air thru AMA,they gave us the flight info and we chose to do our own air using AA because of the non-stop out of Miami...and of course we stay on the boat and do the other river cruise from Amsterdam to Zurich and fly home from Zurich on Dec 7. If you want to email me with any details, plans etc here's my email.....dmfloc@msn.com and just RE: Paris.....so I'll know it's you. Can't wait to meet you guys.

[montu6]

You have mail

Carol

[franski]

Didn't want this thread to get lost, so thought I would post to bring it forward...

 

I do have a question for those who have travelled the Rhine before. My DH collects die cast cars (mostly 1:43) and is excited about going back to Germany as he found some amazing cars in Regensburg...(our guide directed us to a toy shop...). I have found a toy shop in Koblenz, but am wondering if anyone knows of others in Cologne, Mainz, Heidelberg, Rudesheim - or any of the "usual" stops on the Rhine. We have a good system for shopping - I know he will wait for me in the Christmas stalls if we have some time to "toy" shop for him...

[bree28]

I will be doing Uniworld's European Christmas Market cruise departing Vienna on Dec 15th. My first cruise ever. Traveling solo. Anyone else on this cruise?