IS IT WORTH TRAVELING TO EUROPE IN WINTER?
Europe is one of the destinations that emerge from the list of those who wish to enjoy a nice cold at the end of the year. But what, after all, are the reasons that make the Old Continent a great place for winter holidays?
For starters, hotel and ticket prices usually fall here on the other side of the Atlantic in the period (except the weeks between Christmas and New Year’s Eve in the major cities). To prove it, it is only to compare with prices practiced during the summer and the spring, two admittedly more expensive stations.
Beautiful landscapes will be everywhere, and photographers can prepare the camera. In certain European countries, such as Norway, Sweden and Finland, the visitor will be able to see up close one of the most impressive natural events in the world, the Aurora Borealis. Unfortunately, it is impossible to predict the occurrence of this phenomenon of lights and colors in the sky, but winter is certainly the ideal time for this.
Another attraction that makes the trip to Europe worthwhile in winter is that most of the cities usually prepare very well for Christmas and the arrival of the New Year. Therefore, lights, colors and many ornaments will be scattered through streets, squares, bridges and, of course, in houses. A real treat for the eyes!
Winter Events
Taking advantage of the theme, we can not fail to mention the various events that usually take place across the continent, especially the famous Christmas Markets. Usually held in a great squares or avenues, these markets often gather people of all ages around stalls selling handcrafted products, typical winter dishes and drinks that, while delicious, still help keep the body warm.
One of the most traditional countries in the subject, without any doubt, is Germany, being Cologne, for example, one of the most sought after cities during the month of December. Festivals such as beer in Bruges (Belgium) in February and Carnival in Munich (Germany) and Maastricht (in the Netherlands) are also other options for those who wish to enjoy the winter in a different way.
Winter sports
Those more adventurous travelers can also enjoy the low temperatures in some parts of the continent for sports like skiing and snowboarding. Localities such as Les Gets and Courchevel in France, St. Anton in Austria and Borovets in Bulgaria offer an excellent structure and are therefore highly sought after by winter sports enthusiasts, from beginners to the most experienced.
Not everything is snowflakes
Europe in the winter is charming, and there are beautiful landscapes and a special experience for those who are used to tropical countries. But there is also the downside to visiting the Old Continent at this year’s hotel. The first, of course, is the cold and the increase in the volume of luggage that it causes. Also, the days are shorter during this period, and there are fewer times with natural daylight for walks. For being low season, some attractions may close for maintenance and risque of the activities list as picnics in the European parks or to spend afternoons in tables of restaurants of charming outdoor cafes. Also, there is the risk of some blizzard closing roads or delaying flights.
Preparations
Whatever your reason for visiting Europe during the winter, you must keep in mind that the cold will always be present, to a greater or lesser extent, depending on the countries chosen. In those where temperatures are low, you need to wear appropriate clothing and footwear.
Thermal socks, shirts, and pants are known as “second skin,” wool scarf, headgear and a pair of gloves should be included in the list of all travelers. Comfortable shoes are also important for those who want to walk a lot (better still if they are those lined with material that holds heat). The cold at this time does not usually give truce in particular localities, however, taking some care is possible to go through it without any problem!
