Magical Markets

The embarkation point may have changed to Passau but the itinerary remained intact as we were bussed to Regensburg. It was more than damp in the morning but eventually the rain cleared out. The walkabout proved to be somewhat challenging as we managed to lose our guide within the first 30 minutes. We stopped for a quick window shopping gaze and whoosh, Karina our guide was gone along with the rest of the group. Nevertheless we continued on our own through the many passages and platz. Eventually we met up again with Karina, who felt so badly for losing us that she took us as her guests to a lovely coffee shop for cappuccino and hot chocolate. Later she brought us to a wonderful Bierhaus for a traditional German lunch and pointed us in the direction of the local palace where a Christmas market was ongoing. What a magical place. The palace courtyard and grounds were completely transformed into a wonderland for both children and adults alike. Food stands with traditional fare such as strudels and sausages were in abundance and the aroma of the freshly baking breads mixed in with the woody smells of the numerous fire pits set the stage for the olfactory senses to take over. There were stands selling hot ciders and and cold beers. The stalls selling traditional wreaths and candles in addition to other Christmas decorations were in abundance. The palace centre courtyard boasted a huge decorated Christmas tree and if you were looking for a unique something for that someone special, chances are you would find it here. There was the lit up champagne trail leading to a pavilion overlooking the palace grounds where Moet champagne was being served but the most delightful scene was the children’s area. It was set up with a miniature Ferris wheel and merry go round. We had to leave but we would have loved to have stayed for the children’s puppet show. What a delight! Despite markets being shut down in Bavaria we are optimistic we will get to other markets when we travel to Prague in another week or so. So special. Frohe Weihnachten!!