Alrighty, day 2 in Vienna… Uber Alles and I got up earlier, and after having some delicious Nespresso, we were on our merry way to Schönbrunn Palace, the former imperial summer residence of the Habsburg monarchs… As usual, the weather was still absolutely miserable, raining the entire way there, and pretty much for the rest of the day until nightfall.

Schönbrunn was absolutely breathtaking. The splendid architecture and the magnificent gardens truly demonstrated why it was one of the UNESCO World Heritage sites. As this was a compact trip, we didn’t go in, but took some pictures outside and in the grounds of the palace.

It was here that I experienced my first authentic Christkindlmarkt, the Austrian Christmas market. There were so many lovely wares on display, and tempting food being sold, along with steaming mugs of cider. I still regret not buying one of those filled doughnut-type pastries… Oh well, I suppose that gives me yet another reason to go back to Vienna sometime soon.

After walking around the market, and taking notes of stalls to revisit, we decided to get out of the wretched rain, and went into the Schönbrunn kaffeehaus, where I finally got to try genuine apfelstudel, washed down with some soda water and a cup of hot chocolate with whipped cream. Absolute decadence! The crispy filo pastry provided a perfect foil to the rich, yet tart flavour of baked apple, served with creamy, smooth vanilla sauce. Uber Alles stuck with her usual cup of coffee, not wanting to get any dessert. Definitely has more discipline than I do when it comes to sweets! Oh heck, am on holiday, and since have not been eating proper food, I might as well stuff my face with fantastic Viennese desserts.

After strudel, we took some more pictures around the palace before heading to, of course, my favourite part of every sightseeing trip, the GIFT SHOP! I never fail to buy at least one item from every gift shop of places of interest I’ve been to. So, in keeping with tradition, we went to this one. J There, I bought myself a beautiful tapestry square, embroidered with pale blue flowers, and trimmed with baby blue and gold thread. I also found the perfect Christmas present for Cougar. A replica of the star diamond jewellery that Empress Maria used to wear, made from sterling silver and studded with Swarovski crystals. I bought her a beautiful bracelet from the collection. I wanted some variety, since I always got her necklaces…

On the way out, we stopped by the market again, as a stall selling Polish ceramics had caught my eye earlier on. After the stallowner showed me about fifteen variations of the blue painted ceramic trays, I finally decided on one. He must have heaved a sigh of relief that I finally picked one… I’d hate to think he went to all that trouble for nothing. He might have beaned me in the head with one… Heh.

After the trip to the palace, we headed back into town. Our first stop was the Hofburg Palace, housing the Austrian National Library, an awe-inspiring building smack dab in the middle of the city centre. We took some pictures there before heading to the highlight of my entire trip to Vienna, Loden-Plankl, the oldest and most prestigious Loden store in Vienna. I had fallen in love with the Austrian loden jackets the moment I saw them online, and later on in Lanz, on the first day in Vienna. They were gorgeous, especially the collarless jackets that reminded me of Nehru jackets, with chestnut wood buttons. They were prohibitively expensive in Lanz though, so I gave up the idea of owning a loden jacket. But I researched the jackets the moment we got back, which is how I found out about Loden-Plankl, and how they were THE place for loden jackets.

Basically, loden is a thick, water resistant woollen material with a short pile, first produced by peasants from Austria. The fabric is derived from the coarse, oily wool of mountain sheep and has a traditional bluish-green colour.

To produce Loden fabric, strong yarns are woven loosely into cloth which then undergoes a lengthy process of shrinking, eventually acquiring the texture of felt and becoming quite dense. It is then brushed with a fuller’s teasel and the nap is clipped, a process which is repeated a number of times until the fabric is lightweight, supple, windproof and extremely durable.

So we made our way to Loden-Plankl, which is located on Michaelerplatz, opposite the Hofburg Imperial Palace. It was a gorgeous old, wood-panelled store, filled floor to ceiling with gorgeous loden, cashmere and fur. The staff, of course, greeted us with the usual icy Grüß Gott. But once we got to the menswear department, and asked one of the salesladies for assistance, she was unfailingly obliging.

After being momentarily distracted by a hamster-fur-lined waistcoat, we turned to the task at hand, finding the perfect jacket. Somehow, she managed to find me a gorgeous Loden jacket, collarless, with detailed lapels, in the classic loden hunter green shade, finished with chestnut wood buttons, in my size, and on sale!! It was 50% off, and thus very reasonably priced. I pretended to contemplate it for a few minutes, while trying on some other jackets, but I don’t know who I was kidding. I had fallen in love with that jacket. I don’t know how to describe it, but I’ve never had a piece of clothing that made me feel and look so good. Every time I put it on, I just feel great, and can’t resist the urge to strut about like a male model everywhere. Trust me, that is a very rare feeling for me to get, especially when it comes to clothing.

Anyway, I digress. I got the jacket, a big grin plastered on my face as we left the store, clasping the gold paper bag firmly, adding to the clutch of shopping bags I already held.

After spending quite a bit of time and effort on retail therapy, we decided it was time for yet another coffee break, and we went over to Café Griensteidl to chill out and relax while waiting to meet up with Scheherazade. I ordered a cappuccino, and a butter cream torte, topped with pecans. Uber Alles, of course, had another cup of coffee.

After chilling out for a couple of hours, if I’m not mistaken, Scheherazade was taking her time, so we decided to do more sightseeing. As we headed towards the Museums Quartier, we stopped by the Spanish Riding School, and went into the gift shop just to get a token since I couldn’t go and watch the show. So I got myself a small horse figurine in white porcelain.

Once that was out of the way, we took a few more pictures of the Hofburg Palace from the other façade as we leisurely strolled towards the Museums Quartier.

There was another Christkindlmarkt there with a beautifully decorated Christmas tree. I still didn’t get the delicious looking pastries, having been stuffed with the torte earlier. Darn… We didn’t buy anything there, but just soaked in the festive atmosphere as the last rays of sunlight started to disappear beyond the horizon.

When Scheherazade finally arrived, Uber Alles headed home to run a quick errand before meeting up with me again in the evening. Scheherazade took me up to Mariahilferstrasse, the main shopping street in Vienna. Most of the stores were pretty similar to the high street in London, so I wasn’t tempted to buy anything there. We went into one of the biggest department stores in Vienna, though the name escapes me now, mainly to get out of the rain. But we had a great conversation while milling through the store, checking out the merchandise etc.

Once the rain stopped, we headed back out, and Scheherazade bought a bag of freshly roasted chestnuts which we shared as we walked towards the Universitat Wien, which I have to say, has one of the most impressive university buildings I have ever seen, with exquisite baroque interiors that caused such a pang of envy… I wish my law faculty looked like that!

After visiting the university, we went to the Christkindlmarkt in front of Vienna’s town hall, the Rathaus. (Hee, rat house!) There, I found a cute ginger cat figurine at one of the stalls, adding it to my growing collection. After exploring the market, we stopped, and Scheherazade treated me to a non-alcoholic version of the Christmas cider, Jugenpunsch or something like that. I loved it, especially in the chilly weather, it provided a lovely warming sensation.

We walked back to the city centre, where we met up with Uber Alles at the Swarovski store near Stephansplatz, and I got myself a crystal Swarovski cat figurine. Cost a pretty penny, but it was absolutely gorgeous, and I had to add it to the collection.

After saying our goodbyes to Scheherazade, Uber Alles and I finally got to the Musikverein (on the right night this time!) and had an amazing time at the concert. The music, coupled with the grandeur of the Golden Hall, and the superior acoustics, made it a night to remember…

The following day, I left for London, filled with memories of what I can truly say to be one of the my most cherished holidays in quite a while. Thanks to Uber Alles and Scheherazade, who made my stay even more memorable.

xoxo,

gildedyouth

In early December, my friend Shelby, her husband Kevin and her son Theo came to visit us as part of their vacation. We had the best time together, especially because we were able to talk about Mom stuff and share tips on parenting. We have a similar parenting style, too. That was one of the best parts about the visit, because Rosebud and Theo were able to play together and we were able to really enjoy each other’s company.

Shelby’s son Theo is what the Germans call a “Christkind” – a Christmas child, as his birthday is on Christmas Eve. He’s not that much younger than Rosebud, although he is a lot bigger! The first time I picked him up, I almost fell over; the first time Shelby picked up Rosebud, she says she felt like she almost threw Rosebud as she is so much lighter than Theo.

On our first day, we went to Schloss Linderhof, one of King Ludwig’s castles. It is the closest of the King Ludwig castles to our house. I conveniently ordered some snow for Shelby, Kevin and Theo.

Rosebud and Theo asleep in the car

near Schloss Linderhof, a winter wonderland

Rosebud plays in the snow and slush outside the castle

snow-covered Schloss Linderhof gardens

Handsome Theo, waiting to go in the castle

Schloss Linderhof was designed to resemble Versailles palace in France, as King Ludwig was a fan of King Louis XIV, the Sun King. It’s a small castle, and in terms of its size, feels more like an over-decorated country manor. But it is impressive and quite beautiful. Both Rosebud and Theo discovered that their voices carried well in the castle rooms, so they entertained themselves by listening to their voices.

After our visit to the castle, we had a bite to eat in a café. Rosebud had a grand old time drinking hot chocolate with a spoon. The hot chocolate was all over her bib and shirt, and she was very pleased with herself.

Gratuitous Theo photo:

Nom nom nom!

The next day, we went to the Zugspitze, which is the highest peak in Germany. The Zugspitze is outside of Garmisch-Partenkirchen. To get to the top of the peak, we took the cog train. Especially during the skiing season, the Zugspitze is mainly accessed by skiers, although visitors can make reservations for an overnight stay in an Igloo hotel. Other activities include a kid’s skiing area, snowshoeing and during other times of the year, hiking.

The tickets up to the ski center near the peak are not cheap, but the ride up in the cog train was really neat. As it was late in the day – in fact, the last train up to the top – we were the only people in the train car. This worked out well because Rosebud walked up and down the car. I followed close behind, holding on to her shoulder, as we were at a fairly steep angle. Rosebud thought that walking uphill and downhill was pretty great.

Shelby, Theo and Kevin in the cog train car, going up to the Zugspitze

Kevin holds Theo so he can see the snow-covered trees on the mountain

It took about 40 minutes, maybe a little longer, to reach the ski chalet at the top. We didn’t stay outside very long with the children, as it was bitterly cold. Kevin and I took turns to take photos and watch the kids. Braving the frigid temperatures was definitely worth the stunning views:

The Zugspitze

The ski chalet at the top of the Zugspitze, at an altitude of 2600 meters

The sun sets on the Zugspitze

On our last day together, we drove to Salzburg which is about an hour and a half from our house. Salzburg has a charming Altstadt, or old city quarter where we spent most of our time. It was another bitterly cold day, so we all bundled up. As we wandered around, we found a lovely Christkindlmarkt, also called a Weihnachtsmarkt, or Christmas market. I liked this one much better than the one in Munich, as most of the items were hand-made and local.

Shelby and Kevin at a Christkindlmarkt in Salzburg

Cozy, napping Theo

A view of the Altstadt and Christkindlmarkt

The cathedral and view of the fortress from the Christmas market

We thoroughly enjoyed our visit with Shelby, Kevin and Theo; I only wish we could have spent more time together.

Today we decided we would look for the Christmas Markets. We didn’t bother to map a route, we decided to wing it. We bought some tickets and hopped on the U1 metro to Stephenplatz.

Leaving the U1 and up the escalator we were brought in front for the Stephendom Church.

It looked like they had three big organs and the whole church had a dark and gothic look to it.
It was partially under renovation and I immediately thought we always arrive to places when buildings are under renovation (ref trip to Paris 2008)! They put up a big sheet over parts of the church like how The Bay had it where the sheet was designed as a photo replica of what was beneath.

We saw huge ornaments hanging in the middle of the street and many Christmas tree vendors. I liked how they had tiny trees, maybe tree tops? The trees here looked fatter and bushy! If they had these back home I would be tempted to get one; a nice sweet tree for our little place! Although I guess it’s better that we don’t – we’d be lazy on the clean-up.

When we finally made it to the Christkindlemarket with numerous detours I was excited! It looked big and fun.


Many ornament, clothing, treats, wine-punch and food stalls. The Christmas market at city hall was also beside it was a little amusement park. We ended up not with any ornaments or hats but we ate and drank!

When you order a drink you also have to pay 2.50 EUR for a cup deposit. You can decide to take it home or return it to get your money back. We tried beerenpunche and jaggertee (Jagger tea) 3.50 EUR each and each body warming! It was nice to be part of the crowd with everyone holding their Christkindlmarkt cups. We also tried a hot dog-kaesekrainer and logan toast. The logan toast had ham and cheese wrapped up and deep fried. It wasn’t as greasy as expected and was nice! The kaesekrainer was sausage with cheese and mustard inside. They have an inventive way for the sausage/hot dog buns which looks like a ‘banh mi’ loaf where they tunnel a hot-dog size hole, toast the inside on this fat stick and drop the sausage inside with ketchup. Thinking about the day now I wish we ordered more of the different varieties… super yum! And more punche! Mmmm.

For the evening we decided to dine in and cooked up some pasta, chicken and sauce. I realized that unlike Paris it seemed most places needed the chip on the credit cards to work, including the grocery store we went to, Billa. When we get home I will have to enquire about getting one!

Unfortunately we haven’t heard about our luggage yet, so we decided to wash every stitch of clothing we had. We’ll give the baggage people a call tomorrow morning.

~Lily

Chicago Christkindlmarkt

Jessica and I visited the Chicago Christkindlmarkt at the Daley Plaza last night.  The weather was a bit chilly with blowing snow, but thankfully we were bundled-up in our warmest Patagonia coats. 

Our first stop was to purchase some candied almonds.  They were still warm and were delicious.

We bought some cute little schnaps “Stamperl” from Straub-Art-Glas.  We still have some Austrian schnaps left from the bottle that my friend Daniel brought back last year.  I think the schnaps will taste amazing from these glasses along with some fondue.

Jessica and I shared a glass of Gluehwein.  It wasn’t the best that I have ever had, but not the worst either.  At any rate, it hit the spot on a frigid December evening.

Our final stop was a Bratwurst mit Sauerkraut und Senf.  Mahlzeit!

Muoversi durante il ponte di Sant’Ambrogio è un’idea quantomeno discutibile: a seconda della meta e della stagione, il viaggio può trasformarsi in tragedia o in commedia, ovvero in un miscuglio delle due con trama incerta. Se poi il luogo prescelto è l’Alto Adige e il periodo è quello natalizio, c’è la garanzia di vivere un tranquillo ponte di epica passione. Nel male come nel bene.

Avvento e Natale in queste valli più o meno famose sono oggi sinonimo di turismo, turisti e mercatini natalizi. Scarso spazio viene riservato ai valori profondi, familiari e sociali, delle settimane sempre più fredde di Dicembre, che culminano finalmente con le feste più attese dell’anno. O almeno così sembra ad un primo sguardo: code di auto e bus, treni stracolmi, centinaia di migliaia di visitatori per milioni di accoppiate vincenti vin brulé – strudel.

In tutte le principali località si svolgono gli ormai tradizionali mercatini di Natale, anche se in realtà non possono vantare una lunga storia. A Bolzano abbiamo il più grande, Bressanone e Merano ne allestiscono altri molto frequentati e pure in vari paesi minori, come Sarentino o Vipiteno, si snodano fra le vecchie vie piccoli e raccolti mercatini. Inoltre per il ponte di Sant’Ambrogio, che in queste valli si accompagna all’antica festa di Sankt Nikolaus, quasi ogni borgo organizza celebrazioni e ritrovi, eventi in piazza e piccoli baracchini (ma di lusso) dove servire specialità e brindare con una tazza blu di vino caldo profumato alla cannella.

Un festeggiare di grande successo, dal punto di vista commerciale. Senza dubbio le organizzazioni locali hanno saputo costruire con vantaggio negli anni, fino ad attirare in queste regioni nordiche un pubblico sempre più vasto ed eterogeneo. Un vantaggio però che non premia tutti allo stesso modo: ci sono quelli che in quattro settimane fanno la fortuna di un intero anno, e quelli che devono sopportare clienti tanto curiosi quanto poco inclini all’acquisto.

Nel mescolarsi di tutte queste genti, viene naturale chiedersi se le città nel complesso, ma anche la regione tutta, tragga ormai un genuino vantaggio dalle orde di turisti in visita. Per citare alcuni degli ovvi problemi, troppo spesso sottovalutati con sciocca miopia: congestione e inquinamento, riduzione della qualità ricettiva, diminuzione della qualità della vita per i residenti, massificazione della destinazione col rischio di perdere quell’immagine di unicità ed esclusività indispensabile per sostenerne l’attrattività.

C’è chi ne ha parlato in modo compente (e giustamente appassionato): l’Alto Adige sta scherzando col fuoco del suo stesso successo. Fino a quando sarà capace di domarlo, nessuno può dirlo. Potrebbe anche darsi che ci si trovi già oltre il confine, quella sottile linea rossa tra valorizzazione di un territorio e frettolosa/pericolosa svendita dello stesso. Spostarsi a Bolzano il 6 Dicembre era (a dir poco) una tragedia, i dolci e le bevande (mal) gustate nella calca andavano di traverso e le (difficili) chiacchiere con gli amici in visita avevano il tono di una commedia nera.

Sono le regole del Libero Mercato (meglio: del Libero Mercatino Natalizio), qualcuno potrebbe argomentare, soddisfatto del tornaconto personale, concreto o presunto. Allora si mette in vetrina il meglio dell’Alto Adige e si fa dell’accoglienza, della tradizione, dell’ambiente i propri punti forti e imprescindibili? Qualche dubbio sorge. Ai mercatini troppo spesso speck, strudel e glühwein (= vin brulé) sono prodotti mediocri dal facile smercio: un ottimo guadagno per i forti gruppi che ne controllano produzione e distribuzione di massa. Le casette natalizie ospitano ben poche produzioni locali, tradizionali e artigiane, preferendo vecchi espedienti per cogliere al volo i sornioni turisti e spennarli di qualche euro. L’ambiente resta sullo sfondo, ancora magnifico visto dalle lontane vie della città (per chi lo nota). Ma nelle pieghe delle montagne si incidono ferite sempre più dolorose che, per quanto ancora poco visibili, sviliscono il motivo stesso per cui questa terra è tanto ricercata.

Non credo che i Giorni del Libero Mercatino faranno la vera fortuna del territorio altoatesino. Non sappiamo a quale curva del sentiero ci troviamo e se ancora conserviamo abbastanza fiato per proseguire senza cadere rocambolescamente. Gli esempi di valli in forte declino o già moribonde, un tempo ridenti stazioni turistiche sia estive che invernali, sono numerose in tutto l’arco alpino e anche oltre. Mentre già si affacciano sulla scena leopardi delle nevi e lupi dell’est con una carica sempre più travolgente.

Mi viene in mente lo spettacolo “Miserabili” di Marco Paolini con i Mercanti di Liquore, che qualche anno fa avevo visto a Milano e poi riascoltato tante volte in disco (e trasmesso anche da La7): un lavoro artigianale e genuino, decisamente ruspante. Nella bella canzone di chiusura dell’album (Liberomercato) si parla dell’incontro tra democrazia e libero mercato… una relazione dall’esito incerto, ma fondamentale. Forse solo un senso partecipativo della libertà individuale potrebbe cambiare la qualità della vita, privata come sociale, anche nel proprio territorio.

In Alto Adige ci sono segni positivi e motivi di ottimismo, non scontati e ancora troppo nascosti. A Sarentino il mercatino è piccolo e raccolto, l’atmosfera è accogliente (gemütlich), i prodotti sono locali e artigianali. Tutto questo ha un prezzo: richiede voglia di cercare e scoprire, uscendo dai pacchetti preconfezionati del turismo di massa. L’intera Val Sarentino racchiude innumerevoli gemme e una sola visita non può bastare: formaggi e speck da sballo (@elisamarco) in originali malghe, minuscole saune con profumi di pino mugo, remote pareti di montagne ottime per sciare in pace, realtà famigliari che condividono la propria tavola semplice e genuina.

La ricerca è come una salita, che all’inizio ci domina minacciosa, e alla fine ci ricompensa generosamente. Dall’alto di un giogo alpino, così vicino agli alberghi di lusso eppure così lontano nella foresta dimenticata, si può ritrovare una dimensione umana che stiamo lentamente perdendo. Tra un estremo e l’altro, tra la massa impazzita e il silenzio immobile del gelo invernale, esistono tanti livelli intermedi fatti di momenti belli e memorabili. Una cena in compagnia in un antico maso condotto dal polso sicuro di una giovane altoatesina; una serena giornata di dure salite in sci e discese profumate nei vapori dell’acqua; il caldo di casa tra musica e coinquilini per un allegro brindisi natalizio; il fresco mattutino ed il canto raccolto della Chiesa in celebrazione; quel minuto di silenzio fra le impronte profonde nella neve fresca, cercando di rintracciare il passato ma scoprendosi, con stupore, di essere già un passo oltre.

_

Per qualche altra foto dei Giorni del Libero Mercatino, clicca qui.

My favorite part of the holidays is the twinkle of all the lights hung on the city buildings and trees. It’s the thing that gets me in the spirit of the season the most. I highly recommend the 16th Street Mall and Christkindlmarkt in Denver:

Here’s to a wonderful holiday and a very happy new year! Cheers to you!

Hmm…. Christmas comes just in a few days. Why not some cultures, arts, classical music, some good meals, and fresh air? Then Salzburg, the city of Mozart!

First of all, I came over at Eggenfelden, where the headquarter of Daytona located, a German riding boots company, in order to hand-over my Daytona Bandit XCR for repairing purpose. The boots had saved my foot at 100 kmh crash last June. They only asked for 15 EUR including tax and shipping cost. Not bad!

After Eggenfelden, I came over at Aidenbach, where the headquarter of Stadler located, a German riding apparels company. Stadler is specialized in riding jackets and trousers.  Stadler is a direct competitor to Rukka. Yeah, my Rukka A-Tech suite had proven itself that it was every cent worth by saving me from the crash without injuries (the only injury was a broken hand which was protected by Held riding glove). I actually wanted to invest in a Rukka again, but heard that Stadler comes with a ten years guarantee (Rukka comes only with 5 years guarantee). So, I thought why not. Then nothing better then visiting Stadler directly . I used Rukka size 54 short, and since I have been some cm slimmer, size 52 should fit me. There I tried size 52, 54, 27,  and 28, but it didn’t fit me. Either too large or too tight, especially in armpit. Then back to the root: Rukka .

After that, heading straight to Salzburg. After checking-in at the Youth Hostel, walked to the Old Town, where Christmas Market (“Christkindlmarkt”) was being held.

Full of graffiti

Ice rink in the middle of Town Square

Heading straight to the Christmas Market

Time for a dinner…. a “Knoblauchkrapfen mit Sauerkraut”… like other things, it was delicious but fatty

Enough for today… Heading back to the Hostel.

Am Wochenende war es wieder mal fällig: weihnachtliche Großstadt-Atmosphäre schnuppern an den diversen Christkindlmärkten in der Münchener Innenstadt. Wie üblich geisterten viel zuviel der verwirrten Einkaufswütigen planlos um die diversen Glühwein- und Weihnachtsschmuck-Standerl herum, wie immer war es zudem eisig kalt, wie jedes Jahr nervte einem dieses Herumgeschubse allerorts und doch oder sogar gerade deswegen war’s eben doch wieder richtig nett. Dieser Umstand inspirierte Wortgeflecht.de zu folgendem Gedichtlein, nämlich die…

Glühwein-Serenade

Heisa, jubilier, endlich hama wieder die staade Zeit,

nur in der Innenstadt tummeln se leider vui z’vui Leit.

Hoit’n entgegen dem Trend nix vom Online-Shopping,

macha’n liaba in da City Extreme-Laden-Hopping.

De Menschen wirken g’streßt, oder wenigstens abgehetzt,

drängeln und schiab’n se umanand, bis dann zu allerletzt,

Bratwurstluft und Glühweinduft die Oberhand gewinnt,

boid da ganze Frust endlich abfoit und im Schnee verrinnt.

Feinst-gewürzter Rotwein mit vui Rum oder a ohne Schuss,

macht für a paar Schluck Schluss mit’m G’schenkverdruss.

Dann zum final’n Abend noh a g’scheide Feuerzangenbowle,

de wärmt Glubberl, Ohrwaschl und Hax’n in der kühlsten Sohle.

Erst wenn de Tastatur bewirkt, dass sei’m Herrn in’d Finga friert,

da Lüfter vom PC-Netzteil wohlriachad’n Glühweinduft serviert,

as DVD-Laufwerk an hoaßen Punsch kredenzt auf’m Tablett,

kafft der Mensch seine Weihnachtsg’schenk’ vielleicht im Internet.

© Andy Ilmberger, Dezember 2008/2009

We’re reaching the end of the year. It’s already December, which means Christmas time is here. (At least it is in Christian countries).

Every December Christmas markets open all around Vienna . The most famous is the ‘Christkindlmarkt’ (roughly translated as ‘Infant Jesus market’) in front of the town hall.

A few days back I visited it after work, browsed the booths, drank hot punch and took some pictures.

Hover your cursor over the pictures to get a short description, click on them for larger pictures.

Sutono, a close pal of mine, had just got his motorbike driving license. And now he needs a real motorbike (he had been riding a 125 cc scooter so far). He needs a motorbike that capable to do long distance tour, has good weather protection, reliable, low-cost maintenance, and comfortable enough for riding two-up (he and his fiancé). We came over to some dealers and following are the close contestants:

• Honda Deauville
  Out-of-contest: although it has shaft drive, with only 70 HP,  it is just too weak for riding two-up. And the luggages are also built-in.
• Honda ST1300 Pan European
  The big sister of Deauville. More CC, more HP, more weather protection, and bigger. The panniers can also be carried away. Out-of-contest because she is shameless too pricey. Come on, Honda, with 17.500 EUR I would better get a K1300GT or R1200RT!! And the BMWs have also better workmanship!
• Honda XL1000V Varadero
  The till now dual-sport motorbike from Honda to compete with the GS. In my opinion, she is definitively not a dual-sport bike. she is indeed a fake dual-sport. Or let we say a GS-wannabe. Yes she has the look. But she has a dry-weight of 269 kg or about 276 kg wet-weight. Holy cow! And no crash bars and panniers installed yet. I can’t understand why she is even 20 kg fatter than GSA (and no, she is NOT a competitor of GSA. She is a competitor of GS…at most!). And the plastics, very ugly. And long-distance tourer? 6000 km service interval and a chain drive. It’s a joke, right? But the dealer offered a good deal: the new Varadero including crash bars, and Givi-like top and side panniers, all inclusive just 11.000 EUR flat. Sutono, unlike me, liked the Varadero. And he is a big fan of Honda (he rode Honda NSR 125 in Jakarta). The Varadero, therefore, the number one on his list.
• BMW K1300GT
  She has HP, she has more than enough torque, she has a shaft drive, she has excellent weather protection, she is comfortable for riding two-up, she is BMW, she is beautiful, and she is out-of-contest. The reasons: too pricey and too much HP
• BMW R1200RT
  The boxer engine pendant of K1300GT, with tamer engine. Moreover, she is original BMW (boxer engine).  And out-of-contest because too pricey…
• BMW R1200GS
  The little sister of GSA. She has all characteristics what GSA has, only with shorter suspension travel, smaller tank capacity, and some unneeded plastics here and there. Also out-of-contest. The reason is the same like other BMWs: too pricey. With panniers, etc it would cost about 2500-3500 EUR more than Varadero or KTM.
• KTM 990 Adventure Traveler Edition
  Come with crash bars, excellent Hepco & Becker Gobi side panniers, tank rucksack. All inclusive only 10.500 EUR. A very nice deal. And let’s talk about facts. KTM is an adventure bike specialist. The 990s has also a top notch WP suspensions with good travel suspension. She has enough HP and torque. She is fun to ride, especially in the twisties and gravels. With only about 210 kg dry-weight she is the slimmest of all other competitors, the GS and Varadero. She is the real GS(A) competitor. And she is made in Austria. But she has also some negatives (so that she was never on my list, but of course not so relevant from the Sutono’s point of view): 7500 km service interval (still 1500 km longer than Varadero),  not-so-good weather protection, and not so comfortable on Autobahn.  And the seat is too small for long-distance touring. The 19,5 liter tank capacity is just enough for 200-250 km range. And she has a chain drive.

From my point of view, the KTM 990 Adventure wins hand-down. The seat could be replaced with after-market one, like from Touratech. And you get a nice adventure bike.

Enough with motorbikes, we got a lunch at a good Chinese restaurant. And see there: an all-you-can-eat buffet Mongolian grills. Many exotic meats and fishes, rare mushrooms, and fresh vegetables and fruits. All served freshly and you could mixed it up on your own and it would be grilled directly in front of your nose. Very delicious. The atmosphere was also very fine. The restaurant was much bigger than I thought and it was beautifully decorated.  And the service was top notch. And the price? Nothing to beat. Only 12 EUR including drinks and tips. Not bad, eh?

In the evening, we visited the famous Christmas market  (Nürnberger Christkindlmarkt). Very beautiful and romantic.

The pictures were taken with Sutono’s brand new Olympus SP-590UZ ultra-zoom camera. As you see, the results are disappointed. The pictures are not sharp enough (blured). I won’t get any other Olympus cameras anymore. My next one is either from Canon or Nikon, as long as I can’t afford a Leica yet.

If you live in, or within driving distance of, our friend Ben and Silence Dogood’s home area—basically Berks and Lehigh Counties in Pennsylvania—our friend Ben would like to alert you to the many, many fabulous and fun things going on in the area this weekend. Why it is that every single thing has to happen the exact same weekend is beyond our friend Ben, since that makes it inevitable that we’ll miss out on lots of fun stuff. But so be it: At least you can choose the activities that appeal most to you and have a wonderful time.

Our friend Ben and Silence have been to all these in previous years, so we can guarantee that they’re worth the trip. And fortunately, some of them continue throughout the month, so you can plan a future weekend or weeknight trip. Check it all out:

The Christmas Market. Presented by the Goschenhoppen Historians and located at Red Men’s Hall, Green Lane, PA, this amazing combination of folklife museum and Christmas sale is delightful. There’s a bake sale featuring Pennsylvania Dutch/Amish Christmas specialties, including the wonderful Amish lemon sponge pie (we’re not leaving without one), tons of homemade Christmas cookies, “home canned sweets and sours,” the famous molded Pennsylvania Dutch clear toy candies, which make beautiful Christmas ornaments, and even lunch and beverages. But Silence is jabbing our friend Ben in the ribs to get me to stop talking about food and get on to the actual exhibit, which has a wonderful display of themed Christmas trees and holiday arrangements, a sale of handcrafted Christmas gifts and ornaments, a sale of vintage Christmas ornaments, local books and Christmas cards, and “researched period Pennsylvania German Christmas customs and folk practices,” including the PA Dutch skinny, scary Santa, Der Belsnickel. December 5th and 6th (Saturday and Sunday). Find out more at www.goschenhoppen.org.

Glick’s Greenhouse Poinsettia Show. This may not sound too exciting, but trust me, it is. In addition to a massive display of 10,000 poinsettias—including the latest varieties—Glick’s always has a themed show with judged entries from local goups and businesses. Last year, the theme was wreaths celebrating Route 66, including one memorable wreath made from old license plates. This year, the theme is Celtic: Christmas in a Castle. Live Celtic music and dancing and free food (hot, fresh popcorn, PA Dutch hotdogs with all the trimmings, including sauerkraut and relish, cider, and beyond), and free admission make this event a must-see. Besides poinsettias, Glick’s has an extensive selection of perennials, houseplants, water-garden plants, and wreaths available for sale at great prices. Silence and I have bought our Christmas wreath at Glick’s for the past three years—the quality and price simply can’t be beat. We’re looking forward to getting this year’s wreath tomorrow. Glick’s is hosting its poinsettia show today (Friday), Saturday, and Monday. Check it out, and get hours, directions, and an entertainment schedule, at www.glicksgreenhouse.com.

Mennonite Heritage Center Pennsylvania German Folk Art Sale. Our next stop will definitely be the Mennonite Heritage Center in Harleysville, PA.  On Saturday the 6th from 9:30 am to 4 pm and on Sunday the 7th from noon to 4 pm, there will be an open house featuring the finest Pennsylvania Dutch (aka German) handcrafted folk arts for sale, as well as craft demonstrations (woodcarving, tinsmithing, and elaborate papercutting, aka scherenschnitte). You can enjoy the museum’s folk art and lifestyle exhibits and browse their unequaled selection of PA Dutch folk art, including redware, quilts, scherenschnitte, fraktur, furniture, weavings, tinwork, toleware, carved birds and animals, and much more. Our friend Ben and Silence make sure we have our Christmas gift list drawn up before we head over here! There’s also an amazing selection of books pertaining to PA Dutch lifestyles and history, the history of the region, regional cookbooks (yes!!!—Silence), children’s books on Colonial lifestyles, and local music CDs. We recommend our favorite local group, DayBreak. We love all their CDs, but their Christmas CD is an outstanding introduction. Can’t make it this weekend? Lucky you, the sale continues through December 31st. Check it all out at www.mhep.org.  

Pine Creek Pottery Fall Firing Open House. Willi Singleton learned the art of pottery in Japan, and has combined the best of both worlds at his pottery at the foot of the famous Hawk Mountain Sanctuary.  We first discovered Willi’s marvelous pottery at Hawk Mountain, and have been going back for more ever since. Over the years, we’ve bought mugs, plates, bowls, and a teapot from Willi, all made from the local Hawk Mountain clay and fired in incredible open beehive ovens. He makes an amazing range of other pottery, including massive urns, as well. Revered as a master in Japan, undeniably a master here, Willi’s art is one of a kind. The warm, homey atmosphere of his twice-yearly open houses, with food, hot beverages, and friendly chat with the potter himself, as well as an opportunity to tour the kiln barn, is in our opinion not to be missed. It’s especially great combined with a trip up the road to Hawk Mountain. The open house is Saturday and Sunday, December 5th and 6th, from noon to 6 p.m. Can’t make it this weekend? Luckily, Pine Creek Pottery is also open by appointment. Check out the website, www.willisingleton.com, for more details.

Christkindlmarkt. We adore this gathering of artisans and traditional German and Austrian craftsmen held in the old Moravian section of Bethlehem, PA, every year.  We buy “smokers,” the wooden people and Christmas scenes with hidden cavities for incense, and frankincense to burn in them. We’ve bought glass Moravian stars, beeswax candles, handcrafted jewelry and leather goods, fantastic paintings and photographs, precious stones, and locally made salsa. We make a point of buying spiced hot almonds every year, admiring the ice sculptures, and checking out the cuckoo clocks. Each week brings a new assortment of craftspeople as well as the unchanging selection of German and Austrian craftspeople.  Fortunately for us, Christkindlmarkt continues not just this weekend  but every Thursday through Sunday through December 20th. Did we mention that there’s tons of food and live music? Check it out at www.christmascity.org.

Model Train Displays. Believe it or not, there are six Christmas model train displays in our area. We’ll simply have to accompany our friend Rob, the local model train fanatic, to at least one. (Over the years, we’ve seen train displays in nearby Hamburg, Kempton, and Allentown with him.)  Check out all six at www.themorningcall.com, which features a gallery of model train layouts and a video of the Train Time display at the America on Wheels museum in Allentown, as well as the article about the exhibits, “Model trains load up their holiday magic,” by Kathy Lauer-Williams.

Our friend Ben is sure there’s a lot more going on in the Berks-Lehigh area this weekend. These are just the ones we can personally vouch for. So if you’re in the area, check them out. You may be able to do all your Christmas shopping, and get your family and friends unique, handcrafted, authentic regional crafts, as we try to do each year. And if you see a tall, blond, worried-looking man trying to restrain a short, dark-haired, supremely enthusiastic woman from buying everything in sight, come on over and introduce yourselves. Our friend Ben and Silence would be delighted to meet you!

Frau Chief hat sich tatsächlich mal wieder rausgewagt. In der Dunkelheit!  Aber irgendwann muß man ja mit dem Glühwürsteln anfangen. Und um nicht NUR zu essen und zu trinken, haben wir das ganze mit einem etwas ausgedehnteren Spaziergang kombiniert.

Dies ist das Panorama, was ich jeden Morgen auf dem Weg zur Straßenbahnhaltestelle genießen darf. Man beachte auch das Graffitti rechts unten.

Erster Glühkindlmarkt, auf dem wir lecker Feuerzangenbowle getrunken haben. Daß ich das Tablett angezündet hab, weil ich nicht den Löffel zum Ausgießen des Schnapses benutzt hab, sondern einfach das Glas ausgekippt hab und dann der ganze Rum Feuer gefangen hat und auf das Tablett gelaufen ist, darüber decken wir mal das Mäntelchen des Schweigens.

Auf dem Weg zu Glühkindlmarkt Nr. 2 auf der Praterinsel. Um zu der Ecke in den Isarauen zu gelangen, von wo man diese Fotos machen konnte, hätte ich eindeutig die Nachtsichtgläser brauchen können. Ich Doof. Aber wer kann auch sowas ahnen. Nächstes Mal dann halt.

Hier die Brücke, die zum Maximilianeum führt. Ich weiß nicht, wie sie heißt, Schande über mich. Aber wahrscheinlich sowas wie “Maximiliansbrücke”. Denn es schließt sich nach links auch die berühmte, noble  Maximiliansstraße an. Da, wo Dolce & Gabbana und so.

Die …Ähäm-Kirche…Ich lebe seit fast 10 Jahren in München, finde überall hin, weiß aber keinerlei Namen. Sorry. Sie ist aber auch an der Isar. Irgendwo. Bei mir um die Ecke.

Auf dem Glühkindlmarkt auf der Praterinsel. Wo die ist, weiß ich halt schon.

Meine süßen säuischen Verwandten sind natürlich auch schon da:

Nur in München kann ich wirklich standesgemäß Taxi fahren:

Natürlich am Odeonsplatz.

Danach haben wir dann den dritten Glühkindlmarkt besucht, einen Mittelaltermarkt.

Und sind dann über den Karolinenplatz (ich weiß doch was YAY! und außerdem hat der Obelisk mit dem Mond was von “Stargate”, aber egal):

…und über den Königsplatz (Applaus, den Namen kenne ich auch!):

…zum “Cinema” gelaufen und haben dort Karten für “Zombieland” gekauft.

Und dann waren wir platt.

Und außerdem möchte ich anmerken, daß der Blu Ray Player absolut super ist, der Dolby Surround Sound die Nachbarn endgültig ertauben lassen wird, das Update über das W-Lan Kabel funktioniert, allerdings sehr langsam, so langsam, daß wir in der Zeit noch drei Christmasmärkte hätten aufsuchen können, und nun gerade T4 geguckt wird. Und bisher haben sich die Nachbarn noch nicht beschwert…

Außerdem haben wir in drei Tagen sechs (!) Glühkindlmärkte durchgezogen. Rekord!

Dieses Wochenende war mein Schatz zu besuch in Innsbruck und es war toll.

Freitag spät abends kam mein Schatz mit dem Zug an und das unglaubliche daran: die ÖBB war pünktlich, auf die Minute. Konnte es kaum glauben. Danach waren wir einen Kebap essen im “Jimmy” bei den Bögen. Da er schon lange unterwegs war, wollte er unbedingt heim, doch es war schon nach 11 Uhr und da gehen die Nightliner nur mehr stündliche. So machten wir uns zu Fuß vom Sillpark auf Richtung Piuskirche, sind ungefähr 10 Stationen. Wir kamen bis Roßbachstraße, 45 min Gehzeit, dann hat uns der Bus eingeholt und wir sind mitgefahren.

Samstags haben wir 3 der vielen Christkindlmärkte in Innsbruck besucht: den beim Goldenen Dachl, auf der Maria-Theresien-Straße und den am Marktplatz. War wunderschön, wir haben viel Punsch und Glühwein getrunken und viele Köstlichkeiten ausprobiert. Hab zum ersten Mal “Kiachle” mit Sauerkraut und einen mit Preiselbeeren gegessen. Dass sind Germschiffchen frisch herausgebacken, es gibt sie entweder mit lecker warmen Sauerkraut, Preiselbeerkompott oder nur mit Zucker. Total lecker! Mir schmecken die mit Sauerkraut am Besten. Sollte jeder mal probiert haben.

Am Markplatz gibt es ein Karusell, wir sind jedoch nicht damit gefahren, aber ich hab mir dort einen Filzhut gekauft (Bilder folgen sicher noch). Es gibt tolle Sachen zu sehen, zu probieren und zu kaufen. Mein Schatz war aber am Meisten von der Kindervorstellung begeistert: Am Marktplatz haben 2 Clowns Späße erzählt und er wollte gar nicht mehr weg Abends gings dann wieder zurück in die WG mit Zuckerschock und sehr vollen Bäuchen, aber total glücklich. Viele beschweren sich ja gerade, dass es momentan so war ist, aber mir war es ganz recht, denn ich bin eine, der leicht kalt wird und dann bald heim will. Das war gestern nicht der Fall

Heute haben wir ausgeschlafen und wollten dann ins “Krahvogel” Burger essen gehen, doch als wir vor der Eingangstür standen, mussten wir lesen, dass Sonntags erst um 17 Uhr geöffnet wird. Weil wir aber Lust hatten auf Burger, gingen wir zum Maci. Bin ja seit Monaten kein großer Fan mehr, aber es war ganz ok heute. Nach zwei Punsch und einmal kleine Donuts brachte ich meinen Schatz zum Bahnhof und ein Abschied für 3 Wochen musste wieder sein.

Nächste Woche kommt eine supergute Freundin zu besuch, mein Baby. Freu mich schon so. Wir haben am Sonntag ein Frühstück am Berg Isel bestellt und wir freuen uns schon soooo auf die Aussicht und das lecker Frühstück. Bericht und Fotos folgen nächste Woche.

Tja, eigentlich wollte ich ja den Job beim Käseverkauf auf dem Christkindlmarkt ohne meine Monster machen. Aber das Käsemonster hat irgendwas mitbekommen und hockt jetzt ständig auf meiner Schulter, damit ich nicht ohne es los gehe.

Ich hoffe, es benimmt sich heute an meinem ersten Tag.

Mal sehen, gleich geht es los. Vielleicht macht es ja auch irgendwann schlapp. 10-12 Stunden arbeiten mag es hoffentlich nicht.

Mehr dann später

Ulla

Was? Is scho wieder Frühlingsfest?

Ach so, Winter-Tollwood!


Bei dem Wetter kann man schon mal durcheinander kommen.

Es sollte der Abschluss eines netten Tages werden. Denn bis zu jenem Moment war der Tag ja wirklich nett: Ausschlafen, aufräumen, meine Eltern bekochen, die sich erstmals in meiner neuen Wohnung die Ehre gaben – ein außergewöhnlich netter Tag also. Und um ihn ebenso nett ausklingen zu lassen wollten Herr N. und ich “mal schnell” auf einen Punsch gehen, denn den ganzen Tag über herrschte angenehm warmes Migräne-Föhn-Wetter – da ließ es sich auch abends draußen leichter ausharren als bei arktischen Temperaturen. Alles in allem ausgezeichnete Voraussetzungen für einen netten Abend.

Das erste böse Erwachen kam schon am Spittelberg, da Herr N. und ich jedes Mal vergessen, dass das arbeitende Volk sich allzu früh ins Bett begibt, und das Gros der Punschhütten ihre Pforten um 22  oder gar 21 Uhr schließt.  Doch Herr N. und ich wollten uns unseren nett geplanten Abend nicht vermiesen lassen. Da eilten wir also die schöne Siebensterngasse hinunter, vertieft in eine Konversation über die Lebens- und Schaffenskrisen, die derzeit unser Dasein beherrschen. Ist zwar weniger nett, diese Lebens- und Schaffenskrise, aber wir Künstler und Freischaffenden brauchen ja Lebens- und Schaffenskrisen, zwecks Kreativität und so. So liefen und kraxelten wir über die Dächer Wiens zum Museumsquartier hinüber, voller Vorfreude auf fette Beats, hippes Volk und heißen Ingwerpunsch. Doch als wir die Treppen vom Mumok hinabstiegen ist es so seltsam still und vor allem – leer. Und als wir erstmals in den Hof einsehen konnten traf uns der apokalyptische Anblick wie der Schlag: Der Eispalast, der wunderbare und einzigartige MQ-Eispalast, ist tot.

Touristen dachten erst, es wäre “a kind of modern art”, diese schwarze Vulkankraterlandschaft mitten im MQ-Hof. Sah ja auch tatsächlich so aus, nur fehlte das Schild mit Künstlername und Kurzbeschreibung. Ein einsamer Securitymann spazierte andächtig um die Ruinen herum, damit ja niemand ein Souvenir aus den verkohlten Überresten der Enzis entwenden konnte. Auf dem dem einzigen Enzi, der noch halbwegs als solcher erkennbar war, hatte jemand “Burn-Out-Syndrom” hingeschmiert. Fassunglos und voller Trauer standen wir um die Trümmer unserer kulturellen Zufluchtsortes herum. Natürlich bedauerten wir in erster Linie den Verlust des viel zu wässrigen und überteuerten Punsches. Doch vor allem galt: Wir mussten loslassen, loslassen von der Galionsfigur einer Wiener Subkultur, vom Wahrzeichen des Boboville-Winters und endgültig von unserem hohen Ross absteigen. Denn heuer wird es nix mehr mit dem Eispalast, der Großteil der Enzis ist den Folgen eines Kabelbrandes erlegen, und deren teure Wiederanschaffung wird sich wohl bis in den Frühling hineinziehen.

Seit jenem Tag trägt Boboville schwarzen Trauerflor, wer weiterhin nicht auf Punsch und Glühwein verzichten will, muss mit den anderen Christkindlmärkten vorlieb nehmen. Und die sind – bis auf den Spittelberg vielleicht – viel zu touristisch, viel zu kitschig, viel zu überfüllt, und einfach viel zu mainstream. Denn so ist es in Wien – zwischen Subkulturen bestehen tiefe Gräben – und zum Brücken schlagen fehlt die nötige Toleranz und Offenheit:  Offenheit auch Neues kennenzulernen und zu akzeptieren, auch wenn es noch so sehr “mainstream” ist und sich nicht in Naschmarktnähe befindet. Denn wir wollen ja anders sein als die anderen, so sehr anders und alternativ, dass wir gar nicht merken, wie gleich anders und gleich alternativ wir eigentlich sind. Jetzt, wo ein Zufluchtsort der Bobos weniger existiert, kommen wir erst drauf, wie sehr wir in unserer eigenen Seifenblase leben. Und wie klein diese Seifenblase ist.

Übrigens: Herr N. und ich überwanden den Verlust des MQ-Eispalastes relativ schnell und konnten trotz des Schocks  in einem Bobo-Beisl diesen netten Tag mit einem relativ netten Abend beenden.

Landauf, landab gibt es auch in Südtirol die beliebten Christkindlmärkte. Der Duft von Lebkuchen, Vanille, Zimt und Glühwein zieht jedes Jahr Tausende Menschen an. Aussteller bieten handgefertigte Produkte, leckeres Gebäck und viele tolle Geschenksideen. Wunderschön erstrahlen die Lichterdekorationen im besonderen Flair der Weihnachtsmärkte und wunderschön erklingt aus allen Ecken Weihnachtsmusik. Mehr zu den Christkindlmärkten in Südtirol.

Bürgermeister Häupl hat heute Abend den legendären Christkindlmarkt in Wien vor dem Rathaus eröffnet. Unzählige weihnachtliche Standler mit tollen Angeboten und Punschhütten warten auf Sie.

Ab sofort täglich geöffnet.

INFO: www.christkindlmarkt.at

1. Innere Stadt
ab Anfang Dezember: City-Faltplan in der Wollzeile
Der hochwertig gestaltete, praktische Wollzeile-City-Faltplan wird in den Geschäften der sympathischen Einkaufsstraße an Kunden verteilt. Ganz neu ist der Wiener Geheimtipp mit seinen originellen Geschäften und der klassischen Wiener Gastronomie auch im Internet zu finden: http://www.wollzeile.at

3. Landstraße
jeden Mittwoch: Happy Hour-Aktion in Erdberg und im Hundertwasserviertel
Viele Betriebe in Erdberg und im Hundertwasserviertel bieten jeden Mittwoch von 14 bis 18 Uhr spezielle Angebote wie zum Beispiel Kaffee und Kuchen zum halben Preis oder eine Gratismehlspeise zum Kaffee.
ab Anfang Dezember: Das Christkind erfüllt Wünsche – in Erdberg und im Hundertwasserviertel
In den teilnehmenden Geschäften in Erdberg und im Hundertwasserviertel werden Postkarten verteilt, mit denen Kinder ihre Wünsche ans Christkind schicken können. Viele dieser Wünsche werden erfüllt (Verständigung per Telefon): Die Geschenkübergabe erfolgt am 18. Dezember um 16.30 Uhr im Lilarum.
5. und 8. Dezember: Europäische Weihnachtsbräuche auf der Landstraße
Das Landstraßer Christkind präsentiert europäische Weihnachtsbräuche: Bei Thalia im W3-Center werden für Kinder Weihnachtsgeschichten aus verschiedenen europäischen Ländern, die auch in den teilnehmenden Geschäften zum Sammeln aufliegen, vorgelesen. Vor den Geschäften können sich Kinder mit dem Christkind fotografieren lassen und erhalten das Erinnerungsfoto und eine bunte Sammelmappe für ihre Weihnachtsgeschichten. Teilnehmende Unternehmen werden mit zweisprachigen Weihnachtsgrüßen – “Frohe Weihnachten” und z. B. rumänisch “Craciun fericit!” – gekennzeichnet.

4. Wieden
27. November: Feier zum Start der Weihnachtsbeleuchtung in der Wiedner Favoritenstraße
Die Weihnachtsbeleuchtung wird am 27. November erstmals in der Wiedner Favoritenstraße-Karolinengasse leuchten. Das wird ab 16 Uhr mit Punsch und Keksen vor dem Frisör JFK-Hairstyles, Favoritenstraße 50, mit den Passanten gefeiert.
1. bis 24. Dezember: Weihnachtsbaum als Kunstprojekt in Wieden
Am St.-Elisabeth-Platz wird der Weihnachtsbaum heuer als Kunstprojekt durch die Universität für Angewandte Kunst geschmückt. Dazu gibt es eine begleitende Schaufensteraktion.
5. Dezember: Nikolo in Wieden
Zwischen 10 und 16 Uhr verteilt der Nikolo wieder Lebkuchen, Äpfel und Nüsse an die Passanten in den Straßen und in den Mitgliedsgeschäften der Oberen Wieden (Wiedner Favoritenstraße, Argentinierstraße, St.-Elisabeth-Platz, Karolinen-, Belvedere-, Goldegg- und Weyringergasse usw.).

7. Neubau
1. bis 24. Dezember: Geschenke-Zustellservice ab Westbahnstraße
“Wir bringen Ihren Einkauf nach Hause” heißt es in der Westbahnstraße. Bis zum Zeitpunkt der gewünschten Zustellung, die beim Kauf zu buchen ist und durch den Fahrradbotendienst Spinning Circle durchgeführt wird, werden die Geschenke – fürsorglich – in den Geschäften aufbewahrt.
5., 12. und 19. Dezember: “Das Christkind fährt Bim” in der Westbahnstraße
An allen Einkaufssamstagen ist das Christkind der Westbahnstraße im 49er unterwegs und verwöhnt die Fahrgäste mit einer kleinen Überraschung von den Kaufleuten der Westbahnstraße.

13. Hietzing
4. Dezember: Nikoloumzug in Ober St. Veit
Nikolo und Krampus kommen mit der Pferdekutsche nach Ober St. Veit und verteilen kleine Geschenke.

15. Rudolfsheim-Fünfhaus
1. bis 24. Dezember: Adventkalender auf der Hütteldorfer Straße
Die Initiative “Unternehmer Hütteldorfer Straße” schenkt Ihren Kunden einen Adventkalender der besonderen Art: Zu jedem Fensterl gibt es einen Gutschein mit Geschenken oder Aktionen. Und um dem Christkind auch Post zukommen zu lassen, steht an jenem Tag, an dem ein Unternehmen seinen Gutschein präsentiert, eine Briefbox für Kundenwünsche parat. Nach Weihnachten wird der eine oder andere im Gesamtwert von rund 1.000 Euro erfüllt.
4. Dezember: Nikolaus in der Reindorfgasse
Am späten Nachmittag (ab 16.30 Uhr) erfreut der Nikolaus die Kinder und alle Kundinnen und Kunden in der Reindorfgasse mit Äpfeln, Nüssen, Feigen und Süßem.
11. Dezember: Advent-Benefizkonzert in der Reindorfgasse
Die Kaufleute der Reindorfgasse organisieren in Kooperation mit dem Kulturverein Fünfhaus wieder ein Advent-Benefizkonzert in der Kirche Reindorf. Der Bariton Sebastian Holecek (Volksoper Wien), begleitet von Christian Koch, und der polnische Jugendchor Presto unter der Leitung von Kamil Chalupnik verwöhnen die Zuhörer mit deutschsprachigen und internationalen Advent- und Weihnachtsliedern und stimmen auf das bevorstehende Weihnachtsfest ein. Der Erlös kommt der Pfarre Reindorf zugute.

16. Ottakring
24. November: Einweihung der neuen Weihnachtsfestbeleuchtung in der Thaliastraße
Die neue Weihnachtsfestbeleuchtung in der Thaliasstraße “Engelsspuren im Sternenhimmel” wird am 24. November um 18.15 Uhr im Beisein der Kaufleute der Thaliastraße einweiht. Ehrengäste sind: Prälat Friedrich Guttenbrunner, WKW-Präsidentin KommR Brigitte Jank, Bezirksvorsteher Franz Prokop, Wolfgang Bichler, Obmann der IG Thaliastraße, und das Designer-Team “bkm”.

19. Döbling
1. bis 24. Dezember: Adventkalender der Nussdorfer Unternehmen
Bis Weihnachten gibt es bei den Nussdorfer Unternehmern köstliche Schmankerl, Punsch und Kekse.
4. Dezember: Perchtenlauf in der Obkirchergasse
In der Obkirchergasse geht’s rund – schauen Sie sich dieses Perchtenspektakel an! Ein Erlebnis für Jung und Alt ab 18 Uhr.

20. Brigittenau
1. bis 24. Dezember: Adventkalender am Allerheiligenplatz
Besuchen Sie die Geschäfte rund um den Allerheiligenplatz. Von 1. bis 24. Dezember wird jeden Tag ein Fenster geöffnet.
4. Dezember: Perchtenveranstaltung am Allerheiligenplatz
Der Verein “Viertel um den Allerheiligenplatz” veranstatet ab 18.30 Uhr im Allerheiligenpark eine Perchtenshow mit “Blue Ox” aus Grafendorf in der Steiermark. Auf Besucher wartet ein kleines Geschenk.
23. Dezember: Christkind rund um den Allerheiligenplatz
Von 13 bis 17 Uhr werden rund um den Allerheiligenplatz vom Christkind weihnachtliche Süßigkeiten verteilt.

21. Floridsdorf
erstes und zweites Adventwochenende: Christkindlmarkt am Kinzerplatz
Von 27. bis 29. November und von 4. bis 8. Dezember findet am Kinzerplatz der traditionelle Christkindlmarkt statt (Eröffnung am 27. November um 17 Uhr mit einer Feuershow). Am 29. November gibt’s um 17 und um 18 Uhr ein Turmblasen mit den Stallberger Musikanten. Am 4. Dezember findet ab 18.30 Uhr der bekannte Perchtenlauf statt, am 6. Dezember verteilt der Nikolo auf den Christkindlmarkt Süßigkeiten.
7. und 8. Dezember: Gospelkonzert in der Pfarrkirche am Kinzerplatz
Das Gospelkonzert beginnt am 7. Dezember um 19.30 Uhr und am 8. Dezember um 20 Uhr. Karten zu neun Euro (Vorverkauf) sind in der Fleischerei Artner am Hossplatz erhältlich.
12. Dezember: Gospelchor in Strebersdorf
Der Gospelchor “Gospelpower” singt in der Kirche der Schulbrüder Strebersdorf. Beginn: 19 Uhr, Eintritt frei.

22. Donaustadt
ab 23. November: Punsch in Kaisermühlen
Bei der U1-Station Kaisermühlen gibt es von 23. November bis 23. Dezember jeweils von 16 bis 21 Uhr Punsch. Der Reinerlös geht wie immer an den Verein Nachbarschaftshilfe Hospiz Kaisermühlen.
14., 15. und 16. Dezember: Punschfest in Stadlau
Von 16 bis 20 Uhr gibt’s beim Stadlauer Stadl, vis-a-vis dem Bahnhof Stadlau, Weihnachtspunsch.

23. Liesing
Adventwochenenden und 8. Dezember: Maurer Winterzauber
Der stimmungsvoll beleuchtete Maurer Hauptplatz, das vielfältige Angebot, die künstlerischen Darbietungen und nicht zuletzt der köstliche Punsch locken wie jedes Jahr nach Mauer. Informationen und das gesamte Programm unter: http://www.mauer-event.at

Das Gratiszeitungsteam wünscht schöne Adventtage.

In etwa einem Monat geht es wieder los: Die Buden der Weihnachtsmärkte pflastern die Straßen in den Innenstädten der deutschen Metropolen und Kleinstädte.

Antworten auf die Fragen Wann, Wo und Was gibt es hier:

Christkindlmarkt in München

Ab dem 27. November bis zum 24. Dezember ist in München wieder Christkindlmarkt. Auf rund 20.000 qm im Herzen der Stadt liegt der Duft von Tannengrün und Glühwein in der Luft. Zentrum des vorweihnachtlichen Treibens ist der Marienplatz. Von dort ziehen sich die Buden sternförmig durch die Innenstadt. Im Gegensatz zu anderen Schlemmer-Weihnachtsmärkten stehen auf dem Christkindlmarkt in München die Marktleute mit ihren Waren im Mittelpunkt: Christbaumschmuck, Holzspielzeug, Strickwaren, Kunstgewerbe uvm. Viele Handwerker lassen sich über die Schultern schauen.

Wer dem bunten Treiben mit anderen Augen begegnen will, sollte sich der kulturhistorischen Führung, angeboten vom Tourismusamt München, anschließen. Am ersten Adventssonntag (29.11.) ist um 16.30 Uhr Treffpunkt am Christbaum am Marienplatz. Die Führung dauert anderthalb Stunden und wird kostenlos angeboten.

Bilder und viele weiter Informationen zum Christkindlmarkt bietet die Webseite des Tourismusamts München.

Die passenden Zimmer für Ihren Aufenthalt bieten wir Ihnen im carathotel München – nur 5 Minuten Fußweg vom Marienplatz entfernt. Mit dem Winterangebot gibt es das Doppelzimmer bereits ab 59,- Euro pro Nacht (ab 13.12.2009, exkl. Frühstück, Mindestaufenthalt 2 Nächte). Alle Informationen, Preise und Konditionen:

>> Das Winter Angebot im carathotel München

Die Wiener Adventmärkte locken mit Weihnachtsromantik, heißem Punsch, köstlichen Schmankerln und Kunsthandwerk. Erleben Sie das winterliche Wien beim Wiener Christkindlmarkt am Rathausplatz, beim Kultur- und Weihnachtsmarkt vor dem Schloss Schönbrunn und beim Weihnachtsmarkt im Biedermeier-Viertel Spittelberg. 12.11.–23.12. Eine Eispalast-Bar, DJ-Sounds und coole Visuals machen den “Winter im MQ” zum trendig-romantischen Treffpunkt.

2 Nude Postcards…Nurnberg Town View…2 Stadt der Reichsparteltage,Nurnberg…Konditorei Cafe Beer, Nurnberg…Christkindlmarkt,Nurnberg…St. Bartholoma am Konigssee,Bavaria…Pig Novelty

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…auf dem Christkindlmarkt in Wasserburg am Inn.