Best Places to Visit in Yemen for Christmas Cheer

As the holiday season approaches, expats and digital nomads in Yemen might be yearning for a taste of Christmas spirit. While Yemen itself may not be known for traditional Christmas celebrations, there are plenty of places around the world that come alive with festive cheer during December. From enchanting markets to sparkling lights, here are some destinations where you can soak up the holiday atmosphere and create new traditions far from home.

Strasbourg, France

Strasbourg is often hailed as the "Capital of Christmas," and for good reason. The city's Christkindelsmärik, one of the oldest Christmas markets in Europe, dates back to 1570. The market is a wonderland of festive stalls selling handcrafted goods, ornaments, and Alsatian delicacies. The entire city is adorned with decorations, and the towering Christmas tree in Place Kléber is a sight to behold. The market typically runs from late November to December 24th, offering plenty of time to visit.

We Recommend: Don't miss the chance to try the local bredele biscuits, a traditional Christmas treat in Alsace. These small, sweet cookies come in various shapes and flavors and are perfect for sharing the holiday spirit.

Nuremberg, Germany

The Nuremberg Christkindlesmarkt is a must-visit for anyone seeking an authentic German Christmas experience. This market is famous for its unique atmosphere, with hundreds of stalls offering traditional toys, trinkets, and the famous Nuremberg Lebkuchen (gingerbread). The Christkind, a symbolic gift-bringer, opens the market with a prologue, usually on the Friday before the first Sunday in Advent, and the festivities continue until December 24th.

We Recommend: Be sure to savor a mug of Glühwein, the German mulled wine, and pair it with a Nuremberg Rostbratwurst, a small, spiced sausage that's a local specialty.

Vienna, Austria

Vienna transforms into a magical Christmas city with its numerous markets, such as the Wiener Christkindlmarkt at Rathausplatz. The market is famed for its grand setting in front of the City Hall, where visitors can browse through artisanal crafts and indulge in Austrian treats like Sachertorte and Apfelstrudel. The market usually starts in mid-November and runs until Christmas Eve.

We Recommend: Don't leave without trying the Weihnachtspunsch, a traditional Christmas punch that warms you from the inside out on a cold December day.

London's Chelsea Neighborhood

London's Chelsea neighborhood is a picturesque area to enjoy the Christmas spirit in the UK. The streets are lined with high-end boutiques and restaurants, all decked out in festive lights and decorations. The Chelsea Christmas Lights, which typically turn on in late November, add a warm glow to the area. While there, visit the Duke of York Square Christmas market for unique gifts and gourmet food.

We Recommend: Sample the mince pies, a British Christmas staple, which you'll find in many bakeries and stalls throughout Chelsea.

Little Italy in NYC

Little Italy in New York City is renowned for its vibrant holiday atmosphere. Mulberry Street is adorned with festive lights and decorations, and the smell of Italian pastries fills the air. The Feast of the Seven Fishes is an event celebrated by many restaurants in the area, offering a taste of Italian-American Christmas Eve tradition. This feast typically occurs on December 24th, but you can find holiday specials throughout the month.

We Recommend: Indulge in a cannoli or pignoli cookie from one of the neighborhood's famous Italian bakeries for a sweet taste of the holidays.

Prague, Czech Republic

Prague's Christmas markets are a highlight of the holiday season, with the Old Town Square and Wenceslas Square markets being the most prominent. The markets usually start in early December and last until the first week of January. Visitors can enjoy the festive atmosphere with traditional Czech Christmas carols, handcrafted gifts, and the beautiful Christmas tree that lights up the Old Town Square.

We Recommend: Try the trdelník, a traditional rolled pastry topped with sugar and walnuts, often enjoyed with a warm cup of sva?ák, Czech mulled wine.

Edinburgh, Scotland

Edinburgh's Christmas is a season-long festive celebration that includes a variety of markets, rides, and attractions. The European Christmas Market in the city's gardens is a particular highlight, offering a mix of traditional and unique gifts, as well as plenty of food and drink options. The festivities usually kick off in late November and run until early January.

We Recommend: Warm up with a dram of Scotch whisky or a hot toddy as you wander through the market, embracing the Scottish take on holiday cheer.

Bruges, Belgium

Bruges, with its medieval architecture and cobbled streets, is like a fairytale setting for Christmas. The Bruges Christmas Market, located in the Market Square and along the ice rink, is a cozy place to find handcrafted gifts and Belgian Christmas treats. The market typically opens in late November and continues until the New Year.

We Recommend: Belgian chocolates are a must-try, and the Christmas market is the perfect place to find a wide selection of these delectable sweets.

Stockholm, Sweden

Stockholm's Old Town, Gamla Stan, hosts the Stortorget Christmas Market, the oldest in Sweden. The red stalls offer Swedish Christmas sweets, smoked sausages, reindeer, and elk meat, as well as warm glögg, the Swedish version of mulled wine. The market usually runs from late November to December 23rd.

We Recommend: Enjoy a traditional Swedish gingerbread cookie, pepparkakor, which is often heart-shaped and pairs perfectly with glögg.

While Yemen may not have the same Christmas traditions, these global destinations offer a wealth of experiences to get into the holiday spirit. Whether you're craving festive foods, unique crafts, or just the joyous atmosphere of the season, these cities and towns are sure to provide an unforgettable December.