Best Places to Visit in Grenada for Christmas Cheer

As the festive season approaches, expats and digital nomads in Grenada might be looking for places that exude the holiday spirit. While Grenada itself offers a unique Caribbean Christmas experience, there are several destinations around the world renowned for their enchanting holiday atmosphere. From traditional markets to spectacular light displays, these places are sure to fill you with festive cheer. Here are some of the best places to visit in December to get into the holiday spirit.

Strasbourg, France

Strasbourg is often hailed as the "Capital of Christmas," and for good reason. Its Christkindelsmärik, one of the oldest Christmas markets in Europe, dates back to 1570. The city transforms into a winter wonderland with its half-timbered houses adorned with festive decorations and streets illuminated by twinkling lights. The market, which spreads across several squares in the city, offers a variety of handcrafted goods, Alsatian Christmas delicacies, and the famous vin chaud (mulled wine). The market typically runs from late November to Christmas Eve.

We Recommend: Don't miss the chance to try the local bredele biscuits, a traditional Alsatian Christmas treat that comes in various shapes and flavors. Pair them with a cup of vin chaud for the perfect holiday indulgence.

Nuremberg, Germany

The Nuremberg Christkindlesmarkt is a must-visit for anyone seeking an authentic German Christmas experience. This historic market is known for its distinctive red-and-white striped booths and the Nuremberg Angel, who ceremoniously opens the market in early December. Visitors can browse through a vast selection of traditional German crafts, including the famous Nuremberg prune men figures. The market is also a great place to savor Nuremberg sausages and the city's renowned gingerbread.

We Recommend: Be sure to try the Nuremberg Lebkuchen, a type of gingerbread that's protected by EU law and can only be produced in the city. It's a delicious souvenir to take home from your holiday visit.

Vienna, Austria

Vienna's Christmas markets, or "Christkindlmarkts," are a spectacle of festive cheer, with the most famous one set against the backdrop of the City Hall (Rathaus). The Viennese Christmas Market usually starts in mid-November and runs until Christmas. Visitors can enjoy the sound of international choirs singing carols, explore booths selling hand-painted ornaments, and taste the array of Austrian pastries and warm punch. The adjoining Rathauspark is filled with charming light displays and installations, perfect for a leisurely evening stroll.

We Recommend: Don't leave without trying the Weihnachtspunsch, a traditional Austrian punch, often spiked with rum or brandy to keep you warm on a cold winter's night.

London's Chelsea Neighborhood

London is magical during the holidays, and Chelsea's stylish streets are no exception. The area is known for its high-end boutiques and restaurants, all decked out in festive decor. In early December, the Chelsea Christmas Lights switch-on event marks the beginning of the season, with local choirs and entertainers adding to the merriment. The famous King's Road offers a delightful shopping experience, with many shops offering holiday-themed window displays and seasonal treats.

We Recommend: Visit the Duke of York Square's Christmas market for unique gifts and the chance to savor gourmet cheeses and artisan chocolates that make perfect Christmas treats.

Little Italy in NYC

New York City's Little Italy is a slice of festive charm with its streets lined with Italian restaurants and shops, all adorned with Christmas lights and decorations. The neighborhood's holiday spirit is most vibrant during the Feast of the Seven Fishes, a traditional Italian celebration held on Christmas Eve. Mulberry Street, the heart of Little Italy, is particularly festive, with holiday vendors selling Italian sweets like cannoli and struffoli.

We Recommend: Indulge in a plate of freshly made cannoli from one of the local bakeries, a perfect treat to enjoy as you soak in the holiday atmosphere of this vibrant neighborhood.

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. These markets typically start in late November and last until the beginning of January. The city's Gothic and Baroque architecture provides a stunning backdrop for the wooden huts selling Bohemian crystal, wooden toys, and traditional Czech Christmas ornaments. The aroma of mulled wine, roasted chestnuts, and trdelník (a rolled pastry) fills the air, adding to the festive ambiance.

We Recommend: Try the trdelník, a rolled dough that is wrapped around a stick, grilled, and topped with sugar and walnut mix. It's a warm and sweet delight that's quintessentially Czech.

Edinburgh, Scotland

Edinburgh's Christmas is a six-week season of festive entertainment in the heart of the city, starting in late November. The Scottish capital offers a traditional European Christmas market in the Princes Street Gardens, with a mix of local and continental treats, crafts, and gifts. The city's Christmas lights and the giant Edinburgh's Christmas Wheel add to the holiday spirit. Don't miss the chance to skate on the ice rink or enjoy a hot toddy as you explore the market.

We Recommend: Warm up with a Scottish hot toddy, a mixture of whisky, honey, lemon, and spices, which is especially comforting during Edinburgh's chilly December evenings.

These destinations offer a delightful escape for those spending the holiday season away from home. Each market and festival provides a unique way to celebrate the festive period, ensuring expats and digital nomads can make the most of their December travels.