Christmas resounds everywhere.

FRANCE

Strolling through Gian Marketgslargethe mostEurope

Text and photos:Thu Giang

The history of European Christmas markets originated in France in the 14th century, atregionAlsace is located in the northeast of the country. Nowadays, most major cities across France have Christmas markets, each with its own unique character, lasting from a few days to a few weeks before Christmas. But the largest Christmas market is still in Alsace.Strasbourg, the capital city.of the regionAlsace.

Visiting this place, home to Europe's oldest Christmas market, you'll feel like you're in real life or lost in a fairytale world. The dazzling, magical Christmas market here is an irresistible attraction, drawing thousands of visitors from the end of November to the end of December each year.

The Strasbourg Christmas market, called Christkindelsmärik, is held in more than 12 locations in the city center, attracting over 300 stalls filled with traditional French delicacies, handicrafts, and decorations. The goods on display are largely local produce grown by farmers. Colorful tomatoes in shades of yellow, green, and red, plump and glossy, along with vibrant yellow bell peppers, serve as an inviting display for visitors.

Here, visitors can't miss the aromatherapy stall with its natural soap bars and perfumes, subtly scented with wildflowers. At first glance, these soap bars look like cakes, but upon closer inspection, they are actually blocks of soap, each with its own unique fragrance. And surely, every visitor will be captivated by the wooden Christmas houses, resembling gingerbread houses from fairy tales. Many visitors will be bewildered when faced with a forest of model houses, each decorated in its own unique Christmas style, no two alike.

The best part is when night falls, this peaceful little city is illuminated by sparkling lights, lively music, and a continuous stream of people on the streets.

Additional information

+ Journey:From Vietnam, there are direct flights to Paris with Vietnam Airlines. Round-trip tickets cost approximately 900-1200 USD. You can also fly with Qatar Airways, transiting in Doha, for a more affordable price, around 700-900 USD. From Paris, there is a GTV train to Strassburg, which takes about 2 hours.100 Euros.

Note:You can rent a self-drive car right at the airport from reputable companies like Sixt, Hertz, and Car Europe. All you need is your passport and Visa card to pay the deposit.

+ Must-try local specialties:

Popular goat cheeses are often baked with thinly sliced ​​apples or stuffed with eggplant roasted in olive oil.

- Desserts made from chestnuts.

-Sip on glasses of locally produced white wine with a distinctive flavor you won't find anywhere else.

NORWAY

DescendSinhNorthern EuropeWhat's so strange about that?

Article by: Ngoc Quyen– Photo: Various authors

Umbrellabased on Christian traditionnatural ChristmasThe culture in Norway also incorporates customs from the inhabitants of the northern part of the peninsula.Scandinavia and also the Jewish holiday Hanukkah.

From around the end of November, central Oslo begins to bustle with preparations for the city's Christmas markets. By the first week of Advent, when the last leaf gently falls to the ground, the bare branches are adorned with strings of twinkling lights. Along the streets, people hang decorative lights in the shape of bells, ornaments, or Santa's sleigh. And on main streets like Karl Johans Gate or Youngstorget, people begin to set up stalls and decorations.desktopSmall wooden structures were used for commercial purposes. Entertainment activities such as concerts and choirs also began to appear on the streets, at bus and train stations, or at main train stations.

Three "shades" of Christmas!

Unlike other countries, Christmas in Norway is divided into three stages: Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and… post-Christmas.

Christmas Eve is December 23rd and is called...Lille JulaftenIn Norwegian, it literally translates to… “Little Christmas Eve”. On this day, families begin decorating Christmas trees and baking gingerbread cookies. Afterwards, everyone gathers to eat sweet porridge.risengrynsgrøtCooked with sugar, butter, and cinnamon powder, the porridge contains a single almond. Whoever finds this almond in their bowl is believed to have good luck in the new year.

December 24th is Christmas Eve.Julaften),This is the most important day of the year for Norwegians. In the morning, religious people go to church to pray. Those who don't go to church take the opportunity to wrap up the last of their Christmas gifts and place them under the decorated Christmas tree in their homes. In the afternoon, at exactly 5 o'clock, church bells across the country ring simultaneously. This is also when people begin to have Christmas dinner at home with their families.

The period from December 25th to 30th is a time for everyone to rest before the New Year. Therefore, it is still called post-Christmas.RomjulenMany organizations still have policies allowing employees to take extended leave until the Western New Year, but most activities in the city have returned to normal.

What do Norwegians eat at their Christmas dinner table?ing?

While sticky rice cakes (bánh chưng, bánh tét), pickled onions (dưa kiệu), and braised pork are indispensable dishes on the Tet (Lunar New Year) feast table of every Vietnamese family, salted lamb ribs, roast pork, and bagel are the dishes that make up the perfect Christmas feast for the people of Norway.

Salted lamb ribspinnekjøttIt is a very old Scandinavian dish, originating from a method of preserving food by salting and smoking meat to keep it for a long time. ThereforepinnekjøttIt's usually very salty. That's the special thing about this dish.pinnekjøttThe ribs must absolutely not be simmered in a metal steamer, but must be placed on neatly carved Norwegian birch planks.

Grilled porkribbePerhaps the most impressive dish, as its preparation and flavor are very similar to Vietnamese roast pork. However, unlike roast pork which can be eaten all year round,ribbeIt only appears during Christmas.

After filling our stomachs with lamb ribs, roast pork, and other side dishes like baked sausages, mashed potatoes, and pickled red cabbage, and balancing the richness of the fatty meat with a few glasses of akevitt, dessert finally arrived. Besides familiar desserts like chocolate mousse, fresh cream with various fruits, gingerbread, and butter cookies, there was also a bagel.kransekakeIt's always the dessert the whole family looks forward to!

CZECH

Intoxicated by the scent of Svařák at the Prague Christmas market.

Text and photos:PITA PITA

Christmas is the most beloved and biggest festival of the year in the Czech Republic. In particular, an indispensable element leading up to Christmas, and one that creates the characteristic atmosphere of this festive season, is the Christmas market.

From the end of November, Christmas markets open simultaneously all over the Czech Republic. But the largest is undoubtedly the Christmas market in the capital, Prague, which is also one of the most popular destinations for European tourists.

The markets are held in large squares: Havelské Náměstí (Old Town), Náměstí Republiky, Náměstí Míru, Tylovo Náměstí, of which the largest and unmissable location – the Old Town square, which features the most spectacular Christmas tree lighting display accompanied by music – is the largest.

Traditional clothing, souvenirs, drinks for the cold winter months, and snacks... you can find all of these at the market. You can rest assured about the quality of the items sold during this time, and they are especially rare to find anywhere else.

Enjoying food at a Christmas market is a unique experience. Most of the food is prepared by the vendors themselves right in front of the customers. Many people are eager to try it, even if it means waiting in long lines. Watching the chefs' graceful movements is a very enjoyable way to pass the time while waiting.

Blacksmiths are also key figures in creating the distinctive traditional Christmas atmosphere of Prague. The cheerful sound of hammers striking, or the elaborate and visually appealing products – after each successful creation, the stall owners receive rounds of applause or expressions of delight from tourists.

While strolling through the Prague Christmas market, most people will buy essential and traditional items to take home for the year. Examples include a bunch of mistletoe (symbolizing good fortune and luck), a pine wreath, or a wooden Bethlehem figurine… Afterwards, visitors join the bustling crowds, happily chatting around wooden tubs that serve as makeshift tables, with a warm cup of hot drink in hand to warm themselves during the cold winter.

Throughout the Christmas season in Prague, wooden stalls are open from 10 am to 10 pm every day. Food stalls may stay open until midnight. When mentioning Svařák, one immediately pictures a hot grape drink, typically enjoyed only during the cold winter months. Czechs also love grilling sausages over a hot fire with a slice of dark bread. However, most people prefer to enjoy snacks such as roasted chestnuts, french fries, pancakes, and sweet bread. "Trdlo" or "Trdelník" is an indispensable sweet treat at Czech Christmas markets.

AUSTRALIA

Must-visit Christmas destinations in Melbourne

Text and photos:Dang Trinh

When we think of Christmas, we often picture snow-covered European cities, ancient cathedrals, choirs, and a festive atmosphere. However, Australia also has equally charming Christmas destinations, even though it's currently summer in the land of kangaroos!

You don't need to travel to distant Europe to capture beautiful moments with classic European architecture, stunning landscapes, and a familiar atmosphere. Below are two of the best places to celebrate Christmas in Melbourne.

Montsalvat

7 Hillcrest Ave., Eltham VIC 3095

Located northeast of Melbourne, about 20km from the city centre, Montsalvat is an "artistic haven" showcasing, demonstrating, and teaching various arts and crafts such as painting, glassmaking, ceramics, textiles, jewelry, and musical instruments. This 12-acre estate was designed by architect Justus Jorgensen in 1934, inspired by European styles and the nearly extinct mud-brick construction method of the Eltham region. Montsalvat is the name of the castle where the Holy Grail is kept, stemming from the legend of King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table in England.

The faint scent of Tung Cafe in a foreign land.

What's most special about this idyllic estate is its slow pace of life, reminiscent of Da Lat, with a harmonious blend of nature, architecture, and people. Sipping a perfectly frothed latte at Boulevard Cafe right in front of the gate might remind you of the fragrant coffee at Tung Cafe, with its nostalgic atmosphere filled with the melodies of Khanh Ly's songs.

Find peace in the corner of the church.

The highlight of Montsalvat is the Grand Hall, a massive structure resembling a castle, with spacious exhibition halls, a rectangular pool shaded by wisteria vines, and corridors overlooking medieval Gothic gardens.

If there are no events taking place, you are free to wander around the art gallery, admire the artworks, take photos with the mosaic stained-glass windows, or play a piece of music on the grand piano in the middle of the hall. Or, if you wish, you can also go around to the back of the building to visit the flower garden, walk up the pine hill to the small church, and enjoy some quiet moments during the Christmas season.

Additional information

Montsalvat is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. From Flinders Street Station, you can take the train to Hurstbridge, get off at Eltham Station, then take bus 582 to the stop near Montsalvat. See more information at:www.montsalvat.com.au.

Abbotsford Convent

1 St Heliers St, Abbotsford VIC 3067

If you love Da Lat for its ancient architecture like the Chicken Church or the Teacher Training College, then when you come to Melbourne, you can't miss Abbotsford Convent. This is a more than 100-year-old monastery located on the peaceful banks of the Yarra River, just 4km from the city center. The tranquility and serenity of this place are completely separate from the bustling world outside. This is the place to go when you want to find moments of relaxation or nostalgia.

From the entrance gate, passing by quaint buildings and tree-lined paths, you'll reach a lush green lawn overlooking the river, where locals often have picnics every weekend.

Enjoy a vegetarian buffet.

Most of the buildings within the monastery retain their original, elegant stone architecture. Notably, Abbotsford Convent grounds also feature the Lentil As Anything restaurant, which serves an organic vegetarian buffet."Pay as you feel"(Payment is voluntary). Diners will take their own plates, cutlery, and serve themselves food, then put money into a wooden box placed near the entrance, according to their financial means or their feelings about the food.

Experience farm life.

Right next to the monastery is Collingwood Children's Farm, a farm for children where the whole family can learn about nature and animals such as chickens, horses, cows, pigs, etc.

Alternatively, you can take a stroll along the Yarra River, breathing in the fresh, pollution-free air. On the fourth Saturday of each month, the monastery also hosts a farmers' fair, featuring seasonal fruits, meat, eggs, cheese, smoked fish, and local produce.

Additional information

Abbotsford Convent was recognized as a National Heritage site in August 2017. To reach this ancient abbey, you can take the South Morang or Hurstbridge train, get off at Victoria Park station and walk for about 10 minutes, or take bus 200/207 from Melbourne city centre.

Weaving dreams amidst the falling snow.

Text: Que Lan. Photos: KTO & various other sources.

It's hard to imagine Christmas without snow, especially in cold climates! Therefore, for travel enthusiasts, visiting winter destinations to enjoy the cold snow, strolling through snow-covered villages, or unlimited skiing at the 2018 Winter Olympic Games… are experiences that couldn't be more wonderful…

JAPAN

Take a stroll through the snow-covered village of Shirakawa-go.

Nestled in a valley surrounded by mountains, with ancient houses peeking out from behind layers of snow about 1-2 meters deep, Shirakawa-go village is a unique destination for tourists visiting the northern Tokai region of Gifu Prefecture, Japan.

This is one of the few villages that has preserved the original Gassho-zukuri architectural style and has been recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. You can see this architecture firsthand through the old houses with thatched roofs, sloped to prevent rain and snow from accumulating.

The village also attracts tourists with its charming natural scenery and its well-preserved neighborhoods and way of life. In Shirakawa-go, you can visit the Old Toyama House Ethnic Museum, the Myozenji Local Museum, and walk across the Deaibasi suspension bridge. Or simply stroll along the small streets nestled among the old houses, visit souvenir shops, and enjoy local cuisine. During Christmas, you can even have the chance to enjoy unique gingerbread cookies.

In particular, Shirakawa-go village holds an event every year.light-upFrom mid-January to February, on Saturdays and Sundays, from 5:30 PM to 7:30 PM, the Gassho-zukuri houses, covered in snow, are illuminated, offering visitors a breathtaking and magical sight. Minshuku (guesthouses) are available in the village, but reservations are required due to the high volume of visitors each day.

Additional information

Please note the following:

-It's important to choose comfortable shoes for easy movement and walking while sightseeing.

- Do not enter local people's homes without permission.

-The houses are all made of flammable materials, so smoking is prohibited outside of designated areas.

-The village has no trash cans, so tourists have to take their trash with them when they leave.

KOREA

A new experience at the venue of the 2018 Winter Olympic Games.

Long renowned for its upscale winter resorts and snow sports destinations, PyeongChang has become a highly sought-after destination for tourists recently, especially with the upcoming 23rd Winter Olympic Games taking place from February 9-25, 2018.

Roads and infrastructure serving the major event have been largely completed, including the PyeongChang Olympic sports model exhibition, football stadiums, golf courses, etc. Therefore, from December onwards, visitors to PyeongChang will have countless options for entertainment and relaxation. These include the state-of-the-art Alpensia ski resort complex with numerous amenities, including 6 slopes of all skill levels with a capacity of up to 3,000 skiers at a time; the unique Ski Jumping Tower, a ski and long jump tower that allows skiers to reach speeds of 40 km/h; and the Phoenix Park Ski Resort, one of the top 7 best ski resorts in South Korea.

Even visitors who have never skied before can enjoy playing in the snow or be guided in participating in snow sports such as tubing and sledding, as most ski resorts here offer a variety of short courses and diverse slopes.

Besides enjoying fun snow activities, visitors can also visit Daegwallyeong Sheep Farm, Odaesan National Park, and the sacred thousand-year-old Woljeong Temple. Or they can participate in the annual fishing festival held from December 22nd to February 5th in PyeongChang.

Additional information

+ Accommodation: Alpensia Resort, a high-class ski resort complex; Intercontinental Alpensia Peyongchang Resort, a 5-star hotel.

+ Cuisine: You should try the local specialties.goosebumpsLocal specialties include sanchae jeongsik (mixed vegetable salad with wild greens and cabbage); memil makguksu (similar to cold noodles made from buckwheat); hwangtae-gui (grilled sea fish); Daegwallyeong hanu (Korean beef); and salmon sashimi.

CHINA

Snow blankets Beijing as winter arrives.

Instead of taking expensive trips to European countries to enjoy snowfall, tourists can visit neighboring China, with its capital Beijing, and experience winter in its truest form.

Beijing is a fairly familiar tourist destination for both Vietnamese and international visitors, but it would be a shame if you didn't visit the capital in winter to fully enjoy the wind, the cold, and the unique charm of this city.

Visitors should go to the Summer Palace to admire the snow-covered Longevity Hill, the majestic, solemn, and tranquil Forbidden City, the charming Kunming Lake with its thick layers of ice, and the magnificent Great Wall of China in a landscape enveloped in white snow.

Christmas and the Advent wreath

Post:Bao Khuyen |Image:Multiple authors

Every Christmas season, we see Advent wreaths hanging on doors. Besides representing Christmas, the wreath on the door also symbolizes...a sense of fulfillment,unity andThe ivy leaf symbolizes the triumph of life through the long winter.

Winter begins when the wind blows. The cold starts to seep through the layers of clothing, gradually penetrating the skin. And then, unexpected gusts of wind carrying snow arrive, blanketing the cedar trees in white. The lush green forest turns white overnight. At that moment, the lively melody of a song suddenly resounds along every road."Silent night", as if signaling the arrival of Christmas.

In many Western countries, decorating Christmas trees and homes is a matter of course. You won't be surprised to see wreaths of all shapes and colors hanging on front doors. Advent wreaths not only bring a festive atmosphere, but they also warm the hearts of those far from home.

The endless circle also symbolizes the eternity of God's love. The green of the leaves represents hope and the anticipation of the Lord's coming. All the shimmering colors adorning the wreath embody the spirit of Christmas, of joy and excitement.

And as Hanson's "Merry Christmas Baby" begins to play somewhere, and the wreath is already resting on the wooden door, we know another Christmas season has arrived.