Christmas in Cologne

This past weekend we had the pleasure of visiting Cologne (Koln) Germany. Why there, you might ask? Because of the Christmas markets!

This was my first time in Germany, and my first time at a real Christmas market. Both were great on many accounts. I must admit that I was a little surprised by how quickly I took to Germany. I really enjoyed it, and there was something vaguely familiar about it. If you know me, you know I'm a big rule follower. Well, from what I can tell, Germans are big into rule following too. My kind of place. Everything was orderly, great shopping (and good prices), practical people in practical shoes :)



And Cologne has a cathedral to die for. It is breathtakingly large. Pictures can't do it justice.

The main reason for our visit was the Christmas Markets. And they did not disappoint!

I won't blabber on too much, but the Christmas markets were really special. Beautiful sites and a beautiful atmosphere. The Christmas spirit was palpable. Enjoy the photos, and Merry Christmas!

Pouring rain has its benefits, less people :)

Drinking hot wine (gluhwein) with V and his friend

Lights and merriment + gluhwein = a great Christmas time

On Saturday, the sun came out, and so did the crowds

Some kind of cool cake at the market

The biggest pan of food I've ever seen

A glorious fried apple/dough. It was heaven, and such an indulgence for me.

One of the many great stands selling all kinds of food and goods.

The Gluhwein bar at the "angels market"

Our gluhwein cup at the Markt der Engel (Angels Market)

Enjoying our gluhwein -- perfect for a cold day

The huts of the angel market, filled with people

Another xmas market, with the cathedral in the background

That cathedral with a Christmas tree in front of it: perfection!

And on top of all of that, when we arrived home the Christmas spirit continued with a little snow falling outside the window.

That white blurry stuff in the air is snow...you'll have to trust me :)