9 Unique Christmas Customs Around The World

If you’re trying to understand another culture, look at how they celebrate their holidays — and pay special attention to the Christmas season. Customs vary greatly from one country to the next, but in most countries with significant Christian populations, Christmas is a big deal.

Most countries share a few common traditions: For example, most revelers know of Santa Claus, though the big guy’s name and appearance vary. However, countries also have Christmas traditions that are truly one of a kind.

Here are a few of our favorite examples — and how to celebrate like a local if you find yourself traveling to one of these destinations during the holidays.

Christmas time at a Japanese KFC. — Quality Stock Arts / Shutterstock

1. Japan: KFC Christmas Dinners

When the fast-food chain KFC opened its first store in Japan in 1970, the restaurant’s manager, Takeshi Okawara, came up with a brilliant idea: Christmas “party barrels” with enough food to feed an entire family. The promotion was called Kurisumasu ni wa Kentakkii (Kentucky for Christmas), and it was wildly successful. Today, 3.6 million Japanese families buy KFC for Christmas every year, with some consumers weathering long lines to purchase the fried food.

Of course, travelers don’t need to embrace every tradition. If you find yourself in Japan around Christmastime and you’re not in the mood for fried chicken, stop by any bakery in any major city to pick up Kurisumasu keki, a light, airy Christmas cake topped with red strawberries.

A "no witches allowed" sign in Norway. — aaabbbccc / Shutterstock

2. Norway: Hiding Brooms

In Norway, witches and evil spirits are said to roam the streets during Christmas. To prevent witches from taking flight, Norwegians hide their household brooms before going to sleep at night. Hey, it’s logical, right?

Visitors can’t easily participate in this Christmas tradition for obvious reasons, but since Norwegians celebrate the holiday throughout the winter, tourists have plenty of alternatives. Try visiting Tregaarden’s Christmas House in Drobak to browse souvenirs at Santa’s workshop.

The Christmas Fair in Budapest, Hungary. — Calin Stan / Shutterstock

3. Budapest, Hungary: Christmas Markets

Granted, many countries have Christmas markets, but few can compare with the Christmas Fair by the Basilica or the Christmas Market on Vorosmarty Square. In Budapest, Christmas is a big deal, and each year, the streets transform; small wooden storefronts appear on the main streets, selling gifts, souvenirs, and holiday foods like chimney cake.

Tourists should be sure to check out the Hungarian folk dance shows and other special winter events. There’s no better time of year to dive into Hungarian culture, and Budapest certainly offers an abundance of fun activities for travelers of all ages.

The Giant Lantern Festival in the Philippines. — Cecilia Esguerra / Shutterstock

4. San Fernando, Philippines: Giant Lantern Festival

From mid-December through early January, the aptly named Giant Lantern Festival takes over the streets of San Fernando in the Philippines. As the city’s official website explains, lanterns have a special significance in Filipino culture, since the lights symbolize hope.

During the celebration, you’ll see intricate handcrafted lanterns everywhere in a variety of shapes, sizes, and colors. Christmas songs fill the air, creating a stunning spectacle of light and sound that draws more than 100,000 visitors each year.

Mexican children enjoying posada parties. — Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)

5. Mexico: Posadas

For the nine days leading up to Christmas Eve, Mexican children visit the houses of their families and friends in a reenactment of Mary and Joseph’s pilgrimage to Bethlehem. After reaching their destination, the children sing a song, then ask for a room at the posada (inn). The “innkeepers” let them inside, where they celebrate with food and games.

As Christmas is a somewhat private affair in Mexican households, tourists can’t really enjoy posada parties for themselves. Still, major urban areas like Mexico City have stunning Christmas celebrations to delight visitors; stop by the city square to see the decorations, and then head to Cantina La Rambla to try the restaurant’s famous tortas de bacalao, a salted cod dish commonly served on Christmas Eve.

The Yule Goat in Gavle, Sweden. — Tommy Alven / Shutterstock

6. Gavle, Sweden: Yule Goat

Gavle celebrates Christmas by constructing a massive straw goat. Townsfolk take bets on whether the goat will make it to Christmas — because, inevitably, someone sets it on fire. The tradition started in 1966, and over the past half-century, the goat has burned 35 times.

The Gavle city council has hired guards, put up security cameras, and launched other efforts to dissuade acts of vandalism, but the burning of the Yule Goat is an established part of the city’s culture.

By all means, visit Gavle during the Christmas season, but don’t try to burn the goat yourself. In 2005, an American tourist successfully completed the act — and then spent two weeks in jail for the crime.

Colombians lighting candles during the Christmas season. — Ana Duque / Shutterstock

7. Colombia: Day Of The Little Candles

On the Dia de las Velitas, or the Day of the Little Candles, Colombians adorn their homes and businesses with candles, paper lanterns, and electronic displays to signal the start of the Christmas season. People make a wish for every candle they light.

The exact timing of the Day of the Little Candles varies by region, but most Colombian cities celebrate on December 7. In the capital of Bogota, thousands of attendees make their way down the Christmas Route (Ruta de la Navidad), where stunning light displays cover the path.

Yule Lad trolls in Iceland. — frlegros / Shutterstock

8. Iceland: Yule Lads

The Jolasveinar are 13 mischievous troll-like beings who descend from the mountains, one at a time, starting on December 12. Each Yule Lad causes a different type of mischief, but they leave behind gifts for good children (and potatoes for naughty kids).

Walk through Reykjavik in December, and you’ll likely see the Yule Lads in the city’s Christmas decorations.

A boat decorated for Christmas in Greece. — Pit Stock / Shutterstock

9. Greece: Christmas Boats

While Greeks love the holiday season, you might not see Christmas trees adorning their town squares. Instead, you’ll find karavakia (literally, “little ships”). These masted boats are typically decorated with fairy lights, and they’ve been a tradition for several hundred years.

So, why boats? Centuries ago, many Greeks worked as sailors, spending months at sea. They’d come home around Christmastime, and their families would decorate boats to welcome them back. Today, the tradition is found throughout the country, though the most captivating examples are found in major cities like Thessaloniki and Athens.

We’re just scratching the surface, of course; every country celebrates the holidays in its own way, which is part of the fun of the season. If you’re traveling this year, be sure to research your destination to understand its Yuletide customs — and, again, make sure not to burn any goats.

7 Things To Know About White Sands National Park

Editor’s Note: Formerly White Sands National Monument, White Sands was designated a U.S. national park on December 20, 2019.

Glistening white slopes extend as far as the eye can see. Black-diamond trails drift and shift with the wind. Cars inch forward on a hard-packed white surface.

A ski resort in the dead of winter? Hardly. Those white slopes are glistening with grains of sand, not snowflakes. The black-diamond signs refer to the difficulty of navigating gypsum dunes rather than groomed ski trails. And even though the road may look freshly plowed, it is packed sand, not snow, that forms the white surface.

White Sands National Park in southern New Mexico is surreal on a number of levels — not the least of which is its resemblance to a snowy winter wonderland.

Rest assured, though, that you won’t be experiencing sub-freezing temperatures on a trip to the scenic national park. Owing to its southern location near the United States-Mexico border, White Sands enjoys relatively mild weather year-round.

So, for a snowy-white adventure without the winter chill, head to White Sands for the perfect winter or spring getaway.

Here are seven things to know about the national park.

1. The Landscape Is Dreamlike

Even among the spectacular sand dunes of the Southwest, White Sands National Park stands out.

I love sand dunes, and I have driven hundreds of miles to take in dunes in California, Utah, and Colorado. I find them fascinating, with their fine beach-like sand so far from the ocean. Each of the dunes — whether it’s in the state park system of Utah or the national parks of California or Colorado — has its own unique features. I love the Coral Pink Sand Dunes of southern Utah, the desolate sand fields of California’s Death Valley, and the mammoth slopes of Colorado’s Great Sand Dunes.

But for me, none of them compares with the stark-white gypsum drifts of White Sands. Gazing out at the rolling dunes is an experience unlike any other. The white can be blinding in the sun, and the drifts conceal small basins filled with twisted trees and reddish reeds.

The national park bills itself as a place “like no place else on Earth,” and I have to agree. It is almost unfathomable that the dunes comprise 275 square miles of this remote section of New Mexico.

The Alkali Flat Trail at White Sands. — Cindy Barks

2. Sand Hiking Is Truly Unique

One of the main pleasures of a visit to White Sands is walking through the gypsum field. Just a short jaunt can get you into the midst of the dunes, with nothing but white sand and blue skies all around.

But be warned: Hiking in shifting sand is significantly more difficult than walking on solid dirt or rock. Add to that the somewhat disorienting nature of walking through all-white surroundings, and a hike at White Sands makes for a unique experience.

Fortunately, a number of trails of varying degrees of difficulty are available, allowing access for visitors of virtually any level of fitness and skill.

For those who want to experience the dunes via a hard, accessible surface, the national park offers the Interdune Trail, a 0.4-mile boardwalk with interpretive signs. The boardwalk is good for a taste of the dunes without the extreme conditions of some of the other trails. It requires about 20 minutes to complete.

The park’s two easy-to-moderate trails — the Playa Trail and Dune Life Nature Trail — offer a slightly more strenuous experience. The Playa Trail is a half-mile, while the Dune Life Nature Trail is about a mile. Both are family-friendly and fairly flat. The Playa Trail takes about a half-hour to complete, while the Dune Life Nature Trail takes about an hour.

For those up for longer walks through undulating terrain, White Sands offers the Backcountry Camping Trail and the Alkali Flat Trail. At 2 miles, the Backcountry Camping Trail traverses a variety of terrain and vegetation and requires hikers to climb fairly steep dunes through loose sand. It takes about 1.5 hours to complete.

For the most extreme experience, physically fit hikers who are up for an adventure should check out the Alkali Flat Trail. The national park’s website cautions, “This trail is not flat! You will be hiking up and down dunes the entire way.” At 5 miles, the trail takes hikers into lovely valleys and up steeply drifted ridges. There is no shade, water, or toilet facilities along the trail. The Alkali Flat Trail is best experienced in the cooler temperatures of late fall, winter, and early spring.

A sign at the White Sands National Park. — Cindy Barks

3. The Cool Look Can Be Deceiving

White Sands might look a bit frosty in photos, but don’t be fooled. The summer months can be brutally hot in southern New Mexico.

June, July, and August have average highs well into the 90s, and May and September’s highs hover in the high 80s. April and October tend to have the mildest weather, with average highs in the upper 70s, while March and November highs range from the high 60s to the low 70s.

Although nighttime lows in December, January, and February can reach the 20s and 30s, the daytime highs average in the upper 50s to low 60s. National Weather Service forecasts for the area can be found at noaa.gov.

Vegetation on the dunes at White Sands. — Cindy Barks

4. You Can Go Sledding

Despite the mild temperatures, visitors looking for winter sports won’t be disappointed at White Sands. Sledding through the soft white sand is a popular activity for families.

The national park’s website notes that sand is not as slippery as snow, and sand sledding takes some practice. But with the right equipment — waxed plastic snow saucers are recommended — the gently sloping dunes make for a fun downhill glide.

The Loop Road at White Sands. — Cindy Barks

5. It’s Off The Beaten Path

Located in South Central New Mexico, White Sands is a lengthy drive from most major cities. It is about 5 hours east of Tucson, Arizona; about 3.5 hours south of Albuquerque, New Mexico; and about 4 hours south of Santa Fe, New Mexico. The nearest major city is El Paso, Texas, about an hour and a half south of the national park.

The smaller New Mexico towns of Alamogordo and Las Cruces offer the nearest accommodations, and the closest airport is in El Paso, about 85 miles away.

Red reeds in White Sands National Park. — Cindy Barks

6. Legends About The Site Abound

As the one-time stomping grounds of legendary gunfighter Billy the Kid, and as the purported home of a brokenhearted ghost wandering the dunes in her wedding gown, White Sands has its share of fables.

The national park’s website tells the story of William Henry McCarty, also known as Billy the Kid, who grew up rough in the area and ended up being accused of murdering the local sheriff. The notorious outlaw later escaped from a nearby courthouse, killing two deputies as he fled.

The link between the infamous Billy and the mysterious white dunes is undisputed.

“There is no doubt that [Billy the Kid] and other renowned characters of the time came across the largest gypsum dunefield as they traveled,” the site states.

The dunes also carry the legend of Pavla Blanca, a young woman named Manuela who is said to have followed her lover, Spanish explorer and conquistador Hernando de Luna, to New Mexico. As the legend goes, Manuela’s heart was broken when de Luna vanished somewhere in the ever-shifting gypsum of White Sands.

“It is believed that the ghost of Manuela still haunts the dunes of the great white sands, just after sunset, in her flowing white wedding gown, to seek her love, lost and buried beneath the eternal dunes,” says the website.

Hikers on the Alkali Flat Trail. — Cindy Barks

7. It Holds A Place In Military History

While White Sands was established as a national monument in the 1930s, its remoteness soon made it a logical location for military activity. Starting in 1942, just months after the bombing of Pearl Harbor in 1941, the U.S. Military established a permanent presence in the Tularosa Basin of the White Sands area, creating the Alamogordo Bombing and Gunnery Range, known today as the Holloman Air Force Base and White Sands Proving Grounds, now the White Sands Missile Range.

“Since the beginning, the operations of the monument’s military neighbors have been at the forefront of cutting-edge technology and experimentation,” says the White Sands website. “Visitors to the monument can experience a piece of this military history as the flight paths of fighter jets during mission training pass over the dunefield.”

As of July 1, 2020, all out-of-state visitors must quarantine 14 days or the duration of their trip — whichever is shortest. For the latest information about guidelines at the park, check out our full list of national parks requiring changes for visitors.

7 Quick Facts About Piran, Slovenia’s Beautiful Coastal Town

Walking through the winding alleys of Piran, Slovenia, you’ll see Venetian Gothic buildings jutting up against serene ocean views. A fresh breeze drifts in from the nearby Adriatic Sea, creating an almost magical atmosphere, while tall cliffs peek out above the tranquil skyline.

Aerial view of Tartini Square in Piran. — RossHelen / Shutterstock

In short, Piran is a near-perfect destination, filled with charming landmarks and world-class restaurants. We’ve fallen in love with this Slovenian gem, and you will, too — here are a few reasons to make this a stop on your next vacation.

The town of Piran, Slovenia, on the Adriatic Sea. — Matej Kastelic / Shutterstock

1. It’s Located On The Coast Of The Adriatic Sea

In towns like Piran, doing nothing can feel extraordinary. This charming peninsula town is located on the coast of the Adriatic Sea, and wherever you’re at in the city, you’re never more than a 10-minute walk from the beach.

The Church of Saint George is one of the best places to take in the gorgeous views. The largest church in town, it’s a tribute to the town’s patron saint, who is said to have saved the city from a storm. Travelers can pay a small fee to climb the church’s bell tower and gaze out at the (hopefully calm) seas.

Boats in the harbor of Piran. — RossHelen / Shutterstock

2. It’s Famous For Its Salt

“Piran is made of salt” is a common Slovenian saying. The town is internationally famous for its salt, which is prized among chefs for its unique texture. Saltmakers still play a prominent role in Piran’s economy, and many still use traditional methods that originated in the 14th century.

Today, tourists can purchase bags of salt from street vendors throughout the city. Salt treatments are also available at nearby spas — more on those in a moment — and needless to say, the seasoning is commonly used at all of the city’s best restaurants.

The Old Town of Piran. — Andrew Mayovskyy / Shutterstock

3. It Celebrates Its Heritage Several Times Each Year

Three times each year, Piran celebrates its heritage with salt festivals. Artisans sell salt, wine, olive oil, and other products while performers showcase Slovenian culture through dance and music.

The festivals, which highlight the different phases of the saltmaking process, take over Secovlje Salina Nature Park, Piran’s most well-known green area. However, the proceedings also spread to Tartini Square, the cultural center of the city.

Restaurants in Tartini Square, Piran. — RossHelen / Shutterstock

4. Tartini Square Offers Fabulous Food

In the famous Tartini Square, travelers can peruse offerings from antique dealers and local craftsmen or simply walk the cobbled streets from one coffee shop to the next. Part of Piran’s appeal is its relaxed atmosphere, and the rustic town center is a perfect place to experience that casual ambience.

It’s also a great starting point for foodies, since Piran’s culinary offerings take center stage here. Seafood is, of course, the primary draw. There are few better spots on the planet to sample fresh fish and shrimp, perfectly seasoned with the town’s famous salts, and most eateries also offer their takes on Slovenian classics like kranjska klobasa (a popular pork sausage).

Morning view of Piran, Slovenia. — Andrew Mayovskyy / Shutterstock

5. It’s Home To World-Class Spas

Slovenes believe that their country’s hot mineral waters and temperate weather have a rejuvenating effect, so it’s no surprise that day spas are relatively common throughout Slovenia.

Many of Piran’s hotels and resorts offer spa services for their guests, including mineral treatments, massages, saunas, and beauty therapies. A day at the spa seems far more refreshing in the pleasant Mediterranean climate — maybe the Slovenes are on to something.

6. You Can Visit A Shell Museum

The Piran Shells and Snail Museum features a permanent exhibit called the Magical World of Shells. Visitors can browse specimens from 3,000 species of shellfish, and it’s a wonderful place to travel with kids.

Other cultural points of interest include the Town Gallery, a modern art museum, and the Piran Maritime Museum, which is the site of the Gabrielli Palace. Granted, most travelers spend their days in Piran lounging on the beaches or exploring the cobbled streets, but if you’re looking for an enriching cultural experience, you won’t have to look far.

The Venetian Port in Piran. — Kayo / Shutterstock

7. You Can Easily Make A Day Trip To Venice

Catamarans run from Piran to Venice, and while the trip isn’t short — even the high-speed ferries take close to 3 hours — the experience of crossing the Adriatic is well worth the time. Travelers can learn about Venice during the trip, see a few key sights and enjoy a true Italian meal, and then return to the relative isolation of Piran.

Old Church on the pier in Piran. — Travellaggio / Shutterstock

However you plan your Istrian vacation, Piran certainly deserves some attention. It’s a quiet yet vibrant town with a rich culture and history, ideal for spending a few days — or weeks — basking in the warm Mediterranean sun.

5 North American Island Getaways That Are Closer Than Hawaii

An island getaway is a coveted vacation. And, when it comes to island getaways, a favorite among Americans is Hawaii. But the flight there takes long hours and costs hundreds of dollars even in the off-season. And when you get there, you will need lots of money to do anything. We have hesitated to go back. Besides, there are islands — from the New England coast to the Florida Keys and the Los Angeles coast up to the Pacific Northwest — much closer to you, each with a distinctive island charm.

The writer at Gingerbread Cottage in Martha's Vineyard. — Carol Colborn

1. Martha’s Vineyard

Martha’s Vineyard is a wonderful alternative to Hawaii if you live in Massachusetts or the states nearby, especially during late spring, summer, and early fall. The mainland ferry dock in Wood’s Hole is just an hour and a half from Boston and the Steamship Authority ferry ride takes only 45 minutes. The island has many museums, art galleries, and unique landmarks. In fact, there are four museums right in Wood’s Hole. You may opt to go on day trips and return for more or stay for a weekend at many lodging options. You need not worry about getting around; there is a good public transportation system on the island.

Oak Bluffs is famous for the Martha’s Vineyard Camp Meeting Association with its Giant Tabernacle surrounded by about 300 lovely vacation gingerbread cottages in all colors and designs. It also features four museums, including the Cottage Museum. An old scenic lighthouse is in Aquinnah. Edgartown, which has five museums, is connected via a small ferry to the small island of Chappaquiddick (where the late Senator Ted Kennedy’s car accidentally went into the water, tragically drowning his young female companion). For something more uplifting, look for the Giant Pagoda Tree in the middle of town. West Tisbury hosts the most art galleries and Falmouth has the most (nine) museums for your enjoyment, too.

The Inn at Rodanthe on the Outer Banks. — Carol Colborn

2. The Outer Banks

Highway 158 cuts through North Carolina and connects to Highway 12, which runs through the Outer Banks, the Carolina barrier islands that jut out 26 miles from the coast. Depending on where you are in the state — or Virginia — the drive will take only about three to four hours. Best during late spring, summer, or early fall, the islands offer a lot of history and their charm rests in their unique terrain and distinctive weather. The whole family will definitely enjoy a weekend stay. Make time for kiting or even hang gliding at the 426-acre Jockey’s Ridge State Park. It is home to the largest and tallest active sand dune in the East Coast. Movie buffs will be happy to discover the Inn at Rodanthe, where Richard Gere and Diane Lane in the movie Nights in Rodanthe, lived out their love story doomed by a hurricane.

The islands’ winds were precisely why the Wright Brothers chose Kitty Hawk in the Outer Banks to attempt their historic flight. A 90-foot-high monument on Big Kill Devil Hill commemorates their feat. But this is not the only bit of history in the islands. The Lost Colony on Roanoke Island is where, in 1585, 115 pilgrims preceded those in the Jamestown Colony in Virginia (1607) and the Plymouth Colony in Massachusetts (1620). Lastly, four beautiful lighthouses that were built to help maritime commerce still stand — the Ocracoke Lighthouse (1823), Bodie Lighthouse (1846), Cape Hatteras Lighthouse (1870), and Currituck Beach Lighthouse (1875). Even with all these lighthouses, so many ships sank in the waters around the Outer Banks, which are also known as the Graveyard of the Atlantic. The Ocracoke Museum was built to remember them.

The Southernmost Point in Key West. — nito / Shutterstock

3. The Florida Keys

About 1,700 islands make up the Florida Keys, where there’s as much beach activity as Hawaii — and much more — year-round. To get there, you drive the Overseas Highway, a breathtaking narrow highway with water on both sides, punctuated by connecting bridges — there are 43, with the Seven-Mile Bridge as the longest — and sometimes patches of swaying palm trees. Only three hours from Miami, the Sunshine Key Resort and Marina on Big Pine Key, one of the islands, is a good option for even a week’s stay. The resort has blue water on all three sides, all kinds of amenities, and lots of activities. It was also cool to see key deer roaming around the property. They grow to only a third of the size of regular deer, so just about three feet tall.

In just 45 minutes, a public bus can take you from Big Pine Key to Key West, the southernmost Key. The famous Mallory Square offers great shopping. Stay until dusk for the celebration of a spectacular sunset. There’s a lot of exploring to do in Truman’s Little White House, the former winter home of the nation’s 33rd president and the well-known Hemingway House and Museum. You may even dance the night away at Sloppy Joe’s, Hemingway’s favorite hangout. And there’s a unique photo-op at the Southernmost Point of the U.S., unbelievably only 90 miles from Cuba. This sub-tropical Caribbean archipelago is a definite alternative to Hawaii, especially if you are on the East Coast.

Catalina Island in California. — Carol Colborn

4. Catalina Island

This island, just an hour by ferry from Los Angeles, is perfect for a weekend getaway throughout the year. A hilltop tour reveals a priceless view of the harbor, which is smaller and less luxurious than the one in Monaco but has the same look of a playground of the rich. At the highest point stands the mansion of the chewing gum magnate Wrigley who was responsible for creating this island destination. There’s a Wrigley Memorial Tomb down the hill. Even the former spring training houses of the Chicago Cubs, previously owned by Wrigley, remain. Deer, which flourish since there is no predator larger than the small fox on the island, will invariably sneak upon you. In fact, deer hunting is legal on Catalina some week days.

But more than the deer, the island is known for its Old Hollywood charm. The Avalon Casino, not a gambling den, is a 140-foot-tall circular building that juts out into the harbor. The top floor houses the Ballroom with its 20,000-square-foot dance floor. The ground floor has the fabulous Catalina Theater — which can seat 1,154 people — where the first talking movies in the country were shown. Celebrities like Marilyn Monroe used to live in pastel-colored wooden homes that are peppered across Catalina’s flats and hillsides. The Square and the commercial buildings around it are adorned with beautiful colorful tiles, reminiscent of those in Mexican, Spanish, and Portuguese towns. Finally, the small pier overlooks a busy beach with lots of water activities and is a jumping-off point for side trips to Lovers Cove.

The writer and her husband at Butchart Gardens. — Carol Colborn

5. Vancouver Island

The city of Victoria on Vancouver Island is less than three hours from the city of Vancouver on mainland Canada. This includes the one-and-a-half-hour ferry ride from Tsawwassen south of the latter city near the U.S. border. Actually, it takes roughly the same time to reach Victoria via a ferry from downtown Seattle, Washington, as well. Of course, the island has so much more to offer beyond the city, especially during late spring, summer, or early fall, but Victoria is a definite must-experience. If you are in the Pacific Northwest, you need not go any further to have a charming weekend getaway.

The city is home to the oldest Chinatown in Canada. Its Chinese treasures are hidden in two rows of small side shops on a tiny side street called Fan Tan Alley. Right on Victoria Harbor stands the beautiful British Columbia Provincial Legislature. Yes, Victoria is the capital of British Columbia, not the big city of Vancouver. Facing the harbor across from the Legislature stands the Fairmont Empress Hotel, known for both its grandeur and its upscale afternoon tea.

The beautiful Butchart Gardens, north of the city near the ferry dock, is also a must-not-miss. It’s comprised of five sections — the Sunken Garden, which has a different look for each season; the Rose Garden, with 250 varieties of roses; the Japanese Garden, which became my favorite; the Italian Garden, where you can dine at the exclusive restaurant near the private garden of Mrs. Butchart; and the latest addition, the Mediterranean Garden. The most beautiful garden I have ever seen, it has inspired me to extend the garden in my home.

Want to get away? Check out these 8 Reasons To Visit Idaho’s Redfish Lake, plus 10 Things To Do In Gulf Shores, Alabama On A Rainy Day.

How To Spend A Day In Lake Como, Italy

Lake Como, Italy, is the Italian paradise you might not even know you’re missing out on.

Nestled just south of the mountainous Swiss border, the 30-mile-long lake boasts spectacular views with tall hills and mountains every which way you turn. Even during the hottest months of summer, visitors can spot the snow-capped peaks of the Swiss Alps and feel the cool mountain breeze.

I lived near Como, the biggest city on the lake, for one magical summer. Many days were spent learning the ins and outs of the city, and by the end of the season, Como became my favorite spot in all of Italy.

The lake has something for every type of traveler: the mountain lovers, the water fanatics, and even those who appreciate the hustle and bustle of bigger cities. It is an Italian paradise worth experiencing for several days or more, but not everyone has the time to explore Lake Como at their own pace.

If you can’t see all of Lake Como, or spend a summer there, don’t worry! I have the insider scoop on how to fit the beauty of Lake Como into one dreamy, fun-filled day.

From Northern Italian cuisine to traditional architecture to boat tours that will get you out on the water, Lake Como has magic around every corner, and you can tap into it, even in a single day.

The Como-Brunate Funicular over Lake Como. — Sergio Monti Photography / Shutterstock

View The Lake And All Its Gorgeous Cities From Up Above

The best place to start your whirlwind day in Lake Como is from up above.

While in Como, take a ride on the Como-Brunate Funicular. This funicular railway connects Como to Brunate, a quiet, cozy village of fewer than 2,000 residents.

As you make your way up the mountain, you’ll see the city of Como grow smaller and smaller as the red rooftops of Como weave together like a patchwork blanket far below.

Once at the top, Brunate gives you a bird’s-eye view of the splendid city of Como and the dark waters of the lake below. You can meander around the small village and peek in the Chiesa di Sant’Andrea Apostolo, a church in the center of the village, then stroll by traditional Italian homes nearby.

The Volta Lighthouse in Brunate. — Antonio Losa / Shutterstock

If you don’t mind a hike, there’s a mile-long walk up to the Volta Lighthouse, which offers panoramic views of the lake and the Swiss Alps so spectacular you’ll wonder if you dreamt them up.

Exploring Brunate doesn’t take long, so it’ll be one stop of many during your magical day trip to Lake Como.

Next up, the most important activity of all: a boat tour!

Kick Back And Relax On A Lake Como Boat Tour

Lake Como is a 30-mile-long and almost-3-mile-wide wishbone-shaped body of water. There are over 15 villages right on the water. Como, the most well-known getaway on the lake, is on its southwestern tip. Lecco, a superb destination for authentic Italian food, is on the southeastern shore of the lake, and Bellagio is in the center of the wishbone.

Bellagio—my personal favorite—is a picturesque town full of winding cobblestone alleys and antique stores. Bellagio is made gorgeous by splashes of pastel coloring each building, plus lakeside dining and shops with authentic souvenirs you’ll cherish forever. When I lived in Como, I found myself returning to Bellagio time and time again. The technicolor buildings reminded me of Cinque Terre, but with fewer crowds and a tangible small-town charm that made me feel at home. Bellagio is a special place I highly encourage you to see for yourself. Thankfully, most Lake Como boat tours include Bellagio as a stop!

A ferry on Lake Como. — Michal Ludwiczak / Shutterstock

I suggest exploring the lake by ferry. If you’re coming from Como, you can purchase walk-up tickets for a ferry right at the pier. During a ferry ride, you’ll learn the history of Northern Italy and can meander around as many lakeside villages as you’d like. The lake is also scattered with colossal estates carved right into the hills, and the ferries will point out the most spectacular, expansive estates worth taking a peek at. You might even catch a glimpse of George Clooney’s vacation home right on the water!

The perk of buying a ferry ticket is you have the flexibility to hop on and off as you please. If you are enjoying a certain village—perhaps Bellagio, as I did—you can spend the afternoon there before boarding the boat again and exploring another harbor!

One especially unique way to explore Lake Como’s deep green water is by kayaking around Bellagio. The kayaking tour is one and a half hours long, and will make for a leisurely adventure with a guide who will teach you everything you should know about the area and what it has to offer. This option is perfect for active folks who like to exercise on vacation!

If you’d prefer a more personalized boat tour experience with a smaller crowd and perhaps specialty dining, you’ll have plenty of options to choose from—from a Venetian water limo to sailing on the lake!

Regardless of what tour you choose and how much time you spend on the water, seeing the lake and feeling its cool breeze in the flesh is an absolute must. Another must: food.

Dine Like A True Italian

During the magical three months I spent in Italy, the food became my favorite part of the culture.

Meals aren’t for function in Italy. Meals are for connecting with others and yourself, nourishing your body, and above all else, food is about taking your time, enjoying what’s on your plate, and enjoying your surroundings. One of the biggest lessons I learned in Italy is that good food is a luxury worth indulging in any time you can. So, while you’re there, I suggest you do just that.

Give into Lake Como’s splendid Italian food culture. Sit at a restaurant for hours — drinking and eating, chatting, and then drinking and eating some more. Have an espresso in the afternoon at Sartoria Ciclistica in Como.

If you spend the night or arrive early in Lake Como, indulge in a sweet breakfast by the water. You won’t eat breakfast as Americans do — don’t count on hash browns, bacon, and sausage. Instead, prepare for coffee bolder and better than any you have tried before and delicate sweets like biscuits, cookies, and maybe even fresh fruit straight off the vine.

Breakfast overlooking Lake Como in Italy — Daniel Di Nardo / Shutterstock.com

When you think of Italian cuisine, you are probably thinking about oily, tangy pasta and pizza with nothing but fresh tomato sauce, mozzarella, and basil. These are all Southern Italian staples, though. Northern Italian food isn’t as well-known, but it holds its own! During your day in Lake Como, you can indulge in both—the Italian dishes you already know and love and new dishes you’ve never heard of before.

One Lake Como staple is a risotto dish with freshly caught, pan-fried fish. Another is polenta—a beloved component of most meals in Northern Italy—with veal and pork. Try something new, but don’t miss out on the classics like gelato by the pier, pizza, and of course, wine—and lots of it!

If you’re a meat and cheese fan, look no further than the restaurants in the nearby village of Lecco, on the southeastern shore of the lake. Lecco can be reached by ferry, bus, or car. There, you can try out authentic cheeses native to Northern Italy, including parmesan, gorgonzola, pecorino, and asiago. Paired with dry-cured meats including prosciutto and bresaola, prepare for the most scrumptious charcuterie board of your life. Add some wine, and you have the perfect meal, right?

You might not be able to try every Italian dish in one day, unfortunately, but hopefully learning about the basics can inform your decision on how to dine like a true Italian in Como and beyond.

View of architecture and Lake Como. — Alaina Strollo

Explore Where City Meets Lake And Architecture Meets Natural Beauty

Lake Como isn’t just a paradise for natural beauty; the architecture and cityscapes are something to behold as well.

In Como, you can walk along the waterfront and take in the magic of the lake and the splendor of the city, as well as the small villages carved into the towering hills in the distance.

There’s an abundance of benches and small food stands to make the experience accommodating for all. My greatest recommendation is to grab some gelato in Como— any flavor you like—and take a leisurely stroll by the water. No need to watch the clock or worry about your destination—make like an Italian and enjoy the moment you are in.

After your moment enjoying the lake in all its beauty, you can take a step away from the water and enjoy Italian architecture. There are tons of gorgeous buildings around Como. If you want to do some shopping, check out the Town Center, where you can shop in and be surrounded by traditional Italian buildings. Church-lovers: Como Cathedral in the heart of Como is gorgeous! Basilica of Sant’Abbondio, a Romanesque-style 11th-century church, and Basilica San Carpoforo are both incredible structures that provide a look into Italy’s religious past and present!

Villa Carlotta on Lake Como. — Cezary Wojtkowski / Shutterstock

Right by the water, Villa Carlotta is a marriage of botanical garden and museum—visitors will appreciate earth’s art as well as man’s. Also, the villa is a stunning mansion, so it’s a double whammy of beauty both natural and man-made!

There’s something for everyone in northern Italy. Lake Como is northern Italy’s crown jewel and my favorite best-kept secret in the country. Go for the views, stay for the history and authentic food, and leave already planning your next trip back!

Next up, Milan! We know the best stops on a road trip from Venice to Milan. And if you’re heading north instead, we have the scoop on why the Lake Geneva region is one of Switzerland’s best spots!

Why Tivoli Gardens Is A Must-Visit Around Christmas

The decision to travel internationally at Christmastime isn’t something we take lightly. After all, the holidays are a time for food, friends, and family; jumping on a plane and flying halfway around the world doesn’t sound too Christmasy.

Unless, of course, you’re visiting someplace truly magical — someplace like Tivoli Gardens in Copenhagen, Denmark. While it’s billed as one of the world’s oldest amusement parks, Tivoli Gardens has little in common with the frenzied fairgrounds that most Americans associate with the term.

Here’s why Tivoli Gardens deserves a spot on your holiday wish list.

Christmas time at Tivoli Gardens. — footageclips / Shutterstock

1. It Inspired A Great Work Of Literature

The park opened its doors in 1844, and needless to say, there weren’t many comparable destinations at the time. One of its first guests was so overcome by the gorgeous gardens and fanciful attractions that he wrote a fairy-tale inspired by them.

That guest was Danish author Hans Christian Andersen, and the fairy-tale was “The Nightingale,” one of his most well-received works. Walking through the park, it’s easy to see why the writer felt so inspired.

2. It Inspired Another World-Famous Amusement Park

In 1951, an American animator paid several visits to Tivoli Gardens, marveling at the charming ambiance and family-friendly attractions. As attentive readers might have guessed, that animator was Walt Disney.

Disney reportedly spent his time poring over every inch of the grounds, writing down notes about everything he saw. His friend Art Linkletter believed that Tivoli Gardens was the inspiration for Disneyland.

3. It Comes Alive At Christmastime

From mid-November through early January, the magic of the Christmas season is alive at Tivoli Gardens. Food stalls sell mulled wine and Danish donuts, while more than a million twinkling lights add a lustrous glow to the festivities. On some nights, fireworks light up the sky, creating a charming, romantic atmosphere.

Throughout the season, visitors can take twilight tours to explore the grounds, and the aromatic scent of fir garlands spreads through every inch of the park. While the gardens are enchanting year-round, the holidays bring out something special; you’ll truly feel as though you’ve stumbled through a secret portal to the North Pole.

4. There Are Carnival Games Throughout The Park

Granted, carnival games might not seem especially festive, but the game booths at Tivoli Gardens have a distinct charm. Most are quite simple, with hand-painted designs that hearken back to the park’s origins.

Pay a small fee to see whether your skills are up to snuff (and don’t worry — while these games are difficult, they’re not rigged). Toss cans, fish for ducks, or spend a few frantic minutes at the shooting gallery — all of the games are worthwhile, and even if you don’t win, you’ll undoubtedly have a few fantastic photo opportunities.

5. Its Restaurants Serve Traditional European Christmas Dishes

What’s cozier than a big bowl of figgy pudding? We have no idea — we’ve never tried figgy pudding; we’ve just heard about it in “We Wish You a Merry Christmas.” It sounds delicious, though.

That said, if you’re in the mood for some traditional Christmas fare, you’ll have no shortage of options at Tivoli Gardens. The park’s restaurants add a variety of sweet and savory items to their menus during the holidays, including classic local Christmas dishes like roast duck, marinated herring, roast pork with red cabbage, and (of course) chocolate cake.

6. The Rides Are Only Part Of The Allure

Granted, Tivoli Gardens has attractions for thrill-seekers, as the screams generated by its three formidable roller-coasters can be heard for miles around. Even so, the park boasts a variety of family-friendly activities throughout the year.

Christmas attractions include Honey Cake Castle, where visitors can buy honey cake hearts and decorate them to their hearts’ content (pun intended). Santa Claus also makes regular appearances at the park, and several theaters run holiday-themed shows, including plays and ballets. In short, you’ll have plenty to keep you occupied, regardless of how you feel about roller-coasters.

The Copenhagen Christmas Market. — Mikhail Markovskiy / Shutterstock

7. The Local Christmas Market Is Unbelievable

While Tivoli Gardens is a fine place to spend a few days, most travelers will stop by the park while spending time in Copenhagen. If you’re in a festive mood, that’s not a bad idea, since Copenhagen’s Christmas market is legendary.

The best place to start is undoubtedly Stroget, one of the longest pedestrian areas in all of Europe. Browse local craft markets or simply stroll the streets with a cup of mulled wine in hand. Street performers play Christmas tunes while strings of lights light up the skies, creating a perfect atmosphere to enjoy on your way to (or from) Tivoli Gardens.

Whether you’re a fan of all things Christmas or you’re hoping to regain your excitement for the holiday, Copenhagen is a truly outstanding destination. There’s a feeling of wonder permeating the city, and the magic is most palpable in Tivoli Gardens. Few amusement parks have the charm — and downright coziness — of this not-so-hidden gem, and travelers who stop here will have no trouble finding the spirit of the season.

Ready to book your flight to Copenhagen? Good! You won’t regret it. Here are some things to know before you go, and here’s how to navigate the city once you get there.