This Beach In The Maldives Actually Glows In The Dark

Remember being fascinated with all things glow-in-the-dark as a kid – and those sticky stars and puffy paint that were popular in the 1980s and ’90s?

For those of you still not-so-secretly fascinated by fireflies and other things that flicker in the night, there’s a beach in the Maldives that you absolutely have to see. It’s filled with glowing blue dots like a pool of floating fairy lights, and it’s amazing.

Come See The Sea Of Stars

The photos of this incredible beach, whose waters are known as the Sea of Stars, are almost completely unbelievable. In fact, the images feel like something someone concocted for the movies, depicting an otherworldly planet with strange aliens and dazzling creatures. But this place is as real as it gets.

Vaadhoo Island is a part of the Raa Atoll in the Maldives. It’s small in population, but thanks to the glorious glow of its now-famous beach, it has become a popular tourist destination within the island chain.

Bioluminescent particles in the Maldives. — PawelG Photo / Shutterstock

This mesmerizing beach is covered in tiny microorganisms that are commonly mistaken for phytoplankton. The aquatic critters that account for the phenomenon are actually ostracod crustaceans that glow for seconds or even minutes at a time when they come into contact with the water’s surface, while phytoplankton only light up for less than a second.

The bioluminescent creatures use chemical energy that’s released as light. They contain a unique compound called luciferin, which, when exposed to oxygen, causes a chemical reaction that emits a beautiful glow.

Although the climate in the Maldives is temperate year-round, you’ll want to plan your visit between June and October to catch a glimpse of this incredible sight. When you arrive in Male, the capital of the Maldives, you’ll have access to speedboats and ferries that can take you to Vadhoo Island for this natural aquatic light show.

A bioluminescent beach in the Maldives. — PawelG Photo / Shutterstock

But don’t just catch a ride to the island and wander on the beaches at night looking for the Sea of Stars. Instead, charter a boat or join a tour company that will take you out on the water where you’ll catch the best views.

These bioluminescent specks of light can be caught on camera, but your standard photography skills and the equipment that most casual tourists use won’t cut it. If you want to bring some really great shots of this incredible phenomenon home, be sure to study up a little on your photography and bring something better than your iPhone, which probably won’t be able to capture the glow.

Other Glowing Beaches Around The World

Strange as it may seem, there are many other beaches like this around the world. Some of the most famous ones can be found in Puerto Rico at Puerto Mosquito and in Vietnam at Halong Bay. But there are even some in the United States in Washington State and New Jersey.

Want to see the Sea of Stars in person? Learn how to travel to the Maldives. Or witness bioluminescence closer to home by exploring Florida’s glowing waters in a see-through kayak.

5 Reasons To Visit The Clydesdales At Warm Springs Ranch

They’re the most famous horses in America. The Budweiser Clydesdales symbolize the end of prohibition and The King of Beers. Most of us will only experience their majesty on television, maybe a quick glimpse during the Tournament of Roses Parade or in a Super Bowl commercial.

But in the heart of Missouri, there’s a place where you’ll not only see these beauties, but interact with them! It’s called Warm Springs Ranch. Located near Boonville, Missouri, nearly equidistant from Kansas City and St. Louis, this is where the Budweiser Clydesdales are born and raised to become part of the world-famous hitch, and that alone should be reason enough to get you to visit. Still not convinced? Here are a few more.

Rolling green hills at Warm Springs Ranch. — Courtney Patton

1. Stunning Location

Rolling green hills, large Budweiser-red barns, and a gated drive are the first sights you’ll see as you approach Warm Springs Ranch. The winding fence-lined drive takes you past the beautiful pastures where the Clydesdales graze. The ranch encompasses 340 acres, which means you may only see a few horses when you first drive in while many others could be tucked behind the hills.

Along the drive, you’ll see three giant metal letters, WSR, brought here when the Budweiser sign atop Anheuser-Busch Brewery in St. Louis was replaced. As you pull up to the barns, you realize this is a special place. The entrance is perfectly landscaped and the Clydesdales’ caretakers are there to welcome you.

One of the stallions at Warm Springs Ranch. — Kelly Bambrick

2. Majestic Horses

Meeting your favorite television star can sometimes disappoint, but not here. Somewhere between 80 and 100 Clydesdales of all ages call Warm Springs Ranch home. Stallions Theo and Rock On are usually the first to greet visitors just to the right of the barns. They are the perfect examples of what makes a Clydesdale a Budweiser Clydesdale: bay color, black manes and tails, four white stocking feet, and white blazes down their faces. They’re at least six feet tall and weigh about 2,000 pounds.

The horses on the farm are a bit more natural-looking than those you’ll see in parades. They can be found enjoying themselves sans their 135-pound harnesses and the red and white ribbons braided through their manes. Most are also missing their shoes (even though there are six different sizes to choose from at the ranch).

A mother and her foal at Warm Springs Ranch. — Courtney Patton

3. Getting To See The Beautiful Foals

A highlight for any visitor is meeting the newly born foals and their mothers. A simple stroll through the pens in the barn is worth the drive and admission alone. Nowhere else can you experience this. The foals may look small next to the mares, but with a birth weight of around 150 pounds and a height measuring three feet, they come into this world living up to their grand reputations.

The foals are born starting in March and they keep their caretakers busy through mid-June, but there are always a few late-season babies for visitors to see if you choose to head to Warm Springs Ranch closer to fall. If you’ve ever wondered how a Clydesdale is named, the staff tells us it’s tradition to use the first letter of the mare’s first name when deciding what to call the newborn.

A handler cleaning a Clydesdale. — Courtney Patton

4. The Staff Is Truly Dedicated

Even with 340 acres and 80 to 100 Clydesdales to care for, the staff is relatively small. Six tour guides and seven handlers make up the group of dedicated workers at Warm Springs Ranch. Their phones ring when each foal is born and from that moment on, the workers treat them like royalty. Feeding, bathing, and cleaning everything from their harnesses to their stalls, these dedicated employees know the ins and outs of superior Clydesdale care. Warm Springs Ranch will make you question your housekeeping skills. The facility is cleaner than most people’s homes.

The crew doesn’t simply let the horses out to pasture to graze for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. They make sure they have the best hay from Idaho and work with Purina to procure the perfect grain. Food and drink for the Clydesdales also involves at least 30 gallons of water per horse per day. The crew helps keep the pastures neatly trimmed and bales the grass that grows there, sending it to St. Louis to feed the goats and other animals at their sister property, Grant’s Farm.

A Clydesdale greeting visitors on the VIP Tour. — Courtney Patton

5. You Can Have A VIP Experience

You have two options when you visit Warm Springs Ranch, a Guided Walking Tour and a VIP Tour. Both require a reservation. The TravelAwaits team recently experienced the VIP Tour and our team was in love from the moment we stepped onto our private wagon.

The VIP Tour costs $500 for up to 16 people and takes you through the pastures to experience the horses up close. We just didn’t know how close. These beautiful animals walked right up to the wagon, some sticking their heads inside for a very personal meeting. No petting zoo has prepared you for this experience. These horses are so savvy, a few even found a purse or two to root through. Note that VIP guests travel through the pastures in a wagon pulled by a John Deere tractor, so the ride can be a bit bumpy if you have any neck or back issues.

The entire trip lasts 90 minutes and completely immerses you in the history of the breed, the ranch, how the horses are trained, and what it’s like for them on the road. You’ll have a newfound respect for the handlers who travel with the hitch across the country. It takes more than five hours to get the hitch ready for the scores of appearances they make each year and when the Clydesdales are ready to delight their fans, their drivers have to manage 70 pounds of pressure at their fingertips. This is just one good reason two drivers sit atop the beer wagon at all times.

Tours take place from early spring through mid-fall and are available every day except Wednesdays.

A free Budweiser sample at Warm Springs Ranch. — Courtney Patton

Bonus: Free Beer

After you’ve roamed the pastures and strolled through the barns, it’s difficult to think of a better ending than a nice cold one. The beer is complimentary at the end of each tour and simply tastes better when you’re enjoying it just feet from where the iconic horses, which symbolize it, live. While enjoying your samples, you’ll have one last chance to interact with one of these beautiful animals, petting and taking photos with a fully grown Clydesdale in front of the traditional beer wagon to capture one last memory.

Ready to book your tour? Here’s our detailed account of how to visit Warm Springs Ranch.

Trappist Beer In Belgium: Everything You Need To Know

If you’re planning a trip to Belgium, you won’t want to miss out on a chance to visit a Trappist Monastery to grab a beer. That’s right: A monastery might be one of the best places to visit in Belgium if you love beer. Many Belgian Trappist monasteries are a short drive from other countries such as France, Germany, or Luxembourg, making them a great addition to a trip to those countries, too.

All Trappist monasteries produce a limited amount of commercial products to help sustain their operations. While most locations produce preserves, cheese, or bread, some monasteries produce beer. In total, there are 14 registered Trappist monasteries that produce beer commercially. Twelve of those breweries are certified to use the "Authentic Trappist Product" symbol, and half of those breweries are in Belgium, making it an excellent destination for beer enthusiasts. This is, of course, in addition to the other fabulous breweries in the country.

Beer enthusiasts can’t get enough Trappist beer. Several things make Trappist beers so special. If you like trying new beers, but are on the fence about adding a monastery trip to your travel itinerary, here are a few things to consider.

Trappist Beers Are Rare

Since Trappist monasteries don’t create products on a for-profit basis, their overall production runs are low and will stay low. Despite this, you can still find some Trappist beers in craft beer shops around the United States. However, there are some monasteries that don’t distribute to the U.S. at all.

To put things in perspective, 10,000 barrels of the highly elusive double IPA Heady Topper are brewed annually. Look at one of the most highly regarded Trappist breweries, Westvleteren, for comparison; they only brew 4,750 barrels. Unlike standard commercial breweries, which will increase production to meet higher demand and increase profits, Trappist breweries won’t because they only brew to support the monastery.

The Orval Abbey in Belgium. — ciwo1 / Shutterstock

Trappist Beer Has A Rich History

Europe has a rich history in brewing and is home to the oldest operating breweries in the world. Four of the Trappist monasteries in Belgium were founded before 1900, and some predate 1850. Experiencing the history behind the beer is as exciting as getting your hands on a rare bottle.

Trappist Beer Comes In 4 Distinct Styles

Experiencing what 150 years of brewing mastery tastes like can be a palate-opening experience. Trappist style ales are unlike any other beverage on the planet. Trappist monasteries don’t produce seasonal beers or release new recipes every few years. Instead, they’ve honed just a few recipes to absolute perfection. This dedication, coupled with private yeast strains, makes Trappist beers completely unique. If you’re looking to broaden your understanding of beer and brewing while on your trip to Belgium, work a Trappist monastery visit into your itinerary and get to know the four distinct styles of beer they brew.

The names may sound complicated, but their translations are simple, and each has a unique flavor that is not to be missed.

Enkel

Also called table beer or patersbier, the Enkel is most frequently consumed by the monks taking up residence at the monastery. These are the lightest and most straightforward of the beers produced at Trappist monasteries. Expect a wonderful balance of light, fruity flavors, bright yeast notes, and a crisp malt note.

Dubbel

These medium-strength ales are not too strong, not too weak, and jam-packed with a rich malty flavor. This style and those following it on this list are more readily available than the Enkel. Dubbels will have more body and darker color than their lower strength counterpart. Standard strength Dubbels fall between 6 and 8% ABV.

Tripel

As you can imagine, Tripel is stronger than Dubbel. However, instead of following suit and being darker than the previous style, Tripels tend to be lighter in color and body than Dubbels. They’re dryer and have a stronger ABV, between 8 and 10%.

Quadrupel Or Quad

This style is both stronger and darker than the Tripel. It’s more like a Dubbel that’s been cranked up to 11. In terms of strength, Quadrupel will fall somewhere between 9 and 14% ABV. Quads have a heavy body with bold, ripe stonefruit flavors and pronounced bready malt notes.

Trappist beer in Belgium. — Alexandros Michailidis / Shutterstock

Abbey Style Beer Isn’t Necessarily True Trappist Beer

Thanks to crafty marketing moves within the beer industry, finding Trappist beer isn’t as easy as buying beer inspired by these age-old styles. There are countless breweries that produce Belgian-style ales called Enkels, Dubbels, Tripels, and Quads. Others go a step further and throw the term Abbey Style on their labels. To ensure you’re getting the true Trappist product, look for the “Authentic Trappist Product” insignia on the bottle. Alternatively, you can pay attention to the brewery itself and cross-reference it against a list of registered Trappist breweries.

Schedule a trip to a Trappist monastery on your next European adventure to have access to the freshest, most authentic Trappist ales in the world. Visiting one usually gets you access to their beers with limited to no distribution.

There Are 6 Trappist Monasteries In Belgium Where You Can Try Trappist Beer

Like any long-distance trip, careful planning will be needed to visit a Trappist monastery. With the growing popularity of Trappist ales, the monasteries have grown accustomed to frequent visits. Here is a quick overview of the six Belgian Trappist monasteries, the beers they offer, and information you should know as you plan your visit.

Westmalle

Westmalle produces a Dubbel and a Tripel. With careful hunting, you’ll be able to find a bottle of these in craft beer bottle shops in the U.S. However, the monastery also produces a single, which is very limited and may or may not be available when you visit. Brewery tours aren’t provided, however, you can reserve a time to watch a special video about the brewery and walk some of its grounds. Complete your visit with a trip to Cafe Trappisten, which is half a mile down the road from the abbey. The cafe was originally placed on the abbey grounds across from the grocer, but eventually needed to relocate. There, you can enjoy fresh Westmalle beers right from Westmalle Abbey itself.

Westmalle is a 40-minute drive East of Antwerp.

Trappist beer from Westvleteren. — ivanpigozzo / Shutterstock

Westvleteren/St. Sixtus

This Monastery is the producer of one of the world’s highest-rated beers, Westvleteren 12 (or Westy 12). Their beers come in unassuming bottles with no labels. The caps are the only way to distinguish the styles. Before you hop in the car and drive an hour southwest of Bruges, though, know that the buying process for Westvletern beers is very restrictive. The first thing you’ll need to do is register for their online sales platform. Once beer is available for purchase, you can buy your allowance online and pick it up at the abbey visitor center. Planning is key as the process usually takes at least three months.

Chimay

This monastery produces a staggering 105,000 barrels of beer annually. Their bottles are available fairly readily throughout the U.S., so if you’re on the hunt for rarer Trappist ales, you may want to visit other monasteries instead. However, if you’re already a big fan of Chimay, contact the monastery to discuss visits or hostel stays. Chimay is located a little over two hours south of Brussels or two hours northwest of Luxembourg City, Luxembourg.

Rochefort

You may have seen some Rochefort bottles at your local bottle shop. They have a brown label with large lettering. Their styles are indicated by a number in a small colored circle. Rochefort Monastery is not open to the public, however, it’s conveniently located in the town of Rochefort, which has terrific dining, sightseeing, and shopping opportunities. Many of the bars in town serve Rochefort’s coveted ales.

Orval

This is another Trappist beer with healthy distribution in the U.S. However, if you’re a fan of the beer or want to take in some incredible architectural history, this is the place to go. They are much more welcoming to the public than some of the other monasteries. Orval Abbey offers self-guided and guided tours. These last between 20 minutes and two hours respectively. The gift shop offers plenty of souvenir-buying options as well as an opportunity to get your hands on their world-class ale. It’s located at the southern tip of Belgium and is closer to Luxembourg and Reims, France, than it is to other major Belgian cities.

Achel

The sixth of six Belgian Trappist breweries is Sint-Benedictus Abbey, or Achelse Kluis for short. There are no brewery tours, but the tavern at the abbey is open to the public. It has a large viewing area where you can watch the brewers at work, and they offer limited release beers only available at the tavern, making it an attractive option for those looking for new beer experiences. The monastery is located in Achel, which is roughly equidistant from Antwerp, Belgium, and Dusseldorf, Germany.

Working in a stop at a Trappist brewery is easy thanks to the fact that they’re scattered throughout the country. If you’re staying in one of Belgium’s major cities, or planning a trip to France, Luxembourg, or Germany, a Trappist brewery is not too far away. Be sure to take advantage of your opportunity to visit these incredible locations.

Planning A 3-Day Florida Keys Road Trip

With their dramatic vistas and come-as-you-are culture, the Florida Keys are the perfect place for a road trip. This chain of tropical islands is home to wildlife, beaches, fresh bites, tasty brews, and the best Key lime pie you’ll ever have in your life.

A road trip through the Florida Keys will give you the freedom to explore every nook and cranny of the 120-mile stretch from Key Largo to Key West. The trip can be completed in one day, but that’s hardly enough time to get your fill of this southernmost gem. Instead, we recommend taking at least three days for a Florida Keys road trip. Here’s how to make the most of your time.

Christ of the Abyss in Key Largo, Florida. — Lawrence Cruciana / Shutterstock

Day 1: Key Largo

Key Largo is the diving capital of the world, and its scenery is as dazzling below the water as it is above it. This northernmost Florida Keys region is just over 60 miles from Miami International Airport, making it an obvious and easy place to kick off a Keys road trip. Get ready for local wildlife, fresh (and famous!) fish, and waterfront lounging from day one.

Go On A Diving Excursion

When you visit the diving capital of the world, you simply must try your hand at diving (or snorkeling). John Pennekamp State Park is one of the best places to snorkel and dive in the Keys. Underwater attractions include wildlife, coral reefs, seagrass beds, and the 8-foot-tall Christ of the Abyss statue.

Beyond the park is one of Key Largo’s most unusual dive spots. You can swim up to one of the largest shipwrecks in America that’s accessible to divers, the USS Spiegel Grove.

An owl at the Laura Quinn Wild Bird Sanctuary. — Stephanie Vermillion

Visit The Laura Quinn Wild Bird Sanctuary

Named for its founder (who was known as “the bird lady”), the Laura Quinn Wild Bird Sanctuary is a haven for birders and wildlife enthusiasts. This sanctuary provides safe homes for wild birds who’ve suffered plights such as fishing-line entanglement.

You can spend as much or as little time as you’d like walking through the dozens of bird enclosures. There’s a placard at each stop so you can read the story of the bird who lives there. Don’t miss the green Amazon parrot on the way out; according to the staff, this chatty bird was actually Laura Quinn’s!

Grab Lunch At The Key Largo Conch House

Famous for its conch fritters — not to mention a national appearance on Emeril — the Key Largo Conch House is a must-stop on any Florida Keys road trip. This no-frills establishment offers indoor and outdoor dining and a patio shaded by palm trees.

The signature conch fritters may be delicious, but there’s so much more to the menu than that one plate. Grab a variety of appetizers like the gator bites and seafood tacos to sample the tasty cuisine this region is known for.

Inside Baker's Cay Resort. — Stephanie Vermillion

Lounge At Baker’s Cay Resort

After lunch, check in to one of the best eco-friendly hotels in the Keys: Baker’s Cay Resort. The ocean views from the rooms and the cozy outdoor bar are fantastic, but that is only the beginning of the fun to be had. Bikes are available for rent, as are paddleboards, kayaks, and rafts.

The massive resort is home to two beaches. Its main, bustling beach attracts guests with its gear rentals, lounge chairs, and always-busy waterfront bar. Its second beach is all about serenity. Accessible via a quick hike on a forested trail, this spot features hammocks, secluded lounge chairs, and all the peace and quiet you could ever need.

Baker’s Cay benefits greatly from its beachfront location, and it gives back accordingly to help Florida’s fragile reefs. With its toiletries that support ocean cleanup projects and its produce grown on-site, it’s no wonder that the resort attracts eco-conscious guests. Don’t miss the restaurant’s hot sauce, made from hot peppers grown in the chef’s garden — I’ve tried it myself, and I can guarantee that it’s great!

Enjoy A Sunset Dinner At Sundowners

Set on Key Largo’s waterfront, Sundowners is a popular place to catch the sunset while enjoying fresh and local fare. Sundowners falls in the “Keys casual” category; the vibe is relaxed, the staff is friendly, and the dress is whatever you want it to be.

If it’s available, order the tough-to-find Florida Keys favorite, hogfish, an ugly fish with a mild yet rich flavor. No hogfish? No problem. Sundowners’s conch fritters and oysters are equally out of this world.

Seven Mile Bridge in Marathon, Florida. — Mia2you / Shutterstock

Day 2: Marathon

The next stop, Marathon, is right at the heart of the Florida Keys. The spot’s dramatic 7-mile bridge, which is nothing more than a tiny sliver of road above the turquoise sea, is one of the Keys’s best locations for photography. Marathon is a diver’s dream, an animal lover’s paradise, and the perfect spot for getting to know the Keys on a deeper level.

Interact With Dolphins At The Dolphin Research Center

Nothing beats seeing dolphins in the wild, but seeing the work that’s being done to save this species comes pretty close. The researchers at Dolphin Research Center on nearby Grassy Key are studying how dolphins think and behave in order to help preserve the species. The center is open daily, and there are interactive sessions where you can learn more about dolphins and the Florida Keys’s wildlife as a whole.

A lionfish from Castaway Waterfront Restaurant. — Stephanie Vermillion

Try Lionfish At Castaway Waterfront Restaurant & Sushi Bar

Castaway Waterfront Restaurant & Sushi Bar is more than upscale food and sushi. Owner John Mirabella is helping patrons practice conservation by consumption with his creative dishes featuring the lionfish species.

Experts are still unsure how lionfish entered Florida’s waters, but they do know one thing: The invasive species wreaks havoc on local habitats. That’s why Mirabella serves the peculiar-looking (yet tasty) fish in everything from lionfish tartare to full filets.

Spend The Night At Tranquility Bay Beachfront Resort

The four-star Tranquility Bay Beachfront Resort is like a postcard from paradise. The rooms at this resort overlook the ocean, with palm trees and colorful umbrellas decorating the beachfront property. From peaceful private patios to Key lime coladas at a tiki bar, the resort offers the stay of your dreams. It’s tough to spend just one night at this slice of Heaven — and we wouldn’t blame you if you tacked on two or three more!

The Parrot Key Hotel and Villas. — Stephanie Vermillion

Day 3: Key West

Key West is what most people think of when they think of the Florida Keys. In this colorful, creative island city, with its distinct Victorian architecture amidst rows of native palm trees, it’s easy to get around on foot or by bike.

Key West is the ultimate place to explore, unwind, and breathe in the sea. Here’s how to spend your last day in the Keys (unless, of course, you decide to extend your trip!).

Check In At Parrot Key Hotel & Villas

The luxurious Parrot Key Hotel & Villas got a facelift after Hurricane Irma damaged it in 2017, but it’s back and better than ever. This bright and stylish hotel features condo-style rooms that open up to backyard beaches. Private balconies and porches and communal hammocks are available for full relaxation. Parrot Key’s 5 acres of palm groves add tropical flair, while the hotel’s water sports rentals will keep you from relaxing too much.

Visit The Ernest Hemingway Home & Museum

It’s not surprising that Ernest Hemingway wrote some of his best books in Key West — it’s the perfect place to recenter and relax. You can see the views that inspired him on a tour of the Ernest Hemingway Home & Museum in Old Town Key West. The tour usually runs for 30 minutes, and it includes exhibits inside the house as well as a stroll through the gardens outside.

Fun fact: More than 40 six-toed cats live on the grounds of the Hemingway house. According to the museum’s website, Hemingway was given a six-toed cat by a ship’s captain, and it’s believed that some of the home’s current cats descended from that very cat.

A chef at The Stoned Crab in Florida. — Stephanie Vermillion

Splurge On An Eco-Friendly Dinner At The Stoned Crab

The Stoned Crab takes sustainability seriously — it’s home to an eco bar that serves only organic or sustainable wine and spirits. The menu is as local as it comes, offering only fresh fish the staff members have caught themselves. Don’t miss the restaurant’s signature dish — stone crabs — although you can’t go wrong with any of the fresh fish options on the menu.

Celebrate The Sunset At Mallory Square

There’s no better way to enjoy your last night in the Florida Keys than by attending the Sunset Celebration in Mallory Square. This event draws visitors from all over the world with food carts, live music, local artisans, and an epic sunset that’s greeted with cheers every night. Don’t leave the second the sun sets; the light continues to dazzle as the sky turns from golden to blue.

Throughout the Florida Keys, adventures and once-in-a-lifetime travel memories await. If you’re planning to stay for a week or longer, don’t miss these six awesome things to do in the Florida Keys!

Best Tips For Christmas Markets In Europe According To Experts

For many, Christmas time is the best time of the year. It can be celebrated by hanging mistletoe, chopping down the perfect evergreen tree, or caroling into the night. But if you’ve never taken a trip to one of Europe’s many Christmas markets, this is a holiday tradition to add to your list. Filled with holiday goodies, warm fresh foods, and almost as much holiday spirit as the North Pole, Christmas markets are a great way to celebrate what the 1963 holiday tune calls “the most wonderful time of the year.”

Here, experts share tips from some of their favorite Christmas markets — and some of the one-of-a-kind things you can find when you visit!

The Nuremberg Christkindlesmarkt in Germany. — Scirocco340 / Shutterstock

Get A Plum Man At Nuremberg Christkindlesmarkt

This Christmas market has a long history and a lot of tradition behind it. The Nuremberg Christmas market is one of the oldest in Germany, dating back to the mid-16th century, so you can expect a full-on Christmas extravaganza from a visit to this town’s Christmas market.

Travel expert Silke Wolf of Local Insiders had a ton of information about the famous market, and since she lives near the town of Nuremberg, she has spent more than enough time at this market to speak to the ins and outs of a great Nuremberg Christkindlesmarkt experience.

“As a local, I have been to this market every other year and I love it. I can even tell you about the best-mulled wine — in my opinion, Vollrath’s Heidelbeergluhwein. The traditional part of the Christmas market is on Hauptmarkt. On Hauptmarkt you’ll find a lot of food stalls selling local food such as the famous grilled sausages, the so-called Nuernberger Rostbratwürste, in a bun.”

While you’re shopping, Wolf suggests you pick up a Zwetschgenmännlein, which translates to plum man. Wolf says these small figurines carved out of dried plums are unique to Nuremberg Christkindlesmarkt — she hasn’t seen them at any other Christmas market she’s visited.

This year this historical market will be open from November 29 to December 24, 2019!

The Singing Christmas Tree in Zurich, Switzerland. — Brooke & Buddy Baum

Explore Beyond The Singing Christmas Tree At The Zurich Christmas Market

Zurich’s Christmas market, also known as the Werdmühleplatz Market, centers around a one-of-a-kind Christmas-tree-shaped stage, but our experts, Brooke and Buddy Baum of Trailing Away, travelers who’ve spent dedicated time visiting European Christmas markets, have other favorite attractions at this winter wonderland.

“Like many nights of our Christmas market extravaganza, we explored multiple markets in our one night in Zürich. Our favorite market was the Werdmühleplatz Market. Here they had a singing Christmas tree stage where kids would sing a variety of festive tunes. Plus, they had vendors selling delicious offerings like raclette with potato and a miniature version of fondue. Since food in Zurich was extremely expensive, we loved getting to have this more affordable taste of some of the must-try cheese dishes.”

If you’re a cheese connoisseur — or just a foodie — this Christmas market should be at the top of your list. The market will be open from November 21 to December 23, 2019.

Indulge In A Feuerzangenbowle At The Old Rixdorfer Christmas Market In Berlin

The Old Rixdorfer Christmas Market, or Alt-Rixdorfer Weihnachtsmarkt, is known as “one of the most romantic of Berlin’s Christmas markets,” and it is definitely the market you’ll want to stop at if you’re headed to Germany for the holidays — especially if you’re traveling with your significant other.

Expert Kevin Axe of JayWay Travel has a few tips for visiting this stunning, old market.

“Berlin has over 80 Christmas markets, but my favorite — and the favorite of many locals — is the Alt-Rixdorfer Weihnachtsmarkt. Built by 18th-century Bohemian refugees, the Alt-Rixdorf district still has the atmosphere of a Czech village. Unusually, many of the vendors are charities raising money by selling delicacies and crafts made by the people they serve, so you can find everything from traditional favorites like folded Christmas Stars and Feuerzangenbowle, a showy drink which involves setting a rum-soaked sugarloaf on fire and letting the caramelized sugar drip into mulled wine, to food and drink from around the world.”

Take in the romantic atmosphere and indulge in good food and tradition when visiting this market, open from December 6 to December 8, 2019.

The entrance to the Strasbourg Christmas Market. — Brooke & Buddy Baum

Get Your Fill Of Foie Gras At The “Christmas Capital” In Strasbourg, France

Known as the Capital of Christmas, this market will afford you the traditional Christmas merriment with a French twist.

Travel experts Brooke and Buddy said this was definitely the most decorated Christmas market city they visited. “Every street was dripping with decorations and each seemed to offer a new theme. Plus, the old timber-framed houses and canals make for such a scenic stroll. Shop owners get involved as well and there are hundreds of delicious food and drink offerings. The hot wine is much lighter tasting here than what you’ll get used to in Germany, and they also have some very French-inspired food options, like foie gras — not something we enjoy, but interesting to see!”

Roam this festive Christmas market from November 22 to December 30, 2019.

Stein Am Rhein's Fairytale City in Switzerland. — Christina Holthuis

Become Part Of A Fairytale In Stein Am Rhein, Switzerland

What better place to live out your own Christmas fairytale than in a place named fairytale city? This unique Christmas city will leave you in the holiday spirit past Christmas and well into the new year.

Expert Christina Holthuis of A Little Nomad shared why she deems this market a gem.

“Every year, they choose one of the classic fairytales, like Rapunzel, and decorate about 20 shop windows according to this theme. There are tours with traditionally dressed maidens that will lead you through the entire fairytale city, explaining it from the view of a maiden that lived during the old days. [Given] the combination of the romantically lit bridge that crosses the Rhine River flowing out of Lake Constance and the medieval houses, the scent of candied almonds, and the sound of Christmas music, this small Swiss town really is a Christmas fairytale come true.”

You can wander around this enchanting market from December 4 to December 31, 2019.

Bite Into A Burger With A Twist At The Southbank Christmas Market In London

If you’re planning on a trip to London for the holiday season, then a stop at the Southbank Christmas market could and should be an addition to your trip.

Wolf loved the market for its British atmosphere and wonderful scenery. Plus, she said, “It’s a foodie’s paradise as you get to experience craft beer and street food with a British twist.” She recommends “a burger with a twist” and said the market offered pulled pork burgers and buns with inventive fillings.

“It looks very much like a London street food market,” which she told us she loves.

If you have an appetite for unique cuisine and are in search of some gorgeous views, this is an excellent destination. Or, if you’re like Wolf, you may want to go for the holiday lights. “No other city knows how to illuminate their city like London,” she told us.

The Southbank Christmas Market is open from November 2019 to January 2020. Check back for exact dates.

The Hellbrunner Adventzauber in Austria. — Brooke & Buddy Baum

Sip On Orange Rum Punch At Hellbrunner Adventzauber In Salzburg, Austria

There are multiple Christmas markets to be explored in Salzburg, Austria, but Brooke and Buddy hold the wondrous market on the grounds of Hellbrunn Palace in high regard.

They told us they consider Salzburg a must-visit during the holidays, in part because the classic Christmas song “Silent Night” was penned nearby.

“In addition to its all-season attractions — it’s filled with history and beautiful architecture — this city offers multiple unique Christmas markets,” Brooke and Buddy told us.

Hellbrunn Palace, where they walked around the famous trick fountains, lit up especially for the market, was their favorite. “We also tried a yummy orange rum punch — one of the more unique warm market drink offerings.”

Enjoy this unique market from November 21 to December 24, 2019.

With years of history and tradition behind each of them, a visit to any one of these European Christmas markets will mean packing your bags for a winter wonderland getaway this 2019 holiday season. If you’re lucky, you may even get to hop from one Christmas market to the next!

Planning to stay in the U.S. for the holidays? No problem, here are the best U.S. cities for a Christmas getaway in 2019.

How To Visit Warm Springs Ranch

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Boonville, Missouri, may not seem like much to the naked eye, but select horse lovers will know the true magic that resides on the 300-plus acres of land found in this tiny town. More than just your average ranch, nestled in the small town of Boonville is the home of the Budweiser Clydesdales: Warm Springs Ranch. Some people may travel there for the smooth complimentary beer, but most come to witness the strong, majestic Clydesdales and their adorable offspring.

The entrance to Warm Springs Ranch. — Courtney Patton

What’s In A Name?

Warm Springs Ranch told TravelAwaits that Budweiser’s renowned Clydesdale breeding program has been planted firmly in its current Boonville location since 2008, however, its name comes from the ranch’s former location in California. Warm Springs Creek ran through the California property, and when the Clydesdale breeding program was relocated, inspiration from generations of breeding and training in California came with it, as evidenced by the ranch’s name. As for the Clydesdales that are bred and trained in this idyllic location, their name comes from a hilly region — Dale — next to the Clyde River in Scotland.

Warm Springs Ranch has 80 to 100 Clydesdales of all different ages on the property. Curious to know how you can visit these beautiful horses, and maybe drink some free beer? We visited the lively ranch and are prepared to share some noteworthy tidbits that’ll help you prepare for memorable Clydesdale moments of your own.

A group of clydesdales at Warm Springs Ranch. — Courtney Patton

Guided Walking Tours Versus Private VIP Tours

Warm Springs Ranch is open every day but Wednesdays, and reservations are essential!

The only way to get a behind-the-scenes look at the ranch’s 25,000-square-foot facility is by booking a tour of the ranch grounds. There are two tour options available: guided walking tours and private VIP tours. Six tour guides and seven handlers work on site, tending to the ranch and ensuring that tours run smoothly. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect from each tour type.

Stable tour at Warm Springs Ranch. — Kelly Bambrick

Guided Walking Tour, 90 Minutes

Indoor-Outdoor, Rain Or Shine

Talk to Clydesdale handlers
View the Clydesdale harness, trailer, and 1903 beer wagon
Take a picture with a Clydesdale stallion
Take a trip around the gift shop for Warm Springs Ranch, Budweiser, and Clydesdale souvenirs
Guests 21 and older: Sample free Budweiser beer on tap

Guided walking tours are available by reservation only every day (except Wednesdays) from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. late March to early November and are $15 for all participants over 2 years of age.

A VIP tour at Warm Springs Ranch. — Courtney Patton

Private VIP Tours, 90 Minutes

Indoor-Outdoor, Rain Or Shine

Tour the facility from a custom-built covered wagon
Interact with Clydesdales of all ages in 300-plus acres of pasture
Enjoy a private walking tour of the 25,000-square-foot breeding facility
Get an up-close look at the traveling hitch equipment
Take a picture with a Clydesdale stallion
Take a trip around the gift shop for Clydesdale, Warm Springs Ranch, and Budweiser souvenirs.
Guests 21 and older: Sample free Budweiser beer on tap

Private VIP tours are available by reservation only every day (except Wednesdays) starting at 10:30 a.m. late March to early November and are $500 a tour for a maximum of 16 guests.

The main differences between these two tour options are the price and the opportunity the VIP tour affords visitors to interact with the Clydesdales. Another bonus of the VIP tour is that VIP guests get to enjoy the ranch seated in a personal wagon, which also makes this tour better-suited for visitors with mobility impairments. That said, the ride can be bumpy, which may result in motion sickness or make it less than ideal for those with back or neck issues.

Holiday Lights

Warm Springs Ranch really comes alive during the holiday season! Visitors can expect to be surrounded by lights, decorations, and festive holiday music as they explore the ranch’s grounds.

It takes the ranch between two and four months to set up for their elaborate holiday display. The 2019 holiday lights display will begin on November 29 and run through December 29. From Thursday through Sunday visitors can take a tour to see and learn about the Clydesdale horses and enjoy a wonderful light display from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. As with other tour types, reservations are still required.

A clydesdale at Warm Springs Ranch. — Kelly Bambrick

Plan Your Trip

Warm Springs Ranch hosts visitors from near and far. Seeing as the ranch is located in Boonville, a city with fewer than 8,500 residents, there isn’t a ton of action happening in town. You may want to incorporate a ranch tour into a St. Louis- or Kansas City-centric trip if you’re looking for busier scenery. According to Warm Springs Ranch, people often stay in Kansas City or St. Louis and make Warm Springs Ranch a day trip activity from one of these hubs.

If you aren’t thrilled by the idea of traveling so many hours (three round trip to Kansas City and five round trip to St. Louis) in one day, nearby college town Columbia, Missouri, might be your best bet. Columbia is bustling with the energy of the University of Missouri and boasts parks and trails, plus a scenic downtown with eclectic restaurants and cafes that you can enjoy before or after your time at Warm Springs.

The TravelAwaits team suggests giving local favorite Shakespeare’s Pizza’s downtown location a try. In the spirit of the Clydesdales, you can raise a glass (or bottle) of Budweiser’s finest as you enjoy a delicious slice of pizza and thumb through all the adorable Clydesdale photos you and your travel companions captured at the ranch!