Christmas Markets in Hamburg

Hamburg for me, was the only region that we did not draw up any concrete plans for due to time constraints but yet, it dropped pleasant surprises in many ways. Sometimes it is best to let the land unfold itself and lead you than to restrict yourself with timetables. We walked along the main city area and chanced upon the Christmas market- Hamburger Weihnachmarkt- right outside the Parliament House. The latter caught my attention first because of its grandiosity in erection, coupled with the intricate sculptures on the pediments and friezes.

Germany is renowned for its Christmas markets; the miasma of the place and people in Hamburger Weihnachmarkt was as joyous as a blithe spirit in Neverland. It was my maiden attempt at drinking hot wine- Gluhwein in German and feeling properly festive for once. For once, nothing felt truly commercialized. Everyone broke in applause and hearty laughter when the flying Santa with his Reindeer flew overhead (on cable lines). It was a lovely sight indeed !

:: Our new-found happy but drunk Canadian friends :: It's amazing what several cups of Gluhwein can do in oiling the wheels of conversation.

At night, our brave souls led us onward to the cold harbour. It was impossible to give the harbor a miss for after all, Hamburg is a famous port in Europe. Ergo, the harbour is the heart of the city. At night, I came to realize that cold is powerful. Those gale-force winds whipped around and threatened to throw my petite physique off ground.

:: Hamburg harbour ::