A Vacation to German Christmas Markets or Deutsch Christkindlmarkts

I miss the holiday traditions I grew up with.  It is fun to create my own new traditions. One reason I love to travel is to explore the many diverse holiday festivities and cultures around the world that you will not find at home.   

Last year I planned ahead and saved for my vacation where I may experience something I don't have in California, a white winter and the German Christmas Markets.  This next story is from another traveler of the Christmas spirit found on the streets of German town of Munich.  Do you see why?

My memories sometimes get lazy about the truly magical experience of the Christmas holidays because of my daily living now in Northern California.  I am glad I grew up with the snow of the mid-west and I loved going to see our Country Club Plaza Holiday Lights in Kansas City.  I miss this.  Where is the best place to get the historical influence and tradition?  - See more at: http://www.funtourguru.com/p/blog-page_30.html#sthash.t6JorSeR.dpuf

My memories sometimes get lazy about the truly magical experience of the Christmas holidays because of my daily living now in Northern California.  I am glad I grew up with the snow of the mid-west and I loved going to see our Country Club Plaza Holiday Lights in Kansas City.  I miss this.  Where is the best place to get the historical influence and tradition?  - See more at: http://www.funtourguru.com/p/blog-page_30.html#sthash.t6JorSeR.dpuf

My memories sometimes get lazy about the truly magical experience of the Christmas holidays because of my daily living now in Northern California.  I am glad I grew up with the snow of the mid-west and I loved going to see our Country Club Plaza Holiday Lights in Kansas City.  I miss this.  Where is the best place to get the historical influence and tradition?  - See more at: http://www.funtourguru.com/p/blog-page_30.html#sthash.t6JorSeR.dpuf

My memories sometimes get lazy about the truly magical experience of the Christmas holidays because of my daily living now in Northern California.  I am glad I grew up with the snow of the mid-west and I loved going to see our Country Club Plaza Holiday Lights in Kansas City.  I miss this.  Where is the best place to get the historical influence and tradition?  - See more at: http://www.funtourguru.com/p/blog-page_30.html#sthash.t6JorSeR.dpuf

My memories sometimes get lazy about the truly magical experience of the Christmas holidays because of my daily living now in Northern California.  I am glad I grew up with the snow of the mid-west and I loved going to see our Country Club Plaza Holiday Lights in Kansas City.  I miss this.  Where is the best place to get the historical influence and tradition?  - See more at: http://www.funtourguru.com/p/blog-page_30.html#sthash.t6JorSeR.dpuf

My memories sometimes get lazy about the truly magical experience of the Christmas holidays because of my daily living now in Northern California.  I am glad I grew up with the snow of the mid-west and I loved going to see our Country Club Plaza Holiday Lights in Kansas City.  I miss this.  Where is the best place to get the historical influence and tradition?  - See more at: http://www.funtourguru.com/p/blog-page_30.html#sthash.t6JorSeR.dpuf

My memories sometimes get lazy about the truly magical experience of the Christmas holidays because of my daily living now in Northern California.  I am glad I grew up with the snow of the mid-west and I loved going to see our Country Club Plaza Holiday Lights in Kansas City.  I miss this.  Where is the best place to get the historical influence and tradition?  - See more at: http://www.funtourguru.com/p/blog-page_30.html#sthash.t6JorSeR.dpuf

My memories sometimes get lazy about the truly magical experience of the Christmas holidays because of my daily living now in Northern California.  I am glad I grew up with the snow of the mid-west and I loved going to see our Country Club Plaza Holiday Lights in Kansas City.  I miss this.  Where is the best place to get the historical influence and tradition?  - See more at: http://www.funtourguru.com/p/blog-page_30.html#sthash.t6JorSeR.dpuf

Deutsch Christkindlmarkts - German Christmas Markets By Barbara Carey

As I strolled through the brightly lit and beautifully decorated street Christmas Markets of Munich, the smell of the freshly baked spicy gingerbread cookies Lebkuchen wafted through the air. I could smell the crisp aroma of Glühwein (hot mulled wine) and who could resist a sinful sip of it on a chilly November evening. The delicious looking, hot Bratwurst sausages were a delight for both the local people and the tourists. The scent of cinnamon permeated the air, increasing my anticipation of the joyous festival. 

Munich: Christmas market outside the New Town Hall Photographer: Cowin, Andrew

Throughout the streets, there were choirs and brass-bands belting out tunes of traditional Christmas songs, brightening the atmosphere. It was on these streets that everyone forgot their troubles and woes and became wholly new people. Everyone was joyous in the spirit of this beautiful festival. People formed new relationships and had a jolly time interacting with people they’d never met before; with people from various corners of the world on these very streets. 

Munich: gingerbread stand at the Christmas market Photographer Messerschmidt, Joachim

 Christmas markets have been a German tradition for over 700 years. Each and every town of Germany had a different type of Christmas Market. The food and beverages served differed from place to place. The local tradesmen would sell handmade ornaments, wood carvings, marionettes, candles and lambskin shoes that would decorate your home and make you feel the merriness of this exuberant festival. Carved nutcrackers (Nussknacker), Zwetschgenmännle (figures made of decorated dried plums), cuckoo clocks, straw ornaments and blown glass ornaments were some other handicrafts that were seen throughout the market.

Nuremberg/Pegnitz: Christmas tree decorations, nutcrackers, incense burners and candle arches at the Christmas market on Hauptmarkt square Photographer Kiedrowski, Rainer

Children especially seemed to enjoy these markets. Seeing them playing on the festively decorated Christmas carousels radiated happiness and instantly made me smile. You could see kids enjoying the sizzling sausages in the chilly weather. They would pick out pretty ornaments to decorate their Christmas trees with. They seemed to enjoy life in these markets like there was no tomorrow. 

Nuremberg/Pegnitz: people in front of a craft stall at the Christmas market on Hauptmarkt square                Photographer Kiedrowski, Rainer

Adults could be seen sitting in a warm, cozy, open pub, enjoying glasses of wine and mugs of beer next to a lit fireplace. Tradesmen were trying to sell their goods with their wives. They were calling out prices and interacting with us customers in a very affectionate manner. 

And don’t forget their ‘Frohe Weihnachten’ (Merry Christmas in German) greeting after every customer makes a purchase from them. I think we’ve established that there is no better way to celebrate this festive season than in the gorgeously lit up street Christkindlmarkts in Deutschland (Germany).

“From home to home, and heart to heart, from one place to another,

The warmth and joy of Christmas, brings us closer to each other.”- Emily Matthews

 _______________________________________


Thank you to Barbara Carey, a voracious reader who can devour thousands of pages of text in single session, and published Author, who enjoys travel, for sharing this unusual experience of the Christmas Spirit on the streets of Germany.

 ***
Are you ready for the crisp aroma of Glühwein while exploring these German tastes and festivities?  Contact us to help you plan your own.

Let's go! ~ The Fun Tour Guru
 

Thank you to the German National Tourist Board for permission to use these fun images from their excellent photographers for the German Christmas Markets.  

Filoli Mansion & Gardens in the Heart of San Francisco and Silicon Valley

I know there is a gap between my stories.  I have my new blog design makeover, why don’t I write? Well, I have been active.  With life.  And planning my annual vacation with friends.

And, then there was time out because my laptop needed some rest and repair.  I am fortunate to have backups with Carbonite and external hard disks and my data is safe. (this is a complimentary mention.)  And, I have been using my multiple tech tools to keep going, although it is not always easy. Go ahead and call me silly, I still like the feel of writing with the familiarity of my own laptop.

I do have more great pictures and stories to share from Monterey Bay.  Of course, you may see previews by following on Twitter and Instragram (find these links on my new side bar). And, my popular Monterey Pinterest travel guide.

Filoli Mansion & Gardens

A few weeks ago I went to Filoli Mansion and Gardens with some friends. Filoli is easy to drive to and  located north of Woodside, on the west side of Hwy 280.  I have visited Filoli quite a few times.  I remember my first time was with my Mother and Father when I moved to California. We loved our visit with this exquisite historical mansion.  Mansions in the south bay were summer homes for people living in San Francisco who wanted to escape the fog. 

Filoli Mansion & Gardens by DW

Many people remember the beginning picture with the television show, Dynasty. Or, the movie, Heaven Can Wait, starring Warren Beatty.  You can read the complete list of movies the mansion has been in when you visit.  Please note, there have been quite a few changes over the years. 

One of MY favorites, the Garden House.  Sipping lemonade on a hot summer day.  By DW

I never tire of going.  And, I seem to discover a new story each visit as I stop and talk to the docents.  I find it interesting that the artifacts are finding their way back to the mansion now.

Pack my bags and go! It was fun to travel with these vintage bags. By DW  

I recommend taking the free docent tour which is about 2 hours.  It is an in depth walking tour around the gardens and mansion.  Be sure to pick up the free comprehensive self-guided pamphlet as you check into the Visitor Services Center. If you don't have time for the docent tour, be sure to talk to the volunteer docents in and around the mansion. 
 

Allow extra time for this secret garden seat photo opportunity! By DW

And, should this be your first time, make sure you watch their film. It is very well done and with great information.  We had lunch in their restaurant on this trip.  You are surrounded by huge glass windows to gaze at the wooded area of the gardens during your casual lunch or you can eat on their patio.  I ordered the delicious homemade quiche and salad – perfect portion for me and yummy! 

Am I in Europe somewhere?  Bu DW

 I was lucky to have my friend who is a gardener with me this time. She filled in blanks for me as we followed along behind our group.  How often do we get this chance to have the personal expertise learning about the plants? I must admit, I almost lost her in the flower shop among the plants they had for sale.  While she was flower hunting, I wandered through the gift shop.   
 

Inside Story, Filoli Mansion

Filoli  Mansion and Gardens was created near Crystal Springs Lake by the Bourns of San Francisco because it reminded them of Muckross, the Irish estate Mr. Bourn bought for his daughter. 

Ahh  By DW

 The name was created from the first two letters of the key words of his credo: 

                       Fight for a just cause, Love your fellow man, and Live a good live.

Filoli, 86 Canada Road, Woodside, CA, (650) 364-8300

You may find the rest of the story by visiting Filoli.  What is the name of the second family owner?

I find an adventure everyday!  ~ The Fun Tour Guru

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All images included above are mine.  Please contact for permission to reproduce. 

Capitola CA: Hot Cross Buns at Easter (Includes History Too)

I find that I need to add at least one more hour to my route when driving to Monterey from Silicon Valley.  Why?

I love to take a rest stop from driving for a late breakfast or early lunch at Gayle’s Bakery in Capitola.  Every year at Easter time, I buy these delicious Hot Cross Buns. Of course these Buns are not on my healthy regimen, I still love to pick up these goodies to take with me for the rest of my trip. 

Hot Cross Buns at Easter! 

 

I remember eating Hot Cross Buns every year since I was a little girl.  Who first created these and why? I found this fun article by Rachel Nuwer at the Smithsonian Magazine that goes in depth about the history and mystique Hot Cross Buns offer. These revered Buns go back in history many centuries to Greece.  A twelfth century Monk is the one who added a mark on top of this sweet dough balls with raisins to resemble a cross (it wasn't icing as it is today).

Yes there are many superstitions about these Buns too.  As historical stories go, these Buns protect you from evil spirits, help you make lasting friendships, and they are too sacred to eat just any old day. 

I really can’t argue against any of the above superstitions because of what I have found from my prior trips. I always have good luck finding new friends and adventures. And, I have been safe on each trip.  –just saying   

Of course I recommend buying these Garlic Cheese Twists too.  They remind me of breads I find in Germany. 

Yum! Save me some Garlic Cheese Twists at Gayle's Bakery

What stories do you know about these Hot Cross Buns?

 

Happy Easter!  The Fun Tour Guru

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Please note: Images above were taken with my iPhone. 

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Downtown Carmel and Monterey Window Shopping at Easter

I enjoy exploring all of the different small town personalities along the Monterey Bay coast.   Santa Cruz is a second home with the easy 30 minute drive from Silicon Valley when I want to escape and take walks by the ocean. 

It is fabulous to take extra days off and be able to indulge in the towns on the south side of Monterey Bay.  On this last trip, I changed my routine because of our much needed rain due to arrive during my trip. What to do in the rain?

I was a bit anxious because a must-do on my check list is to walk along the Monterey Coastal Trail and to visit downtown Carmel. Both of these are better to do without rain.

And then, I got my huge surprise. When I arrived, the clouds started clearing away and the sun came out. I love this special hello greeting to start my adventure!     

One of my favorite things to do is wandering through this small European village, Carmel, where I cruise up and down their main street, Ocean Avenue. 

Peeking into the windows of all of these fun shops is especially fun around the Easter holidays with all of the distinctive decorative pieces waiting for their new keepers to purchase. 

It is Easter time! 

It takes quite a long time to wander through to all of the many fabulous courtyards and alleyways.

 

What is there to do in Carmel and Monterey in the rain? Stay tuned ... for what I found on this adventure. ~the Fun Tour Guru


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A New Look: Just in Time for Spring

A New Look as we Spring Forward! Welcome! 

Yes, the Fun Tour Guru received a new makeover this week.  I am very excited about this new look!


 

Lucky to be located between two fabulous bays - Image courtesy of DW

I did receive help and I am forever very grateful to work together with the very active and excellent designer and co-founder of EveryGirl, Danielle Moss, who somehow was able to understand my own whimsical ideas and help modernize, organize, and give a fresh look here.  Thank you!   
     
As John Steinbeck once wrote, "Change comes like a little wind that ruffles the curtains at dawn, and it comes like a stealthy perfume of wildflowers hidden in the grass." 

And how lucky we are to be able to re-invent periodically.   

I am still making a few adjustments around here.  During this transition, our E-Guides are available here. If you should encounter any glitches, please, tell me. And, I would love to know what you think? Comment below.

Thoughts from Henry Miller, “One's destination is never a place, but a new way of seeing things.”  

Always finding new adventures to share!  The Fun Tour Guru

Next Getaway: Guess where I am headed off for an extended weekend?  Hints are with my favorite picture above and the Steinbeck quote.