Parisian Chocolatiers

A prime romantic destination for lovebirds, Paris has an incredible assortment of chocolatiers (chocolate artisans). Christian Constant is the owner of one such shop (of the same name) that should not be missed. He is located on 37 rue d’Assas and has acquired a number of awards for his confectionary masterpieces. Feast your taste buds on a raspberry ganache or Constant’s legendary palet d’or (a fresh cream based, delectable chocolate).

Italian Gelateries

Gelato may, at first glance, have an appearance similar to ice cream, but once you take a spoonful of this rich, velvety Italian specialty, you will know otherwise. It is made in small batches and is renowned for having a soft and creamy consistency. Ice cream has a higher butterfat content ratio, too. Perhaps one of the best gelateries in Rome is Giolitti. The original creamery site from 1900 can be found near the Pantheon on via Uffici del Vicario, 40. Only the freshest ingredients are blended together in creating their gelato, and there are absolutely no preservatives added when preparing any of their 70 flavors. Treat yourself to two scoops of heaven, one serving of chocolate and the other of black cherry.

Belgium Pralines

Neuhaus is a well known name amongst Belgians and is notorious as being the inventor of the Belgium Praline. This legendary chocolate immerged from an unlikely source, an apothecary. Jean Neuhaus opened his trade in 1857 after he had moved to Brussels from Switzerland. At first, he sold just a small variety of sweets. However, in 1912 his grandson (Jean II) was given the freedom to branch out on the business’ candy production and from this venture, the praline was invented. His creation was a success, and soon after this development, the pharmaceutical side of the business was discontinued. A praline is a combination of nuts and chocolate, the family secret recipe is absolute bonbon perfection. Today are over 1000 shops dispersed throughout Europe. The Neuhaus’ brand offers several chocolate and nut variations of their praline.

Swiss Champagne Truffles

Teuscher(both the family and shop name) is the creator of the luxurious Dom Perignon infused chocolate truffle. The company was founded in 1932 by Dolf Teuscher, Sr. in Zürich, Switzerland. They now have stores scattered across North America, Asia, and Europe, but if you happen to be in Zürich, visit their main location on Bahnhofstrasse 46. Dolf Teuscher, Jr. is the predecessor in charge of present business operations. If I could select any sweet that my heart desired for Valentine’s Day, the Champagne Truffle would be my number one choice, hands down.

I bought some candy from a vending machine to munch on before I began typing this entry because I thought it would bring me creative writing inspiration. As I popped each multi-color, hard-shelled chocolate piece in my mouth, all I could think about was that what I was eating could not even begin to compare to the choco-goodies listed above. A trip to Europe this spring may be exactly what I need, especially if the chocolate I buy myself for February 14th fails to impress. In preparation for this likely disappointment, I’ll begin searching for flights to Paris and Zurich right way.  Imagine savoring a champagne truffle with the Swiss Alps in the backdrop, can anything top that?

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Do you feel a touch of the Winter Blues coming on? When the wind back-hands you in the face with a frigid sting so severe that it burns, sending both you and your dog fleeing for the cover of your well heated home… perhaps it’s time to begin planning a retreat to warmer ground? Look no further than the warm, golden sands and the soothing, turquoise waters of the Canary Islands to bring the radiance back to your life.

Where are the Canary Islands?

The Canary Islands are part of the European Union and are a nationality of Spain. The official language is Spanish and the currency is the Euro. Geographically, the Canary Islands are located about 100 km off the western coast of Africa. There are 7 primary islands: Tenerife, Fuerteventura, Gran Canaria, Lanzarote, La Palma, La Gomera and El Hierro (listed from largest to smallest). A subtropical climate provides the archipelago with mild spring-like temperatures year-round, and what is equally striking about the islands is their volcanic terrain.

Island Hopping

Get to know each island. Tenerife boasts Spain’s highest summit above sea level, and Mount Teide is classified as the world’s 3rd tallest volcano. You will be able to star gaze under one of the best skies in the world on La Palma Island, and if astrophysicists have deemed this as a hub for one of their top observatories on the planet, then I would trust them as being in the know as far as where the prime spot to view the sparkling luminaries from up above. Gran Canaria Island has, quite possibly, the best climate on Earth, and you will have access to all the modern amenities in the buzzing, resort city of Las Palmas. Take a flight or a ferry from island to island and decide for yourself which water enveloped paradise is your favorite.

Hit the Beach

With over 250 km of amazing beaches to choose from, the Canary Islands are, indeed, a sun-bather’s dreamland. Each strip of sandy shoreline is unique and absolutely wondrous. There are secluded coves, long stretches of soft golden sand, swimming areas surrounded by cliffs, natural pools that have formed within volcanic craters, and the list incredible beach alternatives goes on. Just as there are no shortages of pristine shorelines to select from here, the same goes for the abundance of outdoor activities you will encounter in the Canary Islands.

To Splash or not to Splash

There is surely something for everyone to enjoy here, whether it is taking leisure by land or sea. Simply soak up the sun’s rays while listening to the lull of the surf in the background, or take the family on a camel-back day trip through Timanfaya National Park on Lanzarote Island. Those looking for more extreme water sports will be delighted to take part in surfing, scuba diving and jet-skiing opportunities available. Discover the vibrant culture of the friendly locals that make up the cities and towns that are dispersed throughout the 7 main islands, and take some time to learn and try new things.

So, what are you waiting for? Things have already frozen over for the season. Book your airfare today and get the lowest rates on flights to Tenerife and cheap flights to London with Fly Europe.

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Have you considered hitting the slopes in Europe? If you are accustomed to skiing/riding in North America, you may be in for a few surprises on European pistes (trails), but the differences aren’t too extreme. The point of taking a trip like this is to embrace new experiences.

First, if you are looking to beat the crowds, mornings and noon are the ideal times to get out on the slopes. Whereas most places in the U.S. have lines forming at the lifts shortly after the resort opens, in Europe you will find that the trails are virtually deserted during these periods. After a day on the slopes, people tend to gather with friends and family into the late evening, and lunch is traditionally a part of the day where one relaxes and takes their time to sit down to a good meal. Also, where off-trail skiing/riding is typically prohibited in North America, you will see that it is permitted at many European locations. It is vital to note that off-piste routes are not patrolled by resorts, and you proceed down these trails at your own risk. You absolutely must be aware of the potential for avalanches, your level of endurance, and the weather conditions before embarking on this type of chancy adventure.

Zermatt, Switzerland: The Swiss Alps

Think Swiss chalets and panoramas that will take your breath away. All this will be grabbing at your heartstrings before you have even purchased your life ticket. Do know that the charming town of Zermatt is a combustion-engine free zone, and it is strictly enforced so that air pollution is kept to a minimum. You wouldn’t want smog obscuring those incredible views of the Swiss Alps! The most popular form of transportation used here is the cog railway train, but there are electro-buses and sometimes horse-drawn carriages available for shuttle services. It is possible to start off skiing/riding atop a mountain in Switzerland and, via linking trails, end the run in Cervinia, Italy. The longest route of connected pistes to explore at this picturesque destination is 22 km.

Kitzbühel, Austria: Kitzbühel Alps

The brightly colored peach, green and yellow buildings in the town center warmly stand out amongst the white blanket of snow covering it during the winter. Time almost seems to stand still along the cobblestone streets of quaint Kitzbühel. People here do not get caught up in the hustle and bustle of life. In fact, should you decide to rush around town impatiently during your stay, you will surely make a spectacle of yourself. When you ski/ride here, just go with the flow, relax, sit back and drink in the beauty of the surrounding terrain. There is a primary lift located in Kitzbühel that will connect you to pistes leading to the towns of Aurach, Jochberg and Kirchberg. To ensure you will have enough time to fully enjoy Kitzbühel’s slopes, on Thursday and Friday skiing/riding hours are extended into the evening.

Chamonix, France: Mont Blanc

This lovely winter haven is nestled in a valley at the base of Mont Blanc (White Mountain), and Chamonix boasts a number of impressive statistics. The first Winter Olympics were held here in 1924, and Mont Blanc is the tallest mountain in the Western European Alps. There is a tunnel that cuts under the mountain to connect Chamonix, France with Courmayeur, Italy. You have 6 main resorts to choose from in Chamonix Valley, and there is a free bus system that will drop you off at anyone of these locations.

Val Gardena, Italy: Val Gardena Valley

Situated in the Dolomites Mountain Range in northern Italy, the Val Gardena Valley is home to the towns of Urtijëi, Sëlva and Santa Cristina. You may purchase a special Dolomiti Superski pass that gives you access to just over 1200 km of prime ski/snowboard trails spanning out over 12 zones. There is absolutely something for everyone here, and you have the choice of slopes ranging from beginning all the way through to expert levels. It is highly recommended for intermediate and above skiers/snowboarders to take the Sella Ronda Tour. This route is a 40 km roundtrip and takes about 6 hrs on average to complete. You want to be sure to set off first thing in the morning; otherwise you could miss the last lift of the day in returning from your excursion. The tour will take you through 4 valleys of interconnected trails and will surely be something you’ll remember for years to come.

Bovec, Slovenia: Kanin-Sella Nevea Ski Resort

When you visit the tiny town of Bovec, Slovenia, you not only have the option of purchasing entrance to two separate ski/snowboard areas, you receive a pass that allows you access to pistes in two countries. The resort has a state of the art, massive cable car that spans Kanin Mountain from Bovec to Sella Nevea, Italy. The trail that runs between the towns is accommodating to skiers/snowboarders of all levels. Here, the climate allows for winter fun to run until the onset of May.

What are you looking for in a skiing/snowboarding getaway? How about the opportunity to encounter kilometer after kilometer of snow packed trails, magnificent vistas, enchanting European villages, and new experiences? Limitless adventures await you when you plan a trip to Europe’s plentiful, stunning mountain ranges. Whether you are booking flights to Italy or flights to Austria, get the best rates at 1800FlyEurope.com.

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Bundesurlaubsgesetz The Federal Holiday with Pay Act

In Germany, it is customary to receive a minimum of 20 paid work days, including benefits, annually. On top of this, a holiday bonus is also given to workers. The 20 paid days off is only the minimum amount of time employees are usually granted, and it is common for many companies to offer their employees 30 days of paid holiday time yearly. Before the season of winter celebration begins, most Germans have the good fortune of being able to look forward to a nice break from work, and they can make plans on where they wish to spend the holidays and ring in the New Year with family and friends.

The German Christmas Pickle: Myth or Fact?

There are stories that have been passed around via internet on this supposed German tradition. If you have some time to spare, put German Christmas Pickle into a web search engine to see if you can figure this one out for yourself. One version of this legend is that each year a real pickle is hidden somewhere in the branches of the Christmas tree, and the first child to spot the gherkin on Christmas Day is rewarded with an extra gift. Modern day versions of this tale tell a similar story, but a glass pickle ornament has taken the place of the edible version. Interestingly, if you ask a German about this holiday custom, most will respond saying that they have never heard of this oddity. Here’s a link to an ornament shop in Lauscha, Germany, and as you can see they sell glass pickles to hang on your tree.

Bleigießen Lead Pouring

Bleigießen, lead pouring, has existed since pre-Roman times, and today the ritual is done on Silvester (New Year’s Eve). A lead pouring kit may be purchased that will include little lead figurines, a spoon, and a candle. The lead is melted over the candle flame, and then it is poured into a bowl of cold water. The metal shape that is created from this process is supposed to tell you the future of the New Year. For example if the lead comes out in the form of a heart, you will experience love in the year.

Dinner for One or Der 90. Geburtstag The 90th Birthday

A cult classic film that Germans traditionally watch either New Year’s Eve Silvester or New Year’s Day is a British sketch that made its debut on German TV in 1963. It is an 18 minute black and white comedy in English. Curiously, it was never aired in Great Britain, but it was a huge hit in Germany. Originally a 1920’s play written by Lauri Wylie, it is a performance starring a woman, Ms. Sophie, on the celebration of her 90th birthday, and she surrounded by her friends sitting at the dining room table. The funny twist to the plot is that Ms. Sophie has outlived all of her friends, and her dinner invites are imaginary companions. To this day Germans are able to recite the lines of this film, in English, by heart.

Feuerzangenbowle Fire-Tongs Punch

This German festive punch is a holiday tradition that originates from a 1943 movie Die Feuerzangenbowle, and both the beverage and film became wildly famous after its initial showing. The drink is a mix between mulled wine and caramelized rum soaked sugar, but it is the preparation of the Feuerzangenbowle that has evolved into the popular modern spectacle it is today. A rum drenched, loaf-size sugar log is set ablaze in a special metal contraption which has been made just for the occasion. It looks similar to a fondue set up, but the mulled wine sits in a warmed pot while flaming rum is ladled over the sugar loaf. The sweet log like creation sits on a grate above the pot. Slowly, the caramelized rum sugar fusion melts into the mulled wine below. The spirit is served while it is still warm.

This year when you and your family take part in some of the many diverse holiday celebrations that we have in the United States, it may be fun to consider that whatever we may be doing during this time could seem completely foreign to someone else from another country. Should you decide to try some of these German traditions that have been listed above, do proceed with caution if you handle lead or if you are setting anything on fire. Experience some of these German customs in person, and book flights to Munich for you and your family this year. Happy Holidays!

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Empananada Gallega

The Empanada Gallega has been traced back to the Middle Ages. Pilgrims en route to the holy site in Santiago de Compestela, Spain would pack this convenient portable meal on this long journey on foot. In modern day Galicia, Spain, the empanada traditionally has a filling of beef, pork, fish or chorizo, although it can contain fruit. Generally the sauce has a base of tomato, garlic and onion. It is baked in the form of a large thin pie with dough enveloping both the top and bottom sides.

Tarte au Citron

The origins of lemon pie, tarte au citron, aren’t certain, but Menton, France would be my choice destination to sample this tangy treat. Each year a lemon festival is held to celebrate the city’s citrus heritage. Large floats are created with lemons and oranges. They are then fancifully displayed down Promenade du Soleil painting the street in a sea of yellow and orange merriment. It should be no surprise that the tarte au citron is embraced by the people of this city. The lemon pie can be found in patisseries throughout Menton.

Appelgebak or Appeltaart

Appelgebak is as Dutch as apple pie. The US may claim the apple pie as a piece of Americana heritage, but the Dutch certainly know how to make one mean apple pie! They have recipes dating back to the 17th century for this pleasing pastry. It differs from the traditional American apple pie in that lemon juice is a common Dutch ingredient, and the crust tends to be on the thicker side. Cinnamon and sugar are added to the sliced apple filling, and on top, strips of crust are laid to create a lattice design

Crostata di Ricotta

I’ve saved my favorite confection for the final slice of this pie themed blog. In the US, we may be more familiar with the term cheesecake. The translation from Italian to English for crostata di ricotta is ricotta tart. This rich, creamy piece of heaven can be traced back to 15th century Rome. I am especially partial to this dessert; just one bite, and I am brought fond childhood memories the countless cheesecakes my Sicilian grandfather used to bake for special occasions and holidays.

Pie is pie is pie?

According to Wikipedia, pie is a baked pastry encased dish which may contain a sweet or savory filling. As any art form, this baked good medium has many exceptions where the so-called pie rules are broken, and thank goodness for that!

Pie-a-thon Proposal

The ultimate pie tasting experience would be a pie-a-thon. Yeah, I just made this up, but think about it. How delectable would it be to hop on a flight to Barcelona, Spain or Paris, France and then work your way throughout Europe in search of the perfect pie(s)? Is anyone willing to sponsor me for this event in the name of overindulgence?

(Disclaimer: the pie-a-thon does not really exist, and I am not seriously asking for sponsorship for this.)

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Barcelona has been celebrating the holiday season with fairs, Christmas lights, traditional nativity scenes, carols and much more for over 200 years. The festivities begin the first week of December and last through the New Year until the 6th of January. There are many markets that take place within Barcelona’s individual districts. The oldest, largest and most traditional of these markets that should be seen is the Fira (Fair) de Santa Llúcia.

This is Fira de Santa Llúcia’s 224th year of celebration. The market will take place on Avinguda de la Catedral in Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter. There will be over 270 stands at this market selling crafts, holiday greenery, nativity scene figures and zambombas (friction drums). This year Barcelona is placing emphasis on the themes of tradition and sustainability. There will be Christmas lights in more than 300 locations throughout the city which will span about 60 km in total.

Get into the holiday frame of mind by trying some traditional Catalonian Christmas cuisine such as the escudella i carn d’olla. Escudella, in Catalan, means bowl and this dish consists of a meat and vegetable stew with pasta shells. To indulge a sweet tooth, sample some torrons. These are a classic holiday candy made up of almonds, hazelnuts and honey.

There are many monuments and art galleries to behold in this vibrant city on top of all of the festivities that will be taking place this time of year. Barcelona boasts impressive architectural masterpieces of Antoni Guadí such as the Sagrada Familia church, and it is home to the Picasso Museum which shows off many of Pablo Picasso’s great works. If the idea of spending the holidays in Barcelona is enticing, don’t wait to book travel plans. Begin looking into flights to Barcelona today.

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