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Travel firm Cox & Kings has positively announced a 40 per cent decline in travel costs to Europe between November and February, Business Standard reports, adding that this is a particularly attractive window for Indian travellers. Global perspectives may be changing now and it’s all about being local right now, but Europe’s ambitious status as the ultimate globetrotter’s paradise will always be hard to topple.
We know you’re already dreaming of your European winter. Let travel blogger Helen (of Helen In Between) help you plan a winter trip that could change your life.
Lake Como, Italy
A favorite spot for summer walks ending in ‘I dos’, Lake Como is an equally great spot for winter, although breezy waters and heat-sealing jumpers aren’t exactly the aesthetic Instagram would associate you with. If you can get past that, it’s actually one of the hot spots in the European nexus and perfect for sipping some lukewarm wine. Helen suggested a quick trip to the nearby towns of Bellagio and Verona, followed by light shows from mid-December to early January.
Zermatt, Switzerland
If winter is your soul yearning to see the mountains when the temperatures start to drop and you want to feel the joy of curling up under your blankets during the day and venturing out for a bit in the evening for a winter activity or two, then Zermatt in Switzerland is calling for you. And seeing the Matterhorn through a blanket of fog? Mesmerizing.
Austrian Alps, Austria
There is nothing more majestic than the snow-covered Alps accompanied by the ringing bells of churches at the foot of the mountains. If winter walks excite you and you want to fill your lungs with fresh mountain air, the Austrian Alps are for you. Helen cites the Wilder Kaiser region as her favorite among the Alp towns, followed by Zoll, Allmau, Göring and Kitzbühel.
Transylvania, Romania
Great for history buffs, aspiring vampire hunters, and fans of really nutritious winter food, Transylvania is as mysterious as the Sony franchise portrays it! Helen insists you try to see a Romanian wedding while you’re here – you might even be invited given how friendly the locals are, although you’ll have your hands full amidst the countryside and castles. Sibiu, Sighisoara and Brasov are highly recommended.
Black Forest, Germany
The city lights are always shining but the woods, as Robert Frost said, are lovely, dark and deep indeed. If wilderness fascinates you, the Black Forest in Germany promises to let you witness the kind of vastness and natural beauty that inspires age-old tales and stories. And if you ever second-guess your commitment to the wild, little Saasbachwalden is always open for some coffee and cake, assures Helen.
christmas special
Rovaniemi, Finland
Santa’s lap will take on a whole new meaning when you find yourself in remote Rovaniemi, Finland. Located in the Arctic Circle and the official address of Mr. and Mrs. Claus, this information is enough to get you going. It’s freezing cold, but still, what’s the point of a warm Christmas!
Strasbourg, France
As the Christmas season begins, Strasbourg in France is a living, breathing light show. Helen claims that you will hardly find a single building, leave alone a crack, which is not designed like a bride. All those childhood Christmas stories that have fed your wonderful wanderlust come alive here as you visit the wooden houses and bustling markets. This is one of the OG places to spend Christmas if you want it to seem like a tale as old as time.
Are you still in the mood for your European winter?
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