Best Places to Visit in Micronesia for Christmas Cheer

As the festive season approaches, expats and digital nomads in Micronesia may be looking for places to soak up the holiday spirit. While Micronesia may not have the traditional wintry Christmas atmosphere, there are still plenty of destinations around the world that come alive with festive cheer in December. From traditional Christmas markets to spectacular light displays, here are some of the best places to visit for a memorable holiday experience.

Strasbourg, France

Strasbourg is known as the "Capital of Christmas," and for good reason. Its Christmas market, Christkindelsmärik, is one of the oldest and most famous in Europe, dating back to 1570. The city transforms into a winter wonderland with its twinkling lights and festive decorations. The market is spread across several squares in the city center, selling traditional Alsatian Christmas decorations, handcrafted gifts, and local delicacies. The event usually starts in late November and runs until Christmas Eve.

We Recommend: Don't miss the chance to try the vin chaud (mulled wine) and bredele, which are traditional Alsatian Christmas cookies that come in various shapes and flavors.

Nuremberg, Germany

Nuremberg's Christkindlesmarkt is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience a traditional German Christmas market. The market is famous for its Nuremberg Lebkuchen, a type of gingerbread, and the Nuremberg bratwurst. The Christkind, a symbolic figure of the market, opens the event with a prologue, usually held in late November and continuing until December 24th. The market is also known for its strict rule that only sells products that are locally made, ensuring an authentic experience.

We Recommend: Be sure to try the Nuremberg Lebkuchen, which is often considered to be the best gingerbread in Germany.

Vienna, Austria

Vienna becomes a festive city with its Christmas markets, or "Christkindlmarkt," popping up in various locations. The Viennese Christmas Market in front of the City Hall is particularly enchanting, with its ice-skating rink, traditional crafts, and an array of sweet and savory treats. The market typically starts in mid-November and lasts until Christmas. Vienna is also known for its classical concerts during the holiday season, adding to the city's festive atmosphere.

We Recommend: Indulge in some Weihnachtspunsch, a spiced Christmas punch that's perfect for keeping warm on a chilly December evening.

London's Chelsea Neighborhood

London's Chelsea neighborhood lights up during the holiday season with stylish decorations and an upscale festive atmosphere. The famous King's Road offers a delightful shopping experience with its boutiques and shops adorned with Christmas lights. In early December, the Chelsea Christmas Shopping Weekend takes place, where many stores offer discounts and festive treats. The neighborhood also hosts various Christmas events, including carol services and winter markets.

We Recommend: Enjoy a stroll along the King's Road and take in the festive window displays, which are often works of art in themselves.

Little Italy in NYC

Little Italy in New York City embraces the holiday spirit with its own Italian flair. The streets are decorated with lights and garlands, and the scent of Italian pastries fills the air. The Feast of the Seven Fishes is an Italian-American tradition celebrated on Christmas Eve, and many restaurants in Little Italy offer this special seafood feast. The neighborhood also hosts holiday markets where you can find Italian sweets like panettone and torrone.

We Recommend: Try the cannoli and other Italian pastries from the local bakeries, which are especially delicious during the holiday season.

Edinburgh, Scotland

Edinburgh's Christmas is a six-week season of festive entertainment in the heart of the city. The celebrations include a Christmas market in East Princes Street Gardens, offering a mix of local and European crafts and food items. The market usually starts in late November and runs until early January. Edinburgh's Hogmanay is also a world-famous New Year's celebration with street parties and fireworks, marking the end of the holiday season.

We Recommend: Don't miss the traditional Scottish shortbread and warm up with a hot toddy as you explore the market.

Quebec City, Canada

Quebec City is often described as a piece of Europe in North America, and its Christmas celebrations are no exception. The German Christmas Market in Quebec City is a highlight, with its wooden kiosks and a range of European treats and crafts. The Old Town, with its cobblestone streets and stone buildings, is beautifully lit and decorated, creating a magical atmosphere. The market typically opens in late November and continues until just before Christmas.

We Recommend: Sample the maple syrup products, a Canadian specialty, and enjoy the hearty comfort food on offer at the market.

Bruges, Belgium

Bruges, with its medieval architecture and picturesque canals, is a fairy-tale setting for a Christmas market. The Bruges Christmas Market is set in the Market Square and along the canals, with stalls selling Belgian chocolates, waffles, and other local specialties. The ice-skating rink adds to the festive fun. The market usually runs from late November to early January.

We Recommend: Belgian chocolates are a must-try, and be sure to enjoy a warm waffle drizzled with chocolate or topped with whipped cream.

These destinations offer a mix of traditional and unique holiday experiences that are sure to fill any expat or digital nomad with Christmas cheer. Whether you're craving the cozy charm of European markets or the festive lights of a big city, there's a place for everyone to celebrate the season.