November 29th: Touching Down in Germany and the Magic of Nuremberg

 After a long but smooth overnight flight, we landed in Frankfurt, Germany, this morning! Stepping off the plane we were greeted by crisp, wintry air and the subtle excitement of finally being in Europe. 

 We had to take a bus from the plane into the bustling airport. With just a layover ahead, we grabbed a quick coffee and a bite to eat before making our way to our connecting flight to Nuremberg.

Duroc Bratwurst, Mashed Potatoes and Sauerkraut

The short hop from Frankfurt to Nuremberg felt like the final leg of a journey that had been months in the making. As the plane descended, we caught glimpses of the quaint Bavarian landscape below—a perfect welcome to the start of our Christmas adventure.

Once we arrived in Nuremberg, we headed straight to the Park Plaza Nuremberg, our cozy home for the next couple of days. Located just a stone's throw from the Old Town, the hotel immediately impressed us with its modern comfort and proximity to all the action. After a quick check-in and a chance to freshen up, it was time to hit the town!

A big group was checking in when we arrived

 

Our Room

 

Today is a special day in Nuremberg: the official opening of the famous Christkindlesmarkt, one of the oldest and most celebrated Christmas markets in the world. The opening ceremony begins at 5 PM in the Hauptmarkt square, and we were determined not to miss a moment of the festivities.

Bundled up in our warmest coats, we made our way to the heart of Nuremberg. The entire city seemed to glow, with festive lights strung between medieval buildings and the unmistakable scent of roasted almonds, gingerbread, and mulled wine filling the air. As the clock struck five, the market officially came to life with a charming ceremony led by the "Christkind," a golden-voiced angel who traditionally inaugurates the event.

After the ceremony, we wandered through the market, marveling at the rows of stalls brimming with handmade ornaments, wooden toys, and delicious treats. We couldn’t resist sampling some local specialties, starting with a warm cup of glühwein (mulled wine) and bratwurst. It was the perfect way to wrap up our first day in Germany.

As we headed back to the hotel, tired but thrilled, we couldn’t stop talking about the festive magic of the Christkindlesmarkt and how much we’re looking forward to exploring more of this beautiful city tomorrow.

Old City gate

Toni with her first Glühwein (hot mulled wine with varying levels of spices), but liked the Kinderpunsch (non-alcoholic versions of a mulled wine)

Santa and one of his "elfs"

The Eggnog was not for the young!

Sausages everywhere