Navigating grief can be tricky business at any time of year but it’s especially difficult during the holiday season. That’s why when I had the opportunity to visit the Christmas markets along the Danube this December, offering to bring along a dear friend still mourning the loss of a loved one seemed like the perfect Christmas gift.
While everyone copes with grief differently there are things that we as friends can do to help make their holidays a bit easier – my choice was to simply show up. We traveled on a similar Viking Christmas market river cruise on the Rhine River a few years ago and I remembered what a great time we had together. So why not try to recreate some of that lighthearted joy again but this time on the Danube River? No one can fix the pain of the loss of a loved one but not feeling alone can be a comfort.
Meandering down a river on a European Christmas cruise, is a wonderfully complex mix of historical, social, and cultural experiences. Arriving at a new location each day is an opportunity to learn about the customs and traditions that are unique to the country, region or the local town. The holiday markets are filled with references to centuries old customs, seasonal foods and local specialties. The holiday spirit fills each spot with the smells, sounds and decorations of Christmas time. Wintry temperatures make it feel even more authentic for this California resident. Bundling up in hats, scarves and gloves is all part of the charm of the week in winter wonderland!
We started in Passau, Germany and followed the Danube all the way to Budapest, Hungary traveling through Austria and Slovakia along the way. We made stops in small towns like Linz and Krems and large cities like Vienna, Bratislava and Budapest. Each spot had its own individual and unique charm.
Some highlights in each locale were the Christmas decorations that light up the town, and of course the specialty foods and drinks. While many of the mulled wines, punches and freshly made candies and desserts seem similar from location to location, each country proudly claimed the origin of these treats to their region!
We shared many, many tastes of the local liqueurs, seasonal delicacies and chocolates. So many fantastic proud purveyors, all happy for you to taste their products in the hopes of you taking some back home with you to share with family and friends.
We brought an extra suitcase home filled full of treats and festive gifts from the local markets. Handmade sweaters, puppets and music boxes for the granddaughters, inlaid wooden trivets, candles and of course Christmas tree ornaments.
We celebrated my birthday in Bratislava, Slovakia. A charming historic city with beautiful cafes that have even more beautiful desserts. The Viking crew surprised me at dinner with a cake and birthday sing along too. What fun!
Traveling to new places always reminds me how similar people are everywhere. Sharing small kindnesses- a compliment, a laugh, or a conversation reinforces my optimism that the world is still full of good people.
Happy holidays!
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