Merry Markets

We have had a wonderful time visiting the various holiday markets that populate what seems to be every bit of space around the city. I had heard about the markets when we moved here-and they have lived up to the considerable hype. There is nothing better than a crisp day or evening, strolling around the markets with a steaming mug of Gluhwein-a hot mulled wine, of which my favorite is the cherry version that you can get at Sendlinger Tor. The air is filled with the aroma of roasting chestnuts, warm sugared nuts (we tend to favor the macadamias-see below), delicious baked goods and, of course: wurst grilling. I have been filled with a sense of fun and wonder (maybe after a few Gluhweins...) and the Christmas spirit.

I get now why people come here just for the markets. But, if they only see the large one at Marienplatz, they are missing out on the real gems. Many of the markets are themed-there is one over by the Rindermarkt that has nativity scenes...the one at the Muenchner Freiheit Ubahn station is full of local artisans...and the one at Wittelsbacher Platz (I think..) is medieval in theme.

Here are a few pics of several of the markets, including some of the fare we have sampled:

At Muenchner Freiheit where we had yummy delish fried apples rolled in cinnamon. We were treated to the market this day with a lovely dusting of snow fluffies under the hanging lanterns-gorgeous!

In Marienplatz, the largest market which is set up all around the beautiful Rathaus:

At Sendlinger Tor, where we sampled our favorite cherry Gluhwein and Rotwurst:

At the Chinese Tower, where we had yummy, warm, sugared macadamias and I bought some wonderful felted wool:

In the courtyard at the Residence, arranged in a beautiful setting, with mechanical animals (think big, talking moose that sings) for the kiddos amusement:

This has been my first winter holiday season in many years that I haven't been swept up in the business of the retail season at work...this year, I was swept up in the sights, sounds, smells and tastes that are the Christmas markets here in Munich!

Check Mates

At many of the parks sprinkled throughout the city, you see not only playscapes for the kiddos, but also areas for the older generation too. The chess men (named so because I have not yet seen a woman playing-must be a guy thing...) have their own area for their fun.

Cold, rain, running errands, nothing keeps them away. I have seen a nice mix of young and old guys out at the chess boards-it seems like it provides a good destination when a guy's just got to get out of the house.


I try to be sly and take the pictures. The chess men seem to think I am a little off...as I stop to watch their game and sneak a picture here and there.

But mostly, they are engrossed in their game. It makes me want to call "next" just to see what they would do.