For Immediate Release

Traditions Dating Back to the Middle Ages: Open Stall Markets, Artisans, and Wandering Minstrels Create a Holiday Season to Remember

Step Back Into History With A European Christmas Market Cruise

DETROIT (July 31, 2017) -Looking for unique shopping? Consider the river cruises that visit the Christmas Markets of Europe, which feature open stall markets perfumed with the scent of gingerbread, cloves, sugar cakes and ale.

Christmas Markets are generally open from mid-November until right before Christmas, but you have to plan ahead and book now, as these river cruises tend to sell out early.

A history of the Christmas Markets, dating back to the Middle Ages

The history of Christmas markets goes back to the late middle ages in the German-speaking parts of Europe. The Vienna "December Market" was a forerunner of the Christmas market and dates to 1294. In many of the charming towns and villages in Germany and Austria, Advent is usually ushered in with the opening of the Christmas markets.

The Christmas market sailings on river cruise lines generally begin in mid-November and continue through the end of the year. These sailings are typically held on the Main, Rhine, Danube and Seine rivers. They are perfect for those wanting to experience the quintessential magic of the holidays while shopping for one-of-a-kind treasures.

The ambiance still feels Medieval at the Christmas Markets, held in the town square. See and hear festive singing and dancing as Christmas lights twinkle while you explore unusual handmade gifts such as nativity scenes, handmade children's toys and unique art. Explore baubles made by master glassblowers and find distinctive decorations that surely will be treasured for years. Pass Gothic Churches scented of frankincense and myrrh while all your senses are awakened to the smells of gingerbread, cloves, sugar cakes and ale.

This is truly a travel through time and Christmas history.

Christmas Market River Cruises

The river cruise lines have numerous Christmas Market sailings November and December - including popular lines such as AmaWaterways, Uniworld Boutique River Cruises and Viking River Cruises.

Below are some examples- .

AmaWaterways, MS AmaKristina
8 Nights, Starting in Amsterdam with stops in Cologne, Rudesheim, Heidelberg, Strasbourg, Breisach, Basel
Sails: Nov 25, 2017

AmaWaterways, MS AmaCerto
8 Nights, Starting in Budapest with stops in Vienna, Passau, Regensburg, Nuremberg
Sails: Dec 1, 2017

Don't miss the opportunity to experience the holiday season as it's been celebrated throughout history! .

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