London's German Style
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by Maria Garcia Gomez, London, 21 December 2008 (Photo courtesy of heatheronhertravels' Flickr photostream)
Christmas markets have always been a tradition in many European cities. Germany is one of the countries with the strongest Christmas market tradition in Europe.
What could be better than bringing a small corner of the German country to the English capital?
That small corner is Cologne, Koeln for the Germans and Koelle for its people: that's the way Colognians proudly speak its name.
The city, famous because of its carnival and its traditional eau de Cologne, has just arrived to London in the form of a Weinachtsmarkt -a real German Christmas market - which is open seven days a week, from 10am to 10pm.
Cologne -already known in its own country for its multicultural spirit - has not only crossed borders this time, but the Thames.
The Christmas Market lies on the South Bank, next to the London Eye, one of the city's main attractions.
Its opening took place on the 21st of November and it will be with us- until the 23rd of December.
Different types of food, drinks and even handicrafts are all on offer. It's definitely, an incomparable start to the festive period in a welcoming and cosy atmosphere.
Entry to this lively Christmas event is free to those Londoners- and non-Londoners- willing to enjoy the tastiest German bratwursts, Schweinebraten-or roast pork-, delicious sauerkraut, and even Christstollen and ginger cookies as a dessert.
Mulled wine will also be available for those who wish to add a hot and spicy flavour to cold December evenings.
This year, we will not only count on the presence of the traditional markets in Hyde Park or Covent Garden, but we will feel close to a part of Germany.
A real Colognian would definitely be happy to enjoy a Koelsch-the regional beer- near the London eye...Treat yourself at the South Bank and drink a toast for Colonia!
Read more about European food at Christmas - Romania to UK: the whole of Europe on your plate