The holidays are a feast for the senses, with twinkling lights, the fresh smell of pine and best of all, the mouthwatering scent of something sweet baking in the kitchen. Every culture celebrates the season in its own special way and around the world, Christmas is filled with joy, togetherness and delicious flavors that share stories of family, tradition and faith.
Europe’s Sweetest Stories
In Italy, Christmas wouldn’t be the same without panettone, a tall, fluffy bread filled with candied fruit and raisins. It started in Milan but is now enjoyed all over the country. Tradition says the dough should rise three times, representing love, faith and hope for the year ahead.
In Austria and Germany, bakeries are packed with buttery stollen covered in powdered sugar and beautifully shaped Lebkuchen (gingerbread). People visiting the Christmas markets in Vienna, Nuremberg or Cologne can enjoy these treats while sipping warm mulled wine under sparkling lights, a scene that feels like it came right out of a snow globe.
Latin America’s Festive Flavors
Head south to Latin America, and you’ll discover that holiday sweetness has its own special beat. In Mexico, families come together to make buñuelos, crispy fried pastries sprinkled with cinnamon sugar often enjoyed after midnight mass. In Puerto Rico, people share coquito, a creamy coconut drink similar to eggnog but with a tropical twist, lovingly made and passed around with friends and neighbors.
Africa and Beyond
In South Africa, Christmas happens in the middle of summer, so celebrations often move outside. Tables are filled with dishes like malva pudding, a warm, caramel-like sponge cake served with custard or ice cream. It’s the perfect mix of cozy tradition and South African spirit.
The Sweetest Gift of All
No matter where you are in the world, holiday flavors remind us of something we all share; joy grows when it’s shared. And what better way to celebrate that joy than by giving the gift of travel this holiday season, a gift that lasts long after the lights are packed away.
Imagine surprising your loved ones with a Christmas Market river cruise through Europe, where every stop brings new stories, sweet treats and sparkling lights. Or picture a culinary adventure through Italy or France, where family recipes come to life in their original kitchens. Even a Caribbean getaway could bring a warm, sunny twist to the holidays.
As we gather this December around tables, trees or even airport gates, let’s remember that the most meaningful gifts aren’t wrapped in ribbons. They’re found in shared laughter, new discoveries and unforgettable memories of moments together.
So, this year, skip the usual sweater or gadget. Give your loved ones something truly special: the gift of the world.
Contact Shantha Mony, CEO Luxury Destinations Concierge, to design an unforgettable journey for you and your loved ones. Call 805.236.4437 or learn more at LuxuryDestinationsConcierge.com.
Hot Mulled Wine Recipe
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Ingredients
· 3 cups of white wine (Silvaner or Müller-Thurgau)
· 1 cup apple juice
· 1/4 cup Franconian plum brandy (optional but recommended, as a little of the alcohol cooks out of the wine)
· 4 slices of orange
· 2 slices of lemon
· 1 stick of cinnamon
· 1 star anise
· 5 allspice seeds
· 3 whole cloves
· 1 pinch of aniseed
· 1 tsp. honey (if you prefer it sweeter, add a bit more)
· Extra slices of fruit for garnish, if desired
Preparation
1. In a medium-sized stock pot with a tight-fitting lid, combine all of the ingredients, except for the honey. Stir to combine.
2. Cover and bring the mixture to a boil, then simmer, keeping the lid on, for 10 minutes. Be careful not to let it come to a boil again; if it boils too long all of the alcohol will be cooked out.
3. After 10 minutes, immediately remove from the heat. Strain the mixture with a fine mesh sieve; discard the aromatics. Return the mixture to the pot and taste-test. Stir in honey, tasting as you go until you reach your desired sweetness.
4. Ladle into desired serving glasses. Garnish with sliced fruit, cinnamon sticks, cloves or star anise pods, if desired. Serve immediately.
Makes about 4-6 servings