Strasbourg is a truly beautiful city at all times of year, but it really comes alive at Christmas. As the self-appointed "Capital of Christmas", you'll find markets dotted throughout the city, decorations on every half-timbered house, the smell of cinnamon and gingerbread in the air, and everyone looking just that...

I grew up on a rainy island and moved to another, slightly less rainy island, so I know firsthand how long the winters can feel. Come Christmastime though, the short, dark days give way to sparkling fairy lights and bustling pubs. If you're looking for that sense of magic on...