Imagine it’s Christmas Eve, and people up and down the UK are holding their breath that maybe, just maybe, this year might be the magical ‘White Christmas’ they’ve been waiting for all these years.

But if you can’t wait any longer for that ‘unique’ Christmas or New Year then look no further than the middle of the North Atlantic and head for Iceland and a memorable Christmas holiday. Whilst the island might be better known as a summer destination, there is plenty to explore in the winter months too, and Iceland really comes alive for the festive celebrations.

Iceland’s Christmas celebrations are centred around the remarkable ‘Yuletide Lads.’ In the 13 days before Christmas, these mythical little fellows, set on making mischief, are said to come down from the hills and into towns and cities. In recent years, they seem to have mellowed – many children leave shoes in the window to find that one of the ‘lads’ has left a present. Be careful though – they’re not named ‘Sausage Stealer’ and ‘Door Slammer’ for nothing…

Reykjavik, the capital, comes alive for Christmas with lights festooned everywhere and a genuinely warm glow about the city. For special Christmas meals, abandon the traditional turkey and tuck into some of Iceland’s famous seafood, freshly caught from the Atlantic and cooked to perfection. The city also plays host to a variety of choirs, and something musical appears round every corner. And not surprisingly the already famous nightlife kicks up a gear for the festive period. On the big day why not chill out – and warm up – in the rich mineral waters of the Blue Lagoon? It might not be a white Christmas, but it’ll certainly be unforgettable.

When it comes to ringing in the New Year, Icelanders really know how to party. On New Year’s Eve, enjoy a feast of Icelandic cuisine followed by a chance to view the city’s fantastic fireworks – and if you are really lucky, you might get the opportunity to see nature’s own light show, the northern lights. Once the clock strikes 12 it’s time to get to Reykjavik’s bars and clubs, never bigger nor better than on this special evening.

Some travel companies offer special tours to Iceland at this time of year, and with a host of excursions suitable for festive families or New Year night clubbers alike, these are well worth checking out.

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Explore some festive breaks to Iceland with Discover the World, the leading specialist tour operator to Iceland.

Source: http://www.articletrader.com

With the last leaves falling from the trees, the holidays are upon us. And, there is no better location in the southeast to get you into the holiday spirit than Asheville, NC. Asheville is the perfect starting point for your holiday enjoyment! With crafts and festivals galore and special Christmas celebrations in every nook and alley, this top-rate mountain destination is bound to get you in the mood for the holidays.

Here are some tips when planning your next visit to Asheville. There are tons of locations and activities in Asheville and the surrounding area to keep everyone in your family entertained. You can visit America’s largest privately-owned home, take in some spectacular mountain scenery, indulge in some great dining and much more.

Planning a Visit to the Premier WNC Mountain City…Asheville

No visit to this luxurious mountain city would be complete without a visit to America’s grandest home – the Biltmore Estate. Each year, the staff gears up to dress out the estate in all its finery! On this 8,000-acre estate, activities abound. Why not take a quiet stroll or visit the winery? Take in the beautiful decorations and dazzling lights that adorn this impressive home built by George Vanderbilt in 1895. With several restaurants and events planned year-round, there is something for every member of your family to enjoy.

The downtown Asheville area boasts a wide array of restaurants and shops. Galleries of local art are abundant. Theater and concert goers will also find a wide array of choices from the classical to the funky.

The National Gingerbread competition held each year at the Grove Park Inn is another must see! Both top culinary pros and homespun gingerbread house makers compete. The National Gingerbread House Competition™ and Display takes place on Nov. 16, 2009 and the gingerbread houses will be on display from November 18 through January 3, 2010. These displays would even put a smile on the face of Ebenezer Scrooge himself!

Looking for something a bit more off the beaten track? Watch Old Saint Nick as he repels down a famous 315-foot unique rock outcropping at Chimney Rock State Park. And, yes, the rock is shaped like a chimney! This park is just a short drive from Asheville, located in the charming Chimney Rock Village near Lake Lure

National Culinary Destination

In recent years, Asheville has also turned into a culinary destination. Microbrew businesses are popping all over and Asheville. In fact, in a recent pool, more than 16,000 people from 46 countries cast their votes between March 18 and May 7 for their favorite Beer City USA. In the end Portland, Ore. and Asheville, NC tied for first place.

Asheville is also known for being a leader in the sustainable food scene. Chefs in local restaurants take great pride in using local and seasonal products when available. And, choices are many. Visitors can enjoy a spectrum of ethnic flavors, styles and venues. Seafood lovers will find calabash-style seafood at Fisherman’s Quarters II, a family-seafood restaurant in West Asheville; a great steak can be had at the Bohemian, a newly installed restaurant that resembles an Austrian hunting lodge at the gates of the Biltmore Estate; and organic eggs and sausage are a local favorite at the Early Girl located on downtown’s Wall Street.

Farmers, food producers and brewers have truly taken on celebrity status in this region and visitors are reaping the benefits!

Accommodations

Whether it’s just you or the whole family, again, lodging choices abound. From luxury boutique hotels to family-style lodging -it’s all here. The Biltmore Estate and the Grove Park Inn are two top locations for travelers wanting a high-end experience. Asheville also has a string of small independently- owned hotels. The Residences at Biltmore, the Indigo Hotel and the Haywood Park Hotel all provide attractive and mountain-like settings. Rentals are also numerous.
For more information, visit the Web site for the Asheville Chamber of Commerce.

For more information about Asheville,seafood and recipes visit:
http://fishermansquarters.info

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Bryan Sullivan is the Executive Vice President of Write Away, Inc. – a public relations and marketing firm based in Weaverville, NC. He also often writes for regional& national publications about local history, farming, culture and food. He graduated with a degree in communications from Alfred University in New York State and then went on to attend culinary school in NYC where he graduated in the top percent of his class. He proceeded to work in high-end restaurants in New York City, Martha’s Vineyard, MA and Naples, FL. Bryan currently lives in Asheville, NC with Liisa and their Black Lab, Annie.
For more information, visit:
http://fishermansquarters.info

Source: http://www.articletrader.com