“There is nowhere more beautiful to experience advent than the picturesque setting of Hellbrunn Palace. A fairytale forest of more than 400 pine trees, decorated with 13,000 red baubles and fairy lights, as well as many advent stalls, musicians, a nativity scene and a petting zoo – Christmas at Hellbrunn is sure to delight both young and old. My personal tip is to try the special mulled cider, called Glühmost.”

“Let the dancing begin! It is ball season in Vienna again. More than 450 balls in some of the city’s most beautiful ballrooms have programmes that are beyond compare, with classical music, glittering ball gowns and dazzling personalities. The famous Vienna Opera Ball is an annual highlight. Join us as we waltz until dawn on the night of all nights.”

“Anyone who doesn't like getting cold feet should go on a walking tour of Prague's catacombs near the Old Town Square and the Astronomical Clock. Underground, the cold winter weather is quickly forgotten, just as it is at the Beer Spa. Get to know the famous Czech beer culture – not just in culinary terms, but also in the form of a luxurious beer bath. Prost!”

“Enjoy the short winter days in the same way as the locals by going ice-skating on Enanlahti Lake or cross-country skiing through pristine landscapes. And after an active day outdoors, why not lie back in your holiday apartment's sauna – the best way of warming yourself up and strengthening your immune system for the cold days ahead.”

“My top tip for a crisp winter’s day is to follow in the footsteps of the past. Gain a detailed insight into the life of the ancient Romans in the Argentomagus Museum, browse former tailors’ workshops in Argenton-sur-Creuse and discover all there is to know about the history of men’s shirts in the Musée de la Chemiserie.”

“A boat trip on the Seine is as much a part of a trip to Paris as a croissant for breakfast Not just any trip, though. I would recommend a cruise along Canal Saint-Martin. The combination of underground passages and open-air routes makes the tour something special. On the way, you will pass through various locks, go under beautiful brides and have time to admire picturesque promenades shaded by 100-year-old trees and dotted with vibrant cafés.”

“As the scent of baked apples, roasted almonds and mulled wine fills the air, Dresden transforms into a truly festive city with eleven Christmas markets. For those who wish to experience a slightly different market, I would recommend the Stallhof Advent Festival, where traders and entertainers offer their wares as though in medieval times.”

“Drive out winter from the island on 21 February, Sylt’s National Day. Be enchanted by the sea of lights at the burning of the Biiken and join the locals for a cheerful evening with a feast of kale, gammon and pig's cheek.”

“Drive out winter from the island on 21 February, Sylt’s National Day. Be enchanted by the sea of lights at the burning of the Biiken and join the locals for a cheerful evening with a feast of kale, gammon and pig's cheek.”

“Drive out winter from the island on 21 February, Sylt’s National Day. Be enchanted by the sea of lights at the burning of the Biiken and join the locals for a cheerful evening with a feast of kale, gammon and pig's cheek.”

“Drive out winter from the island on 21 February, Sylt’s National Day. Be enchanted by the sea of lights at the burning of the Biiken and join the locals for a cheerful evening with a feast of kale, gammon and pig's cheek.”

“When the weather outside is cold and miserable, just do as the locals do: visit a traditional English pub and warm yourself by a crackling fire with a local ale. The cosiest pubs in the area are the Hole in t’Wall in Bowness and the Brookside in Windermere.”

“The colder the weather, the more popular the traditional social ceilidh evenings become. These dances are a great way to warm up as well as being tremendous fun. And the best thing: beginners are more than welcome. The bands have a caller, who announces the steps so that everyone can join in. Head to the Ghillie Dhu on any Friday and do-si-do!”

“A visit to Kew Gardens at Christmas is a real treat for both young and old. The beautiful gardens transform into a magical winter wonderland. Follow the Tunnel of Lights and discover festive decorations in every corner. Children will love the Victorian carousel, and the Christmas treats are sure to put you in the holiday spirit.”

“Relax in comfortably warm water and feel fresh snow flakes fall on your face – at the Széchenyi thermal baths this is perfectly possible. In the evening, enjoy the romantic ambience of the city all lit up for Christmas, and drink mulled wine before heading to the opera. With a bit of luck, an opera singer or ballet dancer might join you.”

“Wrap yourself in a colourful tunic and ride through the Palmeraie palm oasis on a camel. Be brave and go for a little canter – you’ll be amazed at the extraordinary sense of freedom.”

“Defy the cold and get warm on a visit to the sauna. The Deco Sauna, just a five-minute walk from the Hapimag Resort, will amaze you with its classic Art Deco style. Filigree bronze features, colourful glass windows and unique antiques give the sauna a special magic and allow you to relax in total comfort.”

“The National Azulejo Museum in the former Convent of Madre Deuson on the fringe of the old town houses an impressive collection of Portuguese ceramic tiles. The decorative azulejo images in a wide array of colours made in many different ways over 500 years depict Portugal's history in an impressive and fascinating way. This is the perfect place to go on a rainy day.”

"The best is often not that far away. After a dreamlike day, order a fruity cocktail at the 'Bar Luna 81' and enjoy the colours of the setting sun."