While we've only just entered November, folks are already securing their panto tickets and deciding which Christmas markets they'll be visiting.
Ireland boasts some truly spectacular ones, from our own Galway Christmas Market on Eyre Square to Dublin Castle, but mainland Europe really takes the cake when it comes to the festive season.
One Christmas market consistently ranks as Europe's finest - Budapest in Hungary, as voted by European Best Destinations.
Before my holiday there last year, I had seen images of towering Christmas trees, ice-skating rinks, and throngs of people browsing brightly lit stalls - I was utterly captivated before even setting foot there.
However, I regret to say that it was somewhat underwhelming. This is not a critique of Budapest. It's a remarkable city brimming with culture, breathtaking architecture, incredibly friendly locals, and some of the best cuisine I've ever tasted.
But when it came to the Christmas markets, I fear I set my expectations too high. Instead of a bustling ice rink, I found myself stepping over soggy cardboard strewn across the ground.
Rather than an abundance of stalls brimming with festive items and gifts, I encountered a smattering of stalls dotted around the square, with most not selling anything remotely festive.
And instead of navigating through crowds of fellow market-goers, I saw groups of stall workers lounging on metal barrels, puffing away at their cigarettes.
Honestly, I reckon there were fewer than 20 other people there, which is understandable given that many of the stalls were completely closed despite the market supposedly opening two hours prior.
I'm inclined to give them the benefit of the doubt. Perhaps a nighttime visit would have offered a better experience, or if the weather wasn't drizzling, or maybe later in December.
However, it's worth noting that my visit was at the start of December and the markets were scheduled to open in mid-November. Plus, the weather wasn't exactly pouring - it was more of a mist or drizzle.
If someone were to ask me for recommendations, I'd suggest giving the Christmas markets a miss or perhaps just a quick pop-in to say you've been.
Instead, I believe folks should make a beeline for the Central Market Hall - it's indoors, offers a wider variety of items to purchase, has multiple levels and plenty of fantastic spots to eat or grab a drink right outside.
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