Holiday time in Bavaria is the time for festivity, treats, shopping and tradition. In addition to the region’s world-famous Christmas markets like Nuremberg and Munich, there are some unusual local traditions to celebrate!
 
Crack That Whip…Winter Be Gone! Aperschnalzer
Dating back several centuries, whip-cracking “Aperschnalzer” occurs between Christmas and Lent in the foothills of the Alps. The aim of this quirky tradition was to drive out the evil forces of darkness (and winter).  

​The days are getting longer. The sun is out. There's no denying it - spring is officially here. For many, this is a reason to be ecstatic after spending their winters tucked away at home where it's warm, wishing that the cold would just go away so that they can get back to enjoying the sunshine. But what about others who love the cold weather and relish any chance to get out into the snow? If that is you, then a springtime trip to Europe might just be perfect. Here are a few ideal European destinations for those who love the cold.

The Alps
This is hardly the most surprising travel destination for those who prefer their vacations a little on the chilly side. The Alps are the perfect destination for winter sports and snow lovers. Of course, you have your choice of destinations in France, Switzerland, and Germany, so you're certainly not limited when it comes to your choice of places to see. In fact, many people could spend their lives just vacationing in the Alps and still find new and beautiful sights.

Kiruna
If you're after something truly amazing, then the northernmost Swedish town is perfect for you. The main reason that this Lapland town is so beloved is the Ice Hotel. This hotel boasts 80 gorgeous rooms and is only open during the winter. Why is it only open during the winter? Well, the clue is in the name. Each spring the hotel melts and must be rebuilt each year. If you want a little more out of your accommodation than the typical chalets and hotels, then Kiruna is the place for you.

Innsbruck
There's a good reason why this Austrian city is known as the ski and snowboard capital of the world. With gorgeous resorts, breathtaking slopes and Olympic history to spare, if you're interested in winter sports then you owe it to yourself to take a trip to Innsbruck. Of course, even if skiing isn't really your thing then there are some fantastic places to experience in this city. For one thing, it's home of Swarovski Crystals, and while there you have the chance to take a tour of their headquarters. Or, if you'd prefer you could simply just enjoy the absolutely beautiful architecture that the city has to offer.

Wherever you're traveling to in Europe, it's important to know that over the next few years there will probably be some changes to the way that you travel. Go to etias.com for more information on the new visa program that is going to be introduced in 2020. It won't make a huge difference to your trip, but it's important to be aware of any and all preparations you need to make before a trip.

So the next time someone tries to tell you to get out and enjoy the heat, you can tell them that you'd be much happier feeling a little more chilled out in one of these amazing destinations.

​As glittering snowdrifts drape a white blanket around Europe’s shoulders, it isn’t just the landscapes that are transformed – it’s the people too. Exodus Travels has unveiled a new collection of winter trips that perfectly captures this special time of year. The adventures sparkle with seasonal traditions, holiday celebrations and wintry charm, taking travelers to destinations completely altered by the first snowfall. While many vacationers believe winter is a time to hibernate indoors or head south, Exodus battles conventional wisdom with the announcement of more exotic winter escapes on offer than ever before (57 in total). This season, Exodus invites adventurers to lead a team of huskies across Lapland, cycle across frozen lakes on fat bikes, border hop the Alps by Nordic skies, admire the Northern Lights, and relax by the fire in a cozy Norwegian cabin.In 2017, Exodus debuts 12 new adventures that prove winter is far too enchanting to waste indoors!