Sharing, caring and loving – that’s what Christmas is all about. And you can’t imagine Christmas without gift giving and loads of shopping. Each year if you buy from the same market then why not try out something new this year? Check out the best Christmas markets across 13 European countries:

1. Germany –
a. Berlin (23rd November to 31st December)
b. Cologne (27th November to 23rd December)
c. Nuremberg (27th November to 24th December)
d. Munich (27th November to 24th December)

2. France –
a. Paris (5th December to 31st December)
b. Strasbourg (28th November to 31st December)
c. Reims (20th November to 26th December)
d. Lille (18th November to 30th December)

3. Belgium –
a. Bruges (20th November to 3rd January)
b. Brussels (27th November to 3rd January)

4. Netherlands – Valkenburg (21st November to 21st December)
5. Czech Republic – Prague (28th November to 1st January)
6. Sweden – Gothenburg (13th November to 23rd December)
7. Slovenia – Ljubljana (3rd December to 2nd January)
8. Estonia – Tallinn (29th November to 7th January)
9. Austria – Vienna (22nd November to 26th December)
10. Denmark – Copenhagen (20th November to 30th December)
11. Switzerland – Basel (26th November to 23rd December)
12. Hungary – Budapest (20th November to 29th December)
13. Luxembourg – Luxembourg City (27th November to 24th December)

You can also take you elderly parents for a great shopping spree this Christmas, but don’t forget to buy senior travel insurance as it will be of great help in case of emergencies.

Good news awaits all the over-50s people who have always cherished dreams of nights spent on magnificent luxury cruises at sea. Saga, one of the premier service providers for the over-50s in UK, has announced an eclectic mix of offers on their holidaying and cruising services. During recession, when everybody wants to save even on holiday expenses, Saga offers a great avenue to enjoy the old-school experience of cruise-stays, albeit at affordable price ranges.

Saga cruises have always been in the favourites list of over-50s couples. Saga ocean cruising is a great vacation idea for mature couples. These cruises offer an all encompassing trip, which include the Mediterranean, the Baltic and the Black Sea.

But what makes Saga cruises stand out from the rest of the exotic cruise services?

• First and foremost, it caters exclusively to the over-50s market. This makes it easier for you to deal with issues such as security, health concerns, etc. as most of your co-passengers will be of your age-group.

• Prices are another reason to root for Saga cruises as they offer a guarantee (Saga Price Promise) of non-fluctuating prices irrespective of wavering fuel costs, stocks or exchange rates.

• Early birds can also avail 35% discounts or added benefits while on the cruise. This is great, especially, for the over-50s people who are often on the lookout for an opportunity to save.

There are reasons aplenty for the mature touring groups to look up to Saga ocean cruising and Saga river cruising services for the experience of a lifetime. But what matters most is the quality of comfort and a secure environment that Saga provides for the over-50s, including couples – all intent on enjoying the adventure and eloquence of a cruise vacation to the fullest!

Before you head off on your Saga cruise make sure you have Cruise Holiday Insurance.

If you are tired of the same type of holiday in Spain or Greece, try something different. And by different we mean a different continent and a completely different type of place. Choose a place that will not only be an eclectic mix of hauntingly beautiful scenery, exuberance and thrilling entertainment but also one that will help you.

Indian cities have always been on the radar of tourists and explorers willing to go beyond the European Alps and the French soufflé. With a culture that has more twists and surprises waiting than the whole Sherlock Holmes series and a reputation for being a safe haven for tourists – Goa should be on your “places to see” list. All you need are some travel tips for Goa, and a Goa travel guide that will lead you through this mesmerising place.

So what attracts tourists like moths to this maritime paradise?

• Beaches – The golden beaches, awash with hash-raving hippies and dreadlocks are the prime attractions of Goa. You will find poor toddlers to CEOs of IT giants revelling in the sands of Anjuna beach. And for all the fun and frolic, strolling in the sun and sipping a cocktail is fairly priced – a great touring incentive for the retired on fixed income.

• Churches – An almost dream-like fusion of Portuguese and Indian architecture, Goan churches are a treat to see. Dotted with churches and serene settlers around, the peace and tranquillity of the churches will make you feel like settling down in this paradise-like state.

• The Carnival – The Goan Carnival, though smaller in stature than its Brazilian counterpart, is one of the main reasons tourists flock to this small state. Even though Christian is the basic faith and motif behind the Carnival, it exhibits a great mix of all races, religions and colour.

• The Dudhsagar Waterfalls – Located in Sanguem district, it can be approached via Panaji (the capital city of Goa) or Margao. Only about 60 km away from the capital, this place is a virtual dream for nature lovers as well as romantic couples. So, if you are an over-50s couple looking for a place to share cherished moments, Dudhsagar Waterfalls is the ideal destination.

• Spicy and Appetising – The last but best tip in our Goa travel guide is to try out the Goan cuisines. A super-spicy ensemble of Portuguese flavours, Indian spices and local innovation, Goa is heaven for food-junkies.

With these few travel tips for a Goa tour, experience the fun and frivolity that Goa represents in full fledge.