Nyhavn section of Copenhagen

In December, Copenhagen is a magical destination of twinkling lights. Perhaps its the long hours of darkness that prompts Danes to turn Copenhagen into Christmas cheer. Despite the dark that settles in about 3:30 pm, and the light that doesn’t appear until about 8 am, sightseeing is not hampered by the darkness, and the streets bustle with activity well into the evening.

Ice skating in the heart of Copenhagen

In order to maximize a Copehagen experience, be mindful of where it’s best to be during daylight hours and where darkness is a bonus. Plus, because certain attractions are closed on various days, plan for that as well.

Here are some must-see recommendations based on my Copenhagen visits– two of them were exactly at this time of year.

Although Tivoli Gardens could be considered a high priced tourist attraction due to the hefty price of food, rides and arcade games, the admission  is worth it in December.

Created in 1843 as a pleasure garden of flower beds, promenades, attractions and outdoor stages, Tivoli is a Copenhagen institution near the main train station.

Tivoli’s apple fritters– Yum!

For the holiday season, the park is decked out in yultide finery that revolves around a theme.

This year the theme combines a Russian and Nordic Christmas. Along with decorations that transport guests back to the wonders of childhood, Tivoli at Christmas boasts 50 craft vendors, several with affordable items, and Danish seasonal foods. Do try the Æblepandekager (apple pancakes) and glögg, a mulled wine drink.

Best time to visit: At night when holiday lights glitter and gleam throughout the park.

Christmas Market at Nyhavn

One of the best ways to take in the history and landmarks of Copenhagen is on a Canal Tours of Copenhagen boat. The one hour boat ride travels through waterways constructed starting in 1617 during the reign of King Christians IV.

The Canal Tours of Copenhagen’s itinerary includes the building where Hans Christian Anderson lived, the statue of the Little Mermaid, historic churches,  castles and a variety of other buildings that highlight the city’s grandeur.

The tour guides speak impeccable English and point out spots to snap the best pictures. In December, bundle up and enjoy the view from an outside seat. But, if it feels too chilly in the open air, the boats do have covered and heated seating.

Because one of the Canal Tours of Copenhagen’s ticket booths and pick up points is at Nyhavn, one of the historic canals-take time to browse the booths at the Christmas market. The market is set up along one side of the canal this time of year.  For an inexpensive eat, try a Polser–a hot dog that comes with various toppings.

Best time to visit: Try for a tour when it’s still light enough to see the landmarks you’ll pass, but when it will be dark enough afterwards to enjoy the warm glow of the Christmas market.

For a free look at the regalia of royalty, the Changing of the Guard at Amalienborg Palace is a don’t miss. Although the guards change their positions every two hours, the main event is at noon.  Amalienborg Palace is the home of Queen Margrethe II, thus the reason for the guards.

Although Amalienborg Palace has a museum, if you are short on time, visit Rosenberg Castle instead. The castle, built in Dutch Renaissance style began as a summer house in 1605 and was added onto throughout several years. The castle and grounds are simply lovely.

A visit here offers insight into the lifestyle of  Christian IV, his wife and his children.  The castle stopped being used as a residence in 1710 by Christian IV’s great grandson Frederik IV.

If you go, pay the extra admission to see the collection of royal jewels in The Treasury. The jewels–a stunning array of crowns and jewelery are displayed in a separate part of the castle as another museum.

Best time to visit:  Between 11 am –2 pm. During the winter, Rosenberg Castle is closed on Mondays. The Treasury, also closed on Mondays, is open until 4 pm.

Travel Tip: From the Changing of the Guard at noon, walk by foot to Rosenberg Castle. Then at 3 pm, head to Nyhavn for a Copenhagen Canal Tour. Afterwards,  enjoy the Christmas market and then head to Tivoli Gardens.

Post and photos courtesy of Jamie Rhein, member of Midwest Travel Writers Association

All Nippon Airways (ANA) 787 Dreamliner launches flight service from San Jose, California to Tokyo Narita in 2013.

Imagine taking a long-haul flight from California to Tokyo and not suffering from dry eyes and perhaps experiencing less jet lag.  While I can’t guarantee that you won’t experience jet lag or dry skin during your travels, or that your flight from San Jose, California to Tokyo’s Narita Airport will be on time, I can say that All Nippon Airways (ANA) new 787 Dreamliner flight is a game changer in the competitive aviation industry.

I recently attended the Northern California launch party announcing direct flight service from San Jose’s Norman Mineta International Airport to Narita International Airport, Tokyo beginning January 11, 2013. While I haven’t set foot on the Boeing 787 Dreamliner airplane, according to reports from fellow travel bloggers, ANA delivers a first-class flying experience.

Dreamliner cabin details

Several cabin details captured my attention from the inside of the Boeing 787 Dreamliner. The vaulted ceilings immediately gave a roomy appearance to the plane’s interior. The large windows, 65% bigger than standard airplane windows, also added to the Dreamliner’s open feeling.  Passengers will also like the larger overhead bins to accommodate more luggage.

With its vaulted ceilings & large windows, ANA’s 787 Dreamliner launches airline service from San Jose, CA to Tokyo, Japan.

Working to reduce jet lag

In addition to the self-darkening windows, designed to adapt to your unique time clock, the higher humidity in the cabin helps to create a more comfortable cabin experience on long-haul flights.

Dreamliner nuts and bolts

I spoke with Northwestern Region, U.S.A. General Manager Masaki Yokai regarding the nuts and bolts of the Dreamliner 787. Yokai noted that while the 787 is a middle sized aircraft, the construction of the plane, composed of carbon fiber, makes for a lighter plane, yet it is stronger than steel. This composition helps the Dreamliner aircraft to be a more fuel efficient plane.

More legroom for passengers

With 112 economy seats and 46 business class seats, neighbors will no longer be bumping into one another or feeling packed in like sardines. The seats are thinner in design, resulting in more leg room for all passengers.

ANA’s Business class staggered seating on 787 Dreamliner.

ANA Business class

In business class, all seats on the 787 Dreamliner are aisle seats. With a staggered seating layout, passengers feel like they have their own personal suite. There are individual charging stations for your electronics, as well as personal air vents and LED lightening systems.

Insider Tip

All Nippon Airways (ANA) is a Star Alliance member for those of you who are frequent flyers on other airlines.

Have you flown on Boeing’s 787 Dreamliner? How was your flying experience?

If You Go:

All Nippon Airways (ANA)

Photos courtesy of ANA

You know you are in Montreal when your hotel serves afternoon tea. The Chateau Versailles, a former 19th century home, is ideally located in downtown Montreal. Shoppers will be happy to know that this boutique hotel is located within the Golden Square Mile on Sherbrooke Street West, home to high-end retailers, jewelers and fashion houses.

Rooms reflect Quebec design

The 65 rooms are brightly colored, reflecting the Joie de vivre of Montreal and the collaboration with Quebec artists, furniture makers and designers. Rooms are available with single beds, queen and king beds. My room, #309, is a deluxe queen and rents for $185, including a complimentary deluxe continental breakfast. Check the website for AAA rates and package deals.

Breakfast is served daily in Le Boudoir from 7:00 – 10:30 a.m. However, individual coffee service from Keurig is available in room, as is room service.

Chateau Versailles Deluxe Queen #309

Additional amenities include afternoon tea, served from 4:00 – 6:00 p.m. in Le Boudoir, cotton robes, Crabtree & Evelyn toiletries and access to a business center.

Chateau Versailles Le Boudoir

Keeping fit on the road

The Chateau Versailles offers a fitness center and sauna for its guests. Additionally, the property is pet-friendly for those who prefer to travel with man’s best friend. As of this review, the dog fee is $17 additional, per night.

Insider Tips:

Chateau Versailles offers complimentary wifi on the property and in the bedrooms.  With my impending hip replacement surgery, I look at hotels from a different perspective. If you have trouble negotiating stairs, be aware that Chateau Versailles does not have an elevator. You’ll want to request a room on the first floor.

Check In: 3:00 p.m.

Check Out: 12:00 p.m.

The lobby at Chateau Versailles

If You Go:

Chateau Versailles

1659 Sherbrooke Street West

Montreal, Quebec H3H 1E3 Canada

514 933-3611

Article written by and photos courtesy of  Travel Writer Nancy D. Brown of What a Trip, Travels from Northern California. I was a guest of Chateau Versailles and Tourism Quebec.

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Things to See and Do in Montreal, Canada