Merry Christmas to Everyone, Everywhere

Christmas is undoubtedly one of the most significant moments of the year. For me, it is an occasion where the sense of life seems to come through strongly. The way we celebrate may change over the years. However, what truly matters is being able to reconnect with oneself and, if fortunate, spend time with loved ones. As a natural organiser, even setting the table for the holidays fully occupies my thoughts during this time. I usually decide on the menu months in advance because I enjoy it immensely, and it reminds me that the journey towards the goal is indeed the most beautiful part of the goal. I could gaze at that table for hours, checking and rechecking with the meticulousness of someone who views life as a grand construction project. What is certain is that the housewife in me can find joy in a simple and enveloping happiness during Christmas.

Glistening London

As a Londoner deeply in love with this city, I can confidently say that London during the Christmas season is truly enchanting, with its sparkling lights, the warmth of the pubs, and every corner decorated for celebration. The city offers a myriad of activities and attractions for all tastes. Visiting the Christmas markets is a must, with festive stalls and the Christmas atmosphere scattered around the city. Admiring the Christmas lights is a captivating experience, with London’s streets further illuminated by spectacular decorations, especially on Oxford Street and Regent’s Street. Exploring gardens and parks is another must-do experience. Kew Gardens, for example, hosts the Festival of Lights, transforming the gardens into a luminous and magical experience. Attending theatrical and musical performances is an excellent way to get into the Christmas spirit. “The Nutcracker” at the Royal Opera House is an absolutely unmissable Christmas ballet. And why not, a bit of Christmas shopping is another great attraction. Harrods and Selfridges offer decorated windows and exclusive products, while Carnaby Street and King’s Road feature boutiques with beautifully adorned windows. Ice skating is a popular activity during Christmas in London, with iconic rinks like the one at Somerset House and another at the Natural History Museum. Finally, enjoying a Christmas brunch at one of the many restaurants offering special festive menus is a delight.

A Dream Mountain

Generally, I do not like the idea of spending the Christmas holidays in the warmth. I prefer the cold, yet cosy atmosphere of the mountains, specifically in what I love to call the most beautiful refuge ever, Trentino Alto Adige. This region, one of the most fascinating in Italy, is located in the northern part of the country, on the border with Austria and Switzerland. Known for its extraordinary natural beauty, with landscapes ranging from the majestic Dolomites, a UNESCO World Heritage site, to tranquil valleys and alpine lakes, it is an ideal destination for those who love the mountains, hiking, and winter sports, but it also offers unique cultural and historical riches. It is important to distinguish between the two main provinces. Firstly, the Trentino – Alto Adige region has a population of 1.1 million inhabitants, of which 62% speak Italian as their mother tongue, while 30% speak South Tyrolean German. Since the mid-1970s, most legislative and administrative powers have been transferred to the two autonomous provinces that make up the region: the province of Trento, commonly known as Trentino, and the province of Bolzano, commonly known as South Tyrol (Alto Adige/Südtirol).

That Sense Of Well-being

Trentino is characterised by a varied landscape that includes valleys, lakes, and mountains. The city of Trento, the provincial capital, is famous for its well-preserved historic center, with Renaissance and Baroque buildings, and for the Council of Trent, which had a significant impact on the history of the Catholic Church. This region is also known for its local products, such as wine, apples, and cheeses. South Tyrol, or Südtirol, is known for its German and Italian culture, reflected in its language and traditions. Bolzano, the capital, is a lively cultural center with a mix of medieval and modern architecture and hosts the South Tyrol Museum of Archaeology, where Ötzi, the Iceman, is exhibited. South Tyrol is famous for its mountains, such as the Dolomites, and its ski resorts, like Val Gardena and Alta Badia, where German remains the majority language.

The Good Life At High Altitude

Both provinces offer rich and varied cuisine, influenced by Alpine and Mediterranean traditions, with dishes such as canederli, speck, and strudel. Local traditions are celebrated in numerous festivals and events throughout the year, attracting visitors from around the world. The Brenta Dolomites, Lake Braies, Val di Fassa, Val Gardena, Alpe di Siusi, Lake Caldaro, Merano with its elegant spa town, Castel Tirolo, San Cassiano and San Candido are all must-visit places. Yet, there are many others. Among other things, San Cassiano in Alta Badia and San Candido boast a couple of Michelin two-star restaurants that are absolutely wonderful. However, even in high-altitude mountain huts (which I adore), you can enjoy amazing dishes cooked with incredible attention to local and tasty ingredients.  In Trentino Alto Adige, everywhere you go, you can find that cosy sense of home. These places are of such impactful beauty that luxury translates into the essentiality of things. In this regard, I think that sleeping outdoors in these places during the summer, and counting the stars, feels like receiving a gift.

Buying A Property In Trentino Alto Adige

The cost of houses in South Tyrol varies significantly depending on the location and type of property. Generally, the more sought-after and touristy areas, such as Bolzano, Merano, and ski resorts like Ortisei and San Cassiano, tend to have higher prices compared to more peripheral areas. In Bolzano, for example, the average price per square meter for an apartment can be around €3,000-4,500, while in Merano, it averages €2,500-3,500 per square meter. In high-mountain ski resorts like Alta Badia and Val Gardena, prices can exceed €5,000 and more per square meter, especially for properties with panoramic views or in particularly desirable locations. In more rural or less central areas, costs tend to be lower, with prices dropping below €2,000 per square meter. However, it is important to consider that these values can fluctuate based on market conditions, demand, and specific supply in each area.

Merry Christmas to Everyone, Everywhere.