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European New Year Traditions that you must try

Unique New Year’s traditions from Europe that will be fun additions to your celebrations and double as great party games on your next getaway anywhere! So read on and try something different this New Year! Spanish New Year's Traditions: Gobble them Grapes The twelve grapes of luck The Spanish celebrate the start of the year with Las Doce Uvas de la Suerte or the 12 grapes of luck. According to this tradition, on New Year’s Eve or nochevieja, when the clock strikes 12, you munch on a grape with every toll of the bell to bring in good luck for the rest of the year. But this is not it – to seal in the luck, you must finish eating all the grapes before the final toll! Now there is a fun party game for everyone to enjoy. You can also celebrate this tradition with other food items to increase the challenge. Try it by giving a traditional French twist with a stack of pancakes or a Netherlandish turn by gobbling on anything ring-shaped! Celebrate a very Spanish new year with these amazing holiday retreats in Spain! Italian New Year's Traditions: Tombola and red underwear Will Tombola tell your fortune for the year? A popular new year’s tradition in Italy is to play Tombola, with a chance to win exciting prizes and sometimes even cash money.  In this game, tickets with random numbers from 1-90 are given out to everyone in the party. A host then extracts numbers, again randomly, which the players must cross out one by one. Whoever cuts out all the numbers on their tickets first, wins the prize – certainly an extra motivation to try this tradition. And don’t forget to wear red underwear. Italians think it will bring good luck in the next year! Bring in the new year in Italy with the best holiday homes in the country! Greek New Year's Traditions: Smash and pop pomegranates More seeds mean more luck in Greece! Greece, one of the oldest civilizations on Earth perhaps has the most fascinating new year’s tradition, wherein the Greeks start the year by smashing pomegranates on the ground called Kalo Podariko. And the more seeds jump out of the fruit, the more luck it is supposed to bring you! But we don’t want you to waste precious food in a game, so maybe you can find some innovative idea to try this tradition, perhaps use a piñata full of little coloured balls? Anyway, more sustainable tradition is to gamble all night long! Whether it’s a card game or a dice game, if you win, it’s thought to bring you luck for the year and at the same time you’ve made some extra cash. If you're planning to start a family, hanging onions outside your door, could bring you luck for the next year! Celebrate the traditions in Greece? Find fabulous holiday homes for friends and family! Belgium New Year's Traditions: New Year Messages In Belgium, children continue their letter writing from the Christmas season, only this time it is to the other family members rather than Santa Claus. Children write these letters to wish the elders the season's greetings and tell them that they will be good in the new year. In Belgium, children write Christmas letters to family members But can this be a fun party game? Totally! To turn this solemn tradition into an exciting game, everybody can write messages anonymously for the people present in the party and, at the end, everyone must guess from whom the message is! Who knows you might find your secret admirer? Want to authentically enjoy the traditions? Book your holiday home in Belgium now. Hungarian New Year's Traditions: Telling Fortune inside Dumplings As most of Eastern Europeans, Hungarians can be quite superstitious too! On New Year’s Eve or ‘Szilveszter’ it’s very common to make noises to scare off the evil spirits.  Another fun tradition for girls (and why not for boys too!) is to put pieces of paper with the names of potential fiancées written on them inside 12 dumplings plus an empty one. The first dumpling to rise to the top of the water during cooking is going to contain the name of their future spouse. If it is the empty dumpling, then she is expected to be single for the entire year. Ouch! Are you curious to know who would be your spouse? Live the traditions in the country, book your holiday home in Hungary! French New Year's Traditions: Dress up and Kiss under the mistletoe The French often dress up to celebrate New Year's Eve, and the expression "se mettre sur son 31" reflects this tradition. This expression literally means "dress up like it's December 31st," and it signifies the idea of looking one's best for the occasion. While dressing up isn't mandatory, it's a common practice, and it's a good idea to check with the host or hostess regarding the expected level of formality for the event. The tradition of kissing under the mistletoe on New Year's Eve in France is indeed rooted in history. It's believed to have originated from the Celts, who associated mistletoe with luck and fertility. This tradition has been passed down through the centuries, and it's a charming way for couples to share a special moment as they welcome the new year together. The romantic tradition of kissing under the mistletoe Other customaries are sending New Year’s wishes by greetings cards and giving etrennes, a traditional tip given to the maid, concierge, gardener who take care of their houses, etc. Say Bonjour to the new year in France! Book your holiday getaway now! Read about how other countries celebrate Christmas and New Year! We wish you luck for the new year and for the games!

Halloween in Andalusia: The perfect time to travel to South Spain

Celebrated all over the country to remember souls lost to life, Halloween in Spain is very spiritual and equated with the centuries-old festival of Dia de Los Santos or Tosantos. Tosantos falls on the 1st of November, a day after Halloween and is spread over three days. But, as with every festival, rich varieties of sweets start making their entries into local bakeries and shops a couple of days before. In Andalusia itself, where Tosantos is celebrated with a lot of festivities and traditions, fried buñuelos (airy doughnuts with sugared tops) and sweet potatoes become a must-try.Delicious fried Buñuelos with Sugared topsTraditionally, Tosantos has consisted of multiple masses performed throughout the day, candlelight processions, elaborate floral decorations of headstones, roasting chestnuts and screening of the iconic play  “Don Juan Tenorio'' by the Spanish author Jose Zorilla. However, modern-day celebrations are frequently accompanied by late-night parties, scary theatrical performances, zombie walks and terror passages. In any case, you will surely find something memorable to do on Halloween in the gorgeous Costa Del Sol.So, read on and find your perfect Halloween this year! 1. Halloween at the Botanical Garden in Malaga  When: 26-27th October 2024  The dramatised tour of the botanical gardens of La Concepción is the most famous program in Malaga. On October 26 and 27, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., families can enjoy activities like a treasure hunt and a craft workshop, perfect for getting into the Halloween spirit. On Halloween night, visitors can experience the thrilling “Terror of the Abandoned Convent,” a dramatic tour through the gardens that reveals their dark and mysterious past. Tours run every half hour starting at 7 p.m. A booking is required for this unforgettable Halloween experience. For information and reservations, call +34 951926180 or +34 939914055, or email infojbotanicomalaga@gmail.com.  2. Visit the cemeteries in Malaga When: 1-2nd November 2024  In Málaga, a cherished Halloween tradition for local families involves visiting cemeteries like San Miguel and English Cemetery to honour departed loved ones. Visitors clean, decorate graves with flowers, and offer prayers.  San Miguel Cemetery  Located in Málaga’s north end, this 19th-century cemetery, now closed for burials, features elaborate crypts and mausoleums where notable figures of Málaga’s past rest. Visitors report sightings of apparitions, including American writer Jane Bowles and a ghostly figure resembling parish priest Don Eliseo.  English Cemetery  The English Cemetery, established in 1840, is Spain’s first non-Catholic burial ground. Known for its distinctive graves adorned with white shells, it’s home to the resting place of Robert Boyd, a freedom fighter executed for his beliefs, along with other notable figures. Guided tours for small groups of up to six offer an immersive experience, with the cemetery’s history, supernatural tales, and the unique beauty of this coastal site. Flower decorations at cemeteries on Dia de Los Santos3. The Night in Black in Malaga When: 31st October 2024, from 6:30 pm  On October 31, the streets of Málaga’s central Soho district come alive with "The Night in Black," offering a lineup of activities for all ages. From 6:30 pm, visitors can enjoy a costume contest, face painting, children’s games, and trick-or-treating throughout the evening.  4. Halloween for children in Malaga When: 31st October 2024, from 5:00 pm  Halloween festivities at Pier One (Muelle Uno) will begin on October 31 from 5 pm to 9 pm. A favorite among the locals, this scenic maritime spot near Málaga’s old town is a perfect setting for a relaxed stroll and a drink. A themed photo booth will be available where visitors can snap a picture and enter the costume contest. Categories include the best group or family costume, the most creative, and the most terrifying. Don’t miss out on the excitement!  5. Halloween in Mijas  When: 31st October 2024    Mijas celebrates Halloween with a Mexican Day of the Dead theme across its three main areas: Mijas Pueblo, Las Lagunas, and La Cala. Each location will host unique activities, including workshops on palmistry, potions, makeup, Mexican skull masks, and a themed photo booth.  Mijas Pueblo: Enjoy bouncy castles and two children’s haunted walkthroughs at Plaza Virgen de la Peña from 4 pm to 10 pm.  Las Lagunas: Head to the fairground for Halloween fun featuring bouncy castles, four kid-friendly haunted passages, and a variety of food trucks. Parades are scheduled at 8 p.m. and 9:30 p.m. Adults can enjoy a maze-style haunted walkthrough at Cortijo Don Elías, open from 5:30 p.m. to 11 p.m. La Cala: Find bouncy castles, two children’s haunted passages, and spooky workshops at La Butibamba Park from 5 pm to 11 pm. Are you ready for a fright-filled night?  6. Zombie Gymkhana in Nerja When: 31st October 2024    In Nerja, Halloween kicks off at the Balcón de Europa with a Zombie Gymkhana starting at 8 p.m. Participants roam the streets to find “survivors,” with prizes for the highest scores. A makeup artist will also be available at the Municipal Youth Information Centre for those who want to join in with a spooky look.  The Municipal Youth Information Centre will host a Halloween party featuring scary challenges, zombies, board games, candy, and other surprises. Young people interested in joining the fun can register by emailing asociacionjuvenilnerja@gmail.com or via WhatsApp at +34 641 471 075.  7. Escape from the zombies in Fuengirola  When: 2nd November 2024 The "Survival Zombie Halloween" in the center of Fuengirola is designed for the bravest participants. Are you ready to face the challenge?  This immersive experience plunges players into a fictional world overrun by zombies. The goal? Survive the night by uncovering clues and outsmarting the undead who lurk around every corner. 8. Halloween parties and nightlife in Marbella When: 31st October 2024 Marbella’s vibrant nightlife scene takes Halloween to another level, with clubs like Puente Romano, Siroko Beach, NYX, and La Sala Banús throwing spectacular themed parties featuring extravagant decorations, live DJ performances, and costume contests.  If you’re looking for something calmer and more upscale, places like Nomad Restaurant, Motel Particulier, and Sunsa Restaurant often host Halloween-themed dinners with exclusive entertainment. 9. Village of Terror in Churriana  When: 31st October 2024, 7 pm to 11 pm  This year, anticipation is high for the “Village of Terror” in Churriana, one of the most atmospheric Halloween destinations in the province. The Las Pedrizas neighbourhood will transform into a horror village, with its narrow, winding streets renamed to match their eerie themes: Nightmares Street, Coven Street, Torture Street, and more. From 7 pm to 11 pm, these streets will be fully decorated and brought to life with spine-chilling scenes.  Are you brave enough to enter? Free entry for all!Families having fun on HalloweenSo have you decided where to head for Halloween or Tosantos? Take a look at our best holiday homes in Costa Del Sol.

Drink to ‘Dry January’, with our top holiday mocktails!

The ultimate holiday mocktailsWhether you’re on a ‘dry January’ health drive or you want to surprise your family and friends with some fun party drinks, these alcohol-free tipples are full of flavour and taste – making them perfect for your next getaway! Virgin Watermelon Margarita Serves: 6 Prep time: 3 hr’s beforehand, 5 minutes to make When on holiday in Europe, you’ll find an abundance of watermelons for sale at food markets and in supermarkets. When the sun is beating down, this vibrant and energizing mocktail will keep all ages hydrated and ready for some holiday fun. Firstly, chop up the watermelon into cubes and place in the freezer for 3 hours. Next, dip the rim of each glass in water before rolling the rim in granulated sugar. Next, blend the frozen watermelon cubes with the Sprite, until smooth. Pour the delicious smelling mixture into the glasses. Finish with a thin wedge of watermelon to each rim. Cheers! Ingredients:1 watermelon (diced and frozen for 3 hrs before)Can of Sprite (335ml/ 12oz)Granulated sugarFinish with: Sprig of fresh mint and granulated sugar around the rim, with a thin wedge of watermelonNote: For more of a Margarita-style edge, feel free to add a dash of fresh lime or lemon juice! Lemon & Mango Margarita Serves: 4 Prep time: 10 minutes These juicy flavours pack a punch on a cold winter’s day. You’ll taste the endless days of summer ahead, with each sip you take! Firstly, if you haven’t got these shop-bought syrups in, make your own (using the helpful notes below). Next, using a large pitcher jug, whisk the lemon juice with the 2 purees. Gently (and briefly) stir in the fizzy water. Rub a lemon wedge around the rim of each glass and then dip each rim into granulated sugar. Next, add ice and pour in the mixture, before garnishing with a lemon slice and fresh sprig of mint. Enjoy!  Ingredients:6 tbsp fresh mango puree (see note)3-4 tbsp simple syrup (see note)2 tbsp lemon juice500ml sparkling waterFinish with: Fresh mint, granulated sugar for the rim of the glass & slice of lemonNote:To make homemade mango puree, peel and cut 1 mango. Blend in a food processor, until the pulp is smooth. To make the simple syrup mixture, heat an equal 4 tbsp sugar with 4 tbsp water in a saucepan. Bring to the boil and then turn the heat down, to simmer. The sugar will dissolve in 30 seconds or so. Leave the simple syrup to cool in a room before using. Sparkling Pear Punch Serves: 10 Prep time: 10 minutes This light, bubbly punch is full of autumn promise and festive winter flavour. It’s perfect as an aperitif to accompany meat and cheese platters, whilst also offering an uplifting accompaniment to a heavy meal. Simply pour all the ingredients into a large container (except the ginger ale) and refrigerate for 1 hr – 1 day before. This will enable the flavours to infuse to their full potential. When you’re ready to serve, pour the mixture 1/2 - 2/3 of the way into the glass, topping up the rest with the ginger ale. Ingredients:4-5 Anjou pears, diced1 lemon worth of juice32oz/ 946ml pear puree2.5 cups spiced apple cider2 litres ginger ale (carbonated water flavoured with ginger)Finish with: Cinnamon stickNote:If you’re out of Pear puree simply chop up some ripe pears and mix in a blender with ice cubes, et voila!French 75 Mocktail Serves: 2 Prep time: 2 minutes For something rather elegant, a flute of this mocktail will do the trick! Firstly, add the fresh lemon juice and bitters to a cocktail shaker, which has been filled with ice. Shake till the mixture has gone frosty, then pour equal amounts into each flute. Top off with tonic water and garnish with a sugary swizzle stick. Simple, yet effective! Ingredients:2 cups iceFresh lemon juice (88ml/3oz4 dashes lemon/ orange bitters2 x (177-236ml/6-8oz) bottles of premium tonic water (e.g. Fever Tree)Finish with: A sugary swizzle stick in the glassNote: If your shop is out of sugary swizzle sticks, dampen each glass rim with lemon juice, before rolling each in 1tsp caster sugar Virgin Mojito Serves: 1 Prep time: 2 minutes Nothing beats a classic Mojito. With this recipe you’ll be able to enjoy the tempting fusion of mint and lime at any time of day, thanks to this alcohol-free version! Firstly, place the fresh mint leaves and lime juice into a glass and mush them with a ‘muddler’ (or the end of a wooden spoon) for 1 minute. Crushing the mint in this way will release the flavoursome mint oil into the mixture. Next, add the simple honey syrup and sparkling water. Cheers! Ingredients:2 tbsp fresh lime juice2 tbsp honey syrupSparkling waterIce (optional)10/15 fresh mint leavesFinish with: Sprigs of fresh mint and a slice of limeNote: To make simple honey syrup, pour a mellow tasting honey into a saucepan. Add in water, to a ratio of 1:2 (that’s 1-part honey, 2 parts water). Heat on a low heat, until the honey has fully dissolved. Abracadabra, you have honey syrup! Allow to cool before mixing. If needed store in the fridge beforehand (it remains good for up to 4 weeks in an airtight container).Also, for express drinks and larger pitchers, why not use Limeade instead? Simply take out the honey syrup and fresh lime ingredients, in favour of ¼ cup of Limeade instead.   Wherever you’re spending your next holiday, we hope you enjoy making these fun, alcohol-free holiday drinks. “Salute!”

Celebrate this Christmas in Lugano!

Sparkling Lights, Lake Views & Festive Magic in Ticino!Every winter, the charming lakeside city of Lugano transforms into a festive wonderland, and in 2025, it’s going to be better than ever. From the moment the tree lights up to the cheerful glow of thousands of fairy lights and the smell of vin brulé drifting through the old town, Lugano invites you to experience the very best of Swiss-Italian holiday magic.Lugano’s Christmas tradition blends Swiss precision with Italian-speaking Ticino’s relaxed Mediterranean flair. In the past, the event ran from the end of November through early January, with the iconic tree lighting in Piazza della Riforma marking the season’s start. In 2025, the event has been officially scheduled from 27 November 2025 to 6 January 2026, reflecting a growing appetite from travellers and locals alike for a longer festive season. It is true, Lugano is all set for Christmas!Why celebrate Christmas in Lugano?From the moment the grand Christmas tree in Piazza della Riforma is illuminated, right through to the Epiphany, Lugano slips into full festive charm. The elegant lakeside city takes on a warm, welcoming glow, with sparkling lights, cheerful gatherings and a cosy seasonal atmosphere.The city centre transforms into a charming Christmas village, where beautifully decorated shop windows and wooden market stalls line the streets. Here, you’ll find everything from handcrafted gifts and unique ornaments to local delicacies, regional wines and sweet seasonal treats. The market runs daily from 11 am to 7 pm until Christmas Eve.Adding to the magic, the streets come alive with music and performance. Expect free live concerts, Christmas carols, small shows and delightful street entertainment, creating an inviting and joyful rhythm throughout the day and into the evening.A children’s village full of activities, will also tempt little ones to get crafting this yuletide.Those looking to ring in the New Year in style will find plenty to enjoy. Lugano’s annual open-air celebration fills the city with music, dancing and a lively, welcoming atmosphere that carries on well past midnight. With a mix of concerts, entertainment and a joyful crowd, it’s the perfect way to welcome the year ahead. Whether you’re a local, travelling for work, or visiting on holiday, the city’s festive spirit makes everyone feel part of the celebration.Things to look forward toCharming wooden chalets with handcrafted gifts, local treats and warm seasonal drinksIce rink in Parco Ciani, beautifully lit and set beside the lakeside parkLively evenings with live music, DJ sets and festive city walksDelicious seasonal flavours: roasted chestnuts, mulled wine, Ticino sausages, risottos and moreA Few Tips While VisitingBook accommodation early if you’re visiting close to Christmas or New Year’s EveThe festivities begin at the end of November, so even early visits feel festiveDress warmly, but bring a layer you can remove — Lugano’s winter is mild compared to mountain townsStay in central Lugano for easy access to markets, events and the lakefrontVisit around dusk or early evening to enjoy the Christmas lights at their most magicalReady to celebrate this Christmas in Lugano? Book your stay now!

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