Durbuy’s Christmas Market

Don’t squint to look at the first pic. There’s nothing wrong with your computer screen, or your eyes. Relax and sit back. It’s just me taking you through a hazy dream tunnel…and sooner or later your vision will become clearer…

But trust me, when we arrive at the little town of Durbuy, you will think you are still dreaming and have to pinch yourself because how can any tiny town be this beautiful-- except through the magic of Hollywood or Disneyworld? Well, in this case, it’s a mix of smart tourism planning and luck from Mother Nature. I’d taken you to Durbuy before on a slightly warmer day, but in the winter time, Durbuy’s Christmas Market is a real joy to behold!

On the ground, the world’s smallest town is bustling with visitors bundled up in their winter clothes while browsing for holiday gifts…or chasing the cold with some hot wine, Christmas boudins, or tartiflette.

As for me, I’m still feeling like the Michelin man in my winter clothes as I walk through the quaint streets soaking in the holiday spirits. But you know, the good thing about wearing big jackets is that you can stuff your tummy with rich food and no one’s the wiser–yes, I have my third Belgian waffle in as many days yet still find room for the monstrously delicious croustillons, also known as heaven in confectioner’s sugar.

So while hopped up on sugar, I make another round of the tiny town and end up at this very same spot (btw, doesn’t that tower look like a face?) that I showed you the last time I was in Durbuy.

And I must say I’m a little more in love with the town under snow because it makes me want to jump around to stay warm--and to make some snowballs. You’d better duck–I have a pretty good arm!

My Balenciaga bag and I will see you at the next market!

PS: more pics from Durbuy will be posted in a separate entry.

December 25, 2009