Chrismas markets tour - Bavaria and Alsace

[cjn1003]

I am planning this tour for December 2006. Has anyone taken it? Do you have any advice? How was the weather? Are there any optional excursions? Is there enough time for the markets? Any info would be greatly appreciated.

[BRFence]

I had really wanted to book this tour, but it was my daughter's senior year and due to her scheduling, we took the Imperial Splendors tour instead.
I can still help you with some of your questions though. It was very cold and rained and snowed quite a bit. Make sure to pack a sturdy umbrella, boots and a hat (I forgot that, but got a cute one at the market). . There is nothing like strolling through a Christmas Market in Germany with the snow coming down. We had lots of time at the Christmas Markets and we were not even on the Christmas Market tour. You can always go back on your free time also. They are usually open until about 10 (or at least the one's in Munich were). . In Munich, you will be staying at the same hotel we did.
There is a subway station almost right underneath the hotel. We used it quite often and felt very safe. We arrived a day before our tour started and do not speak German, but the people there were extremely friendly and we had several offers of help with the subway system. Make sure to try one of their sausage sandwiches at the market. Have a great time!