IN addition to the Christmas Markets by coach or air we have a couple of great breaks sailing from North Shields with DFDS Seaways on beautifully appointed ships sailing from North Shields to Amsterdam.
Instead of making the long journey south to cross the Channel, those opting to join breaks to Germany's historic Christmas markets, and to the festive markets of the Black Forest, the Swiss city of Basel and picturesque Strasbourg - will only need to travel to North Shields ferry terminal to feel they are already "abroad".
Both holidays are sure to get your Christmas season off to a fun-filled start, whether it's the delights of the Rhine and Moselle valleys, where festive markets have been a tradition since the 12th century, or the fairytale splendours of the Black Forest.
