1. Walk aimlessly

I’m a walker, and one of the many reasons I like living in Prague is because it’s a great city to get lost in. Just pick a starting point, start walking and see where the path takes you. It’s a great way to explore the city and stumble upon any of Prague’s myriad treasures.

2. Drink a beer outside

After walking for a while, you’ll naturally get thirsty. Of course there aren’t as many outdoor beer gardens open now as there will be in the summer, but I just passed one yesterday and the people looked like they were in Czech beer heaven. Sipping a brew outside is one of the country’s greatest pleasures; if you don’t do it, well, you just haven’t experienced the Czech Republic. Na zdraví! (That’s “cheers!” in Czech.)

3. Find a park bench

Prague has a number of parks, squares and even little corners with benches to relax, and from which you can watch the world go by. When the temperatures warm up residents emerge from their apartments and take in the sun on their favorite park bench. It’s great people watching!

4. Head to the farmer’s market

Last year a host of farmer’s markets popped up in various locations in the city. They were so popular that they’re doing it again this year, and the season has just begun. At the markets you can find cheeses, breads, fruits, veggies and a variety of Czech specialties. Check out the official Web site (in Czech, but you can translate it online) for info about when and where to find the markets.

5. See what’s in bloom at the Botanical Gardens

Head on up to Prague Botanical Gardens. Open throughout the year, the area includes a Japanese Garden, the Fata Morgana greenhouse and St. Claire’s Vineyard, where you can sample local wines in a lovely wine bar. The gardens are located in a residential area above the city center called Troja, which is an area you might otherwise miss. While there, why not stop by the nearby Zoo and Troja Chateau. Bonus: From March 18- 27, 2011, the Fata Morgana greenhouse is hosting an orchid exhibit.

The post Prague Spring: 5 outdoor activities to celebrate the season appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

Take a look at photos we hunted down of recent festive happenings at the Salzburg Christmas markets. These are truly a few of our favorite things…

Hand-painted egg ornaments

Hundreds of thousands of hand-painted egg tree ornaments are available at the annual Christmas markets. The fragile gems come in various patterns and designs, but traditional holiday symbols, like poinsettias and ivy, seem to be the most popular.

Photo courtesy of jon gos)

Santa Clauses on the march!

Photo courtesy of Savannah Grandfather

Ok, who doesn’t love a good Santa costume, especially when it’s a legitimate throwback to another era entirely, and worn by an enthusiastic teenage boy? (Or is that Harry Potter?) Bonus points if you can figure out what he’s handing out. Anyone want a coupon for a shave?

Carriage rides through the streets of Salzburg!

Photo courtesy of Savannah Grandfather

Horses and garland, and riding, OH MY! We love that Salzburg dresses up its carriages just in time for Santa’s sleigh ride.

Tell us, Cheapos: What are your favorite things about Salzburg Christmas markets?

See also: Our list of recommended budget hotels in Salzburg.

The post Salzburg Christmas Markets: A few of our favorite things appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.