Vesel božič: An Unforgettable Slovenian Christmas of Love & Light

It was around October 2025 when my partner and I decided to spend Christmas in Slovenia. I had originally dreamed of a winter holiday in a glamorous mountain destination like Mont Blanc, but the prices were already unbelievably high. Slovenia had long been on our travel list, mostly because of its beautiful coastline, but we knew winter wouldn’t be ideal for beaches. 

Where love meets winter magic 🤍

On Christmas Eve, December 24th, we flew with Swiss Air from Zürich International Airport to Ljubljana. To embrace the festive spirit, my partner and I wore Christmas decorations on our heads, which made people smile and turn around to look at us. Even the flight attendant gave us extra chocolates, amused by how festive we were. The flight was pleasant and peaceful, lasting about one hour and forty minutes, with no crying babies and a smooth ride.

Reindeer ears, holiday cheer, and us.. ready for Christmas magic 🎄❄️

We landed at Jožeta Pučnika Ljubljana Airport around 2:30 p.m. and were warmly greeted by our hotel driver, who took us directly to City Hotel Ljubljana in the city centre. The receptionist was kind and helpful, recommending cafés and Christmas markets to explore that evening.

We wandered through Ljubljana’s beautifully decorated streets, mesmerized by the towering Christmas tree in front of the church and the glowing lights adorning almost every corner. One installation made us laugh: it was a light display that oddly resembled sperm meeting an ovum. We’re still unsure about the Christmas connection, but it certainly sparked our curiosity!

A winter walk through Ljubljana, where rain sparkled like Christmas magic 🎄🌧️

Seeking shelter from the rain, we stopped at Café Zvezda as recommended by our hotel, and shared their signature cheesecake. 

Tasting Slovenia, one sip at a time at Zvezda

Afterwards, we continued to the Christmas market, where we spotted Ala Pršuterija, a charming bar that immediately caught our attention. My partner ordered a seasonal Moscow mule variation while I enjoyed my favourite Negroni. Festive classics by Mariah Carey and Céline Dion filled the air, making the moment feel truly magical.

Winter sweetness in Negroni

A Christmas evening warmed by good drinks and togetherness 🎄🍷

After freshening up at the hotel, we dressed up for our romantic Christmas Eve dinner at Ljubljančanka, one of the best local restaurants in town. The staff welcomed us in fluent English and patiently explained the menu. We chose traditional Slovenian-inspired dishes: baked champignon mushrooms with garlic oil and blue cheese as our starter, which we absolutely loved, followed by local sausages with rösti for my partner and stuffed peppers (Peperoni Ripieni) with mashed potatoes for me. 

Good food tastes even better when it’s shared with your favorite person 🍽️❤️

Where Christmas tasted like red wine, laughter, and togetherness🎄🍷

The best baked champignon in town

The food was incredibly flavourful, though the portions were so generous that I had to take my leftovers back to the hotel. With full hearts and happy stomachs, we returned to rest before our Christmas Day journey to Lake Bled.

I chose the giant pepperoni

He chose the local meat, love means supporting each other’s cravings

Waking up on Christmas morning felt festive and cheerful. At breakfast, guests greeted one another with “Merry Christmas!” and of course, I was still proudly wearing my Christmas headpiece. The buffet was fantastic, with a wide variety of delicious options. The only thing missing? Free prosecco! But after a little negotiation, we were able to celebrate properly with a couple of glasses for us.

A Christmas breakfast to remember: the quiet joy of sharing the morning together

Christmas morning in Ljubljana: shared smiles, generous breakfasts, and festive hearts

We checked out of City Hotel Ljubljana around 11 a.m. and walked to the bus station to catch an interregional bus to Bled. Thankfully, we had cash on hand, as tickets could only be purchased that way. The bus ride took just 40 minutes, and we arrived smoothly at our next stay, Hotel Kompas Bled . To our delight, our room was already ready, even though it was only lunchtime.

On our way to Bled <3

After a short rest, we set out to explore Lake Bled. The sky was overcast and moody, but the rain had stopped, allowing us to take in the breathtaking scenery. We admired the iconic church on the island from afar and took countless photos. By the lakeside, we noticed a large heart-shaped Christmas ornament where people queued for pictures, so naturally, we joined in.

The little church in the middle of Lake Bled, floating gently between mist and dreams

Our hearts found their place in Bled ✨

We then walked uphill to the impressive clifftop Bled Castle, capturing more beautiful views along the way. As the rain began again, we decided to seek warmth at Vila Prešeren, where we enjoyed Bled-inspired cocktails before strolling through the whimsical, and pleasantly uncrowded-Christmas market.

Bled Castle rising from the cliffs, as if guarding centuries of stories 🤍✨

Local flavours, slow moments, and holiday smiles 🍺🍸

A fairytale winter moment at Lake Bled: quiet, timeless, unforgettable

Later that afternoon, back at our hotel, we also connected with my partner’s family in London via Zoom, a lovely, laughter-filled moment where distance melted away and Christmas felt shared, even from afar. We dressed up for our special Christmas dinner. I wore a body-hugging dress, and my partner looked handsome in a patterned white shirt. We took our “must-have” couple photos in the room before heading to Old Cellar Bled Restaurant.

Matching outfits, shared smiles, and a Christmas night dressed in harmony

Celebrating 12 European years, with love beside me and friendship all around

We were warmly welcomed by a friendly Bosnian waiter, who seated us by the window with a perfect view of Bled Castle. For our starter, we both chose the Mushroom Cappuccino, a creative soup served in giant cappuccino cups with a frothy top, truly unique. For mains, I had tagliatelle while my partner enjoyed liver, and for dessert, we shared our favourite chocolate lava cake with vanilla ice cream, so good that we recreated it at home later in Switzerland.

Christmas in Slovenia, love by my side, and a journey worth every moment 🤍✨

Before finishing our evening, we ordered one last cocktail, and then came the most emotional surprise of the night. Our waiter returned with a small ice cream cake topped with a candle and wished us a “Happy Anniversary!” I was completely stunned.

A sparkler, a smile, and a life I’m endlessly grateful for 🤍

It turned out my partner had secretly arranged this with the restaurant, knowing that Christmas Day also marked my 12th year of living in Europe, a place that has truly become my home. I was overwhelmed with happiness and gratitude.

12 years in Europe, celebrated with love in Slovenia ✨❄️

Afterwards, we took a gentle walk along the lake to let our dinner settle before returning to the hotel. Near midnight, we watched some guests playing bingo in the hotel lounge while sipping a final drink. Exhausted but content, we finally went to bed, knowing we had just lived a truly unforgettable Christmas night!

The next morning, we woke up leisurely, exactly how holidays should be. We lingered in bed for a while, doing crosswords and talking about our plans for the day. We had looked up options like visiting Lake Bohinj and nearby nature spots, but getting there without a car seemed complicated, and we hadn’t packed proper hiking boots. By the time we finished breakfast, it was already around 11 a.m., so we chose a simpler, slower plan instead.

Wandering through Bled, hand in hand, letting the lake work its magic

Winter silence at Lake Bled, where faith, nature, and magic meet 🕯️❄️

We decided to walk all the way around Lake Bled, stopping along the way for another local beer at a charming lakeside bar. The stroll was peaceful, scenic, and filled with laughter and, of course, plenty of photos. As we passed the grand mansions surrounding the lake, we reflected on how Lake Bled must once have been an ultra-exclusive retreat for the wealthy, even if it feels more accessible today.

That evening, we dined at Central Bled House, conveniently located near the bus stop. The waiter wasn’t particularly warm, but the food made up for it. My partner ordered a mixed plate of local meat, while I chose grilled chicken, which turned out to be a bit bland, so we added more spicy sausages to the table. I couldn’t help but notice that the restaurant’s red wool cushions looked almost identical to my own sweater; I jokingly considered taking one home, but my partner wisely stopped me. We enjoyed our meal, then stopped by the hotel bar for bingo-less Negroni before heading to bed. 

The day after Christmas, shared plates, warm lights, and quiet joy at Central Bled House

My red sweater found its twin in the restaurant cushions

On our final day, with our flight scheduled for the afternoon, we made one last gentle loop around Lake Bled. We treated ourselves to the famous Traditional Bled Cream Cake at Vila Prešeren, and as we savored it, a few curious birds decided to join our table, a funny, charming moment we’ll always remember.

A slice of Kremšnita, a moment to remember

Afterwards, we returned to the hotel, collected our luggage, and said goodbye to Lake Bled before taking the bus to the airport. It truly was an unforgettable Christmas holiday in Slovenia, one filled with love, magic, and quiet beauty. We know we’ll be back someday to explore what we couldn’t this time. See you soon, Slovenia.

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🌿 Thoughtful Travel Tips 

Getting Around

• If you want to visit places like Lake Bohinj, Vintgar Gorge, or Triglav National Park, consider renting a car.
• Buses are reliable between Ljubljana and Bled, but cash can be useful for local tickets and small vendors.

Best Time to Visit Bled in Winter

• Late December is magical but can be misty and quiet, perfect for romance, less ideal for hiking.
• If you want clearer views, late January to early March often brings crisp, sunny winter days.

Where to Eat

• Don’t miss: Bled Cream Cake (kremšnita) at Vila Prešeren or Park Restaurant.
• For traditional flavors, try Old Cellar Bled or local taverns around the lake.

What to Pack in Winter

• Waterproof shoes or boots, paths can be slippery.
• A warm coat, scarf, and gloves; weather can change quickly.
• If you plan photoshoots: a mix of sexy, elegant outfits and cozy layers.

Experiences Worth Considering Next Time

• Rowing a traditional pletna boat to Bled Island.
• Visiting Bled Castle
• Day trip to Lake Bohinj or Vintgar Gorge.

Carl’s 60th Birthday Bash

It was a truly beautiful Saturday, November 15th, 2025, when we gathered to celebrate Carl’s 60th birthday with an extravagant family party at his sister’s stunning house near Reading, England. From the moment we arrived, the atmosphere felt special, full of care, thoughtfulness, and love.

Your smile says it all, sixty years young, and loved beyond measure

The decorations were incredibly stylish and joyful. Elegant balloons shaped as the number 60 stood proudly alongside playful champagne-themed balloons. The dinner table was arranged in an L-shape, perfectly accommodating the eighteen guests who had come together for this special occasion. 

Smiles, bubbles, and birthday magic ✨

Dressed in black, glowing with joy, and celebrating a milestone

Delicate confetti sparkled across the table, the place settings were immaculate, and each chair carried a name card. Naturally, I searched eagerly for mine,and was delighted to find that Carl and I were seated side by side at the head of the table, making it all the easier to steal a few sweet selfies together.

Sixty years celebrated with grace, warmth, and the people who matter most

The terrace was just as beautifully prepared, softly lit with twinkling lights. Homemade fruit cakes topped with a glowing “60” candle awaited us, alongside a wonderful range of flavoursome ginger biscuits. We arrived around 2:30 in the afternoon and were warmly welcomed by the family. 

The best homemade fruit-cake and Gingerbread. Birthday feels like Christmas

One of Carl’s nephews soon appeared with glasses of champagne, something I’m always more than happy to accept!. We spent the afternoon bonding and chatting on the terrace, sipping champagne, enjoying the gentle November air, and waiting for the remaining family members to arrive.

With the adorable Bella, the Staffordshire 🐶

 

Laughter, sparkle, and family warmth 😉✨

Surrounded by his lovely nieces and somehow I fit in ✨😄

I also had a chance to play piano in one of the rooms, something that I always missing and hoping one day I can have my piano available and can practice as much as I can.

There was a brief moment of concern when Carl’s daughter and her partner had trouble with their car, causing us some disquiets. But just in time, with help from Carl’s son, she arrived, and by dinner, the entire family was finally together. The house came alive with laughter, joyful conversations, the happy sounds of a baby, and the playful presence of two dogs, that pure, beautiful chaos in the best possible way.

Four generations 💖 

Then came the moment we had all been waiting for: First, we did some fantastic family pictures, then we gathered once again on the terrace as Carl stood at the centre, while his sister lit a sparkling candle. We sang Happy Birthday, raised our glasses, and toasted to Carl, sixty years wonderfully lived!

Celebrating sixty beautiful years of you, wrapped in love, laughter, and family

Dinner followed, and it was nothing short of exceptional. Carl’s brother-in-law, who took charge of the cooking (and who is truly an outstanding chef), prepared roasted chicken and lamb, an amazing aubergine dish, all alongside fragrant rice and perfectly cooked vegetables. 

The finest roasted chicken, made even more special on his birthday

We found our places at the table and enjoyed every bite. I chose the chicken with rice and vegetables, paired with a crisp glass of white wine, while Carl opted for the lamb with rice and a glass of red. It was, without question, some of the best food we have ever had. It was so good that we were still talking about it long after we returned home.

A birthday feast to remember table, blessed with the most loving family 💝

Dessert was the perfect finale: a huge range of sweet homemade options including a light, heavenly pavlova made by Carl’s sister-in-law. I was absolutely obsessed, and we all agreed that it was the best pavlova imaginable. 

Pavlova made with love, the finest 

Before saying goodnight, Carl and I enjoyed a margarita prepared by his lovely nephew (the same one who had welcomed us earlier with champagne). It was naturally excellent, and we ended the evening feeling content, happy, and full of gratitude.

With the wonderful woman who opened her home & her heart to celebrate 60 beautiful years

Family, laughter.. and a little Duolingo magic in between 🎉📚

Later that night, we returned to Carl’s father’s home, where we said our goodnights. Carl’s son was also staying there with his wife and their beautiful Staffordshire bull terrier dog, Bella, ending the day surrounded by family and love.

The following day brought yet another family gathering, this time a more intimate lunch with Carl’s children, their families, and Carl’s father. Once again, the food was unforgettable. Carl’s father proved himself legendary in the kitchen, serving the most exquisite venison, paired with outstanding wine. The afternoon was filled with laughter, meaningful conversations, and, most importantly, precious moments as Carl spent time with his very first granddaughter.

Proof that the most memorable celebrations are often found at the dinner table

When love, family, and the perfect roast come together

Grandpa’s arms, a granddaughter’s world, pure love in its simplest form

Tiny hands, lifelong love

We finished lunch with two divine desserts: blueberry clafoutis and apricot pie. While both were delicious, the apricot pie won my heart, because it was perfectly sweet and comforting.

On Monday, November 17th, 2025, Carl and I flew back home to Basel, Switzerland. Before heading to the airport, we took the time to visit the iconic MI6 building from James Bond and treated ourselves to a luxurious lunch at The Goring Hotel. 

Between spies and secrets, we celebrated us 😎

There, we enjoyed the most delicious jacket potato and what may well have been the best Negroni we’ve ever had. The staff were incredibly warm and welcoming, which made the experience even more special, especially as we were also celebrating another meaningful day in our relationship.

A dream setting, a precious moment, just two of us at The Goring Hotel

A royal feeling in the heart of Belgravia 

The lovely staff surprised us with a polaroid. Moments we'll treasure forever

And then, it was time to say goodbye to London. But not for long. Because for such an amazing place, we always know that we’ll see each other again sooner than we think. ✨

One last toast before heading home💋love travelling with you, always

Until next time, London. Thank you for the memories, the love, and the moments we’ll hold close 💖