This week Genoa seems to have come alive with all things Christmas. Streets are lit with colourful lights. The first nativity scenes have appeared in shop and office windows. Surprisingly, I have not heard much muzak at all in the shops, unlike in - let's say - in London, where people are forced to listen to carols already at the end of November.
Last weekend a big indoor Christmas fair, Natalidea, was opened at Fiera di Genova, the local fair centre, and I went to see what was on offer. An easy 5 minute bus trip from Brignole station brought me in the middle of the old harbour area, buzzing with people.
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| It is the flag of Finland, even though upside down, marking the indisputable home country of Santa Claus. |
The massive hall, which looked a bit industrial to me despite the artificial snow falling from the ceiling at the entrance, was full of small and big stalls selling everything possible from crafts to jewellery, a small section of antiques, cake making equipment, leather goods, handbags, clothes, accessories, Christmas decorations - mostly cheap and cheerful stuff (apart from the antiques, of course). But judging from the number of people, this was also a welcome chance to find a bargain or two!
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