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Europe Decoded

Real or fake: Which Christmas tree is better for the environment?

For those celebrating Christmas, you may be increasingly concerned about your carbon footprint when it comes to traditional decoration. Let’s get down to the truth.

Brussels, My Love?

Brussels, my love? Peace is biggest wish for Europeans this Christmas

In this edition, we wish all our viewers a peaceful Christmas in a context of ongoing wars in Europe and beyond.

World News

Storms across northern Europe kill at least two, injure one

A storm brought heavy rain and strong winds across northern Europe overnight and into Friday, bringing down trees and prompting warnings of flooding on the North Sea coast.

Culture news

Christmas No 1: Wham!’s ‘Last Christmas’ tops 2023 chart in the UK

For the first time, Wham! have landed the coveted title of Christmas No 1 on Official Singles Chart in the UK.

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Spain

This town won Spain's Christmas El Gordo lottery: What happened next?

There have been no Ferraris or Lamborghinis in Sodeto in recent years, but the lottery has been "a huge lifeline for many families".

Green News

This ‘anthem for doomed youth’ could be the UK’s Christmas number one

The single has gained backing from Victoria Mary Clarke, the widow of ‘Fairytale of New York’ singer Shane MacGowan.

Green News

Expert reveals how can you avoid food waste this Christmas

It's all about changing your mindset when it comes to throwing away food after dinner.

Lifestyle

From binge to mindful drinking: More young Europeans are boozing less

Boosted by healthier lifestyles and the influence of social media, more young people are now embracing mindful drinking and they're increasingly aware of what and how much booze they consume.

Food and Drink

"Sheep's head anyone?" What foods are on European tables at Christmas?

From sheep's head to the forerunner of the charcuterie, what are the origins of Europe's Christmas culinary traditions?

Economy

Cost of living crisis means putting this Christmas ritual on hold

This year, Secret Santa might just be the real Grinch for European consumers feeling the cost of living pinch.

Experiences

How to spend Christmas abroad - from those who’ve been there before

Is it best to carry your traditions with you or embrace the alternatives? We asked some frequent festive travellers to weigh in.

Business

More retailers charging return fees: Here’s how to pay less

Take a look at this guide if you want to save on your returns or exchanges this Christmas.

Business

More Europeans turn to second-hand gifts this Christmas

A new report shows that Europeans want to spend less and buy second-hand this Christmas.

Experiences

How much does a mulled wine cost at Europe’s Christmas markets?

From Budapest to Edinburgh, Europe’s Christmas markets are getting ‘outrageously’ expensive.

Economy

€21 for a hot dog? Prices are 'unreal' at this Christmas market

Hungarians might find themselves priced out of the holiday experience in the heart of their capital.

Green News

Sea turtle rehab centre names new arrivals after Santa’s helpers

A Florida sea turtle hospital has welcomed the new arrivals.

Culture news

AI revives late actor Jimmy Stewart’s voice to read a Christmas story

Twenty-six years after his death, the beloved “It’s a Wonderful Life” actor can be heard reading a brand-new Christmas bedtime story, with a little help from AI.

Culture news

Can foraging for Christmas Decorations save you money?

Claire Douglas says she's saved loads of money by looking for Christmas decorations in her local woodland.

Markets

How ready are these delivery services for Christmas?

A number of delivery services such as Ocado could face glitches as the Christmas rush starts to build up.

Economy

From chocolate to sex toys: The lucrative business of Advent calendars

Christmas Advent calendars are evolving beyond chocolate. Companies now offer calendars with elaborate products, from craft beers to books to sex toys, employing a lucrative marketing strategy that not only attracts sales but also helps customers save money during the holiday season.