Amsterdam, The Netherlands (file photo)

8 Amsterdam, The Netherlands

Amsterdam has not one, but two bearded gift-bearers that visit during the month of December: Sinterklaas and Santa Claus. Sinterklaas has been the richer holiday icon in Amsterdam, and gives the children most of their gifts on December 5, marking the feast of St Nicolas. Santa Claus, whose story is actually based on Sinterklaas, comes on December 25 and brings the children a couple of minor presents. The arrival of Santa Claus also brings the beginning of the two-day Dutch Christmas. Amsterdam offers visitors two feasts, two Santas and two days of gleeful Christmas parties. How much more Christmas could a traveler really ask for?