Jess Astbury regales tales of festivities in warmer climates.
Laura Reynolds looks at igloos and giant dogs
If you're looking for somewhere to spend a day or two, perhaps over Christmas, but don't have the money or the energy to venture too far afield, look no further than the city of Manchester. There's something to do for everyone:
1.German Christmas markets are a must. This is a brilliant time of year to be in Manchester-mulled wine, frankfurters and a great atmosphere! The markets hold plenty of ideas for gifts, and some great novelty treats for yourself too!
2.If you’re a football fan, Manchester has plenty to offer. Old Trafford is one of the most famous stadiums in the world (so I’m told!). And the newly named Etihad stadium is just up the road! Both have stadium and museum tours if you want to know more about either clubs’ history.
3.Urbis is a rejuvenated area of the city, following the IRA bombings of 1996. For anyone with an interest in art, this is the place to be. Urbis holds regular exhibitions and recently the national football museum opened up there – even more for the football enthusiasts!
4. Printworks – You can watch a film, eat, drink, and party all in one place. It brings the outdoors inside and with great surroundings it’s a lovely place to spend the day or night.
5. One of Manchester’s best aspects is its nightlife. You’ll never be short of options in this city. Deansgate Locks has some cheap and cheerful bars to start the night, then onto Manchester’s gay village, guaranteed to be an amazing night out!
6. Afflecks Palace – one of Manchester’s hidden gems. 4 floors of boutique vintage fashion, tattoo parlours and art. It’s quirky, and quite unlike the rest of Manchester’s shopping arcades, but a great place to experience.
7. The Trafford Centre, situated just outside the city centre, has everything from fast food, fine dining, cinema, bowling and of course shopping. Next door is the chill factor where you and your friends can go skiing in the middle of Manchester! Or if you’re a beginner like me, you can take lessons.
8. Shopping in Manchester city centre – The Arndale is the best place to hit the shops, and also has a food market adjacent to it. All the deprived Yorkers will be happy to hear there is a HUGE primark in Manchester, for all your essentials you can’t get here!
9. For the music scene there’s MEN arena, Manchester Apollo and O2 Academy, playing everything from small local bands to global superstars.
10. If you’re looking for good theatre, you’ll find it in the Palace Theatre, The Lowry and The Opera House. Pantomime season is upon us and Cinderella is currently showing at The Opera House if you’re looking for some festive fun.
I could spend forever in the Trafford and the Arndale 
Great thing about Manchester: this year, both football teams get to compete in both the Champions League AND the UEFA Cup. Unique city.
...and on the sixth day, God created MANchester. ah, can't beat Affleck's palace - also check out Mr Scruff's cafe 'Teacup' in the Northern Quarter!
Affleck's is so awesome. They have a retro game store on the top floor, and a shop that sells elaborate custom underwear. If that's not awesome, I don't know what.
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