The 10 Best Mimosa Recipes You Need To Try At Brunch This Weekend

mimosa recipes for 2023

Hello, gorgeous soul with an affinity for both bubbles and banter! If you're the kind of person who believes brunch should be a symphony of flavors, a feast for the senses, and a flirtatious affair with every sip, then you've stumbled upon your ultimate brunch companion — the mimosa.

Now, I won't pretend to know all your brunch secrets, but I do know this: your brunch game is about to get a lot more interesting. Whether you're planning a cozy morning tête-à-tête with your crush or a bubbly brunch bash with your squad, we've got the perfect mimosa recipes that will not only tickle your taste buds but also infuse a dash of flirtatious fun into your day.

So, my fellow brunch aficionado, join me in lifting your glass and celebrating the irresistible fusion of citrusy charm and effervescent allure. We're about to unlock the secrets to crafting the most mesmerizing mimosas you've ever sipped, turning your brunch into a sparkling adventure where every clink of the glass is a toastto joy, togetherness, and pure, unadulterated delight.

Why Is Mimosa The Loveliest Brunch Drink

Image via Briona Baker / Unsplash

  • It Is Named After A Flower: The cocktail was named after the mimosa flower, which has a bright and cheerful yellow color resembling the shade of the drink. How cool is that!
  • Brunch Classic: Mimosas are a brunch staple, and brunch itself is a beloved and relaxed mealtime for many people. The mimosa perfectly complements the leisurely vibe of brunch.
  • Elegant Presentation: Mimosas are often served in tall, slender champagne flutes, which not only maintain the cocktail's carbonation but also make it look elegant and appealing.
  • Low Alcohol Content: Mimosas tend to have a lower alcohol content compared to other cocktails or straight champagne. This makes them a suitable choice for those who want to enjoy a drink without becoming overly intoxicated.
  • Social Drink: Sharing a mimosa during brunch with friends or loved ones can enhance the social experience. It's a drink that encourages conversations and toasts.
  • Easy to Make: Mimosas are simple to prepare, requiring just a few ingredients and minimal effort. This makes them accessible for both amateur and experienced mixologists.

Classic Mimosa

What makes this cocktail special is its simplicity and elegance. It's the kind of drink that effortlessly elevates any brunch or special occasion, adding a touch of sparkle and sophistication. You really can't go wrong with a classic like the Mimosa Cocktail. (via Culinary Hill)

Tropical Mango Mimosas

Prepare to embark on a taste bud adventure with these Tropical Mango Mimosas, a whimsical twist on the classic brunch favorite. A burst of sun-kissed sweetness comes from the velvety mango puree, beautifully blended with chilled champagne. Whether you're hosting a brunch soiree or simply treating yourself to a morning delight, these mimosas are a tropical escape in a flute, offering a taste of paradise at every bubbly, mango-infused sip. (via Averie Cooks)

Cranberry Mimosa Recipe

With its ruby-red hue and tantalizing blend of sweet and sour, this mimosa is a festive companion for any celebration, from holiday gatherings to leisurely Sunday brunches. Sip, savor, and let the Cranberry Mimosa add a pop of fruity fun to your next morning toast. Cheers to sipping on the brighter side of brunch! (via The Edgy Veg)

Grapefruit Mimosa

Step aside, ordinary mimosas; the Grapefruit Mimosa is taking the brunch spotlight by storm! With a zesty twist on tradition, this bubbly delight combines the tangy allure of freshly squeezed grapefruit juice with the effervescence of champagne. (via Crowded Kitchen)

Raspberry Mimosa

Looking to add a dash of flirtatiousness and a burst of berry bliss to your brunch routine? Look no further than the Raspberry Mimosa. This delightful concoction marries the effervescence of champagne with the bold, sweet-tart flavor of ripe raspberries. One of my favorites! (via Crowded Kitchen)

Pomegranate Mimosa

If you're anything like me, brunch isn't just about food; it's a chance to savor life's moments, big and small. This is why if you want a unique brunch adventure try this Pomegranate Mimosa recipe. Guarantee you won't regret it! (via Mixop)

Strawberry Mimosa

I love strawberries so it's no surprise I am an advocate of the Strawberry Mimosa. This delightful cocktail combines two of my favorite things: the luscious sweetness of strawberries and the effervescent elegance of champagne. (via The Endless Meal)

Apple Cider Mimosa

The Apple Cider Mimosa is a must-try for anyone seeking the perfect blend of autumn's warmth and sparkling elegance. It's a delightful upgrade of a classic cocktail that infuses the seasonal charm of apple cider into the beloved Mimosa. If you're looking to elevate your fall gatherings or simply want to savor the flavors of the season, this recipe is your go-to choice. (via The Endless Meal)

Christmas Mimosa

The Christmas Mimosa is a festive and bubbly cocktail that brings the joy and sparkle of the holiday season to your glass. This recipe combines the refreshing zing of cranberry juice with the tastiness of champagne, creating a drink that's perfect for celebrating Christmas morning or adding a touch of merriment to your holiday gatherings. It's easy to make, and it's ready in just 5 minutes! (via The Endless Meal)

Pineapple Mimosa

So, why wait for your next beach vacation to enjoy the magic of pineapple and champagne? With this recipe, you can bring the tropics to your table anytime you please. Give it a try and savor the blissful flavors of the Pineapple Mimosa. (via Crowded Kitchen)

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Header image via Crowded Kitchen

Step into the enchanting world of holiday cheer with my handpicked selection of Christmas cocktails that are more than just drinks, but sips of festive magic! These Christmas cocktails give the energy of warm fireplaces, joyful laughter, and glowing tree lights. Whether you're looking for something sparkling, something sweet, something spicy (and anything in between), there's a Christmas cocktail recipe for you here!

The tastiest Christmas cocktails you'll be sipping well into the new year

Spicy Fireball Cocktail

Brit + Co

Embrace the holiday spirit with a Spicy Fireball Cocktail – a winter twist on the classic Moscow mule. Quick to make and visually stunning, this cozy concoction features the warmth of Fireball whiskey and is perfect for Christmas gatherings, New Year celebrations, or any other festive occasion.

Mulled Cider with Cloved Oranges

Brit + Co

Filled with aromatic spices, citrusy notes, and a touch of sweetness, this delightful apple cider is not only perfect for cozy evenings, but also makes a charming stocking stuffer or hostess gift.

Chocolate Martini

Brit + Co

Make those cozy Christmas nights even cozier by shaking up this easy martini! All you need to make it is Baileys chocolate liqueur, vodka, espresso, and simple syrup.

Peppermint White Russian 

Brit + Co

You've never had a White Russian like this before! It's a tasty blend of vodka, coffee liqueur, peppermint schnapps, and heavy cream. With the peppermint on the rim, you'll be glad to boast a festive mint smile.

Rosé Mezcal Paloma

Brit + Co

Some Christmas cocktails look too pretty to drink, but you and guests will enjoy sipping this on December 25. It's light enough that you won't feel tipsy, but the flavor still packs the punch you're looking for.

Spiced Winter Mojito

Brit + Co

If you want a drink that feels like summer, this spiced winter mojito is going to give you what you need. With its cloves, star anise, and other tasty ingredients, you'll wonder why you haven't made this sooner.

Mulled Wine Hot Chocolate

Brit + Co

Combining aromatic mulled wine infused with orange and spices, this water-based cocoa sweetened with brown sugar creates a decadent and rich experience that will redefine your Christmas cocktail traditions.

Hot Buttered Rum

Brit + Co

This spiced and spirited Christmas cocktail, featuring a blend of softened butter, brown sugar, and aromatic spices, is the perfect way to chase away the chill and add a touch of festive warmth to your holiday.

Bourbon Cocktail 

Brit + Co

Embrace the holiday spirit with the perfect festive drink – the Butterscotch Bourbon Milk Punch. This bourbon cocktail, infused with the sweet notes of homemade butterscotch syrup, promises to add a touch of warmth and flavor to your Christmas celebrations.

“Naughty and Nice” Holiday Cocktails

Brit + Co

Host a festive holiday party with these DIY Naughty and Nice Coca-Cola cocktails. First, choose between decadent chocolate-cherry or refreshing rum concoction, then add a touch of holiday cheer with themed Coca-Cola bottles.

CITNB (Cranberry is the New Black) Cocktail

Brit + Co

Whether you opt for black vodka or infuse clear vodka with black food coloring, this stylish drink, featuring creme de cassis and sparkling cranberry juice, is a surefire way to impress your dinner guests with its bold and glamorous flair.

Coffee Holiday Cocktail

Brit + Co

This Christmas cocktail boasts a hearty mix of dark beer, room-temperature espresso, and a brown sugar cinnamon syrup, topped with whipped cream and sprinkles. If your celebrations need a little boost of boozy energy, this drink is the one for you.

Lemon Drop Martini

Brit + Co

This iconic zesty cocktail will complete this year's festive gatherings. Elevate your holiday celebration with this easy-to-make Lemon Drop Martini that combines sweet and sour in the tastiest way possible.

Ginger Minj's Sassy Caramel Apple Cocktail

Brit + Co

Not only is this Christmas cocktail on-theme with the red and green colors, but its flavors of apple and cinnamon also work to highlight the season. It's crafted with apple vodka, prosecco, Sour Apple Pucker, and a touch of lime juice.

Slow-Cooker Mulled Reisling

Brit + Co

This warm white wine concoction fills your home with a delightful aroma and ensures a worry-free celebration without the fear of carpet stains from merry spills.

Chai Hot Toddy

Brit + Co

This Chai Hot Toddy puts a grown-up twist on classic chai tea. Infused with spiced rum, cinnamon-infused milk, and a hint of vanilla, this warm and subtly spicy winter drink is perfect for sipping at your merry mistletoe gatherings.

Cranberry Pear Ginger Fizz

Brit + Co

Muddled cranberries, pear slices, and a hint of lime come together with gin and ginger beer, creating a vibrant and flavorful cocktail perfect for spreading seasonal cheer.

Chocolate Peppermint Stick Cocktail

Salt & Lavender

This festive drink brings together Baileys, Creme de Cacao, Peppermint Schnapps, and a crushed candy cane rim, creating a creamy and delicious experience.

The Merry & Bright Blackberry Spritz

Lauren Sephton/Waterloo

Blackberries and mint make a big holiday statement in this Christmas cocktail. To make it, fill 1/3 of a glass with Sauvignon Blanc, topping off the rest with Waterloo Blackberry Lemonade Sparkling Water. Add fresh blackberries on top and garnish with a mint sprig!

Holly Jolly Christmas Citrus Cocktail

Half Baked Harvest

Celebrate the season with this Holly Jolly Christmas Citrus Cocktail – vodka, St. Germain, and fresh citrus juice, topped with ginger beer and pomegranates.

S’mores Martini

Mixop

This velvety smooth cocktail, complete with a graham cracker rim and toasted marshmallow garnish, is a nostalgic treat perfect for festive gatherings or cozy holiday nights.

Jericalla

Mi Campo Tequila

This frothy Christmas cocktail provides a strong and sweet sip. To make it, shake 1.5 oz Mi Campo Reposado, ½ oz vanilla syrup, ½ oz fresh lime juice, and 1 egg white together in a shaker without ice. Then, add some ice, and shake vigorously again. Strain the mix into chilled glass and garnish with freshly grated nutmeg.

Cranberry Orange Mimosas

Completely Delicious

Made with just three ingredients – cranberry juice, freshly squeezed orange juice, and sparkling white wine – this Christmas cocktail recipe brings cheer to intimate gatherings and lively crowds alike.

Cranberry and Pomegranate Red Punch Recipe

Clean Cuisine

This naturally vibrant punch, featuring organic ingredients and superfood pomegranate powder, promises a more health-conscious addition to your Christmas celebrations.

Brandy Alexander Cocktail

Vikalinka

Creamy, luxurious, and just a bit cheeky, this decadent drink combines brandy, creme de cacao, and double cream topped with a dash of freshly grated nutmeg. Perfect for sipping alongside your fam's fave Christmas movie!

Sherry Old Fashioned

Virginia Distillery Co.

If you're feeling extra-crafty this Christmas season, make your own fig syrup for this cocktail by steeping fresh figs into your go-to simple syrup recipe. Once that's squared away, mix 1.5 oz Courage & Conviction Sherry Single Cask, 2 tsp fig syrup, and 2-3 dashes of black walnut bitters to form the drink, then add a fresh fig slice or an orange peel for garnish.

Christmas Cranberry Mojito

The Endless Meal

Crafted with homemade spiced cranberry syrup, mint, and a touch of fizz, this Christmas cocktail is perfect for spreading holiday cheer at parties and cozy gatherings. Get ready to enjoy it in just 20 minutes!

Christmas Margarita

Mixop

This zingy blend of tequila, Grand Marnier, cranberry juice, and a hint of rosemary brings joy to your taste buds, making it the perfect Christmas cocktail.

The Grinch Cocktail

Crowded Kitchen

With its vibrant green color and optional sprinkle rim, this cocktail is the perfect companion for your adult holiday celebrations, as long as you're not a Grinch about it!

Jac's on Bond Bodega Buns Cocktail

Jac's on Bond

Oh, honey! This luscious Christmas cocktail emulates the sticky sweetness of Honey Buns mixed with notes of gin, pineapple, and lemon. You'll infuse a small batch of Ford's gin with Honey Buns first before shaking 2 oz of it with .5 oz pineapple juice, .5 oz lemon juice, .5 oz simply syrup, and a pinch of Maldon salt, and straining into a coupe glass.

“The Bodega Buns is the unexpectedly harmonious marriage of a “tropical” gimlet and the bodega classic Honey Bun," says Trevor Langer, Head Bartender at NYC's Jac’s on Bond. "The odd couple pairing brings out the best tasting quality in one another and subdue what some can consider less desirable. I.e. the sharpness of the gin and brightness from the citrus cut the cloying sweetness one may experience when eating a packaged cake, whilst still allowing that delectable bready note to still be present. My favorite thing to hear, which happens most times people try this drink for the first time is: ‘That literally tastes like a Honeybun!’”

Buddy the Elf Cocktail

Half Baked Harvest

This festive cocktail combines vodka, Kahlua, maple syrup, vanilla, molasses, cinnamon, and ginger for the most holiday flavor you're ever had in a single drink. Buddy would definitely approve of the sweetness!

Cranberry Mocktail 

Crowded Kitchen

Whether you're abstaining, the designated driver, or just prefer skipping the booze, this festive NA drink is perfect for everyone at the Christmas dinner able.

Apple Pie Martini

Proper No. Twelve

Shake 2 oz Proper Irish Apple, 2 oz Irish Cream Liqueur, and a dash of cinnamon together to make this decadent Christmas cocktail! Once it's shook and strained, pour the mix into a martini glass rimmed with crushed graham cracker and garnish with cinnamon.

Candy Cane Martini

Mixop

Mix some vanilla vodka, crème de menthe, half & half, and crushed candy canes to craft this Christmas cocktail. It's *so* creamy and perfectly balanced for the festivities!

Old Saint Nick’s Chocolate Espresso Martini

Half Baked Harvest

This Christmas cocktail doubles as a chocolatey holiday treat, adorned with chocolate fudge sauce and candy garnishes. Think of this recipe as the perfect nightcap that captures the essence of Christmas and adds a touch of elegance to your celebrations.

Pink Holiday Cocktail

Mixop

This festive drink blends vodka, raspberry liqueur, cranberry juice, grapefruit juice, lime juice, and simple syrup to bring color and joy into your Christmas gatherings.

Peppermint White Russian

Crowded Kitchen

What could be better than a mix of coffee liqueur, peppermint schnapps, and coconut milk, garnished with a candy cane rim? This Christmas cocktail has a super rich and decadent finish for holiday hosting.

Santa Baby Cocktail

Crowded Kitchen

Sparkling raspberry rosé, Chambord, and a touch of glitter adds a magical twist to this Christmas cocktail. Toast to the season by serving this recipe in fancy glasses!

Cranberry Bourbon Sour

The Endless Meal

Sip on the holiday spirit with a Cranberry Bourbon Sour, a festive twist on the classic cocktail. Made with 100% cranberry juice, it boasts a naturally sweet-tart flavor and a vibrant ruby hue – a perfect addition to your seasonal celebrations, ready in just 5 minutes! (via The Endless Meal)

Espresso Mint-tini

Mr. Black

Combine your favorite flavors of coffee and mint with this updated martini recipe! Here's what you'll need to create the perfect Christmas cocktail if you're not ready to part ways with caffeine for the holidays:

Ingredients

1.5oz Mr Black

0.75 Don Julio Reposado

1oz Espresso or Cold Brew Concentrate

0.25 oz Giffard Menthe Pastille

Recipe

Add ingredients to cocktail shaker with ice and shake super hard for 15 seconds.

Strain into your prepared coupe and garnish with a mini candy cane.

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This post has been updated with additional reporting by Meredith Holser.

"What would you do if your entire family, and your hometown, set you up to find love?" That's the question Ashley Williams poses in the first Small Town Setup trailer, coming to Hallmark+ in 2025. And if anyone has the answer, I have no doubt it's Hallmark — if anyone knows about warm, cozy, and sappy romance it's them! Even if you're not a huge reality dating show fan (or if you couldn't stop watching Reese Witherspoon's Love in Fairhope) this is one January TV show you won't want to miss.

Here's everything we know about Hallmark's dating show Small Town Setup, hosted by Ashley Williams.

'Small Town Setup' puts you right in a Hallmark movie.

All six episodes of Small Town Setup premieres on Hallmark+ on Thursday, January 2, 2025, and is hosted by Ashley Williams, who you'll recognize from movies like Falling Together and Two Tickets to Paradise as well as How I Met Your Mother.

Just like your favorite Hallmark movies are all about finding love, Small Town Setup focuses on singles coupling up. The show will follow a single who "has made it in the big city, but has yet to find love." And their concerned parents (definitely a Hallmark trope and an IRL trope...) get the whole neighborhood involved in finding three potential matches.

"When the singleton arrives home for a visit, they are presented with dating options curated by their hometown. After three dates, will they find love in their hometown? Or head back to the big city? All is revealed at a big town hall event, full of heart, warmth, and a few laughs along the way."

Okay, getting the entire town involved in my love life sounds crazy, but the whole community coming together for a town hall event sounds exactly like the kind of sweet and sappy event my life needs. (Listen!! Dating as a 20-something in the city is harder than I expected...)

Throughout the trailer we see our singles looking for love around their hometown, going on small town dates, and finding connection in the most unexpected places. Yeah...I'll be tuning in — especially since Small Town Setup is totally giving Gilmore Girls.

Check out the 11 New January 2025 Movies Viewers Will Adore — and you'll want to add to your calendar ASAP!

When it comes to Thanksgiving drinks, we're all about the festive flavors. This refreshing and delicious cranberry cocktail is one of our absolute favorites! Tieghan from Half Baked Harvest was kind enough to share this insanely yummy drink recipe with us. Take it away, Tieghan!

Get into the Thanksgiving spirit with these Spiced Cranberry Rosé Spritzers! Homemade spiced cranberry jam, woodsy rosemary, fruity rosé, sweet elderflower liquor, fresh citrus, and spicy ginger beer. Mix everything together to create a festive pitcher-style cocktail that's easy to create, refreshing, and delicious. Bonus: this drink can be made ahead of time for easy holiday entertaining, and the festive red color doubles as a gorgeous decor piece on any table!

Keep Reading For Our Delicious Bubbly Cranberry Cocktail

Half Baked Harvest

And just like that, I'm in full on holiday mode. Can't help it, this time of year makes me so happy! And with Thanksgiving less than two weeks away it's hard not to be excited. Anyone else feeling the same?

We've been having the coziest weather up here in the mountains. It's inspired me to create recipes that will to warm us up from the inside out. That's honestly one of the cheesiest things I'll say, but it's the truth. I know it's hard to imagine a drink warming you up, especially one that's served over ice, but the spices in this wine spritzer do just that.

Half Baked Harvest

The key to this fun drink is the cranberry jam-syrup. It's actually kind of a mix between a jam and syrup. It uses fresh fruit like a jam would, but it's consistency is much more syrup like. So, it's kind of a cross between the two. Whatever you'd like to call it, it's a delicious mix of sweet honey, fresh tart cranberries, rosemary, and warming cardamom. The honey balances out the tart cranberries, while the rosemary and cardamon add coziness and warmth. Perfect for a Thanksgiving spritzer!

To make the jam, just add all ingredients to a pot. Bring to a boil, boil a minute or two, and done. So simple.

Half Baked Harvest

Once the jam has cooled, add it to a pitcher along with a bottle of your favorite rosé, elderflower liquor (this is my favorite right now), cranberry or pomegranate juice, and a few dashes of orange bitters. Chill the mix, and then just before serving, add fresh citrus slices. I used blood oranges, but regular oranges or grapefruit would be great too. Top it all off with fizzy, spicy, ginger beer (another one of my favorites).

This cocktail is both refreshing and warming, perfect for a chilly November night, or a snow-filled Thanksgiving Day complete with cozy blankets, a roaring fire, and candles galore.

Ingredients for Spiced Cranberry Rosé Spritzers

Half Baked Harvest

  • 1/2 cup honey
  • 2 cups fresh cranberries
  • 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, plus more for serving
  • 1 tablespoon cardamon pods or 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
  • 1 bottle (750 ml) rosé wine
  • 4 ounces elderflower liquor
  • 1/3 cup cranberry or pomegranate juice
  • 2-3 dashes orange bitter
  • 2 blood oranges or regular oranges, sliced
  • 4-6 (12 ounce) ginger beers, to your taste

Directions for Spiced Cranberry Rosé Spritzers

Half Baked Harvest

  1. To make the cranberry syrup: In a medium pot, bring 1/2 cup water, the honey, cranberries, rosemary, and cardamon to a boil over high heat. Boil 5 minutes or until the cranberries begin to burst, then remove from the heat. Let cool. Remove the rosemary and cardamon pods. If desired, strain out the cranberries.
  2. In a large pitcher, combine the cranberry syrup, rosé, elderflower liquor, cranberry juice, and orange bitters. Chill until ready to serve, up to 2 days.
  3. Add the orange slices and ginger beer just before serving. Garnish each drink with a candied rosemary (recipe below), if desired.

For the candied rosemary garnish:

  1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Gently run rosemary sprigs under a little water to dampen and place on the prepared baking sheet.
  3. Sprinkle the rosemary with granulated sugar on all sides, making sure the rosemary is thoroughly coated in sugar.
  4. Allow to dry on the baking sheet for 1 hour. The rosemary can be made 1 day in advance and stored at room temperature.

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This post has been updated.

Tourism can be a blessing for the economy of many cities around the world, but it often comes at a price. Destinations like Venice and Bali are iconic for a reason — they’re unique, breathtaking places that lure travelers from around the globe. But when a travel destination becomes too popular, it risks losing its charm and overcrowding can strain infrastructure, inflate costs for locals, and disrupt the peace and quiet of small, serene towns.

Here are 12 destinations that have struggled with overtourism. The good news? Many are implementing smart strategies to balance tourism with sustainability. Planning to visit? Consider booking during the off-season for a more authentic and enjoyable experience or try these hidden gems.

Pixabay

Venice, Italy

Cruise ships and swarms of tourists have overwhelmed this picturesque city, leading to overcrowded canals, damaged infrastructure, and skyrocketing prices. The local population is dwindling as Venetians leave due to the city’s unsustainable tourism boom. Last spring, in an effort to manage the influx, the city put into effect an entry fee for day-trippers and has limited cruise ships docking its shores.

Oleksandr P

Bali, Indonesia

Once an idyllic paradise, Bali now suffers from traffic congestion, environmental degradation, and overcrowded beaches. The island’s resources are strained under the weight of mass tourism, but there are efforts underway to promote sustainability like putting a moratorium on new hotels.

Willian Justen de Vasconcellos

Machu Picchu, Peru

Overtourism has led to erosion and damage to this ancient Incan citadel. A quota system and mandatory guides are helping preserve this popular South American destination.

Darren Lawrence

Tulum, Mexico

Once a tranquil paradise known for its pristine beaches, ancient Mayan ruins, and eco-chic vibe, Tulum has become a cautionary tale of overtourism. The surge in popularity, fueled by Instagram-worthy scenery, has brought overcrowding, environmental strain, and rising costs. The Guardianreported that locals are being pushed out by developers and despite the thinking that tourism helps local communities, poverty nearly doubled between 2015 and 2020. Local ecosystems, including fragile mangroves and coral reefs, are threatened by unchecked construction and pollution too. The local ruins have implemented stricter rules like no food or drink to limit trash and environmental impact from tourists.

Jimmy Teoh

Santorini, Greece

Instagram fame has turned this once-serene island into a tourist hotspot. Narrow streets are perpetually clogged, and locals are struggling with soaring costs of living due to tourism demand. The government has since capped the number of daily cruise ship visitors to keep overtourism at bay.

Chait Goli

Cinque Terre, Italy

Known for its colorful cliffside villages and breathtaking coastal views, these once-quiet fishing towns now see millions of visitors annually, way more than they can handle. To combat issues like congestion and cruise ships, local authorities have introduced visitor caps and encourage sustainable travel to protect Cinque Terre’s charm.

Rudy Kirchner

Reykjavík, Iceland

Is there anyone not going to Iceland these days? A small country with breathtaking landscapes, Iceland has been overwhelmed by tourists flocking to Instagram-famous sites like the Blue Lagoon and Diamond Beach. It's best to travel during the off season (November to April) and travel to lesser known spots like the Sturlungalaug hot spring.

youseflns

Maya Bay, Thailand (Phi Phi Islands)

This iconic beach, popularized by the DiCaprio film The Beach, suffered ecological devastation from hordes of visitors and anchored boats. Coral reefs were destroyed, and the beach was closed for years to allow recovery. It has since reopened after a huge revitalization project, but they have introduced visitor caps.

Pixabay

Kyoto, Japan

Traditionally quiet streets of this ancient capital city now teem with tourists during peak season. An increase in litter from tourists has required the city to install more trash bins to handle the crowds, and peaceful geishas are often chased down for photos. To mitigate the problem, Kyoto is considering running special buses to popular sites to reduce overcrowding, and temples and shrines are encouraging visitors to come early in the morning.

Prabin Sunar

Mount Everest, Nepal

The ultimate challenge for adventurers, Mount Everest has experienced overcrowding on the slopes and at base camps, leading to dangerous conditions, with litter and human waste piling up on the mountain. Permits are now harder to get, and stricter regulations for climbers are being enforced.

Mateusz Popek

Dubrovnik, Croatia

The Game of Thrones effect brought an influx of fans to this medieval city. Overcrowded streets and cruise ship arrivals have made it difficult to appreciate its beauty. The local government is taking steps to limit daily visitors and impose stricter cruise ship regulations.

Helena I

Lisbon, Portugal

Short-term rentals dominate the housing market now, thanks to affordable flights and the digital nomad craze. This has led to skyrocketing rents and displaced locals. Historic neighborhoods are inundated with tourists, making them less charming too. Everything from public transport to waste management struggles to keep pace with the influx. I went in December and it still felt a bit like Disneyland. Douro Valley and Madeira might be more favorable destinations any time of year.

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Heaping plates of Christmas cookies are synonymous with the holidays. It seems that nearly every country around the globe has their own variation on the holiday classic. In fact, some of these regions have been making their version of Christmas cookies for literal hundreds of years.

If you’re looking for a way to reconnect with your heritage, or maybe just want a little baking inspiration, check out our picks for the yummiest Christmas cookies from around the world.

The Noshery

Mantecaditos con Guayaba

These may look like ordinary thumbprint cookies, but these almond shortbreads from Puerto Rico are filled with a special guava marmalade. (via The Noshery)

Broma Bakery

Meringues

French meringues are a classic crumbly egg white cookie with a chewy interior. These get an extra European twist with the addition of Nutella. (via Broma Bakery)

Pretty. Simple. Sweet.

Alfajores

Deeply flavored dulce de leche, a caramel made from whole milk commonly found in Spain and many Latin American countries, is the key ingredient in these super pretty sandwiched Christmas cookies. (via Pretty. Simple. Sweet.)

Fancy Peasant

Melomakarona

These Christmas cookies that hail from Greece get their sweetness from a generous soaking of fresh honey! (via Fancy Peasant)

Very Eatalian

Baci di Dama

The name of this Italian treat translates to “lady’s kisses” — how adorable is that? These bite-sized cuties are made with ground hazelnuts and filled with a dollop of dark chocolate. (via Very Eatalian)

Cooking Classy

Linzer Cookies

These Austrian Christmas cookies are typically made with raspberry jam, but feel free to get crazy with a filling of your choice. Plus, the gorgeous windowpane look will make them a prize takeaway at your next cookie exchange. (via Cooking Classy)

Olivia’s Cuisine

Basler Brunsli

If you’re hanging out in Switzerland around Christmas time, you’ll definitely see these chocolate treats around. They’re often described as Swiss brownies due to their deliciously chewy texture. Perfect with a cup of eggnog or coffee! (via Olivia’s Cuisine)

Cilantro Parsley

Buñuelos

These tender miniature fritters from Mexico are a mix between a donut and cookie. Whatever you want to call them, they’re delicious. (via Cilantro Parsley)

Chef Lindsey Farr

Apricot Kolachys

The Hungarians definitely know what’s up when tart apricot jam gets wrapped in a blanket of flaky pastry. They’re a bright spot on a cold Christmas day. (via Chef Lindsey Farr)

Life, Love and Sugar

Cutout Sugar Cookies

In the United States, a plate of these festively decorated sugar cookies is just what Santa ordered. (via Life, Love and Sugar)

Saveur

Polvorones

You’ll find these simple pecan shortbread cookies all over Mexico around this time of year. The coating of powdered sugar and canela, a type of Mexican cinnamon, really bring the flavor to the next level. (via Saveur)

A Healthy Life for Me

Pignoli

These Italian Christmas cookies are made of a chewy almond base and topped with pine nuts. (via A Healthy Life for Me)

Fancy Peasant

Kourabiedes

These Greek Christmas cookies feature a buttery biscuit topped with mass amounts of powdered sugar. (via Fancy Peasant)

Does your family have a traditional cookie recipe for the holidays? Tag us @BritandBo in your Instagram photos and let us know!

This post has been updated with additional reporting by Meredith Holser.

Lead image via Pretty. Simple. Sweet.