Germany
No country has surprised me more than Germany. History books are dominated by stories of how this country has rose to dominance and in recent years has struggled with it own multifaceted identity. Through the years, it has evolved to become a powerhouse for the automobile and Pharma industries. Most people immediately associate Germany with efficiency and precision, yet a deeper look showcases a landscape of centuries old castles, vineyards that produce some of the world’s leading rieslings and spas, spas, spas.
I love Germany for a very different reason as I was fortunate enough to call Germany my home for nearly four years. That time gave me a deep appreciation for structure and precision that’s hard to find anywhere else in the world. I won’t say that my time there was easy, but I am forever grateful for how that experience helped me grow.
The Thing About Germany
We all know that Germany is in the middle of Europe and has a larger than life personality. It is a powerhouse on the global economic stage and is tied with the UK as the highest producer of luxury cars in the world. You can set your watch by the train system and when it comes time to “let their hair down”, Carnival and Octoberfest are hard to beat.
I spent many days there trying to figure out why no one washed their cars on Sunday and why tuna seemed to end up on the most unlikely dishes. The mysteriousness of Germany makes most visitors curious to learn more. If you don’t have this one on your list, you should add it now.
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Where to Go
Berlin: The capital city is a vibrant hub of history, art, and culture. Visit the Berlin Wall, the Brandenburg Gate, the Reichstag, and world-class museums like the Pergamon Museum. Don’t miss the trendy neighborhoods such as Kreuzberg and Prenzlauer Berg.
Cologne: Home to the iconic Cologne Cathedral (Kölner Dom), which still holds the scars of war. This city sits on the Rhine River and is a highlight of many river cruises. Take a stroll along the river, visit the Chocolate Museum, and explore the Old Town.
Munich: Known for its vibrant beer gardens, Munich is a city that seamlessly blends tradition and modernity. Explore the Marienplatz, Nymphenburg Palace, and the English Garden. If you visit in September, don’t miss the Oktoberfest celebration.
Rhine Valley: If you are adventurous enough to embark on a world famous river cruise, you should take advantage and cruise the Rhine River. Experience picturesque vineyards, castles, and charming villages. The Lorelei Rock is a highlight of this region.
The Black Forest. If you are a nature lover or if you simply love a great spa experience, take a trip to the Black Forest. This is a beautiful region with dense forests and charming villages. I brought home an authentic cuckoo clock from my visit.
Hamburg: As Germany’s second-largest city, Hamburg is known for its vibrant port, historic warehouse district (Speicherstadt), and the impressive concert hall. Take a boat tour along the canals and explore the lively St. Pauli district. If you visit during football season, take in a match in one of Germany’s most famous football cities
When to Go
Most people envision Germany and think it is a frozen tundra….I know I certainly did. While areas like Munich experience its’ fair amount of snow, the summer has its advantages with very long days and beautiful greenery. During Summer Solstice, sunsets happen around 11:00pm. If you take a chance and visit during the shoulder seasons, you can take advantage of lower prices and less crowds.