Yes, sir, I'll have another - Bavaria, that is.

Erik and I have been to Germany.  But we have not BEEN to Germany.  Although our experiences were quite different (Erik maintains it was the worst day of his life, while I can only giggle about the hours I spent there) our time in Germany, in it's totality, is very much alike.  We both went to Oktoberfest in Munich.  A certain something you must do when studying abroad in Europe.
 
It has been called the drunken Disneyland.  I was told that I would be attending a "quiet" Oktobefest, with only 6 million attending that year.  To me, a place where I can sit, sway, sing and smile, surrounded by music, and hefty beer wenches showering me with more and more beer ... in those steins, oh the steins - one liter of absolute worth-the-hangover goodness - well, that's heaven, my friends.  By the second liter, I bought and was donning a keg hat. While I swore to take pictures after each stein of beer, I only remembered after the first three.  It was chilly, but perfect for Fall day drinking.  I fond memory of mine.

Erik, on the other hand, recalls his time in Oktoberfest as, if you can believe it, the worst day of his life.  His group got there late, in the evening.  The key, which I suppose he wasn't told, is to get there early.  (This would be their first mistake)  As soon as they got there, they crammed themselves into a beer tent (second mistake - the open air is much more lively and comfortable), and waited for beer.  What was most upsetting was the rain that came soon after their arrival, he says.  Being under a tent, afterall, was probably a good idea.  He claims that Oktoberfest is overrated. 

This difference of opinion is very delicate, but, we will get through it.

This time around, we are GOING to Germany.  For ten days!  We were going to head to Switzerland, but after taking an honest look at our itinerary, we committed more of our time in old Bavaria.

We bought a Eurorail pass for three countries and five (non consecutive) days of travel.  It will be perfect for us. 

What an exciting way to begin our German experience by starting in the captial, Berlin.  We will take a six hour train ride from Prague to Berlin.  Our hotel, Tryp Berlin Mitte by Wyndham, is almost brand new.  It is in an exciting area and very close to public transportation. 

We have very few set plans, but we will see what is left of The Berlin Wall. 

Next on the books - Heidelberg, Germany.  What a charming city.  It is also where I will spend my 30th birthday! Our hotel is lovely!  Thanks to our good friend Rich, who used to live here, we found a fantastic deal at Hotel Zum Ritter (which also happens to be a destination on the walking tours!)



Our plan is no plans, but we will definitely embark on a walking tour or a Rhine River tour to see the ancient homes, castles and romantic palaces.

Finally, we go back to where we have both been.  This time, together.  We will stay in Munich for three nights and four days.  We will hang our hats at Hotel Bristol. The hotel is located in the heart of the city center and is just blocks away from Old Town.

 

Lots to do in Munich, which is why we will spend the majority of our time there.  This will include a twenty minute train ride to Dacchau and a lot of time walking around the city.

Munich will complete our tour of Germany.  Three cities, ten days, beautiful countryside, by train, in between.  Oh, Bavaria, we cannot wait!

Cheers,
Kate & Erik

2-26-11