I seem to have a fondness for anything German, especially the language. As I mentioned in an earlier post, Deutsch has a certain appeal to me that I cannot quite explain. While I can’t quite recall any memories from my childhood that might have contributed to this unusual preference, I do remember however, that while my father was alive, he spoke very highly of German automotive engineering. Not that it would be anything related. Years later, here I am, about to visit Germany.

Anyways, we tackled the United Kingdom, France and Italy. It’s time for Deutschland! Here are my choice picks for sights and sounds to see in this amazing country:

 

 

 

 

What: 

 

Cologne Cathedral 

 

Where:

 

Cologne, Germany

 

Why:

One of the most visited attractions in Germany, this beautiful Gothic Cathedral boasts incredibly unique architecture and houses the Shrine of the Three Kings, one of the largest reliquaries believed to be the traditional resting place of the Three Wise Men whose clothes and bones are within. Taking a cue from peasants and knights during the Medieval Ages, a pilgrimage to this holy place beckons.

 

 

 

 

 

What:

 

The Brandenburg Gate

 

Where:

 

Berlin, Germany

 

Why:

 

It is the only remaining city gate, one of eighteen such constructed, that used to be the entrance to Berlin. Just to the north of the gate is the Reichstag Building, where the German Parliament meet.

 

 

 

 

 

What:

 

The Berlin Wall

 

Where:

 

Right in the middle of the city…

 

Why:

 

Just imagine that someone erected a wall effectively cutting off half of the city you live in. Anyone attempting to cross from the East to the West would be shot on sight. That is just a tiny glimpse of the horrors the citizens had to face during the Cold War. Though very little remains of the wall, it is a place that has profoundly contributed to modern history. It’s amusing to remember the world maps in my old elementary classroom back in the 80’s when the wall divided these into two vastly polar countries. Having been erected by the Eastern Bloc, President Reagan later challenged General Secretary Gorbachev to tear down the wall, leading to the reunification of Eastern and Western Germany. 

 

 

 

 

 

What:

 

Schloss Neuschwanstein

 

Where:

 

Near Füssen in southwest Bavaria, Germany

 

Why:

 

Neuschwanstein Castle looks sort of familiar doesn’t it? It should be. It was the inspiration for Disney’s Sleeping Beauty castle. This castle is the global symbol of the era of Romanticism, and as such, it’d be a perfect choice for tourist couples! While you are here, be sure to get on the Romantic Road, where you will find the best scenic route in Germany with historic castles, towers, towns, some preserved in their full Medieval majesty.

 

 

 

 

What:

 

Hofbräuhaus

 

Where:

 

Munich

 

Why:

 

Seriously? No trip to Germany would be complete without beer! And since I won’t get to visit during Oktoberfest, it would be sacrilege not to drop by the world’s most famous beer hall. They serve the beer only in one-liter glasses!

 

 

 

 

 

German Souvenirs of Choice

 

Für ihn:

 

 

For guys, I would recommend a beer stein. A well crafted piece of art such as this would be well suited to embrace that smooth brew, keeping it cold enough until you pour it down your belly. Nothing else shows how serious you are about your beer than this.

 

 

 

Für sie

For the ladies, how about trying on a dirndl? This traditional garb worn by der frauen are not just a common sight worn during Oktoberfest, they are traditionally worn in formal occasions and other such events. Perhaps I am just biased… but it *does* look good on the ladies. 🙂