IN-DEPTH Germany

The Land of Poets and Thinkers

Germany is a very popular European travel destination known for its blend of historic charm, modern cities, and diverse landscapes ranging from the Bavarian Alps to the North Sea. Berlin: The capital is a hub for history and avant-garde art, where visitors can immerse themselves in the vibrant culture of museums, galleries, and street performances. Famous for the Oktoberfest, which attracts millions of beer lovers each year, it also serves as the gateway to the Alps, where outdoor enthusiasts can partake in various activities year-round. The fairytale Neuschwanstein Castle, often cited as an inspiration for Disney’s Cinderella Castle, is an architectural marvel nestled among stunning mountain scenery. Explore the Black Forest for hiking through lush greenery and discovering enchanting villages, or venture to the Zugspitze (Germany’s highest peak) for panoramic views that are accessible via an exhilarating cable car ride. Along the way, delight in the rich culinary offerings, from traditional sausages to exquisite pastries, as well as the warm hospitality of the locals, making every visit to Germany a truly unforgettable experience.

Episode

You Should Visit Germany (and Not Just for Oktoberfest) | NAO IN-DEPTH INTERVIEW

In this engaging episode of the podcast, hosts welcome guests Marlene and Miguel, seasoned travelers with deep ties to Germany. Marlene, of German descent, and Miguel share insights from their frequent trips, blending personal anecdotes, cultural observations, and practical tips that can truly enrich any European travel experience.

The duo emphasizes Europe’s appeal—its diversity and ease of travel. They articulate how each country presents unique charms and experiences. They prefer cars for flexibility, especially with their two boys and luggage, allowing visits to remote villages and off-the-beaten-path locations. However, they also praise Europe’s extensive rail system and its walkable cities, noting that as soon as they park, their vehicles stay put while they immerse themselves in the local culture on foot, relishing the opportunity to discover hidden gems.

Germany takes center stage during their discussions, particularly with Marlene’s family residing in Bad Ems, a small town located south of Frankfurt, renowned for its Roman-founded thermal baths. Miguel recounts the town’s rich history: Romans established their settlements around the hot springs, focusing on cleansing rituals, which attracted Europe’s elite throughout history. Today, Bad Ems has transformed into a hub for rehabilitation clinics nestled amid beautiful farmland, yet is still sprinkled with luxury hotels that often host extravagant sports cars like Bugattis and Ferraris, giving the area a unique blend of tradition and modernity.

They delve into their personal exploration of Germany’s vibrant cities, having extensively toured Berlin with the guidance of a local cousin, and visited Stuttgart’s Mercedes Museum, which features a spectacular spiral ramp showcasing the illustrious history of auto racing. Their adventures also took them to Bremen via train, where they enjoyed the sights and sounds of this charming city, along with the thrilling experience of driving on the famous Autobahn, known for its stretches of unrestricted speed limits.

The country, according to Marlene and Miguel, is impeccably clean and structured, exhibiting a level of maintenance that would satisfy even the most fastidious traveler. They highlight the abundant hiking trails available, revealing Germany’s deep-rooted love for nature, which invites travelers to experience the stunning landscapes firsthand.

Food highlights are a significant part of their travels, including traditional German sausages, crispy schnitzel, flavorful currywurst, and the delightful spaghetti ice—a unique dessert that mimics a plate of spaghetti. They also discuss the charming tradition of “Kaffee und Kuchen,” where locals indulge in coffee and cake during the afternoon, creating pleasant opportunities for relaxation and socialization.

As they share their top tips for visitors, they advise bringing plenty of money to fully enjoy all that Germany has to offer, as well as making an effort to learn some basic German phrases. Engaging in conversations with locals can lead to memorable interactions and insights. They encourage travelers to venture off the beaten path and explore side streets, where authenticity thrives, providing real local experiences often missed by typical tourist routes.

The episode wraps warmly, evoking nostalgia for past adventures and excitement for future journeys, leaving listeners inspired to plan their own travels and discover the wonders that await them in Europe.

Germany – What You Need to Know Before You Go