7 REASONS TO VISIT GERMANY

Germany is not the obvious destination for holidays. Unless you've got friends or family here, or going on a business trip, not many people choose to travel to Germany 'voluntary'. But I will hopefully give you a few good reasons why you should add it to your travel bucket list.

1. Rich History: Germany is renowned for its rich history, spanning from ancient Roman times and the medieval era, though people straight away think more about recent historical events like World War II and the Cold War. Impressive castles, cute small countryside towns, museums, art galleries or amazing music venues can be found throughout the country.

Below is the Neuschwanstein castle in Bavaria (apparently that's what the famous 'Walt Disney' castle is based on).

2. Cultural Heritage: Germany is famous for its cultural contributions in areas such as classical music, philosophy, literature and art. Legendary composers like Bach, Beethoven or Wagner, as well as influential philosophers like Kant and Nietzsche, have German roots.

3. Vibrant Cities: Germany boasts diverse and vibrant cities that blend history with modernity. Berlin, the capital, is known for its vibrant arts scene, nightlife and historical significance. Meanwhile, Munich offers a mix of culture, architecture, the world-famous Oktoberfest and easy access to amazing lake and mountain get-aways . Other cities like Hamburg, Cologne, and Frankfurt also have their unique charm, attracting students, business people and curious tourists.

4. Beautiful Landscapes: Germany's natural landscapes are stunning. From the picturesque Bavarian Alps and the Black Forest to the serene Rhine Valley and the Baltic Sea coastline, the country offers a variety of breathtaking scenery. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy hiking, cycling, skiing, and other outdoor activities. It's a fantastic country for roadtrips, be it scenic local roads or the autobahn with no speed limits.

5. Technological Advancements: Germany is at the forefront of technological advancements, particularly in engineering and automotive industries. It is known for its precision engineering and high-quality manufacturing. Visitors can explore fascinating museums dedicated to technology and innovation, such as the Deutsches Museum in Munich. I personally recommend the car museums : BMW in Munich, Porsche and Mercedes in Stuttgart or Audi in Ingolstadt.

6. Culinary Delights: German cuisine is diverse and delicious (yes it is!:). From sausages (bratwurst), pretzels and sauerkraut to hearty stews, schnitzels and indulgent desserts like Black Forest cake, there is something to please every palate. Of course, it sounds less frivolous than French or Spanish cuisine for example, but I do enjoy the fact it's 'uncomplicated'. Don't forget to pair your meal with a glass of German beer or sample some of the world-famous German wines.

7. Festivals and Traditions: Germany is known for its vibrant festivals and traditions throughout the year. Oktoberfest in Munich is the world's largest beer festival, attracting millions of visitors. The Christmas markets, Easter celebrations and various regional festivals offer a glimpse into German traditions and culture.

These are just a few highlights of what I think makes Germany cool and attractive. Whether you're interested in history, culture, nature, technology, education or simply exploring new experiences, Germany has a lot to offer. Last but not least, I'll also add sports: skiing, wakeboarding, SUPing on the lakes and lots of car racing (also on the autobahn;). Enjoy!