So I honestly don't know where to start. First of all, I picked Munich, Germany (or München as the locals call it), because it is hands down, one of my favorite cities to visit. In 2007, I visited this city 4 times, and each time, the city offers new and exciting things to see and partake in. Background: Munich was established in 1158 by none other, than some Monks. Munich really grew on the map thanks to something called "white gold" or salt as we call it today. Well, location, location, location really helped due to the fact that Munich was located on what historians called the "Salt Route". They built a bridge and started charging all those travelers tolls to cross their bridge. Not rocket science, but it put them on the map.
So did another little even called "Oktoberfest". What most people would think is simple the German's excuse to drink a lot, this is actually a significant celebration. In 1810, good 'ol King Ludwig I got married. To celebrate, he had a public commemoration, aka a big party, with a few kegs of beer, some races and mostly everyone from around town. It went over so well, he decided on his anniversary to do it again. From there, the event grew with parades and events honoring the king. Today, they still celebrate that king, just in a different way.
Enough history, so why visit Munich? Well here are a few of my favorite reasons:
- Mike's Bike Tour: What better way to get around town than on a big California Cruiser? No really, the guide are great. They start at the Altstadt and make a nice big loop around the city. They add humor and facts to your tour: you simply will never forget this tour! (I did it 3 times in one year once!)
- Great Castles: Neuschwanstein (aka the Disney World castle) is a train ride and a long hike up a mountain away! Also, Nymphenburg Palace is located IN Munich. Both are wonderful for any Princess (or want-to-be Princess).
- Um, Beer! Ok, I tried to put this as far down the list as I could, but I can't hold back any longer. Munich hosts many famous beer halls such as Augustiner and Hofbrau. Pick up a liter (or 2, maybe 3) and life will just seem a whole lot simpler!
- BMW: Got a need for speed? Not only is the headquarters of the Bavarian Motor Works (or Bayerische Motoren Werke), but they have a great museum. Z7 and Z8's sitting in the lobby, trust me, car enthusiasts and joe smoe will enjoy this place!
- Altstadt: The old city. This pedestrian zone is full of shops, people and picture-worthy items. You can not only see the Glockenspiel (honestly, so suspenseful! Who's going to win, red or blue?!), but other historical churches and really cool monuments.
- And much, much more. From universities, the opera, the Englisch Garten (there are surfers there!), the Olympic Park and Stadium to great hostels and local public transportation, Munich has a little bit (or lot) for everyone.
Got any questions, comments, or tidbits of your own about Munich, let me know!
(Pictures: 1. Englischer Garten in March 2007! 2. My sister Carolyn and myself before we embarked on a Mike's Bike tour in Feb 2007!)
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