Frequently Asked Questions about the Planet Hockey Cup and Tour - Fussen, Germany

Tournament Rules: These rules have been finalized. These are the rules of the host club, EV Fussen. Their interpretation of the rules is final and shall not be contested. Click here

Final Schedules: With a few exceptions, the schedules are in their final form. This does not mean things won't change, but we think these are quite solid. Please print the copy and bring it along for your own reference. We will not have extra paper copies available in Germany:

2008 Tour Schedules - to be posted soon

Travel Issues: Meeting the group in Munich.

What do I do if I miss the group bus? Millions of non-German speakers find their way to Fuessen every year!

What to wear:

What to bring

Attitude

Accommodations

Food & Drink

Transportation & Recreation

Staying longer in Europe?

References

Baggage Questions

Links

Other Considerations

Travel:

Meeting up in Munich has never been an issue: All incoming international passengers have to exit through the same door. If However, keep in mind the groups arrival times - many will arrive around 9AM and our bus will leave by noon. Be absolutely certain that Shawn has your flight number and airline. If your flight is delayed, we will know it, so there's no need to worry. If for some reason you arrive after noon, you will take the train to Fuessen. Ask for direction at the information desk.

Where Do I meet the group? We will meet you inside the Munich airport. After disembarking your airplane, you will go through customs and everyone is funneled out of the same exit afterwards. Since you will have provided us with your flight number and airline in advance and we will be abreast of any delays to your flight, we will meet you at that exit point. We will have a sign that that says "BayernTrips" on it so that you can recognize us. Also, there is an information desk directly across for the doors - you can ask them to page us just in case you don't see us immediately. As a back-up plan, you will be provided with a series of cell phone numbers of our representatives who will be at the airport. Thirdly, click here for a map of the airport - a blue star indicates where our bus will be parked - it looks very similar to the one in the photo. Don't worry, we haven't lost anyone yet! Most flights from the US arrive in Terminal 2 at Munich airport. Click here to see a close up map of the arrivals hall. Please don't wander too far from Terminal 2's information desk as we load the group up. If you can't seem to locate us, go to the information desk and they will page us for you.

What do I do if I miss the bus? First, don't panic! If you miss the group, you will need to take the train to Fuessen - just follow the red and white sign labeled DB and you will find a desk with people from the German Railway (DB) that will help you. Buy a "Bayern Ticket" and ask for a schedule to Fuessen. Detailed information here

How far is it from the airport to the hotel? It is about 150 km or 100 miles to Fussen, where we are at on our last night. Because the airport is located on the north side of Munich and Fussen lies to the south west, it will take about 2 hours on the bus to get there during high traffic time. Even though we are traveling the autobahn, busses are limited to how fast they are allowed to drive.

Is there any other way to get from the airport to the hotel? Yes! If your travel plans require you to travel alone, you can easily take the train to Fuessen. The airport is located at the end station of 2 subway lines, the S-1 and S-8. You can buy a ticket for the whole trip right at the airport. If you need to do this, we will contact you with more detailed instructions and timetable. However, you take the S1 or S-8 to the main train station (Hauptbahnhof) and change trains there for the train to Fuessen which leaves every two hours. We can provide you with detailed instructions in how to do this.

Arrival Issues: Ideally, you should arrive in Munich before during the morning. If this isn't possible, there are several options for you to consider. One option would be to arrive the day before our group. There is a hotel right on the airport property - the Hotel Kempinski Airport Munich - this would allow you to meet the group absolutely refreshed on the following day. If you need to arrive after the group, it is very easy to take the train to our hotel on your own. We can provide you with step by step instructions in how to do so - even first time international travelers have managed it, so don't worry that it is too difficult. Depending on the number of guests that choose to book their own airfare, we may arrange for a second meeting time at the airport.

If you are an early arrival, you may give us your luggage to transport to the hotel and then take the train to Fussen - this is entirely your option if you do not wish to wait for the rest of the group. We have been able to provide an escort for this in the past.

Departure Issues: We will be taking a bus from Fussen to the airport around 5 AM - it's about a 1 1/2 hour drive. 8:30-9:00 AM, we should discuss your specific travel issues - please contact Shawn.

Early Arrivals/Departures: Our hotels will happily hold any extra luggage to assist you with your travels before or after. Also, the Munich Main Train Station has lockers large enough to accommodate hockey bags and sticks for 6 euros per day per locker.

What if I want to extend my visit? We encourage people to stay on an enjoy the area and we are happy to give you some advice on some other things do do while you are here. Many people try to overdo it and try visit 15 other countries. Remember it isn't a race, it's a vacation! We recommend you take it a bit slower and see more of a smaller territory, rather than spend all of your time traveling. We are happy to offer some suggestions to fit your personal needs upon request. Also, if you choose to ignore the advice, we can recommend some nice places to visit in Austria, Switzerland or Italy.

Will I need a rental car? We do not recommend a rental car. Driving through Munich traffic is not something for the faint of heart. You will quickly find that it really isn't needed since everything in Fussenis in easy walking distance. If you really want to have a car for some reason, we suggest you rent one in Fussen. This will allow you to avoid having to drive through Munich and you can rent the car just for the days you want. Just let us know and we'll help you make the arrangements.

Is there a lot of walking involved? Yes - you will be walking often. We walk from the hotel to the rink. It is a short walk - less than 1/2 mile but you do need to walk on a trail uphill and on some stairs. And, you will likely want to walk from the rink or hotel into the city center- about 1/4 - 1/2  mile. And, when we visit the castle, many people choose to walk up the hill to the castle (There are 2 other modes of transportation available at an extra cost). That said, we have hosted well-chair bound people and one poor lady that came with a bad ankle. If you have a condition, please let us know and we can easily make arrangements for you. Other people have also chosen to rent bike while they are in Fuessen - this can be a fast and fun idea for running around town quickly - Germans love bikes and use them commonly.

Safety & Security:

Is it safe there? I honestly feel safer in Germany than in most US cities. Both the towns we are staying in are smaller and quaint. Both of our hotels are located such that there is very little, if any, traffic. Both of those towns are almost crime-free and we have never had any issues there.

That said, just 2-3 miles away is the most famous tourist attraction in all of Germany - the castles of Neuschwanstein. In these congested areas, you need to pay attention. Also, when we take our excursion, people need to be careful in the big cities like Munich - fast driving, street cars and hordes of people are swirling around.

The greatest risk is in tourist areas. In such a large city, you can imagine that some bad characters are about. Theft is a bigger danger than any sort of violence. Simply put, you just need to use your head. Clean out your wallet/purse before you leave home and make copies of your credit cards and ID's, Don't carry all your cash and credit cards at one time - leave some at the hotel or with your spouse.

Are the people friendly - are they anti-American? Germans are very aware of world politics and enjoy discussing current events. However, they do not hold the policies of our government against us as individuals. If you are friendly, polite and respectful of German ways, you will be repaid and then some. The people of Fuessen and Bad Tolz are great people and we have never had an issue.

Is this Trip right for me?

Obviously hockey is our main theme, but beyond that, our trip appeals to people who would rather not travel with a big bus tour group. We seek to combine the benefits of group travel with the rewards of independent travel. We look for people who appreciate quality and authenticity. We're a bit more "do-it-yourself," down-to-earth oriented. We use some public transit and do a fair amount of walking. The hotels we use are smaller 3-star level and have more of a bed and breakfast feel than a hotel feel. There isn't a staff of bellmen waiting about and there isn't 24-hour room service. But, they service is real and heart-felt and the food quality is top notch, real food, not gourmet. After our trip, you can honestly say you experienced real Bavarian Culture!

What to wear:

It depends - do you want to blend in or don't you care? The stereotypical American wears a baseball cap, white tennis shoes, a t-shirt with a huge graphic on it and a fanny pack. Most Germans wouldn't be caught dead wearing any of those items (they will wear tennis shoes if they are exercising).

We won't be doing anything fancy, so you can leave your best outfits behind. Most of the time, Jeans are fine and can be considered quite dressy. Matched with a polo or collared shirt, you will feel comfortable in all environments. For women, nice slacks or a skirt is very acceptable. Flip-flops and tank tops are considered bathing wear and should be avoid unless you are swimming. For the one optional night at the theater, you will see some people in coats and ties or women in a dress, but many are simply in nice slacks and a suitable top. No need to overdress or schlepp around a bunch of dress clothes. However, comfortable. all-purpose shoes woudl b a good investment, but be sure to break them in before the trip!

It will likely be in the mid-70's to mid-80's when we are there. However, it could be in the 90's and it could be down in the mid-50's. Typically, you don't see people wearing shorts too often, even when it's really hot. We will have to pay attention to the forecast, but I would definitely plan on the 70-75 range. A sweater or light jacket should definitely find its way into your suitcase.

Keep in mind that Fussen is in the mountains and changes in weather occur commonly - it can be terribly hot (which makes spending time in the rink luxurious!) or it can be cold. No matter the forecast, be sure to being at least one warm thing you can throw on if it gets chilly. Don't forget a swimsuit and a beach towel.

What to bring

In addition to the thoughts below, see our page of recommend items. Click here

Rain gear: It will likely rain while we are there. Bring a jacket that repels water and a small travel umbrella. If it rains, we will do our best to stay out of the rain, but it's possible we could be walking in it.

Swimsuit & Towel: The hotels we are at will not have a pool (most in Germany do not). You will, however, have the opportunity to visit the spa if you wish and there are several great lakes for swimming within walking distance. Bring along a suit and a towel.

Hiking/Exercise Gear: If you want to go on the optional hikes, bring along suitable clothing. It is not a technical hike at all - even tennis shoes or trail running shoes are fine. Comfortable clothing, however, is a must as well as a day pack. If you like to exercise,  we will have some other joggers on the tour and this can be a great way to see the countryside. Bring along your things if you are interested. Also, Hotel Ruchti in Fussen has a weight room and sauna that you can use for no extra charge.

Electronics: Try to have all your batteries, film, etc that you will need. See the section under Accommodations about cell phones and laptops.

Personal Items: Women who require a hairdryer and a curling iron are advised to bring their own. The hotels we use do have some hairdryers they loan out. We recommend a butane curling iron - then you don't need to worry about the electric adapter. Hotels provide bath gel, but you may want your own shampoo for hair care.

Money: You will obviously want some cash for souvenirs and miscellaneous items. We advise brining along 1 ATM card and one Visa card. You can easily get money from either all over Germany - there is no need to gets Euros in advance nor traveler's checks. Keep in mind you will have to pay a fee for the ATM and most Visa cards also charge some fees. We think the best deal is to try to pay in cash for things. Security: Bring along a money belt or neck pouch. This is the best way to carry your cash and passport on the plane and when we are in crowded places, like Oktoberfest. Make sure your assets are split up - have most of your money in your neck pouch, but some money in your front pocket - you don't want to be digging into the neck pouch in plain view every time you need something. Plus, make sure your spouse has some of the assets on him or her - Don't put all your eggs in one basket! Before you leave home, bring only the credit cards and such you are sure you will need. Make copies of them all - front and back and copies of your passport. Pack one copy in your suitcase lining and leave one at home with someone. Make sure you have the bank/card telephone numbers in the event you lose them!

Attitude

The first thing needed to ensure you have a great trip is to make sure you are open to experiencing a new culture. Germans do things differently sometimes, just like any other country. Be sure you are prepared to handle such differences. And, regardless of how much we plan in advance, there will be little snafus along the way be flexible, understanding and of good cheer and things will stay pleasant for everyone! Unlike some parts of our country, Germans do not respond well with assertive behavior - they simply shut down and refuse to help you further. Grace and understanding will take you much further there.

Also keep in mind that the food is different, the drinks are different, the hotels are different, et cetera, et cetera. The way in which you choose to respond to these difference is very important. Being flexible and good natured is the key. This FAQ is designed to help you understand in advance what some of the differences are.

Accommodations

What type of accommodations should I expect? We use smaller, typical Bavarian hotels with a rice atmosphere - all are at least 3 stars, if they are rated. With their cozy nature and friendly staff, they more resemble a nice Bed and Breakfast in the US. The hotel we use in Fussen has a website here: http://www.hotel-ruchti.de/ . We have used Hotel Ruchti for years, because it is a family run business with excellent service and the best food in the entire city of Fussen. Steffi, her father, and their staff will literally bend over backwards to ensure you stay is pleasant. We also use Hotel Jakob, a cute little bed and breakfast right nearby. If you stay at Hotel Jakob, you will take breakfast there and many of your dinners will be at Hotel Ruchti.

Bed Types: The concept of 2 double beds or 2 queen size beds in a room is not common in Germany at all. Most rooms called a "Double" room, will feature to single beds directly next to each other, each with its own bedding - the German Federbett - a cozy down comforter full of feathers.

Bathrooms: When making a reservation at a European hotel, don't take it for granted that the room has a toilet, shower or bathtub - many do not have private facilities. With one exception, all the rooms we use will have a private toilet and bath or shower. If you receive a room with a bath, it will have a handheld shower apparatus to aid in washing your hair.

Amenities: Your room will have soap or shower gel and shampoo, but will likely not have a hairdryer. If you bring this from home, you will need a special adaptor. Some hotels have a limited number that can be lent out, but another option is to buy a cheap hairdryer once you arrive in Fuessen. Be aware that you should not use the same power adapter for hairdryers and curling irons as you do for electronics.  

Air-Conditioning: Does not seem to exist in Europe. I know, get over it.

Can I plan on washing my clothes there? Generally, no. Some of the hotels have been flexible on this depending on their level of activity. But you should not count on this. Also, Laundromats are in short supply, as is your time. That said, it is common for European travelers to rinse out undergarments and hand them to dry in the bathroom (not on the balcony!) Plan on bringing a little bottle of Woolite for this purpose.

Do they have Internet service? One of the hotels, Hotel Ruchti, does now offer free wireless access and it works great. Alternatively, there are a few internet cafes in town that offer service and you can use their PC and not have to bring your own.

Will my cell phone work there? Probably not. There are some newer phones that are available in the US that will work, but the rates are outlandish. Once you are assigned a room, callers from the US can, at some of the hotels we use, reach your room directly.

Power and Electronics.  Be aware that Germany uses a different power standard than North America. Also note that the power adapter necessary for Hairdryers and curling irons is UNSAFE for electronics - Laptops, Camcorders, and Cameras. Many electronics nowadays are compatible with 110 and 220 Voltage.

Food & Drink

What sort of food is offered? Will I like it? German food is excellent and, if you have an open mind, you will find many things you like! We pride ourselves on selecting menus that allow you to try a cross section of traditional  Bavarian Food. Our philosophy is that when in Rome, you should eat what they eat!

German food is heavy on the meats and breads. Vegetarians can be accommodated, but you should let us know ahead of time so we can notify the hotels.

Breakfast is easy since the hotels offer a buffet format with fresh baked breads, sliced meats, cheese, yogurt, jams, cereals and juices. Often, eggs are offered to American guests, although a soft-boiled egg is the typical German choice at breakfast. The coffee is strong and rich and decaf is not commonly offered. Tea and Hot Chocolate are also available. In the mornings, you will be asked if you would like a hot drink.

Lunch is usually on your own and there are lots of good choices in town. At least once, you should try a pizza at an Italian restaurant - it's different than ours and very tasty. A good inexpensive choice is to stop into a bakery - most offer sandwiches and some have salads, plus great pretzels and hard rolls. Another popular choices is called a "Doenner" - it is similar to a Gyro.

Most Germans consume their largest meal of the day at lunchtime, sometimes we will follow this custom and other times we will eat in the evenings together. Usually soup is offered and this course should not be missed - they are made from scratch and are always excellent. The main course will vary and will sometimes be a buffet. We like to have the hotels offer typical regional fare, so plan on getting a real sampling of German cuisine!

Keep in mind that we are staying at smaller inns. Germans are hurt and offended if the food they serve is not enjoyed. They work hard to put out a good meals and, just like at grandma's, want to see their guests eat heartily and enjoy the meal. Open yourself to trying something different and give it a try. You might not like everything served, but we do try to offer typical, mainstream Bavarian fare at all our meals. You will find nothing too unusual and it is also top notch quality. Keep in mind also that the portion size in the United States are larger than anywhere in the world. Large by European standards, German portions are still smaller than what you might be used to at home.

Drinks: You will quickly find that soda is one of the most expensive drinks one can order - the beer is cheaper. German kids will drink apple juice or Apple Schorle - a mix of mineral water and apple juice. A German soft drink the kids like is called Spezi - a mixture of Cola and Fanta. Be warned that the drinks are extra - and you should pay your server after the meal. Also, be warned that ice cubes are in short supply anywhere in Europe - get used to having your drinks a little warmer than you do at home.

Water. German tap water is one of the cleanest and safest in the world. It is puzzling that no German would ever drink it! Typically, the have mineral water and always with bubbles. In the restaurant you can ask for water without gas, it's called Stilles Wasser. Look for a few bottles at the supermarket upon arrival.

Adult Drinks: Beer is the beverage of choice, of course! You can order several different types and they are all very tasty. A draft beer, or Helles, is the most common and is similar to an American style beer, but with much more body and taste. Another choices is a Pils - a pilsner - also not unlike what we have at home, but is slightly more bitter. Many find the Weiss beer to be the best - this is brewed with grain and the yeast is unfiltered - this type of beer comprises 10% of market in Germany. There are also some other types available including dark beers, Dunkles. Experiment and try all the different varieties! At Oktoberfest, you get the Oktoberfest brew - a Murzen - a bit on the amber side, but definitely not a dark beer. There are options for non drinkers as well - soda or water most commonly.

Although not available in the beer tents, Wine is another common choice in restaurants and they are not limited to the sweet varieties many Americans think of. They have some excellent drier whites from Austria and also some tasty reds, like Franken Wein. Just ask your server and specify that you want to try some regional wines.

Schnapps is another solid choice, especially as a nightcap. Each bar will serve their favorite - like apple, pear, or herbal schnapps.

Other mixed drinks can get pricey very quickly, so be careful!

Recreation

What type of fitness options are available? Running and Jogging options are excellent. My favorites are the paths along the three lakes near our hotel and the bike trail out to the Forgensee. If you like trail running, there is an easy one out to the Austrian border and another route out to the ruins of Castle Frauenstein - even most of the locals have never heard of it.

Mountain Biking is a popular activity in the area and the city has set up specific, well-marked routes to various sites around the Fuessen area. There are many bike rental shops and trail maps are easy to obtain.

Swimming: The area of Fuessen we stay in is a spa district. Basically, it has three different lakes available for swimming. They are clean and have much to offer - diving platforms, rafts to swim out to, giant chess boards, and a snack bar. These probably won't be open while we are there.

There are also fitness centers and a great indoor swimming hall for serious swimmers. Also, keep in mind that several of the hotels, including Hotel Ruchti, have full massage and wellness services available.

Staying in Europe Longer?

References

Operating BayernTrips isn't all we do. We like to think that pursing other interest helps us approach our work at BayernTrips with passion, excitement and freshness. If you are interested in coming along with one of your groups, I will happily e-mail you my resume and references.

Baggage Options

Typically, you are allowed one carry on bag and 2 checked suitcases per person. The airlines are being more strict about weight limits - typically 70 pounds, so be conscious of this. For 1 week, you really shouldn't need that much gear. Typically we see most people happy with 1 medium sized suitcase (pull bags are the best option) and a carry on per person. If you are planning on a few souvenirs, we recommend packing an empty duffel bag - on the way back, you put your clothing in it and your suitcase has plenty of room for Beer Steins and Lederhosen you'll surely like to buy!

This rest of this information was developed for our summer hockey trips whereby people are bringing in some huge bags for hockey: 

Send Baggage to Germany from USA: Both Hotels will hold luggage for you if you want to send your gear in advance. This, however, is quite expensive and may not be necessary with a little planning. If you are taking our Bus from the airport, your luggage is transported for you. If you're arriving beforehand and will be traveling on your own before meeting up with the group, we recommend storing your luggage in Munich. Hotels will certainly hold your baggage for a few days and you can then meet the group back at the airport with your baggage or simply take the train to Fuessen on your own. Our recommended option is to check your extra baggage or equipment at the Main train station in downtown Munich. To do so, you simply ride the S-1 or S-8 train from the airport to the station. Near where the long distance trains leave in the station, there is an enormous area of lockers (Schlieufucher) - even big enough for hockey bags. There is also a counter where you can check your things with the personnel there. The cost is about 6 euros a day per locker (or per bag at the counter). When it comes time to meet the group, catch the train to Fuessen yourself (2 hrs) - Detailed instructions, with photos, can be downloaded HERE.

We understand that it is possible to check luggage directly at the Munich airport. We have not used this service ourselves, so we can't really vouch for it. An English Language link is located at: http://www.munich-airport.de/EN/Areas/Consumer/Service/servicecenter/Gepaeckaufbewahrung/index.html

If you really want UPS to handle it for you, a 72 pound box that is 36" X 18" X 18" will cost between $315 to $415 depending on the speed of delivery (3-4 days vs. 6-7 days). Those costs are site specific and you should contact UPS directly for a quote and the necessary international paperwork. Use the address of the hotel you are staying at (see their website) and send them an e-mail to let them know to expect it and hold it for your arrival with the Planet Hockey Group.

Sending Baggage from Germany to USA This also can be done, but the costs are quite high. For 4-5 day delivery from Germany to the US, UPS will cost about 270 euros for a 60 pound box. For 2-3 day delivery is runs 292 euros. If the box is 70 pounds, the price jumps up to 284 or 329 depending on the delivery speed chosen.

Our Hotel Partner in Fussen contacted DHL. They will pick up the bag at the hotel and deliver it in the US in 2 days. A 30kg Hockey Bag (about 66 lbs.) will cost 318.88 (approx $398). A four part form must be completed which will list the contents and their worth. The telephone number of the DHL office that services Fussen is 011-49-1805-345 22 55

Again, the issue prompting this is that folks want to do some traveling around on their own. If that's the case, the hotels will hold your luggage for later pick-up, or you can ride the train back to Munich and check your things there (see above article). You will see exactly where and how this is done during our excursion to Munich.

We understand that it is possible to check luggage directly at the Munich airport. We have not used this service ourselves, so we can't really vouch for it. An English Language link is located at: http://www.munich-airport.de/EN/Areas/Consumer/Service/servicecenter/Gepaeckaufbewahrung/index.html

Links and Things to Do

Ludwig II -  The World Famous Musical

The brand new Musical live on stage every evening at the nearby Festspielhaus.

Neuschwanstein Castle

The world famous castle that inspire Walt Disney. We include a visit to Neuschwanstein and Hohenschwangau.

Tegelberg - ski lift and summer bobsled

A nearby ski lift that will take you to the top of a nearby mountain top. We will have an optional tour to visit the top of this mountain and go for a long walk in the beautiful Alps!

Fuessen's City Website: The city website in English

Bad Faulenbach: The District of Fuessen where we will be staying (German)

Hotel Ruchti - The great hotel we use in Fuessen.

Posthotel Kolberbrau: Our hotel partner in Bad Tolz

City of Bad Tolz: The City's official website

Alpamare: Bad Tolz's famous swimming hole and spa

Other Links

Airport Map - We will meet you as you exit the customs area. Just in case you miss us, here is where the bus will be parked. The exact pick up point is shown with blue star

Munich Airport - Flughafen Muenchen: Munich's airport (English)

Augustiner Keller: Munich's Oldest Beer Garden - if the weather is warm, we may stop by.

German Railroad (Die Bahn) : The Federal German Railway site (German and English)

Munich's Public Transportation: (German)

Kempinski Airport Hotel Munich: In case you need a place to stay at the Munich Airport

Considerations

Some of the things that make our tours better than average, if we do say so ourselves:

• No Cattle Drives: Most tours of Europe consist of getting on and off busses. It's regimented, fast paced, and shows you Europe from behind glass windows. Not ours - other than the ride to the airport, bus rides are short and sweet. The rest of the time you are neck deep in the local culture.

• Authentic Bavarian Cuisine: All of the menus we arrange attempt to make you familiar with the best of Bavarian cuisine.  Yes, there's lots of Wiener Schnitzel and Apfel Strudel, but there are some favorites lesser known to Americans. For instance, the homemade soups are just to die for!

• Beer Tasting: Obviously Germany is famous for its beer. Many people think of dark beer as being distinctly German. But you might be surprised at the variety. We will have many opportunities to sample the different beer. We'll happily walk you though the intricacies of Pilsners, Lagers, Weissbier, Darks, and more!

• Castles: All tours of Germany take you to the castle of Neuschwanstein - we do that too, and it's magnificent. But, we also take an optional tour to a real castle that saw battle action and was a major outpost on the via Claudia - Schloss Ehrenburg, just over the Austrian frontier. We also include a trip to Hohenschwangau and an optional trip to Linderhof - two other castles of King Ludwig.

• Train Travel: Common in Europe, but almost unknown here, we take you on several trains. While just a local train, you'll nevertheless enjoy the roominess as you watch the beautiful alpine scenery roll by. Bring along a snack and your favorite beverage! We'll also take a moment to TEACH you how to travel the whole continent of Europe by train and feel 100% comfortable. Likewise in Munich, we'll show you how to use the Street Cars and Subways.

• Munich Beer Garden: Beer gardens came into being for practical reasons. The beer had to be keep cool, so the breweries planted Chestnut trees above their cellars to help keep them temperature down. The Augustiner Keller is a wonderful beer garden that seats 5,000 people. Augustiner Beer has consistently been voted Number 1 in Munich opinion polls. This beer garden very popular with the locals and is a great place for socializing. We'll be sure to stop by several or point you in the right direction!

• Contact with locals: The staff at the hotel is like staying with family and you'll be well treated. Additionally, you'll meet the people and get a chance to interact with them. Oktoberfest is a great place to make new friends!

• Time for self-exploration: The little towns we visits in is lovely. Take the time to go to the grower's market, the local bakery, and discover your own favorite little corner.

• We Y Germany: Article from the Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung in the Friday, June 24, 2005 English Language edition:.