"Memories of Germany" a Germany Travel Page by travelfrosch

My first trek outside of North America was to Germany, just after New Year's Day 1993. From then until I moved back to the USA in early July 1997, I had the good fortune to experience another culture. I definitely feel greatly enriched by the experience.

For 2 1/2 years, I lived in the sleepy village of Traben-Trarbach on the Mosel River. I had the good fortune to have the as landlords the most wonderful and generous hosts anyone could ask for, Gisela and Ernst Käss. Lord knows, irresponsible as I was back then, it was very fortunate they were generous and patient, lest I would have ended up homeless! :)

(Update: I recently found out by email that both Herr and Frau Käss are still living in their house and doing well.)

If you are ever able to visit the Mosel, I strongly advise you do so. While my job wasn't the best, the opportunity to experience this particular area of Germany is one I will never forget.

In May of 1995, I moved from Traben-Trarbach to Stuttgart. There, I lived in a section of western Stuttgart called Botnang, where I rented a nice flat from an eccentric but friendly landlady. Stuttgart and the area around it is pleasant enough, and I enjoyed my time there thoroughly (the job was better, too!) However, for the average tourist with limited time, there are more interesting parts of the country to visit. But if you do make it there, and happen to visit O'Reilly's Pub, drop in and say hello to Dave for me!

Especially when I lived in Stuttgart, the real Sirens (as opposed to that mythical Lorelei on the Rhine ;) drew me to Munich, a lovely city a mere 2 hours away. Many a sunny weekend was spent in one beer garden or another in Munich or its immediate surroundings. Yes, it was a tough job, but someone had to do it...