Buckets list for travelers must be planned accurately. America is the great melting pot, influenced from all walks of life across the globe, non-more unspoken than German culture.
German Americans make up one of the largest demographics of any group within the United States. I figured what better way to celebrate the beginning of a new decade than reflecting on some culture the people of Germany have contributed.
What do Americans like about Germany?
German Americans are the largest self-reported ancestry group in America. With approximately 44 million according to the US Census Bureau in 2016. Accounting for nearly one-third of the global ethnic German population.
German has been influencing American culture since the first settlers traveled there in the 1600s. It’s safe to say German’s have contributed a lot to the American culture. As more people travel to the diverse regions of Germany, American’s are finding it more commonplace to find familiar favorites in their original form.
Children love and hate education. I think this is the same everywhere in the world.
Fortunately, American children have the Germans to thank for introducing the concept of Kindergarten. A place for children to learn basic school etiquette and socially acceptable behavior.
Christmas Origins
Although many argue for the origin of the holiday, and it figures one aspect of the Christmas holiday remains essential. The German introduction of the decorated tree has long been part of the Germanic culture. This has only become a staple in the US but it wasn’t until President Franklin Pierce was elected in the mid-19th century that the White House had its first indoor Christmas tree.
Oktoberfest
The world-famous Oktoberfest in the Bavarian city of Munich has a much larger attendance than the ones hosted by its American cousins.
Festivals like Kriskindlemarkt, and Maifest, can be experienced in many German American cities. From the northern Midwest to Southern Texas you can find cities hosting a significantly smaller attendance. Generally lack shops and offerings compared to their German counterparts. In the end, there’s nothing like experiencing the original. The international community that makes each festival feel unique and shared as a genuine moment with new-found friends. For a good Traveler’s bucket list, Proust!
Beer garden
Beer gardens are all over the world, and yet there’s a genuine sense of awe having a beer in a Biergarten that was from bricks of the remains of the world wars or overlooking the Rhine river watching the sunset.
Much like many Americans, Germans have a sense of pride and love talking about their cities. Fortunately, you have your good friend Paul to help!
Is there something specific you’d like me to write about? Let me know, I’d love to hear from you! Next time you’re planning any travels, message me.
Beware when talking about WW2
Travelers may find it less awkward to discuss German history in Germany than in their own countries. The fact is, Germans are very proud people and hold a lot of respect for traditions, and for better or worse, their history.
Germany has had a lion’s share of contributions to the world in the form of art, music, math, and science.
The Bavarian region has had it’s fair of trials and changes over the centuries, but Bavaria in the 20th century dealt with a lot of turbulence that created a political situation that enabled events that would forever be ingrained in history.
Although it’s not casually discussed at the dinner table, there are many parts of Germany where if you look close enough you can see the remains of what once was and the efforts to recognize and heal from a period that is vastly negatively recognized on a global scale. For the traveler’s bucket list put some sensibility.
Open for the future
Cities like Colon, for instance, have monuments scattered throughout the city as well as pieced into the cobblestone streets constructed from the bricks of the building destroyed in the world wars. They have turned Nazi chariot grounds for presenting military power into parks for families and children to play, and bronze caps on the street stones to remember those lost in the holocaust.
The Bavarian largest issue, when compared to other major Germany cities, lies in its capital city of Munich. After the war, Germany went into an obliterating state of poverty that crippled the once-powerful region. With many government buildings and artifacts intact, it didn’t have the funds to simply destroy and rebuild, so the people and the city did the best they could to renew the proud capital.
Politeness helps a lot
World War 2 effects on the Bavarian region were devastating. Its common misconception to believe the people of Bavaria don’t like to talk about the 3rd Reich because of the actions taken in the past. Munich has many of the government buildings still standing today and is an incredible testament to the reflection and respect of the people and their acknowledgment of a country’s history.
Though it’s not a coffee table conversation, there are many tours on my site. If you are unable to find information or if you are looking for a specific experience, you can message your good friend Paul. By the way, your sightseeing tour Munich can be more interesting with the local Tram-Bahn.
Is there something specific you’d like me to write about? Let me know, I’d love to hear from you!
LGBT in Munich, an special buckets list
As an international European city, Munich is more progressive and forward-thinking than smaller cities around the world. There are travel guides for nearly anything you could want to do in my incredible city, but none like from your favorite Bavarian! Not to shy away from requests, I’ve decided to make a post for interest in LGBT options in Munich.
For a general starting point or experience the city tour Munich at Glockenbachviertel neighborhood is a great place to start. This area in particular filled with modern and trendy businesses. The venues offer a wonderful atmosphere. Especially if you’re looking for a central place to stay or walk around for a day.
Insider Tips for perfect buckets list
For a truly unique yet cozy place to stay in this area, I recommend the 25Hours Hotel “The Royal Bavarian”. The subtle nuances and characters found in the lobby are worth a walk through at the very least. This is a perfect choice for travelers that are looking for something fun but plan to spend most of their time outside of your room.
In Munich, you’ll find some spectacular shopping options, but if you’d like to support a local LGBT shop, I recommend Bruno’s. This place has everything from sportswear to underwear, and books to movies. I would recommend avoiding walking in without an idea of what you’re looking for as the store can kill time fast, especially if you’re planning on meeting anyone for dinner or drinks.
Americans in Germany
After a long day of exploring grab a drink, I would recommend Cafe Nil. It’s generally tranquil feel is a perfect place to grab a drink and meet people from all makes. The people here are very friendly and helpful and can help you gauge your journey for the evening.
Munich is called “Toy town” by many of its English-speaking residents. This is because of its general higher quality of life and safety. It’s still a large city. Whether you’re looking for a cafe, local food, or a night out in the town Munich has something for anyone in any mood.
Whether you’re a member of the LGTB community or not, I am confident you’ll enjoy your time exploring Germany and the incredible city of Munich.
Thank you for all your feedback and questions. If there is something specific, you’d like me to write about in the future, let me know! I’d love to hear from you and your own buckets list!
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