Germany

The heart of Europe, is very much the heart of Europe. Despite, or perhaps because of its dark recent history, Germany has developed into a tolerant nation seeking compromise rather than confrontation. These days it is a place people run to, rather than run from.

Germany is one part traditional, and one part hip. It is old medieval villages versus modern architecture. It is punk with lederhosen. It is bratwurst and kebab.

‘Ich bin ein Berliner’ Kennedy famously said, and it seems he was prescient as everybody wants to be one at the moment. Berlin is the place to be for the young and happening. It is, once again, the avant-garde capital of the world with a vibrant artist and underground scene. But there is more. Germany is a nation of forests and rolling hills with quaint villages hidden in its folds. Down south the Alps form the perfect backdrop for fairy-tale castles. For the thirsty it might be comforting to know there is an endless variety of beer to be had, culminating in the bacchanalian party known as the Octoberfest in Munich. You can whisk around on the autobahn, or take a slow boat down the Rhine, admiring a scenery of vineyards, fortresses and traditional hamlets, perhaps stopping to try one of the many white wines that are produced. In the north Hamburg has exciting nightlife, and a big music scene. For a look at what made Germany great, head towards the Ruhr area with its heritage of heavy industries and mines. More sobering sights are the notorious labour and concentration camps, as well as remnants of the Cold War in the east. And if you are feeling a bit peckish after all that sightseeing, German food is hearty and filling and there is plenty to choose from.

Eat bratwurst and sauerkraut like the locals, get yourself a maß (one litre glass) of beer and strap on those lederhosen, it is time to go German!