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Sunday, October 16, 2011

Germany

Germany is one of the leading tourist destinations in the world. Scenic landscapes, beautiful orthodox villages, age-old festivals, astoundingly magnificent castles and modern industrial towns, are the reasons why tourists are attracted to this culture-rich country. The country is also known for its unspoiled rivers and grand river cruises. The hospitality of the people and their fluency in English are sure to amaze you. Here are few must-visit places in Germany.

Black Forest
The Black Forest is, possibly, the best place in Germany. Visiting Germany is definitely incomplete without seeing its rolling hills, small villages with roads still made of cobblestones, and the lush green forests of the Schwarzwald (Black Forest). Whether walking, driving or biking - many paths will lead you to small villages, wineries, and old monasteries. These are areas which are known world-over for their famous wines. In fact, Germans celebrate many wine festivals too. The region also has many spas running through almost 200 kilometers. The town of Baden Baden is famous for its spas, and has 14 award-winning thermal and mineral baths. Lake Titisee, the largest lake in the Black Forest, is formed by the Feldberg glacier.

Black Forest in Germany
The Romantic Road
One of Germany's best scenic routes is The Romantic Road, which runs from Bavaria through the Franconia wine country, right to the foothills of the German Alps. The Romantic Road is full of German culture and scenery, picturesque towns surrounded by walls and towers, castles, half-timbered houses, unspoiled nature, etc. This is another a must-visit place for anyone who wants to experience real German culture. From romantic, courtyard restaurants to beautiful vineyards, this route has everything that will make a nature lover fall in love with it. Some of the highlights along this route are:

- The town of Würzburg, known for its excellent wines and gourmet restaurants.
- Rothenburg ob der Tauber, the best preserved town in Germany.
- Augsburg, one of the Germany's oldest cities.
- The castle of Neuschwanstein in Bavaria.

Neuschwanstein, Bavaria
Nuzzled in the majestic Alps, the famous castle of Neuschwanstein is the most photographed building in Germany. The castle was also the inspiration behind Walt Disney's Sleeping Beauty. Instead of taking help from architects, King Ludwig II of Bavaria realized his own fairytale castle, for pure pleasure, in 1869.

Berlin and Potsdam
Berlin and Potsdam
The capital of Germany, Berlin, has many places to visit, from old to new, combining great views of its historic past and modern outlook shown in its culture, restaurants and nightlife. Do not miss out the Brandenburg Gate, the Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church, and the Museum Island. Brandenburg Gate is a national symbol for Germany, crowned with the winged goddess of victory on the four-horsed chariot. During the Cold War, when Germany was divided into East and West Germany, the Brandenburg Gate stood between them. Potsdam which is a short distance from Berlin, was the heart of the Prussian Empire. Potsdam, reflects pan-European history, and is also a UNESCO world heritage site.