Located in Western Europe, Germany (Deutschland) is one of the powerhouses of the European Union and has the third largest economy in the world. Germany is bordered by the Baltic Sea, Denmark, the North Sea, the Netherlands, Belgium, Luxembourg, Switzerland, Liechtenstein, Austria, the Czech Republic and Poland.
Germany once was made up of separate states, each ruled by its own prince. Three brief wars united Germany and increased its power, notwithstanding its defeat in both World Wars. World War II resulted in Germany being divided only to be reunified in 1991. Berlin again became the capital after reunification following the destruction of the Berlin Wall that divided the city from 1961 to 1989. Other cities of interest are Munich (famous for Oktoberfest), Heidelberg, Frankfurt (the financial capital), Hamburg (industrial and a major port) Cologne and Stuttgart.
Though the German people are known for their efficiency, accuracy and precision, there is much diversity between regions. The Bavarians in the southern region of Germany often enjoy the ritual Oktoberfest in Munich, while Germans in the central and northern areas like Frankfurt and Berlin experience the cosmopolitan taste of the country.
The weather in Germany is seasonal with warm summers and cold winters, with slight regional variations between the flat northern part and the mountainous southern region. Rainfall occurs throughout the year and prolonged periods of snow are rare.
Vacations in Germany offer a wide variety of options. Visitors can enjoy touring the many German Castles, the beautiful Black Forest, the Bavarian Alps and the many museums and attractions throughout the country. Hotel accommodations range from inexpensive German hostels to 5-star luxury hotels. German dining is varied and visitors are encouraged to try the local specialties. German beer, is as varied as the regions and visitors often enjoy sampling the various brews available.
Public transportation is very efficient and easy to use throughout most of the country. There are well-developed subway systems in Munich, Berlin, Frankfurt, Cologne and Nurnberg. Modern highways are very well marked. German Rental car companies are located throughout the country. Travelers can usually reach smaller towns by either using rail and/or coach buses from rail and bus stations in major cities. Germany's communication systems are very good. Postal, local and international phone, mobile phone, fax and Internet services are provided throughout Germany with good efficiency (Google Germany and Yahoo Germany are available for searches).
The national currency of Germany is the Euro and the cost of living is similar to the U.S. Although German is the official language, most Germans speak some English, particularly in the larger cities.
Germany is a relative secure travel destination, though travelers must take common-sense security precautions when traveling, particularly in larger cities such as Berlin, Bonn, Munich, Hamburg and Frankfurt and on trains where petty theft is likely to occur. The rate of violent assaults of a racial nature, on foreigners both African and Asian, is increasing.
Local Etiquette Tips from our Partner Geobeats.com
Learn about various German etiquettes and customs for your Berlin trip.
Public Transportation Tips from our Partner Geobeats.com
See and learn how to ride various forms of public transport in Berlin.
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