Munich, the Land of Oktoberfest, and Home to My Ancestors?

 I was traveling through the coastal rivers and towering mountains of the Balkans on my month-long solo travel journey, when I got this voice in my head: “Go to Germany.” I had never been before, and to be honest, it was never at the top of my list due to the history. However, I am always down to visit new countries, at least once. As a Soulphul traveler, I listened to my inner voice and booked my flights to Germany. Little did I know, it would quickly become one of my favorite countries to travel to, and I would eventually walk through an area of my paternal ancestors.

As I landed in Germany and took a bus to my Airbnb, I was pleasantly surprised at how friendly and helpful people were to English speakers. I woke up early the next day to explore the city. I strolled through the lush English Gardens and waved hello to the bikers that passed by. “What a perfect day,” I thought. There was even a part of the creek where people can surf! Yes, there is a standing wave where you bring a surfboard and surf like you are in the ocean. After admiring the surf attempts of amateurs and pros alike, I left the garden and entered a part of Munich that I was shocked to see, Lehel. Yes, Lehel, as in my last name. I knew I had German ancestry from thousands of years ago, but I just kind of assumed it was a myth. Could this be the actual place where my ancestors came from? I got the chills.

Anytime I went to a coffee shop or cafe, and they said the world Lehel, my body lit up! I couldn’t believe it and couldn’t stop smiling. I had never heard anyone use my last name before, and here it was plastered over all of the buildings and pathways. It was so exciting. At that moment, I knew I was meant to be here and why I was called to visit. The land of my people, or of my last name at least.

I was pleasantly surprised by Germany. It was clean, sophisticated, a mix of the old and new. I would be lying if I say I wasn’t cautious about visiting, considering a holocaust just occurred there a little over 80 years ago. How much could a place really change? But, when I got there, there were no signs or inclinations of this horrific history. I was in awe of the gothic architecture, beautiful cathedrals, amazing shopping, history, and smooth transportation. It was a stark and much needed change from the wild life I was living in the Balkins just days earlier with not nearly as much infrastructure. I made new friends and met extremely hospitable, helpful people.

After spending a few days in Munich, I packed my bags and went off to Nuremberg to visit an old friend I met while traveling in Brazil. Even though Nuremberg was rebuilt after the world war, it was captured in almost the exact conditions it was prior to the war. Becuase of this, it felt like you were walking back in time to a traditional bavarian village. All I wanted to do was wear a cute bavarian themed outfit, sip on some beers and have pretzels along with winding river and beautiful architecture. And, that is exactly what I did!

I had such a good time in Germany, that I can actually see myself bringing my two pups and living abroad in Germany for a few years. If you are planning to visit Southern Germany, below are some of my recommendations for areas to visit.

Munich and Alstad Munich (Lehel)

If you want to experience a mix of modern and gothic architecture and traditional Bavarian culture, Munich is your go-to. Munich is home to some of the world’s best art, technology, innovation, publishing, education, and more. The residents of Munich have a very high standard and quality of living. The public transportation is so easy, you can pretty much stay anywhere and get around quickly.

Cinderella Castle

I didn’t get the chance to visit this castle, but the Neuschwanstein Castle is the infamous castle that the Cinderella movie is based. Situated at the top of a rugged hill and surrounded by two connecting rivers in Southwest Bavaria, Neuschwanstein Castle is a site to see.

Nuremberg

I felt Nuremberg was the most picturesque authentic Bavarian town. You are taken aback by the 14th century as you walk through the walled old town with rich German heritage. With beautiful castles, churches, and bustling markets, it is worth the visit. Nuremberg is also home to the famous Christmas markets if you are in town during the holidays.

Lots of beers

You would be doing yourself a disservice if you didn’t try all of the German beers in the beer capital of the world. Beers are the equivalent of soda in Bavaria. Munich is filled with beautiful beer gardens near rivers, and plaza’s. They are refreshing and keep you going. But be warned, they do not come in the 16 oz pint glasses we are used to in the US, expect much larger portions.

Shopping in Munich

Don’t even get me started on the shopping. You get the best deals on world-class designers, and even more so with all of the duty-free (tax-free options). I bought my first authentic Chanel bag in Munich as well as custom Dolce and Gabbana clothing and more. I saved thousands of dollars than if I purchased these items in the United States. Save your funds for some upscale shopping in Munich.

I only spend 6 days in Germany and it is a place I will definitely go back as there is much more left to see, especially in the north.

Need any help or have questions about planning your Germany trip? Message me!