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About Germany
Federal provinces (Bundesländer)Germany is divided into 16 federal provinces. What to see in GermanyBaden-Württemberg is close to Bavaria, situated between Switzerland an France in the South of Germany. The greatest lake of Germany is the "Bodensee", where you will find an tropical island called "Mainau". The Black Forest region ('Schwarzwald') is mainly known for three distinctive features: its highlands, scenery and woods, the typical Black Forest Cake ('Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte') whose success is based on tasty cherry schnapps and the traditional cuckoo-clock. The area around Stuttgart is known for its major wine-growing region and its excellentcuisine. Try dishes like 'Spätzle', 'Maultaschen' or 'Rostbraten' in one of the many cosy restaurants. Bavaria: The highest mountain of Germany, the 'Zugspitze', you will find in Bavaria, situated at the boarder to Austria. 'Chiemsee', 'Starnberger See' and 'Tegernsee' are just a stone's throw away. One of the most spectacular sights is Neuschwanstein Castle. Bavarian people are often seen in traditional leather trousers ('Lederhosen') or embroidered dresses ('Dirndl'),; they are primarily Catholic and conservative, but humorous. The Rhine Valley is one of most popular holiday destinations. Castles, cathedrals, woods and vineyards as much as you can see. See Rüdesheim a typical German city. Heidelberg is one of the most famous cities in Germany. Situated in the valley of Neckar river, the beautiful old typical German town with its sights and narrow, picturesque roads, is easily accessible on foot. The world famous castle is without doubt Heidelberg's highlight. Other impressive sights are the 'Residenz', the 'Viktualienmarkt', one of Europe's greatest food markets and Nymphenberg castle, a picture-perfect Baroque palace which once served as the royal family's summer residence. About the Germans - some clichés
Do not believe it all! Germany is a country of architectural culture (Weissenhof), designer flair (Hugo Boss) and supermodel chic (Claudia Schiffer). It's a land of perfect and fast cars, a land of long holidays and Frei Koerper Kultur FKK (freebody culture - or nude sunbathing). And believe it or not - some of the Germans always had a sense of humour. Didn`t they allow the artist Christo to wrap the Berlin Reichstag (Parliament) in what looked like a vast sheet? |