Destination Guides
Germany
Neuschwanstein Castle, Bavaria
Germany offers remarkable range in one country, from Bavarian alpine towns and Munich's beer halls to Berlin's modern history and the fairy-tale castles of the Rhine Valley. Spring and fall bring comfortable weather, while December's Christmas markets are a draw of their own. A 10-14 day trip allows a proper north-to-south route, well connected by an efficient train network. Because Germany's regions feel so different from one another, an advisor's help sequencing a route (rather than trying to see everything in one rushed loop) makes for a far better trip.
Local Etiquette & Cultural Tips
German culture values punctuality, directness, and following stated rules.
Friendly greetings: A firm handshake and direct eye contact, use last names until invited otherwise.
Dress respectfully: Neat, practical clothing works almost everywhere, dress up slightly for finer restaurants.
Dining times: Lunch 12:00-2:00pm, dinner 6:00-9:00pm, earlier than in southern Europe.
Local customs: Recycling and sorting trash correctly is taken seriously, follow posted bin labels.
Transportation and timing: Trains are generally punctual and efficient, validate tickets where required.
Practical tip: Sundays are quiet, most shops are closed, plan groceries and errands for weekdays or Saturday.
Souvenirs
For the Foodies: A stein of German beer or a jar of authentic sauerkraut from a regional producer.
For the Fashionistas: A piece of Bavarian dirndl or lederhosen-inspired clothing.
For the Home: A hand-carved cuckoo clock from the Black Forest region.
Suggested Gratuities
Rounding up is the standard practice, more modest than US norms.
Private Tour Guides: €10-15 per person for a half-day tour
Shared Group Tour Guides: €5 per person
Taxis: Round up the fare
Restaurants: 5-10%, told directly to the server rather than left on the table
Private Drivers: €5-10 per trip
Housekeeping: €1-2 per night
Porters: €1-2 per bag
Spa Staff: 5-10% of the service cost
Practical Travel Notes
Currency: Euro (€), cards widely accepted though cash is still common for small purchases
Language: German, English common in cities and tourist areas
Transportation: Trains connect the country efficiently, a car is useful for the countryside
Weather: Cold winters, warm summers, pleasant spring and fall
Walking: Cities are walkable, comfortable shoes needed for cobblestone old towns
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