Germany is a country that is nothing if not grand. Everything about Germany seems to be big, with the possible exception of their actual borders. The fun in Germany is not particularly found in the tourist attractions as much in their daily lives and countryside. To truly enjoy Germany and all it has to offer, you have to get out in the middle of nowhere and simply explore the natural beauty of the people and countryside.

Having spent a great deal of time traveling in Germany, I learned that the most lasting memories can be found by walking the countryside and visiting with the people. The vast majority of Germans I encountered were very kind, warm, and friendly people that lived a simple life and was satisfied with that. There is something very comforting in the way they view Americans, and how that view has changed over the decades. At one time, the older generation did not like Americans, and that was certainly an extension of past wars. That view, however, has very much shifted in recent years. The largest majority of Germans seemed to be more interested in us than angry with us.

One thing you will notice as you travel the German countryside is that the vast majority of Germans speak very good English. They may have some phrasing issues, but they can converse with most any American rather easily. This is because they take English in European schools very early, and it is a skill they develop over the years. Also, their is a large contingency of Americans in Germany, via the military or extended families. Communication is usually not a problem as you travel around Germany.

Many of the towns in Germany are still the same as they were 100 years ago, and the cobblestone roads and curious architecture is a wonder to see. These towns are littered with little pubs to sit down and have a beer, and quaint little shops that are generally quite specialized. It reminds one of what life may have been like many moons ago, and the feeling of calm it creates is priceless. The mere action of visiting these towns and looking around brings you to a calm place in your mind.

The real attraction to visiting Germany’s countryside however, is to the countryside itself. One can walk the roads, trails, and hills of Germany and never see the same skyline twice. The mountains, valleys, and water sources in Germany are unique and incomparable in their singularity. The lakes all seem so clean and clear, and the unique slopes of the hillsides are different with every city or town you come across. There are challenging rock climbs available, for the adventurous sort. There are so many hiking trails that one could get lost in the hike and never even notice it. The best thing is that every trail leads to the next town, so you are rarely if ever lost for real. You can truly just wander around and enjoy the natural beauty of the Country.

In the world of natural beauty, Germany certainly qualifies at or near the top of the places one might want to visit. If you get away from the commercial areas of Germany and simply visit the everyday towns and places in Germany, you will find a wonderful group of people and a countryside you will never forget.