My wife and I will be traveling to Germany for our first time July 1st for 2 weeks, leaving from Chicago to Frankfurt Germany. Do we need any thing other then our passports to get into Germany,or out of the U.S. such as proof of immunization shots, health insurance or what ever. This is our 1st time out of the states.

James, <BR>You don't need anything other than a passport to get into Germany and back to the US. No visas, no immunizations. If you plan to drive, I would recommend an international driver's license. Its cost is modest, $10.00 plus the cost of 2 passport photos; a cheap expenditure for the peace of mind it can give. The question of health insurance or trip cancellation insurance is entirely up to you; not required but depending upon your age, physical condition, state of health and again peace of mind, its something you might consider.

Above post is correct with exception in International driver's license. We go there frequently and have never needed one, nor has it ever come up. There are numerous posts about that subject on Fodors. You will also find English language fairly common in Germany so do not worry about that. If you are driving I would get an Atlas with the International road signs on it. They can confuse you on first trip. Plus, the autobahn is for driving. They are very strict about staying in the right lane unless you are passing someone...unlike the US where people cruise in all lanes. If you have any specific questions, just email me. It is a fun country to visit.

Hi James, <BR>don`t worry-we`re very normal people here in Germany. You don`t need shots or anything else that you won`t need in the US. Referring to the previous poster-you can drive on every lane you`ll like to-but...the given speed on the Autobahn is 130 kmh(it`s no law, but you should go that fast) and then it`s ok to drive on the left lane. The reason is that they want to keep the traffic flowing. If you choose to go slower stay on the right lane and just use the left lane to overtake a truck f.e. <BR> <BR>Regards <BR> <BR>Miriam

Just want to say "Thanks" for your reply on 2 weeks in Germany. <BR> James

James, <BR>I've been living in Germany for the past two years and there is an infinite amount of places/sites/cities to see. However, my personal favorite city is Luxembourg City. It is about 2 hours west of Frankfurt (depending on how fast you drive). It is a relatively small city (relative to Chicago), but is absolutely beautiful. I suggest you hit it for one day and night if you will be in Western Germany. Have fun. <BR>Rob

Hello from Vienna! <BR>You don't need anything else for Germany. Where do you want to go in Germany? I was born in Munich and I am in Vienna for 5 years. Do you travel by rental car? <BR>July is a school holiday month in Germany. <BR>I hope you like Germany like we love the US. I have been 7 times in the states. <BR>Best regards <BR>Silvia