I just got back from my second trip to Germany and have a few comments, if anyone is interested. First, I expected it to be very cold in January, but found southern Ohio is actually much colder now (and according to the locals it's usually that way). Second, I like this country and most things about it but have a hard time sleeping due to the generally hard mattresses, thin feather pillows and narrow comforts. I'm not being a jerk--I'm sure there's nothing wrong with doing it that way, but when you are used to American bedding, it can result in a lot of restless nights. If I had it to do again, I would have brought a foam pillow from home or bought one once I arrived. Third, St. Ursula's crypts (Golden Chamber) is closed until May for renovations. This odd place had a collection of artistically arranged bones [my wife thought it sounded too strange but I did want to see it]. Fourth, although not as touristed as many other cities, I liked Schwabish Hall and Bamberg--they are adorable cities with tons of wonderful architecture and avoided the detruction of WWII. Fifth, Aachen's cathedral (Dom) is amazing--parts of it date to 800 and it is so different from the few other German cathedrals I've visited. Sixth, on my first visit I thought the speed limit signs on the Autobahn were manditory limits, not suggested speeds between cities. I realized it for this second trip and had a great time driving fast (though not nearly as fast as some who seemed to be driving between 125-160 mph). I averaged about 105 mph and this felt comfortable except on Rt 3 between Frankfurt and Cologne (which seems to be diverted every few miles--my wife, who's been to Germany many times says it's been this way for years). Seventh, if you get tired of German food (I didn't), the Italian restaurants we tried were all excellent. Eighth, I doubt if anyone would visit Euskirchen (not that touristy a location between Koblenz and Cologne), but the Hotel Eifel is cool (though not a place I would take anyone who is very straight laced). The odd owners have customized every inch of the property with strange brick-a-brack (nude statues, pop paintings by one of the owners on every conceiveable wall space, toilet brushes which are housed within gnomes sitting on little toilets, collages of the Pope in one bathroom , a Gerden of Eden room and a glossy/mirrory ceiling in our room). Every room is unique. Ninth, If you like to sample beers like I do, drop me a line and I can give you a few more suggestions.

Hi Martin <BR>and all others who are planning a trip to Germany the next weeks. Referring to your first point I can say that we`re expecting a very mild February. The upcoming weekend temperatures are reported to go up to 15° Celsius, which is really unusual for this time, but great for sightseeing. But-this is what the weather people say on TV-you should never take it for granted. <BR> <BR>Miriam

Hi Mratin! <BR>You've certainly seen a different side of germany. I'm a little surprised at your comment on German pillows. They are typically big square monsters, that you can double up to get the thickness you want. In the villages you often see them hanging out the upstairs windows airing, together with the huge Federbett or doona. Top sheets and blankets are rarely found except in international hotels.

Are you guys saying that the hotels and inns don't have foam pillow if you request them? I'm asking only because we're traveling to Bavaria in March and I am deathly allergic to down and anything feather. Should I consider bringing a pillow (don't know where I'd put it)? <BR> <BR>Miriam - if you're expecting a mild February (per the unreliable weather forecasters, of course), can I assume that early March might be mild, too? I take it from your message that you live in Germany. Any tips on what kind of weather to expect in the Bavarian Alps in early March (we're traveling to Oberstaufen)? Any packing tips? <BR> <BR>Thanks for any help - we've never been to Germany before! <BR> <BR>PC

Hi PC, <BR>I`ve heard that they think the whole spring should be mild, but you normally can`t transfer this to the Alps. In the mountains there are much more factors to take into account. I would dress in layers and pack for any wheather that could occur. <BR> <BR>Have fun <BR> <BR>Miriam

<BR>do you guys think it is a good time to visit Bavaria and Munich in november or december? is driving safe in winter time? and is skiing possible in mid december? will most of the attractions closed during this period? <BR>thanks. <BR>RSD

I live in Bavaria and Winter time is not a great time to visit if you want to do touristy things. It is cold and wet and generally dreary. The sking in the Alps is fantastic. We just returned from Kaprun in Austria and had a wonderful experience. Christmas time is a very busy time for European skiers as the schoolage kids are out of school for the Christmas break and until mid Jan. Traffic on the roads around Bavaria can be unpredictable just because at that time of year you are susceptible for just about anything. We just got home from our trip and hit almost blizzard snow, rain and incredible wind gusts, just to name a few. If you want beautiful Bavaria, come late spring and enjoy the Bier Gardens!

Oh yea to the guy allergic to down. Could be a problem. All of the German hotels I've stayed in have a bottom sheet, a down duvet coverlet and a big square down pillow. I'd call ahead to your lodgings and explain your situation.