I hope Germany will rethink this racism.<BR>I had a bad expereince there myself, just outside of Cologne.<BR>A German man seated next to me in a park was laughing and saying that my father, if he was an American, was fat and stupid from too much tv. then he shook his fist at me as if to strike me. I was frightened. It cast a pll on the rest of my trip.<BR>

We were in Dresden in December -- lots to see, very interesting. Not far from Dresden - 15 to 20 minutes with the tram - is a really nice hotel (Villa Sorgenfrei) in the town of Radebeul. It is quite romantic and well worth the tram ride and short walk. It was also voted one of the best hotels and restaurants in Germany in 2001. http://www.radebeul.de/sorgenfrei/index.htm <BR>Have a nice trip.

topping

I was in Leipzig this past summer and found it quite refreshing compared to the far more manicured western half of Germany (think Insel Mainau). The train station is a sight in and of itself and the Napoleonic War monument is not to be missed (the top of the steps offer a great view, and, depening when you go, there's a famous race of homemade boats on the long pool in front which is quite entertaining). In town, the Rathaus has an interesting inscription that wraps around the top of the building, and there's also a cafe where a scene in Goethe's Faust was set. The church Bach played in is nearby both of these locations, but it's VERY touristy.

I know racism exists in most countries but my own personal experience happened only in Germany. <BR>What happened to me was a hate crime and both of my daughters witnesssed it. Even the local constable called it a racial hate crime.<BR>As a Mexican American, I find it vulgar being told to "get over it". Or "don't go to Germany".<BR>I hope and pray Katherine that you nor your childen will ever be the victims of this. I t hurts. it hurts. It HURTS.

wow! I came here to read comments about Germany, as my husband and I are planning a trip in September.<BR><BR>I must say I am rather frightened (but glad to know) about the racism issues. <BR><BR>Can I ask two questions:<BR>1. I have very(!) dark hair and pale skin -- my husband is German, but American raised. Will we have a problem?<BR><BR>2. why? I know this sounds dumb, but Americans have had these issues due to unfortunate times in our history in which different races were at odds, and ignorance and the desire to hate something (sad).<BR>My German history is obviously bad, but I wasn't aware of a problem with those with African or Mexican heritage. Can someone enlighten me? Is it just dark skin?<BR><BR>this is so very, very sad to read. I have never met a German I didn't like!