We have a timeshare at Oberstaufen, Germany <BR>near the border of Liechtenstein, Austria and <BR>Switzerland in mid-September. Can anyone give us suggestions on "don't miss" day trips <BR>or restuarants in the area? We have Euro-Pass rail passes to use with your <BR>guidance.--The major train terminal near us <BR>is Kempten, Germany. Also, is Octoberfest <BR>celebrated all over Germany or is it confined <BR>to the greater Munich area? How far are we <BR>from Hitler's Eagle nest retreat? THANKS!

Cal and Patty, <BR>Do a word search here on the forum for "Oberstaufen". There was a similar query raised in August that prompted some detailed responses as recently as 8/25 that should answer your questions. If not, feel free to Email me directly.

<BR> <BR>Cal & Patty, <BR> <BR>Oberstaufen is not too far from the Lake Constance ( Bodensee in German ) region. You could visit nice places such as Meersburg, the Mainau island, and Lindau on a day trip basis. It is also close to three of King Ludwig's castles, namely Linderhof ( my favorite ), Hohenschwangau, and Neuschwanstein. Furthermore, there are many scenic drives ( if you have a car ) and good hiking opportunities in the vicinity. Ask for local information and buy a good map ! <BR> <BR>Oberstaufen has its own train terminal with direct connections to Lindau and Munich. For schedule information see <BR> <BR>http://bahn.hafas.de/bin/query.exe/en <BR> <BR>Though the Munich Oktoberfest is unique in many ways, there are indeed similar festivals in several German towns, but not necessarily at the same time. Again, you should inquire locally. <BR> <BR>Berchtesgaden with the "Eagle's nest" is probably too far from Oberstaufen ( about 4 hours to drive, more than 5 hours by rail ). By the way, this was not Hitler's private retreat but merely a place to receive foreign visitors. Nevertheless, it gives an idea of the Nazi's ( bad ) taste in architecture. <BR> <BR>Have a nice time in Germany ! <BR> <BR>Regards, Jochen

Cal and Patty, <BR>There was a typo in my earlier Email address. The one above is correct in the event you want to contact me.

Hey - talk about a coincidence. My husband and I also will be visiting a timeshare in Oberstaufen, but we're going in March of 2000. Cal and Patty, I would love to hear from you after your trip to learn more about the village and the surrounding area - what to see, where to eat, etc. <BR> <BR>Also, anyone know what the area will be like in early March? Will we be able to travel around by car, or do you advise train travel?