My son, 17, and I would like tips on where to go and what to see in the southern end of Germany. We are going in August 2000, for 3 weeks. We enjoy hiking, scenery, not too much tourist-y stuff. Not too expensive, we're on a tight budget. :} Thank you!

For an unusual experience - try a 'VOLKSMARCH'. This is a organized, non-competitive walk that is very popular in Germany. You will walk through interesting scenery, get a medal/pin/patch/mug/other souvenir, and have a great time. <BR> <BR>Contact the American Volkssport Ass'n (www.ava.org [or .com - i'm not sure]) and get the international book which lists many of the events. <BR> <BR>We had two great experiences - one in Austria and one near Munich. One of the highlights of our trip.

Neuschwienstein (sp?) can be very enjoyable and not expensive. We visited in December with two 16 year olds. Only paid for parking, and did not go into the castle. Touristy but the scenery was beautiful and fun hiking. <BR> <BR>Go up to Marie's Bridge, and then you can hike under the bridge in the area between the castle and bridge. I understand you can hike higher than the bridge but the trails were a bit snow covered and slippery.

Fill us in on the details of your trip, please. I am planning a trip in summer 2002 through southern Germany. <BR> <BR>My parents and I visited Berchtesgarten when I was a kid -- the Konigsee and surroundings were beautiful. I plan to return on our upcoming trip. <BR>

Volksmarch is on the schedule...thanks!

Love Germany and there are so many things to do! The area near Garmisch and Oberamergau are beautiful as is a trip to the Zugspitz (site of the 1936?) Olympics. If you go to Neuschwanstein in Fussen it is well worth the trip. Don't miss the tour through the castle given in English. You will see why they called him Mad King Ludwig. We took our teenagers there and they are still talking about it. Munich was one of their favorite places and has many sights that appeal to teens. Visit the Olympic village, tour the BMW Factory, the Deutches Museum, the English Garden and at age 17, he is old enough for a trip to the famous Hofbrau Haus. Quite touristy, but full of people having a good time. We met up with a group of cyclists from Canada and had a great evening! <BR>Hope you enjoy your trip. The Bavarians are friendly people. Greet them with a smile, mutter a few words of German ie: Guten Tag (Hello, Good Day), Danka (Thank you), Bitte (Please) and Wiedersein(Goodbye). Have a great trip!