September 2020 – justbluedutch

I want to ride my bike , my Life in two wheels

September 30, 2020GERMANY, GUIDE TO BEING DUTCH, MY EXPAT LIFE, OFW LIFE6 Comments

Ask any expat who moved to Germany and they will say the same thing…riding your bike in Germany is pretty normal, it is a culture, a way of life, and the most ideal way to move from A to B.

My bike is one of my precious possesion when I came here. I ride my bike almost everyday, in all season. It became my partner in adventure, and my ever-present help!

Even before Corona pandemic, people here in Germany love riding their bikes to work, school, grocery shopping and to their Sonntags Ruhetag rendez-vous!

Once you moved here, definitely the question of getting your won bike will come to your mind.Just like what they´ve said, do what the Germans do and you´ll be okay.

It´s been decades since I ride my bike before I came here. My husband is Dutch so definitely he came from a country where bikes is more than the Dutch population so it never came to a surprise to me anymore.The first country in Europe that I explored was the Netherlands and seeing its capital, Amsterdam, with its beautiful canals…and bikes was quite a shock to me. I have never seen such number…( and styles!) of bikes in my entire life!

Take for example this Dutch Bakfiets.It´s an infamous Dutch legend. In the Netherlands, people use this so they can transport their babies, groceries, furniture, and even their pets altogether in one time in this sleek carriage, all in two wheels.

Amazingly clever right?!

So do as we are doing here in Germany.Cycling system has become smart, intelligent and the most efficient mode of movement.

Here in Germany, well at least here in Bavaria, I have spotted quite few of wooden Bakfiets in the streets ( or maybe they are also Dutch!), because here, we have a modern one. Bakfiets resembles our sassy Anhängers, or a carrier made of aluminunum, with a water resistant covering panels that is attached to bicyles.Trust me, almost 90% ( or maybe more…) of families here have this in their household.This is the perfect way to tag along your kids and toddlers ( from age 1-5) in almost everywhere you go. We used the Anhänger to go to Kindergartens, playgrounds, shopping, Doctor´s visits, and almost anywhere! We put our stuff in the baggage area and off we go!

Riding a bicyle like Germans do is really something to ponder.Watch a Mama with a Kindersitz in front or back with their child always make me smile and leave me breathless.One time, I even spotted a pregnant woman cycling, with her bump in two wheels! I remember my early days here when my child is still small enough to ride at the back of my bike. It´s such a special bond that we shared. Our first Cycling Tour was so memorable as well!

Nature and Bike always go hand in hand together

If you lived here,you will be amazed by German technology when it comes to cycling.Although everyone owns a car, still, many opt to ride their bikes everyday. Children learnd to ride their bike at a very young age, it´s a skill they need to master even while they are still in Kindergarten.Come to think of it, I learned to ride a bike I think when I was 12 or 13! Most children go to school by bike or by their Roller.One thing, cycling here has been made safe and accessible even for the little children.When you see children learning to ride their bikes for the first time in the streets, you will immediately smile.

It is indeed a beloved culture.

From reflective lights to side bags and different Anhänger types and cool Helmets, they got it all. Not forgetting their expensive E-Bikes,most older people ride their bikes as a beloved form of exercise and exploring the surrounding nature.

Every weekend, it is very normal to see people in their bikes, cycling, touring, and sweating.They move from one place to another peacefully, safely, and graciously with their bikes. I asked a friend, where are you going in this time of the year, she´s all amde up, clad in Dirndl and heels, and yes, she´s off to a wedding, in her bike!

Bikes parked along the canals and Bridges became quite a European statement.

Most German cities and town have enough Cycling lanes so pedestrians, cyclists and drivers are seapated in their own traffic.But remember, don´t mess with cyclists because you will hear something that you might not wanted to hear.Cycling is a serious business here.You need to stay on your lane and respect others, that´s how it goes.

During Corona Pandemic, public transport became the last resort of transportation. Nowadays, if you are taking a bus or a train, then you need to wear a mask so most people prefer riding their bikes for free movement and avoiding contact.But guess what, sales of bikes during Pandemic soars!

Basically, If you asked me, you can survived in Germany without a car. But it totally depends on your location and where you lived.If your work is nearby to where you live, approx. within 5 km range then its doable, regardless of the season.If schools and Kindergarten is just around the next street , then I think a bicycle is a good investment.Travelling, shopping, and out of- town trips are different issues because of distance and weather concern.

But then here , there´s a saying that goes;

” There is no such thing as bad weather, only inappropriate clothing”!

Germans have the right clothing gear for every season. I find it funny that that in most local shops, they have different clothing trend for every activity, in a given season. So from cycling protective gears, jackets and everything, they have solution for it.they even have covering for your shoes so it can´t be wet when it drizzles.I have seen it with my own eyes and I believe that here in Germany, what matters is you´ve got to do things as efficiently as you can. Most of the towns are car´free so looking for parking is quite always a hassle. If you can get through the city in your bike then it´s much better! Within 15km distance range, most Germans opt to use their Bikes to travel.Cycling has become a global trend and it continuous to be the number 1 choice of mobility here in Germany.

Living in Germany have opened my eyes for many things. Life in two wheels has became a great lifestyle for me personally, so I beleive that it can work with you as well. Consider this, you can explore your town so well with a bicycle, plus, you have the time in your hands.Daily exercise with your bike and real time sweating out in Summer days is absolutely priceless!When riding my bike, I always have a reason to take a quick break and sit under the tree and just watch life as it goes by.

Here in Germany, there are many Bicycle Flöhmarkts ( Flea market) who sells Bicycles in reduced prices. There are also many models to choose from to suit your preferences.Local shops like Decathlon, Radhaus, Willner Fahrradzentrum,Dropbar Bikes and Coffee and others offers many special offers if you decide to get your very first bike !

Remember, cycling here is not a routinary mode of commuting. Once you get hooked to it, you might explore more your options of travelling by going on Cycling Tours, which we have so much!It is good for your personal fitness and environment friendly so what´s not to love about it?

So when was the last time you ride your bike?

Wordless Wednesday

September 30, 2020September 29, 2020Wordless wednesday1 Comment

Glacisbrücke , the bridge over troubled waters

September 25, 2020Bavaria, Ingolstadt, LIFE IN PHOTOS, LOCAL SIGHTINGS, WANDER TAGS10 Comments

Glacisbrücke in Ingolstadt taken during Fall

TGIF and here´s another entry for my” Wandertags” journal. Autumn has begun here in Germany and today is another dreary rainy day.Long before I got hooked into running, I love leisure walks, I still do.I love wasting my time by strenuous walking,soul- searching for something unique in nature, and yes, mind-destressing,temporarily shutting off and just relaxing.

Walking and photograpy is a bad habit of mine actually. Whenever I go out, I try to capture something, more like leaving imprints in my digital archives. I think I have photographed same landmarks in different seasons,making it really special. Take for example this Bridge.For others, it is just a normal bridge, for me, not so…

Glacisbrücke is a suspended steel bridge located here in Ingolstadt. It actually connects the west and east banks , with the River Danube ( Donau) in-between. This is one of my favourite place to take a walk, run and admire the city views. Here I can see the New Castle, and watch the beautiful foliage during Fall. I shoot here different beautiful sunrises & sunsets, Foggy mornings, and yes, frosty ice cold winters.During Winter, the in between section of the bridge is closed for safety reasons, but we can still walk through on both sides, giving us the pleasure to speed our itinerary without bothering about the traffic.Last year, the area surrounding this bridge gave me such an spectacular Reflective`views .That was truly unforgettable!

Looking from the bottom of the bridge is also quite impressive.Just look at the rays of lights, caught in the midst of fog.

This bridge actually connects and separates pedestrian from the main traffic. The road beside it is a bottleneck especially on rush hours and working days. Cyclists and pedestrians like me can enjoy a peaceful ride while the other side is full of cars.

Photo above shows the bridge photographed during Fall last year. I love this mood very much. It is a golden morning, with an intense glow of golden amber. Solitude, peace and tranquility are modest elements that makes this place looks so picturesque.This photo is also very memorable to me.I took it from previous Autumn and it was our entry to our first local Photography contest here in my town. The contest was actually sponsored by our bank,Volksbank Raiffeisenbank Bayern Mitte for their 2020 Fotowettbewerb and also will be featured in their 2021 Kalendar.

The Glacisbrücke photographed in Springtime

Beautiful flowers adorn the banks of the bridge during Spring to Summer

I brought my daughter here to practive her biking skills.As you can see, this Bridge can be challenging, especially for little limbs.A favourite spot as well for cyclist and mothers walking their little children, this bridge is impressive. My daughter loves to watch the waters of the Danube on a calm day and during summer, we watched people swimming as well.

Many times in a year, I watched though this bridge in solemn mood , thinking how nice it is that we have bridges like this.I run through one foggy morning and I realized that the waters ( from many days of rain!) almost reaches the trees along the river and the sound of gushing water is totally deafening.There is a dam over the end of the river near Baggersee and it is also another sight not to miss!

It made me realized that I have seen this place in every season which quite make it speacial…

Thank God that this bridge is not yet filled with Love locks….

Crazy over Lego in Legoland Deutschland

September 15, 2020September 15, 2020Bavaria, GERMANY, Modern Parents, RAISING NATALIE6 Comments

Legoland Deutschland resort Park in Günzburg, Germany

One of the highlights of our Summer break this year in the midst of Corona Pandemic is our visit in Legoland Resort Park in Günzburg.It was a looonggg wish by my daughter, she often asked that after she turned 6 years old, she wants to see her beloved Ninjago friends in Legoland.

But because of Corona virus, this trip was postponed many times….

But then, Endlich… FINALLY!

Wearing her Lloyd Ninja mask while we hike through the Pöllatschlucht going to Neuschwanstein Castle

We visited the Legoland Discovery Center in Berlin and for her, it is not enough. She even wants to go to Legoland HQ in Billund! She needed to see a much bigger park and that is why we decided to give it a go. As a gift and before she goes to school, I know she deserved to be here. As a child, she has been a great fan and addicted to playing Lego.She has her Papa´s old Lego blocks and toys so I guess this is really special to her.She has been fanatic as early as 2 years old,playing Duplos, and now more on the complicated ones, like Ninjago and all the Ninjas. She knows every character by heart and all the episodes of the series and film. She is no-princess type of girl and only want Legos, trading cards and ninjago things as gift,nothing, nothing else.

She doesn´t want to wear a skirt, dress or any girly things—but give her Lego t-shirt and costume as she will be so happy!

Driving to Günzburg was easy for us.It took us 1,5 hours from Ingolstadt and we were in time for the 10 a.m opening of the park. I knew and anticipated that it would be packed with children ( and crowds!) since it is still “Sommerferien” here in Germany. Most of Germans stayed in the country ( at least from whom I knew…) during this summer, doing staycation and out of town trips, just like we did.

I have asked few of my friends who went here as well how did it go so I am confident that it is safe to visit the park.And I was not indeed dissapointed….

My daughter had a blast! and so are we..:-)

Greens and beautiful landscape inside the Legoland Resort in Günzburg

Visiting Legoland is only possible if you book your tickets ahead of your visit.It follows a very strict Corona restrictions so there are no tickets sold in the entrance. We booked our tickets ahead including parking fee so we are all settled. A great tip, there are many vouchers in the LegoBrochures and Discount offers from Mcdonalds, so make sure to take notice of those to get available discount in your visit to this park.It was quite a pleasure that we got those since entrance fees can be helfty, especially if you go with big groups! There are also available packages including Hotel such as Legoland Feriendorf, and varied Hotels and accomodation within the vicinity so if you want to stay longer exploring the Park, then it could be a great option as well.I knew friends who stayed there for 2 days just for the children to enjoy all rides and taking their time to explore everything!

Don´t forget, this park is so huge…so make sure to dress up depends on the weather, mostly comfortable clothes and shoes. bringing extra clothes for change is also a good idea since some rides involves water and I am sure that you will sweat a lot!

Speaking of Corona control measures, don´t worry. This park has great control measures and I am really impressed by it. Of course you need to wear masks and practice distance of 1,5meters and everything, but the great thing is that they have disinfection station in every play station. Yes, every station is strictly controlled and monitored.Before and after riding the rides or getting into the play areas, visitors are asked to disinfect.You need to wear masks at all areas, even going to restrooms.

Even if it was a day full of visitors, I find it comfortable enough to roam around since most of the times, we are outside. The park is surrounded with shady trees, enough benches and tables to rest and sit for a quick break and most of all—people are disciplined.

With the entrance tickets, you are allowed to ride and explore everthing. So if you really want to try the all, you need to come here early to avoid long lines. Some rides are age restricted and should be accompanied with either 1 parent or adult.

Everwhere we go we see Lego. Built Lego miniatures and play areas are really amazing! As a parent, I find it really awesome that my daughter can enjoy such beautiful things as a child. I am sure that in the end, it will create great memories to her…

There are many highlights of our visit and we ride everything that she fancied.Our favourites so far is the Lego Ninjago World, where we had a close up encounter with the Masters of Spinjitzu and some Ninja tricks. The ride was so awesome that I ended up enjoying it as well.There´s the Lloyd´s Spinjitzu Spinner, Coles Climbing Wall, a playarea for small children, and of course, a Ninja Kitchen!

Some of the rides and thrilling sites that we´ve enjoyed while visiting the Legoland Resort in Günzburg,Germany.

Fun fact : I have read that even adults play with Lego and it can do miracles on your stress management. My husband always play Lego with my daughter.He grew up with Lego as well and He is basically transferring all his skills and techniques to my daughter. My daughter can now build a big set by herself and its no surprise to me why.

Here in Germany ( prior to Pandemic), Lego is an important piece of Toy and learning tool for toddlers and kids. It is very famous so almost all children recognize it. I only find a place great if it has a small playarea in the corner or a place where children can have time for themselves. In the Doctor´s offices, Libraries, and even public shopping areas, Lego corner is normal.

I am sure that Lego helped my daughter with her motor skills, creativity and problem solving skills, which are all very crucial factors to a developing brains! No doubt, she spends times building and building and everyday, she surprises us with her wonderful, sometimes “weird” fantasy, and whimsical thoughts about Lego. If you asked me, it´s better to be engrossed with Lego, than getting addicted to tablets and videos!

In every ride station, you need to wear your masks while waiting for your turn. We tried the ride where children are taught to ride a small car and earn a Driver´s License.I saw that the operator really disinfects all cars, including seatbelts one by one before another batch of kids takes it again.They are really doing well in taking care of their guests and making sure to avoid contaminations.

Important note is that the atractions are going to close 1Hour before the park closes which is around 7pm. In some days they are closing early so its better to check in the official Legoland website to make sure of your time of visit.If you want to enjoy everything, start from the backside of the park, normally those rides are not so full in the morning since most people flocked near the entrance areas.If you have little children, there is a free “Kinder-finder-Armbänder” so you don´t need to worry that your child will be completely lost if they got away from you.It is very safe inside the park and especially nowdays with Corona, people are more cautious.

What I have learned through the Pandemic is to take care of your family. We may be restricted to travel because of the virus but there are various reasons and ways to enjoy family time.In Legoland, I have families of different nationalities, having fun together with their children, behaving like a child, maybe reliving past childhood experiences as well.

I grew up not having this luxury. As I scan the views before me, I felt just grateful that my child can experience such as these and grow up a happy, healthy and active child. Probably, in most European countries, Lego is 80% part of every child´s fantasy .It becomes a treasured memory for them…

Beautiful and amazing Lego Architecture ! Different kinds of builded Lego structure depicting famous landmarks all over Europe! Our favourites are Netherlands, Schweiz,Venice, Berlin , Hamburg ,Allianz Arena, Neuschwanstein and the famous Skyscrapers like Burj Khalifa & Eiffel Tower

Restaurants and Cafe´s are spread all over the park so no worries about getting hungry.There are plenty of tables and picnic areas where you can eat in peace with your family without the crowds.We enjoyed having lunch with a view of the rides and we really had a great time.

Plenty of playareas and climbing station for kids as well. They have a big payground as well , when children wants to have a break from Lego rides then they can ” rest” here as well. For Mamas & Papas, this is also a perfect place to sit, check their phones and have a drink!

My favourite ride so far was the Pirate ship and Spinjitzu Spinner. Here in the Pirate boat ride, we ride our boats and we spray waters on others. The park was so beautifully designed and even adults enjoyed it so well!

We booked a hotel in the nearby town from Günzburg since we still have to continue or Romantic road trip to Füssen that is why we did not stress on driving back early. But around 4p.m, my daughter is already tired and wanted to check out the lego shop and told us that she had enough of rides.The line for the shop took as about half an hour to enter the store as well. You might consider to set aside an hour here if you plan to do your shopping before departing since most people do their shopping on the time they depart as well.

For me personally, you can enjoy the park the whole day, but not really exhausting yourself and your child. If you came all the way from far places then I am sure, it is worthy to spend couple of days in this place just to make the most of your trip.

Time flies so fast…not a small baby anymore!

After seeing giant Dinosaurs in Dinopark, and nature climbing in Beilngries, this girl is totally , and still very in love with her Lego Ninjago friends!

How was your summer vacation in the midst of Pandemic so far?

If you plan on visiting Legoland, then these important and vital Info might help you plan your trip!

Stay safe everyone..until next time, Tschüss!

Romantic Road trip in Bavaria : Füssen

September 14, 2020Bavaria, EXPAT TRAVELS, Füssen, GERMANY, LOCAL SIGHTINGS, MY EXPAT LIFE, NATURE, WANDER TAGS6 Comments

Strolling through the old Town of Füssen where we spotted the famous Stadtbrunnen, depicting St.Magmus defeating an evil.

Sun, sipping coffe in Cafe´s , street music, with a view of the Bavarian Alps!

That is the mood we´ve seen once we´ve entered the romantic old town of Füssen.Many people overlook the charm of this town, because mainly, people think of it only as a stop over when traveling to Neuschwanstein Castle in the nearby Höhenschwangau area. That was my thought before.I was totally mistaken. Your Romantic road trip and sightseeing will not be surely complete if you don´t see the hidden gems of this famous 700- year old town.

Fussen is also located on the scenic German Alpine Road which crosses Bavaria from Lake Constance in the west to Berchtesgaden in the east.We went to Füssen from Nesselwang after we visited Legoland Deutschland last week in Günzburg. We spent here an entire half day after we visited the Neuschwanstein Castle .It was a short, quick sightseeing, but then it was all worth to stop by. I wish we have more time to explore more but then, here are some of my impressions on this lovely town.

Just look at the architecture of the old town buldings, even the normal Apotheke ( or Pharmacy) is so detailed and intricately designed!

Beautiful Architecture in Füssen´s old town, the Stadt Apotheke

Like a normal old town in Germany, this tiny city is charming, and exquisitely adorned with old carvings, Bavarian themed wall paintings, carvings and Alpine decorations. This town is famous in Bavaria mainly because from here, it starts the exciting trails to the world famous Fairytale Castle of Ludwig II, the Neuschwanstein. If you´re driving, you might even have a lucky glimpse of the foothills and there you can already see the magnet of this town, the castle´s peaks! It was almost hard to find a parking area since the streets is packed with tourists but after a while, we found a spot right just before the entrance of the city.So a piece of advice, if you are heading to visit here , better be off early.

Walking through the old city allow us to see its quaint little nooks and corners filled with statues, Biergartens, restaurants, street musics and of course, Bavarian flair!Füssen is located north of the Austrian border,

When you´ve spotted something as beautiful as this, you´ve got to get inside. Füssen is very laid-back, comfortable and warm in Summer. Despite the Corona restrictions, people flocked in the streets to sip their coffee, hear some lovely street music and well, people watching!

I saw the strance to the Stadtmuseum and we checked out the innercourts and it was lovely!

Beautiful Biergartens with the view of Schloss Neuschwanstein
Spotted these lovely wooden bird houses (Vogelhäusier)
Summer Blooms in Füssen

Beautiful churches in Füssen (Hospital Church of Füssen)

Loving the great window details in this South Bavarian town

We walked for about 15-20 minutes away from the city to find the Lechfall and we were not dissapointed. The moment that I hear the water gush from the Lech river, I knew something spectacular is somewhere near and we will not leave this city unless we see it.Take note that this is also another very touristy spot and there is not enough parking so the best way to reach this place is by walking.

Through the quiet streets, we finally arrived at Lechbach , a man made waterfalls and Gorge. Normally we have seen Gorges in the mountains, but here, it´s right in the city! Look at the pristine cystal clear-waters! It´s opaque Torquoise blue, so clear and so beautiful against the sun!

The Gorge itself is magical. It´s slate grey stone against the blue waters is really a delight to see. This Gorge is small so you can visit it within 10-15 minutes. You can choose to explore it a bit further, and go down to banks as well.Because of Corona, we decided not to blend in with the crowds and continue to just admire this nature from the bridge.

The man made waterfalls of the Lechbach in Füssen

The turquoise Oasis in Füssen, the Lech falls

Of course, the main attraction of this place is going through the Romantic Castles of King Ludwig II. Both the Neuschwanstein Schloss and Schloss Hohenschwangau is just within a few kilometers away from Füssen. The High Schloss (Höhe Schloss) of Füssen is also not to be missed!

The Fairytale Castle of King Ludwig II of Bavaria, Schloss Neuschwanstein

If you are a nature lover, then Füssen will not dissapoint you. You can hike through the virgin mountains of Säuling, and do the Pöllatschlucht trail where you can see the Waterfalls that won King Ludwig´s heart.

Another thing that made me loved about this place is the Food! We dined in a classic Knight themed restaurant—the Ritterstuben, its like we´re taken to a Middleage era, where Ritter (Knights) and Castles are the new reality! If you are in Bavaria, you´ve got to sample the delectable Bavarian dishes!

We found this restaurant directly in the old town´s city square .Since its almost lunchtime, most restaurants were already full and we haven´t found a place to sit outsid. But then it was okay since we have the restaurant inside all to ourselves! Don´t forget that because of Corona virus,we need to wear masks, and we are asked to sign up with our contact details everytime we visit a restaurant.

The “Lautermacherbrunnen” in the old town city of Füssen

If you have more time to spent in Füssen, you can check out more of the hidden gems that this city offers here. What about another stop over in Garmisch-Partenkirchen to view another beautiful Gorge? The easiest way to reach Füssen is by car. It takes around 1 hour 40 minutes from Munich, 1 hour 25 from Innsbruck and 2 hours 30 from Zurich.

Until next time, Tschüss!

Silent Sunday

September 13, 2020PHILIPPINES, SNAPS + STORIESLeave a Comment

German word of the day–der Feierabend

September 11, 2020ABENSBERG, DEUTSCH LERNEN, GERMANY, LOCAL SIGHTINGS4 Comments

Beer and Feierabend always makes a great combination, somewhere in Füssen I saw this shelf full of different types of Beer displayed on the streets.they are also eye-catchy for tourists!

Just as I put on my jacket, my colleagues shouted at me, as their usual routine : “Schönen Feierabend!”

and I shouted back ” Gleichfalls! Endlich Feierabend..!

Feierabend is a German word but I cannnot find an exact English word for it. If ever you encounter this word or someone say it to you, it simply means ;

Beer mugs or the traditional Beer stein from the Tourist shop near Neauschwanstein , which made out of ceramic or stonework with delicate carvings and design.This mugs costs more than 100 Euros each! They are very pricey as souvenirs!

End of work, Finally, time to enjoy and rest, or can also be So long, your work is done, go home and relax!

People normally either go home, meet a friend, sit in a Biergarten or go shopping. For some, it´s time to attend another ” Termine ” or appointments. This is the time to finally enjoy something outside work.

Vocabulary:

feiern ( nomen, or Feast, holiday) der Feierabend ( masculine in gender, the holiday, the Feast ), or synonym of Vacation, Restday ( der Urlaub) or die Freizeit ( feminine Gender, meaning freetime)

Sitting in front of the Dom in Trier, here sipping Ice tea in a personalized Domstein glass.Prost!

Feierabend is a something that every employee here in Germany is looking forward to with great anticipation, joy, and yet the term does not really exist in many languages. Normally on Friday, as early as 12pm, most desks in offices are already empty. Just like me , a working mother who only work as part-time (or Teilzeit), my Feierabend normally starts after lunch.

I find them such a cute artwork! Beer stein were cemented together in a wall of the Kuchbauer Beergarten in Abensberg here in Bavaria.

Feierabend consists of the two parts Feier and Abend. Die Feier has its origin in the Latin feriae, which meant something like a day without any business activities’. So Feier is actually related to the German word die Ferien which is the holidays for students and pupils.The longest Ferien here in Bavaria is during Summer, where pupils have a maximum of 1 month & two weeks vacation.That is really many, so parents need to plan ahead of the year to divide their Urlaubstage ( Vacation days) to be able to plan who will stay with their children when schools and Kindergarten are closed.

This is the first Biergarten we have visited during Lockdown here in Germany. This was taken when we ate our lunch in Schneider Gasthaus, near the Essing Markt

Eine Feier is a celebration or a party and so it comes in a number of compounds nouns such as Weihnachtsfeier (Christmas party), Geburtstagsfeier (birthday party), Hochzeitsfeier (wedding reception) .

Today happens to be Friday, it´s almost weekend and I am looking forward to my “Feierabend” !

Have a great one as well..! Tschüss!

Pöllat Gorge ,the waterfalls that won King Ludwig II´s heart

September 11, 2020September 11, 2020Bavaria, EXPAT TRAVELS, Füssen, GERMANY, NATURE1 Comment

Pöllat Gorge, the Waterfalls that won the heart of the Fairytale King of Bavaria, Ludwig II

Now I know why seeing Neuschwanstein Castle is so special. If you are planning to see it in the future, this might help you. And this post will show you why.

Nope, we didn´t see Knights in shining Armor or let alone Princess or golden carriages there.Instead, we saw and followed the Pöllatschlucht, the waterfalls that King Ludwig II loved.

Actually, I did not expect that during our hiking adventure to see Neuschwanstein Castle that we would be able to see a waterfall ( or a Gorge) let alone the ” eccentric” Field od Stacked stones.This is one of the reasons why this trip was really unforgettable since along the way, we have seen so many nature spectacles!

Look at that pristine waters gushing…

This trail to Neuschwanstein Castle was approx. 4,7km, and it says that its doable within 15 minutes. No, don´t believe that because it didn´t happen to us.We took our time to hike since we have a child with us .At first , the trail started smooth and easy because its flat ground and we are surrounded by shade. Its still summer so I already anticipate the big crowds of tourists. Very important though that because its Pandemic, I would like to isolate ourselves as much as possible from the big swarm of human traffic.

Sorry, but we prefer to meet trees rather than people at this time…

This is the view that surprised us after we took the middle-rough stage.

I´ve heard that this path was closed from the public, maybe because of maintenance and for safety reasons.Fortunately, during our visit, it was open. It´s kinda scary just looking at the big boulders of rocks besides us ( probably because of erosion..) but then the metal steps going up on the side of a rocky part of the mountain looks safe enough. I just felt eerie whenever I looked down.

This hiking trail is definitely the best for families and kids. It requires a bit of strength but then its doable.Besides you can take your time as long as you want to avoid crowds.It´s perfect if you go early in the morning so you have enough time to waste to admire the scenery. It is very well maintained, and enough signages will never get you lost.

Once you meet “Charlie, the Tree” ( or Charlies Baum) then you know you are in the right track…

Whoever Charlie is I am sure he has seen the Fairytale Castle as well and followed the Gorge.

Some of the sightings that you will see along the hiking path.

I have seen this bush all over our hiking trail, both through the Pöllatschlucht and from another hike we´ve took on our way down all over the vicinity of Höhenschwangau.I don´t know exactly its name, but I find the flowers beautiful so I took a picture. It´s late summer blooms and it really makes the whole place picturesque!

Just look at this tree that grows actually on a rock! Those roots…!

And again, the higher up we go, the waterfalls is just beside us.It´s really rejuvenating to see the waters cascading through the rocks, and hearing only the birds chirping…and of course, my camera clicking!

This hike took us about half an hour and at the end we met the surge of Tourists. Be warned that Neuschwanstein is a very touristy place.Right on the entrance of the Marienbrücke, there is a control monitor signalling the number of people already in the bridge.The bridge is divided into 2 lanes, one for entry and the other is for exit.People should mask and practice distance. The tail of the line is really loooooonnngggg so be prepared to entaertain your kids.With Corona virus restrictions, you need to prepare yourself for this hike.

Waiting is worth it, because the views here are amazing!

On top of the Marienbrücke, I was able to snap this photo to capture a part of the Waterfalls as seen from below, but I felt giddy and afraid that my phone would fall, so it was just a quick look. The views are magnificent above the waterfalls. I don´t even know where to look anymore.

The panoramic views of the whole valley, the lakes, the quaint town of Füssen and Höhenschwangau, and of course, the proud Bavarian Alps, the Fairytale Castle in front of me, and below the bridge is the Pöllatgorge —-all in one perfect view.

It´s really worth all the sweat we´ve got from this hike!

“It is my intention to rebuild the old castle ruin of Hohenschwangau near the Pöllat Gorge in the authentic style of the old German knights’ castles, and I must confess to you that I am looking forward very much to living there one day […]; you know the revered guest I would like to accommodate there; the location is one of the most beautiful to be found, holy and unapproachable, a worthy temple for the divine friend who has brought salvation and true blessing to the world.” –King Ludwig II ,from his letter to Richard Wagner

King Ludwig II is defintely a landscape Artist. He had a whole vision where he wants his Castle and the surrounding elements is very important.This place really wins his heart….and as expected, we were also won by this waterfalls! It is one of the prettiest waterfalls I have ever seen.

Do you love hiking with a view?

What about hiking through the Krimml Wasserfälle next time?

Or hike though the Hochgebirge Stauseen , the world renowned Alpine Reservoirs that has been built through Nazi era and see Glaciers and Turquoise waters, plus your kid can play in the playground above 2,000 m high! The trip going through an open inclined elevator is never to be missed!

Or just be amazed of the thunderous waters in Partnachklamm?

If you still have time to kill, then why not just follow the river in Lechbach in Füssen?

Is The Art of Rock stacking really Rocks?

September 9, 2020BACKPACKER'S DIARIES, Bavaria, Füssen, Ingolstadt, LIFE IN PHOTOS, LOCAL SIGHTINGS, WANDER TAGS3 Comments

Some rock Cairns, or rock balancing I have seen in the Pöllat Gorge (Pöllatschlucht) in
Höhenschwangau near Füssen

Have you ever tried doing rock stacking?

Stones, stones, and more stones… somewhere in the banks of the Pöllat Waterfalls

I have always been interested about rock balancing and balanced stone formations. It´s an image of Zen to me.It´s peaceful, stable and balanced in an artistic way.I find it such amazing skill to be able to stack rocks in balance, like a therapheutic hobby.

My Little adventurer trying to make her own rock stacking exercise!

This is a great exercise both for the young and the adult.Since it requires patience and flexibility, it can be good to manage stress as well.I guess this activity requires concentration, a skill that children needs to master just like sitting in the chair for a long period of time.

Try it with your kids and you will know definitely if they are impatient or not…If they tried Jenga then maybe it will be familiar for them to try…

On our hike goingto Neuschwanstein Castle, we followed the trail following the Pöllat waterfalls, and suddenly, we spotted so many rock stack formations on the bank of the waterfalls. It was so many that it is really impossible to miss it.I know it´s not a surprise anymore considering that this place is one of the most visited place in Germany.We are talking about millions of people visited Neuschwasntein Castle every year, so imagine the number of hikers going on to this trail as well! This spot is where you can see clearly the Marienbrücke from above and gasping in agony because it´s still a long hike to go….

And actually, the waterfalls is very beautiful!

On the banks of the calm splashing waters, there is it…. the field of stone stacks…small, medium, high, low, large, and proud.

A beautiful stone we found in Partnachklamm, in Garmisch Partenkirchen

Every single corner of this area was covered with stone stacking.Of course we didn´t let this chance go by, we also made our own.I have seen quite the same when we visit the Partnachklamm (Partnach Gorge) in Garmisch-Partenkirchen. People stops by to admire them, but only those wild at heart build them.

Most hikers loved to do this, having a pit stop to rest on the banks of a river or waterfalls, and leave a memory, an imprint of art. Once you see it, its an automatic invitation to participate and make your own.

While on my morning run, I spotted the same rock stacks , this time on the banks of the River Danube. I couldn´t resist but to stop by and admire it.It was beautiful.

Whether people do this just to kill time or to be “in” , it doesn´t matter. The thing is, it is okay as long as you don´t take anything from nature and respect it.A time well spent stacking the stones is never a wasted time…well that is only my opinion.

I have read that in other parts of the world, this issue is not so welcomed and not favored by nature observers.To think that there is even a global competition about stone stacking is really crazy!

What do you think about this, a tourist trap or not? Are you one of those tourists dared to do stone stacking as well?

How about a painted Stone Art Project ? or what about A Field full of rock figures?

Tschüss Kindergarten, Hallo Schultüte!

September 8, 2020Bavaria, GERMANY, Modern Parents, OTHERS, RAISING NATALIE10 Comments

Today is the first day of School here in Bavaria, the southern part of Germany and my daughter finally said Tschüss (Goodbye) to Kindergaten and said “Hallo to her Schultüte”…Sie ist endlich ein Schulkind, finally now that she turned 6, she is finally starting School…

As a parent, this whole new experience is bringing us mixed emotions. Schools are finally reopening—with masks, Abstand ( or distance of min. 1.5 Meters) and strict hygienic concepts and many more other restrictions. For the first time , this is all happening, children are finally back to school, as we also all gone back to work, right on the verge of Corona virus chaos.On the other hand, we are proud parents that our child is having her new milestone, new challenge and definitely making big leaps of growth.But then for the same scary virus, part of me always have this fear and a bag full of worries. Fear of the unknown, because we all know that as long as the virus is still out there, we can never feel safe enough.

But then for most of us, especially in the eyes of the little children…life must go on…

Starting school in Germany with a big “Schultüte” or School cone

As an Expat mama, I am sharing this special post because here in Germany, I have seen something else. Something unique, something worthy of sharing . Something that I have never seen in my homeland or in any parts of Europe. Here, children starts school with a “Schultüte” or simply a School cone! This is totally German, and every single child here who enters the first grade in school must bring one on his/her first day of school. That is why this day is so special and celebrated !

What is a ” Schultüte” ?

Schultüte is actually a “Zuckertüte” or sweetbag ,or rather cone. A paper cone full of sweet surprises, like a big fat Christmas socks that is stuff with gifts! I have read that Shultüte is an old German tradition way back since 1810. First stories about Schultüte starts in Jena, Leipzig and Dresden so mainly on the Saxony, Saxony-Anhalt, and Thuringia areas in Germany.But then nowadays, this nationwide tradition is widely celebrated by all children whoare about to start school in Germany.

The school normally starts on the 1st week of September, right after a long Summer break. On the first day, you will notice that the streets is filled with children (along with their parents) carrying this huge cone and their trendy Schulranzen (Backpacks). That is really a lovely sight to watch. Most of the time, parents are as excited as their kids!

Why German Schulranzen is Unique?

The Backpack and the School cone (Schultüte)

Here in Germany, Backpacks or Schulranzen says it all. I never imagined that Backpacks were that important here.I remember when I was young, many children does not need to have new things for school, but here…forget it, Schulranzen is very important, let alone expensive! Every child needs to have a decent Schulranzen. It´s like their weapon for their next battle.

” But it looks to bulky and heavy…and how can they carry it while riding their bikes? “

Schulranzen is an important matter for every first grade children here in Germany.The backpack must be for functional use, compact, stable ,and will not hurt their backs ! ( Very important!) It is an important factor when buying one is that papers don´t get bent, and snacks dont get squished! Think about German mentality and perfection in every single thing. To give you an idea what children needs on their first grade, take a look at the photos below. This will give you an idea what you need to prepare aside from the Schultüte on the first day of school! This is the list that we´ve got from the School and bought!

With this, you might have an idea that starting school means you will spend probably hundreds and hundreds of Euros, all for a good start.My daughter chose her own design for her Schultüte, which happened to match her Schulranzen.

For me persoally ,the start of school in Germany is quite special. Yesterday we had a simple mass in the church for the first graders to be blessed, and today, they are rewarded with their own Schültute.They have the whole day to enjoy it. Schultüte is filled with many things that brings every 6 year old child loves. Normally it is filled with things that they can use at school like pencils, small stickers, notebooks, or stickers and so much more.It can be filled with small toys, sweets and many other “wished items”. The list are endless.

Since she adores Lego and Ninjago, we´ve had plenty of ideas what to put in her Schultüte!

The thing is, what I love about it is that it really creates that element of excitement and surprise to children.You can really see their eyes get wide full of excitement! My daughter cannot even wait to unpack it all! I think this is very important on their first day in school, a good start is always better than pressure. Instead of directly going to lessons, the children can still enjoy a relaxed first day of school, and of course, enjoying their hard earned sweet threats from their Schultüte.

Here in Germany, months before the school starts, many shops already sells different kinds of Schultüte. You can also make and decorate your own, just like we did. Many schultüte can also be ordered online especially now because of Corona Virus.For us, I just ordered the materials and we did it together with my daughter.

Personalized Schultüte is far by the best!It is far memorable…

Today I have seen that this event is really celebrated by the whole family.Not only parents are present in school but I saw Grandparents and other relatives who were there to celebrate with their child.It is indeed a big thing here.

Starting school in the midst of the Pandemic

Starting elementary school in Germany leaves me quite an impression.This is totally non -existent way back in our times where we started Grade 1.I must say that here, it looks like a birthday, or a big family reunion since parents invest so much on this special day. Most parents even take this day as a day off to be with their child on their first day in school.My daughter already spent 3 years in the Kindergarten alone, but then I know, starting school is a big adjustment to her.

Maybe that is why Schultüte signals a new phase–a new life full of surprises!

This day is really a day to remember.In other parts of the world, people are starting school virtually, and online learning is the solution, a safer way to learn. But here in Germany, we are moving slowly to make things normal, but with strict caution, especially to not stop children from getting into school, the real way.Many children I see posed on their first day wearing a headset and in front of a computer, well, I am not against it. In the end, we all want the best for our children…