Holiday in Germany?

Seeing as I seem to have offended some of my colleagues by chatting about Germany's real age (sorry guys, but it's true!), today I'm going to make up for it by writing about some of the most beautiful spots in Germany.

With the recession biting deep, many more people are choosing holidays closer to home over exotic trips and since Germay is so perfectly located in Europe, it's actually a fantastic destination for many people. Clearly, I am a bit of a fan of Germany, studying German and all, but I do honestly and impartially think that the country has something to offer for everyone.

Here's why:

1) Even total culture phobes can feel at home there. The Germans are strangely interested in English speakers (this is frustrating when trying to improve your German, like me). They seem to have a sixth sense and even if you are speaking in German, they will suddenly burst into English mid-conversation. Being an English speaker can really open some doors and people will make you feel right at home.

2) Sport, relaxing, sunbathing, fine dining, road trips, slobbing about, city breaks...Germany has it all. There's a lot of variety. Take city breaks for example: you've already got about ten big cities to choose from, maybe more. From there, you can whittle your choices down further. Avant garde and cultural? Berlin! Stunning architecture, traditional? Munich! A taste of the former East German Republic? Dresden! See what I mean?

3) Price. Germany is overall very affordable (although for those of us in the UK, not affordable as it used to be, what with our weak pound at the moment). If you want to splurge, you can go ahead and do it, BUT if, like most people, you are on a budget, you are not limited in the slightest. If you're really poor, it's interesting to note that Germany has a thriving Couchsurfing community. Basically, you find someone in the place you want to go to, see if you hit it off and then crash on their sofa free of charge. A great idea if you really want to get to know a place and the locals.


I bet you're already convinced! Still, if you're not, take a peek at this quick list of some of the placed voted most beautiful in Germany:


Bodensee: First on my list, because this is where I am! Konstanz, just on the edge of the lake, is small but beautiful, both in summer and winter. There are numerous pretty little towns and villages around the lake, as well as several ferries going back and forth. All around the lake are cycle paths and footpaths and you will likely stumble frequently on little beaches where you can take a swim.

Altes Land: This little piece of paradise near Hamburg is bursting with orchards and small, private accommodations. Popular among couples and families, there are many activities available, such as cycling tours, hiking, boating along the Elbe and tours around the local orchards (surprisingly interesting!) Larger cities are just a stone's throw away.

Potsdam: no longer a part of Berlin, but still just a leap, skip and a jump away. Former summer residence of Friedrich the Great, this great destination is full to the brim with gardens, glorious architecture, castles and churches. Locally known as the Versailles of the North, the former palace is a Cultural Heritage Site. In the town itself there are also many activities, including shows, film showings and markets.

Quedlinburg: Never heard of it, eh? A romance, secluded town in Sachsen-Anhalt, Quedlingburg is also a Cultural Heritage Site. Even year its charming, twisty streets and dreamy atmosphere draw visitors from all over, but luckily it's still little-known enough that it feels like your very own secret discovery.

Thüringer Wald: last, but not least, we're on to Thüringen, where the majestic wood offers a paradise for walkers, hikers, cyclists and nature lovers. If you get peckish, you could try the traditional meal: the Thüringer Bratwurst, or simply visit the Wurst Museum (that's sausages, everyone)! If you've still got energy after that, you could climb up to the highest point, Beerburg, and enjoy the fantastic view.

If you're interested in finding out more about holiday destinations in Germany, head off to HolidayCheck. Interested in reading more from Kat? Follow her on Twitter here.