Munich

Munich has a diverse and eclectic mix of sights and activities that I haven't found in any other city. There are numerous religious and historic sights to visit both within and surrounding the town, there are countless places to relax or sunbath, and Munich drinks better than any other place on Earth.

I started my first day there as I do with most cities by walking around, getting a good idea of the city's layout, and seeing the sights. All of these churches have really started to run together, though. One interesting sight I did find were these lion statues. As I was there looking at them, everyone who passed by them would rub his hand over the golden part towards the bottom and say something in German. I have no idea why they do that or what they say, but it's an interesting tradition. I'm glad I witnessed it.

I found my first anti-american sentiment while I was here. Ironically, the 'S' on USA on this sign is a swastika. Imagine that... The Germans of all people criticizing the US with a swastika... haha. I can see the point, though. The Patriot Act is like step one for creating a Gestapo, and Hitler spread Fascism in much the same way we're spreading our ideas across the globe. Although, I think the US is slightly more benign... for now.

I found this on a posted map guide for the English Garden here, the largest (or second largest) urban park in Europe, a portion of which is clothing optional. Why are these areas always mainly old people? I don't know. In any case, the truly unique establishment to Munich is the beer garden, open bar/restaurants among trees, plants, and picnic tables. Several are located in the English Garden, where I was headed when I found this. I definitely felt German sitting, gaint beer glass in hand, amongst the jovial Munch crowd.

I joined another pub crawl the second night I was here. This one was slightly larger, about 40 people or so. Along with the many stops we made to bars and beer gardens, our guide would stop between places to pour shots for everyone. The pics are priceless. Some Austrailians got angry, though, that there weren't getting enough alcohol for the money they paid... angry enough to almost start a fight, which caugh the attention of some Munich police. Luckily no one got arrested, but most of the group left after that. Six of us remained, which turned out alright. The Irish Bars here are great. Those and the beer gardens have got to go on your 'must visit' list if you ever come here.