Trustroots Wiki - User contributions [en]

File:BambergRathaus.jpg

2013-03-14T16:48:19Z

Christian LeopoldR:

Bamberg

2013-03-12T16:41:14Z

Christian LeopoldR: /* Eating and Drinking */

{{City
|name = Bamberg
|country = Germany
|region = Bavaria
|nickname =
|group = 11266
|wikipedia = Bamberg
|wikitravel = Bamberg
|hitch = Bamberg
|image = BambergRathaus.jpg
|imagetext = Bamberg, old townhall
|ambassadors = [[:cs:people/LeopoldR/|Christian (LeopoldR)]]
}}
'''Bamberg''' is a beautiful German city located in the norther part of Bavaria, named Upper Franconia (important: '''not''' in Bavaria, please refer to a native Franconian for more information). The old city is part of the UNESCO world heritage and Bamberg is famous for its Beer Culture (but also much more) - and a great and growing CS community.
Well - and LP states "It’s difficult not to be impressed by Bamberg, clearly one of Germany’s most beautiful cities. With a majestic centre, wonderful cathedral and superb palaces, this Unesco-listed place was built by archbishops on seven hills, earning it the sobriquet of ‘Franconian Rome’. Miraculously, Bamberg emerged from WWII with hardly a scratch, and most of the city’s finest buildings are originals. Pristine examples of architecture from the Romanesque era onwards have survived, and a genuine charm and romance pervade the city. Bamberg is also justly famous for its beer; there are 10 breweries in town and another 80 or so in the vicinity." Enough said?

== Local CS community ==
=== Regular Activities ===
There are regular meetings (in 2013, every '''13th''' of the month!) in which local and foreign members discover the city, so check on the [http://www.bewelcome.org/groups/942 Bamberg BW group] for other and more events. Feel free to join!
(Join the local group to know what is going on at the time of your travels here.)

=== Who to contact ===
If you intend to come to Bamberg or have questions during your stay the [http://www.bewelcome.org/groups/942 Bamberg BW forum] plus the [http://www.couchsurfing.com/group.html?gid=11970 (sorrounding) Upper Franconia CS forum] are good points to start from.

If you are looking for a host, do not post in the group but try a couchsearch and write to individual members! Read the advice on '''[http://www.bewelcome.org/about/faq/1]''' to be successful.

== Getting to Bamberg ==
=== By Train ===
Bamberg has a big train station right in the city. For tickets have a look at [http://www.bahn.de/ Deutsche Bahn].
=== By Plane ===
Closest airports are either Frankfurt (FRA), Munich (MUC) or (very close) Nuremberg (NUE).
=== By Car ===
Bamberg is actually located very close to the center of Germany. It is easy to reach for travellers especially when they travel by car. There are two important motorways going by:
* A3 (Dutch border - Cologne - Frankfurt - Würzburg - Nuremberg - Regensburg - Austrian border)
* A9 (Berlin - Leipzig - Hof - Nuremberg - Munich - Austria)
* Both motorways connect to A70 and A73 - which again cross directly close to Bamberg.

== Getting along in Bamberg ==
=== Hotels / Motels / B&Bs ===

If you look for a more economical way of staying in Bamberg you definitely should consider CouchSurfing. In the case that no couch is available throughout Bamberg you can still refer to the youth hostel. The most famous is the [http://www.bamberg.jugendherberge.de/ Jugendherberge]. Motels are not very common in Germany but you also should keep your eyes open for "Pensionen" which are basically the same.

=== Eating and Drinking ===

This is a special one. We have made it a little tradition to meet frequently at different places in and around Bamberg. Check out at the noted [http://www.bewelcome.org/groups/942 Bamberg BW forum] to find out more!
You can spend a whole lifetime visiting the breweries in the region. OK, they´re not like Paul Bocuse restaurants, but that´s why everybody can afford to go there and you sometimes find whole families (from grandma to grandson) going there together.
Plus another specialty - this area is very reasonable! You can enjoy half a litre or delicious beer for €2 or less and a decent meal for under €5!

=== Public Transport ===

In Bamberg, public transport consists of a bus system that enables you to get around in the town centre during weekdays. There are some evening and night lines in the town centre and of course plenty of taxis.
However, if you stay in the centre, the best way to get around is on foot.
If you intend to visit the region around Bamberg, you should have a rental car or at least know somebody (host?) who owns one. If you live in one of the villages around Bamberg, it is sometimes difficult to get to town by bus.

=== In Case of Trouble ===
Bamberg is
a pretty safe city (Hey, we have our own bishop!), but you never
know. In the case of a fire break-out or general emergencies call
112, call 110 if you need police assistance. (If someone gets hurt
call an ambulance by dialing 19222.)

These numbers should work from every cellular phone - even without SIM card. If you don't have one look out for a phone booth or ask passers-by for help. Emergency calls are FREE! If you confuse the numbers it also shouldn't be a problem, you will be routed through. Please make sure to remember at least one of these numbers.

== Entertainment ==

=== Outdoor Activities ===
Hiking, cycling, climbing in "Fränkische Schweiz", the beautiful region around Bamberg.
Checking out scenic beer gardens and local breweries, there are about 150 breweries still existing in the region.
In Bamberg: Relaxing in its beautiful parks like "Hain" and green areas like "Bruderwald". Going to beer gardens (again :-) like the wonderful Spezial Keller (http://www.spezial-keller.de/Spezial-Keller_Bamberg/Willkommen.html), and of course sightseeing in the centre that some people consider an open-air museum as it wasn´t destroyed in WWII.

=== Bars and Clubs ===
Have to admit, that the 'night life' here is rather scarce. But I guess, that's not what people come her for anyway? :) Though a stroll along Sandstrasse and Austrasse will show you are busy student night life.

=== Shopping ===
Well, we have here a few factories on the outskirts (i.e. Bosch for spark plugs and windshield wiper motors and Michelin for tyres) but they do not bother for factory sales obviously. On the other hand, there is everything here one needs including of course anything that a traveller needs. (Check with your host for details.) Looking for a distinctive souvenir, one should take along some of the special beer noted below...

== Culture ==
=== History ===
Check Wikitravel and Wikipedia for details.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bamberg
As a Bamberg resident, I must say that this place is so full of history that you don´t know where to start presenting it.
However, always remember, if you stay with a true Bamberger, you are not in Bavaria, but in Franconia.
It is one of the hapless misfortunes of history that Napoleon made Franconia part of Bavaria at the beginning of the 19th century.

=== Sightseeing ===
Bamberg, an old archdiocese, naturally has many great churches you can visit, the most important one being the cathedral started in 1007, meaning it´s more than 1000 years old. In it, you can find renowned statues like the "Bamberger Reiter" or "Ecclesia and Synagogue" dating back to the 13th century. Additionally, there are great altars and the tomb (made by Tilman Riemenschneider) of Emperor Heinrich and his wife Kunigunde who founded the diocese of Bamberg. But if you read http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bamberg_Cathedral - you realize that it takes weeks just to explore this one monument!

The church of St Michael used to be a monastery and is now a home for the elderly. The church has a wonderful painted ceiling and in it, there is the tomb of St Otto, bishop of Bamberg and missionary of Pomerania at the beginning of the 11th century. It is said to help cure backaches, so ask a local how to do that :-) On Michaelsberg, you´ll also find a very interesting beer museum.
The old town hall was built right in the middle of the river Regnitz and is famous for its 3D-painted facades. With the cathedral, it is the most famous monument in Bamberg. From the upper bridge, you have a beautiful view of "Little Venice", old fishermens´ houses along the river Regnitz.
This is by the way not the only point why Bamberg is sometimes compared to Italy. Bamberg is built on seven hills like Rome and the region around is sometimes referred to as "Franconian Tuscany".
Don´t forget to go to one of the brewery pubs like "Schlenkerla", "Spezial", "Keesmann", "Mahr´s Bräu". This is Franconia at its best.
Have a stroll around the old town and a break at one of the beautiful students´ cafés.
And if possible, go see a basketball match in this so-called "Freak City" of basketball in Germany or enjoy a performance of the renowned Symphonic orchestra.

There is much more to be found and experienced. Link:

http://www.bamberg.info/

== Web Links ==
* Public Transport: http://www.verkehrsbetriebe.de/page.php?page=bamberg/opnv/opnv.html
* Tourist Information: http://www.germany-tourism.de/ENG/culture_and_events/unesco_south_bamberg.htm

[[Category:Bavaria]]
[[Category:Germany]]

Bamberg

2013-03-12T16:38:22Z

Christian LeopoldR: /* Who to contact */

{{City
|name = Bamberg
|country = Germany
|region = Bavaria
|nickname =
|group = 11266
|wikipedia = Bamberg
|wikitravel = Bamberg
|hitch = Bamberg
|image = BambergRathaus.jpg
|imagetext = Bamberg, old townhall
|ambassadors = [[:cs:people/LeopoldR/|Christian (LeopoldR)]]
}}
'''Bamberg''' is a beautiful German city located in the norther part of Bavaria, named Upper Franconia (important: '''not''' in Bavaria, please refer to a native Franconian for more information). The old city is part of the UNESCO world heritage and Bamberg is famous for its Beer Culture (but also much more) - and a great and growing CS community.
Well - and LP states "It’s difficult not to be impressed by Bamberg, clearly one of Germany’s most beautiful cities. With a majestic centre, wonderful cathedral and superb palaces, this Unesco-listed place was built by archbishops on seven hills, earning it the sobriquet of ‘Franconian Rome’. Miraculously, Bamberg emerged from WWII with hardly a scratch, and most of the city’s finest buildings are originals. Pristine examples of architecture from the Romanesque era onwards have survived, and a genuine charm and romance pervade the city. Bamberg is also justly famous for its beer; there are 10 breweries in town and another 80 or so in the vicinity." Enough said?

== Local CS community ==
=== Regular Activities ===
There are regular meetings (in 2013, every '''13th''' of the month!) in which local and foreign members discover the city, so check on the [http://www.bewelcome.org/groups/942 Bamberg BW group] for other and more events. Feel free to join!
(Join the local group to know what is going on at the time of your travels here.)

=== Who to contact ===
If you intend to come to Bamberg or have questions during your stay the [http://www.bewelcome.org/groups/942 Bamberg BW forum] plus the [http://www.couchsurfing.com/group.html?gid=11970 (sorrounding) Upper Franconia CS forum] are good points to start from.

If you are looking for a host, do not post in the group but try a couchsearch and write to individual members! Read the advice on '''[http://www.bewelcome.org/about/faq/1]''' to be successful.

== Getting to Bamberg ==
=== By Train ===
Bamberg has a big train station right in the city. For tickets have a look at [http://www.bahn.de/ Deutsche Bahn].
=== By Plane ===
Closest airports are either Frankfurt (FRA), Munich (MUC) or (very close) Nuremberg (NUE).
=== By Car ===
Bamberg is actually located very close to the center of Germany. It is easy to reach for travellers especially when they travel by car. There are two important motorways going by:
* A3 (Dutch border - Cologne - Frankfurt - Würzburg - Nuremberg - Regensburg - Austrian border)
* A9 (Berlin - Leipzig - Hof - Nuremberg - Munich - Austria)
* Both motorways connect to A70 and A73 - which again cross directly close to Bamberg.

== Getting along in Bamberg ==
=== Hotels / Motels / B&Bs ===

If you look for a more economical way of staying in Bamberg you definitely should consider CouchSurfing. In the case that no couch is available throughout Bamberg you can still refer to the youth hostel. The most famous is the [http://www.bamberg.jugendherberge.de/ Jugendherberge]. Motels are not very common in Germany but you also should keep your eyes open for "Pensionen" which are basically the same.

=== Eating and Drinking ===

This is a special one. We have made it a little tradition to meet frequently at different places in and around Bamberg. Check out at the noted [http://www.couchsurfing.com/group.html?gid=11266 Bamberg CS forum] to find out more!
You can spend a whole lifetime visiting the breweries in the region. OK, they´re not like Paul Bocuse restaurants, but that´s why everybody can afford to go there and you sometimes find whole families (from grandma to grandson) going there together.

=== Public Transport ===

In Bamberg, public transport consists of a bus system that enables you to get around in the town centre during weekdays. There are some evening and night lines in the town centre and of course plenty of taxis.
However, if you stay in the centre, the best way to get around is on foot.
If you intend to visit the region around Bamberg, you should have a rental car or at least know somebody (host?) who owns one. If you live in one of the villages around Bamberg, it is sometimes difficult to get to town by bus.

=== In Case of Trouble ===
Bamberg is
a pretty safe city (Hey, we have our own bishop!), but you never
know. In the case of a fire break-out or general emergencies call
112, call 110 if you need police assistance. (If someone gets hurt
call an ambulance by dialing 19222.)

These numbers should work from every cellular phone - even without SIM card. If you don't have one look out for a phone booth or ask passers-by for help. Emergency calls are FREE! If you confuse the numbers it also shouldn't be a problem, you will be routed through. Please make sure to remember at least one of these numbers.

== Entertainment ==

=== Outdoor Activities ===
Hiking, cycling, climbing in "Fränkische Schweiz", the beautiful region around Bamberg.
Checking out scenic beer gardens and local breweries, there are about 150 breweries still existing in the region.
In Bamberg: Relaxing in its beautiful parks like "Hain" and green areas like "Bruderwald". Going to beer gardens (again :-) like the wonderful Spezial Keller (http://www.spezial-keller.de/Spezial-Keller_Bamberg/Willkommen.html), and of course sightseeing in the centre that some people consider an open-air museum as it wasn´t destroyed in WWII.

=== Bars and Clubs ===
Have to admit, that the 'night life' here is rather scarce. But I guess, that's not what people come her for anyway? :) Though a stroll along Sandstrasse and Austrasse will show you are busy student night life.

=== Shopping ===
Well, we have here a few factories on the outskirts (i.e. Bosch for spark plugs and windshield wiper motors and Michelin for tyres) but they do not bother for factory sales obviously. On the other hand, there is everything here one needs including of course anything that a traveller needs. (Check with your host for details.) Looking for a distinctive souvenir, one should take along some of the special beer noted below...

== Culture ==
=== History ===
Check Wikitravel and Wikipedia for details.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bamberg
As a Bamberg resident, I must say that this place is so full of history that you don´t know where to start presenting it.
However, always remember, if you stay with a true Bamberger, you are not in Bavaria, but in Franconia.
It is one of the hapless misfortunes of history that Napoleon made Franconia part of Bavaria at the beginning of the 19th century.

=== Sightseeing ===
Bamberg, an old archdiocese, naturally has many great churches you can visit, the most important one being the cathedral started in 1007, meaning it´s more than 1000 years old. In it, you can find renowned statues like the "Bamberger Reiter" or "Ecclesia and Synagogue" dating back to the 13th century. Additionally, there are great altars and the tomb (made by Tilman Riemenschneider) of Emperor Heinrich and his wife Kunigunde who founded the diocese of Bamberg. But if you read http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bamberg_Cathedral - you realize that it takes weeks just to explore this one monument!

The church of St Michael used to be a monastery and is now a home for the elderly. The church has a wonderful painted ceiling and in it, there is the tomb of St Otto, bishop of Bamberg and missionary of Pomerania at the beginning of the 11th century. It is said to help cure backaches, so ask a local how to do that :-) On Michaelsberg, you´ll also find a very interesting beer museum.
The old town hall was built right in the middle of the river Regnitz and is famous for its 3D-painted facades. With the cathedral, it is the most famous monument in Bamberg. From the upper bridge, you have a beautiful view of "Little Venice", old fishermens´ houses along the river Regnitz.
This is by the way not the only point why Bamberg is sometimes compared to Italy. Bamberg is built on seven hills like Rome and the region around is sometimes referred to as "Franconian Tuscany".
Don´t forget to go to one of the brewery pubs like "Schlenkerla", "Spezial", "Keesmann", "Mahr´s Bräu". This is Franconia at its best.
Have a stroll around the old town and a break at one of the beautiful students´ cafés.
And if possible, go see a basketball match in this so-called "Freak City" of basketball in Germany or enjoy a performance of the renowned Symphonic orchestra.

There is much more to be found and experienced. Link:

http://www.bamberg.info/

== Web Links ==
* Public Transport: http://www.verkehrsbetriebe.de/page.php?page=bamberg/opnv/opnv.html
* Tourist Information: http://www.germany-tourism.de/ENG/culture_and_events/unesco_south_bamberg.htm

[[Category:Bavaria]]
[[Category:Germany]]

Bamberg

2013-03-12T16:31:36Z

Christian LeopoldR: /* Regular Activities */

{{City
|name = Bamberg
|country = Germany
|region = Bavaria
|nickname =
|group = 11266
|wikipedia = Bamberg
|wikitravel = Bamberg
|hitch = Bamberg
|image = BambergRathaus.jpg
|imagetext = Bamberg, old townhall
|ambassadors = [[:cs:people/LeopoldR/|Christian (LeopoldR)]]
}}
'''Bamberg''' is a beautiful German city located in the norther part of Bavaria, named Upper Franconia (important: '''not''' in Bavaria, please refer to a native Franconian for more information). The old city is part of the UNESCO world heritage and Bamberg is famous for its Beer Culture (but also much more) - and a great and growing CS community.
Well - and LP states "It’s difficult not to be impressed by Bamberg, clearly one of Germany’s most beautiful cities. With a majestic centre, wonderful cathedral and superb palaces, this Unesco-listed place was built by archbishops on seven hills, earning it the sobriquet of ‘Franconian Rome’. Miraculously, Bamberg emerged from WWII with hardly a scratch, and most of the city’s finest buildings are originals. Pristine examples of architecture from the Romanesque era onwards have survived, and a genuine charm and romance pervade the city. Bamberg is also justly famous for its beer; there are 10 breweries in town and another 80 or so in the vicinity." Enough said?

== Local CS community ==
=== Regular Activities ===
There are regular meetings (in 2013, every '''13th''' of the month!) in which local and foreign members discover the city, so check on the [http://www.bewelcome.org/groups/942 Bamberg BW group] for other and more events. Feel free to join!
(Join the local group to know what is going on at the time of your travels here.)

=== Who to contact ===
If you intend to come to Bamberg or have questions during your stay the [http://www.couchsurfing.com/group.html?gid=11266 Bamberg CS forum] plus the [http://www.couchsurfing.com/group.html?gid=11970 (sorrounding) Upper Franconia CS forum] are good points to start from.

If you are looking for a host, do not post in the group but try a couchsearch and write to individual members! Read the advice on '''[http://wiki.couchsurfing.com/en/Writing_a_couch_request How to write a good request]''' to be successful.

== Getting to Bamberg ==
=== By Train ===
Bamberg has a big train station right in the city. For tickets have a look at [http://www.bahn.de/ Deutsche Bahn].
=== By Plane ===
Closest airports are either Frankfurt (FRA), Munich (MUC) or (very close) Nuremberg (NUE).
=== By Car ===
Bamberg is actually located very close to the center of Germany. It is easy to reach for travellers especially when they travel by car. There are two important motorways going by:
* A3 (Dutch border - Cologne - Frankfurt - Würzburg - Nuremberg - Regensburg - Austrian border)
* A9 (Berlin - Leipzig - Hof - Nuremberg - Munich - Austria)
* Both motorways connect to A70 and A73 - which again cross directly close to Bamberg.

== Getting along in Bamberg ==
=== Hotels / Motels / B&Bs ===

If you look for a more economical way of staying in Bamberg you definitely should consider CouchSurfing. In the case that no couch is available throughout Bamberg you can still refer to the youth hostel. The most famous is the [http://www.bamberg.jugendherberge.de/ Jugendherberge]. Motels are not very common in Germany but you also should keep your eyes open for "Pensionen" which are basically the same.

=== Eating and Drinking ===

This is a special one. We have made it a little tradition to meet frequently at different places in and around Bamberg. Check out at the noted [http://www.couchsurfing.com/group.html?gid=11266 Bamberg CS forum] to find out more!
You can spend a whole lifetime visiting the breweries in the region. OK, they´re not like Paul Bocuse restaurants, but that´s why everybody can afford to go there and you sometimes find whole families (from grandma to grandson) going there together.

=== Public Transport ===

In Bamberg, public transport consists of a bus system that enables you to get around in the town centre during weekdays. There are some evening and night lines in the town centre and of course plenty of taxis.
However, if you stay in the centre, the best way to get around is on foot.
If you intend to visit the region around Bamberg, you should have a rental car or at least know somebody (host?) who owns one. If you live in one of the villages around Bamberg, it is sometimes difficult to get to town by bus.

=== In Case of Trouble ===
Bamberg is
a pretty safe city (Hey, we have our own bishop!), but you never
know. In the case of a fire break-out or general emergencies call
112, call 110 if you need police assistance. (If someone gets hurt
call an ambulance by dialing 19222.)

These numbers should work from every cellular phone - even without SIM card. If you don't have one look out for a phone booth or ask passers-by for help. Emergency calls are FREE! If you confuse the numbers it also shouldn't be a problem, you will be routed through. Please make sure to remember at least one of these numbers.

== Entertainment ==

=== Outdoor Activities ===
Hiking, cycling, climbing in "Fränkische Schweiz", the beautiful region around Bamberg.
Checking out scenic beer gardens and local breweries, there are about 150 breweries still existing in the region.
In Bamberg: Relaxing in its beautiful parks like "Hain" and green areas like "Bruderwald". Going to beer gardens (again :-) like the wonderful Spezial Keller (http://www.spezial-keller.de/Spezial-Keller_Bamberg/Willkommen.html), and of course sightseeing in the centre that some people consider an open-air museum as it wasn´t destroyed in WWII.

=== Bars and Clubs ===
Have to admit, that the 'night life' here is rather scarce. But I guess, that's not what people come her for anyway? :) Though a stroll along Sandstrasse and Austrasse will show you are busy student night life.

=== Shopping ===
Well, we have here a few factories on the outskirts (i.e. Bosch for spark plugs and windshield wiper motors and Michelin for tyres) but they do not bother for factory sales obviously. On the other hand, there is everything here one needs including of course anything that a traveller needs. (Check with your host for details.) Looking for a distinctive souvenir, one should take along some of the special beer noted below...

== Culture ==
=== History ===
Check Wikitravel and Wikipedia for details.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bamberg
As a Bamberg resident, I must say that this place is so full of history that you don´t know where to start presenting it.
However, always remember, if you stay with a true Bamberger, you are not in Bavaria, but in Franconia.
It is one of the hapless misfortunes of history that Napoleon made Franconia part of Bavaria at the beginning of the 19th century.

=== Sightseeing ===
Bamberg, an old archdiocese, naturally has many great churches you can visit, the most important one being the cathedral started in 1007, meaning it´s more than 1000 years old. In it, you can find renowned statues like the "Bamberger Reiter" or "Ecclesia and Synagogue" dating back to the 13th century. Additionally, there are great altars and the tomb (made by Tilman Riemenschneider) of Emperor Heinrich and his wife Kunigunde who founded the diocese of Bamberg. But if you read http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bamberg_Cathedral - you realize that it takes weeks just to explore this one monument!

The church of St Michael used to be a monastery and is now a home for the elderly. The church has a wonderful painted ceiling and in it, there is the tomb of St Otto, bishop of Bamberg and missionary of Pomerania at the beginning of the 11th century. It is said to help cure backaches, so ask a local how to do that :-) On Michaelsberg, you´ll also find a very interesting beer museum.
The old town hall was built right in the middle of the river Regnitz and is famous for its 3D-painted facades. With the cathedral, it is the most famous monument in Bamberg. From the upper bridge, you have a beautiful view of "Little Venice", old fishermens´ houses along the river Regnitz.
This is by the way not the only point why Bamberg is sometimes compared to Italy. Bamberg is built on seven hills like Rome and the region around is sometimes referred to as "Franconian Tuscany".
Don´t forget to go to one of the brewery pubs like "Schlenkerla", "Spezial", "Keesmann", "Mahr´s Bräu". This is Franconia at its best.
Have a stroll around the old town and a break at one of the beautiful students´ cafés.
And if possible, go see a basketball match in this so-called "Freak City" of basketball in Germany or enjoy a performance of the renowned Symphonic orchestra.

There is much more to be found and experienced. Link:

http://www.bamberg.info/

== Web Links ==
* Public Transport: http://www.verkehrsbetriebe.de/page.php?page=bamberg/opnv/opnv.html
* Tourist Information: http://www.germany-tourism.de/ENG/culture_and_events/unesco_south_bamberg.htm

[[Category:Bavaria]]
[[Category:Germany]]

User talk:Christian LeopoldR

2012-12-07T16:13:45Z

Christian LeopoldR:

Hi Christian! Welcome to couchwiki! Let me know if you run into trouble here or if I can otherwise help :) [[User:Guaka|guaka]] ([[User talk:Guaka|talk]]) 15:06, 7 December 2012 (CET)

== Help? ==

Hello Kasper,

actually Antoine https://www.couchsurfing.org/people/antoine-van-rijsel/ 'directed' me here, as I thought I better safe my wiki pages, before the 'CS jerks' delete it...

But whilst I have your attention. I just copied all pages I have access to, incl those I created. But I think, the link for Bavaria is not properly connected? Maybe you can have a look?

Thank you,
Christian

:Cool. I'm happy to assist :) I moved [[Bavaria]] to [[Category:Bavaria]] for now, which can sometimes be a good way to organize stuff. BTW, you can "sign" stuff here with <nowiki>"~~~~"</nowiki> :) [[User:Guaka|guaka]] ([[User talk:Guaka|talk]]) 16:29, 7 December 2012 (CET)

Hello Kasper,

I think there is still something missing?
Bavaria ends nowhere - and Munich, Nuremberg, Würzburg and Bamberg are missing also?

User talk:Christian LeopoldR

2012-12-07T14:51:54Z

Christian LeopoldR: /* Help? */ new section

Nürnberg

2012-12-06T18:01:12Z

Christian LeopoldR: Created page with "{{City |name = Nuremberg - Nürnberg |country = Germany |region = Bavaria |nickname = |group = 3146 |wikipedia = Nürnberg |wikitravel = N..."

{{City
|name = Nuremberg - Nürnberg
|country = Germany
|region = Bavaria
|nickname =
|group = 3146
|wikipedia = Nürnberg
|wikitravel = Nürnberg
|hitch = Nürnberg
|image = Nuernberg_castle_church.jpg
|imagetext = Sebaldus church and castle
|ambassadors = [[:cs:people/pink-lady/|pink-lady]]
}}

'''Nuremberg''' is a German city located in Middle Franconia (important: '''not''' in Bavaria, please refer to a native Franconian for more information). It is renowned for its tasty beer, crazy dialect and great CS community.

== Local CS community ==
=== Regular Activities ===
'''Every monday we have a regular meeting '''. Feel free to join!
We normally start around 7pm with an open-end. The reservation will be on "Couchsurfing". We pick a different location every week so check out the [http://www.couchsurfing.org/group.html?gid=3146 local group] or search events near Nuremberg for more information.

[https://docs.google.com/spreadsheet/ccc?key=0AqJHOYvcVIebdHROR0xyWkthdUdJejBVM1A4OFhOckE&hl=de#gid=0 Look here for all the locations where we've already been.]

Local couchsurfers also organise smaller meetings several times a week. Join the local group to know what is going on at the time of your travels there.

Every August we celebrate the [http://www.couchsurfing.org/meetings.html?mid=125712 | "Big franconian meeting"] - our city-meeting once a year.

=== Who to contact ===
If you intend to come to Nuremberg or have questions during your stay the [http://www.couchsurfing.com/group.html?gid=3146 Nuremberg / Erlangen / Fürth CS forum] is a good point to start from.

If you are looking for a host, try a couchsearch and write to individual members. Read the advice on [http://wiki.couchsurfing.com/en/Writing_a_couch_request How to write a good request] to be successful. You can also try Erlangen or Fürth. Especailly Fürth is only a 10-minute metro-ride from downtown Nuremberg.
In case of emergency join our [http://www.couchsurfing.org/group.html?gid=18330 | last-minute-group].

== Getting to Nuremberg ==
=== By Train ===
Nuremberg has a big train station right next to the old city. For tickets have a look at [http://www.bahn.de/ Deutsche Bahn].
=== By Plane ===
Cheap flights to and from Nuremberg can be made with [http://www.airberlin.com/site/start.php?LANG=eng Air Berlin]. Nuremberg airport is a destination for both domestic and European flights. The airport is fairly small and can be reached easily by metro (U2) within 20 minutes from the city centre/main train station.
=== By Car ===
Nuremberg used to be an important trade city in the Middle Ages due to its central position in Europe. Today it is still like a hub for travellers especially when they travel by car. There are three important motorways going by:
* A3 (Dutch border - Cologne - Frankfurt - Würzburg - Nuremberg - Regensburg - Austrian border)
* A6 (also called "Via Carolina", from Sarrebruck to the German-Czech border)
* A9 (Salzburg - Munich - Nuremberg - Berlin)
=== By Ride-Share ===
The cheapest way to hop from city to city is to find a private rideshare at [http://www.mitfahrgelegenheit.de/ | Mitfahrgelegenheit] or [http://www.mitfahrzentrale.de/ | Mitfahrzentrale].

== Getting along in Nuremberg ==
=== Hotels / Motels / B&Bs ===
Nuremberg is home of the famous Toy Fair so most big hotel chains are present here. Especially during the fairs (the most important apart from the Toy Fair being the BioFach), hotels are really expensive and booked out months in advance.

If you look for a more economical way of staying in Nuremberg you definitely should consider CouchSurfing. In the case that no couch is available throughout Nuremberg the city offers plenty of hostels. The most famous ones are the [http://www.jugendherberge.de/en/hostels/search/portrait/jh.jsp?IDJH=253 Jugendherberge next to the Nuremberg Castle] and the [http://www.aohostels.com/de/nuernberg/ A&O ]. In Nuremberg [http://www.motel-one.com/de/hotels/hotels-nuernberg/hotel-nuernberg-city.html | Motel-One] is very in common. Also keep your eyes open for "Pensionen" which are basically the same.

=== Eating and Drinking ===
Nuremberg offers a great variety of food and beverage. You can have traditional Frankonian food like Schäufele (baked pork shoulder) and small Nürnberger Bratwürste (grilled sausages), international food (Chinese, Thai, American, Italian etc.) and of course fast food. In summer all the people also use to go to Nuremberg's many beergardens to lead in the evening.
Here are some recommendations (of course subjective):
* [http://www.qype.com/place/134591-Kaiserburg-Bohemian-Soulfood-Nuernberg Restaurant Kaiserburg] (Bohemian): situated beneath the castle, this is still not your typical touristy restaurant. Bohemian cuisine with huge (and yummy) servings. Great value for money.
* [http://www.die-nuernberger-bratwurst.de/ Bratwursthäusle] (Franconian): The best grilled sausages in town! Right next to the Sebaldus church, near the Hauptmarkt. Eating at the restaurant is not cheap but you can also buy a sausage sandwich (ask for "3 im Weggla") to go which also tastes great and is only 2€. By the way, the building might look ancient but it was built in the 1960ies. Waitresses wear traditional clothes called Dirndl. A touristy spot with mainly elderly patrons. Mid-range prices.
* [http://www.qype.com/place/183397-Osteria-Del-Centro-Nuernberg Ristorante Del Centro] (Italian): Opposite the Arabella-Sheraton hotel, near the main train station. Very good italian food.
* [http://www.thaifood1.de/willkommen.php Thai Food 1] (Thai): Best Thai food in town. Do not confuse it with Thai 3 or Thai 4.
* [http://www.restauration-kopernikus.de/ Kopernikusbiergarten] (Franconian/Polish): Biggest and yummiest Schnitzel in town. Good selection of local beer from micro-breweries (Krug, Meister, Hetzelsdorfer, Lindenbräu) for little money (2,90€ for 0,5l). The place gets quite busy when the weather is nice. Patrons from all backgrounds, age ranging from 0 - 80.
* [http://zeiti.net/ Zeit und Raum]: Best place for lunch with a weekly menu. Business lunch is around 5,30€. Dinner Specials called Punk Cuisine with a themed eveing once a month (reservation recommended). There is also a cocktail bar called Rote Bar next to the café. Mainly young people, especially in the evening.
* [http://www.cafe-wanderer.de/ Café Wanderer]: Right next to the castle, this spot is really beautiful when it is sunny. Good selection of local beer from micro-breweries (Lindenbräu, Schanzenbräu, Meister) for a fair price (2,90€ for 0,5l).
* [http://www.eku-inn.de/ EKU Inn]: the best steak house in town. The decor is dreadful, very ninties but the meat is delicious. Prices are not budget-friendly but if you are looking for a great meal, it is recommended to eat there.
* [cafeklatsch.wordpress.com | Café Klatsch]: If you prefer vegan food, this is your place to be.
* [www.landbierparadies.com/wirtshaeuser/sterzingerstrasse/index.php | Landbierparadies]: A fantastic place with a beergarden during the summer, bavarian food and franconian beer.

[https://docs.google.com/spreadsheet/ccc?key=0AqJHOYvcVIebdHROR0xyWkthdUdJejBVM1A4OFhOckE&hl=de#gid=0 Look in the list of the weekly-meeting-locations to find more restaurants]

Most of the restaurants are quite affordable. Main courses normally are between 7€ and 12€ (tax and service included). Watch out for special deals like a lunch special. It says on the menu that service is included but it is common to leave a tip of between 5 and 10%, depending how satisified you are with the service and the food.

If you order a beer, a "Halbe" (Half) is not a small beer but half a litre. If you want more, order a "Maß" (1 litre).

=== Public Transport ===
Public transportation in Nuremberg is pretty good. There is a metro/underground with 2 lines (soon 3 lines), a tramway system (Straßenbahn), buses and rapid trains into the suburbs (S-Bahn). They are run by the [http://www.vgn.de/CFF6B06F-C0B4-11D7-AE44-00034709FE0C VGN] and [http://www.vag.de/ VAG]. Tickets can be bought directly at the stops or the main train station. Some smaller shops also sell them (watch out for the VGN logo). Nuremberg and Fürth are connected by the bus system and the metro. There is a frequent train to Erlangen and Fürth. Public transport runs from around 5:30 am until about half past midnight.

'''Nightliner'''
Friday and Saturday there are special night buses called [http://www.vag-nightliner.de/ Nightliner]. Those buses run throughout the region around the city. They leave at 1am, 2am, 3am and 4am at the main train station in Nuremberg, Erlangen and Fürth. If you have bought a day ticket, you can use it on those buses.

If you would like the area around Nuremberg, the best option is to buy a Tagesticket Plus Verbundweit/Gesamtraum. This allows you to travel the entire VGN network. You can go anywhere, from Amberg to Forchheim, a distance of about 60 kilometres. This is the perfect option for the weekend because the ticket is valid Saturday and Sunday if bought on Saturday, for up to 6 people (max 2 adults), including your bikes.

If you would like to explore farther cities you should choose bayern-Ticket sigle for one person or bayern-Ticket plus up to 5 people. For whole Germany on a weekend they offer Schönes-Wochenende-Ticket which allows 5 people to travel around whole germany for one day.

=== explore the city by bike ===
Noris Bike offers a rent a bike system. You take a bike from on of the 66 stations which are spread at the inner city and return at every station you want to. You have to register yourself by phone or internet and immediatelly start riding a bike.

=== In Case of Trouble ===
Nuremberg is a pretty safe city but you never know. In the case of a fire break-out or general emergencies call 112, call 110 if you need police assistance. If someone gets hurt call an ambulance by dialing 19222.

These numbers should work from every cellular phone. If you don't have one look out for a phone booth or ask passers-by for help. Emergency calls don't cost anything. If you confuse the numbers it also shouldn't be a problem, you will be routed through. Please make sure to remember at least one of these numbers.

== Entertainment ==
=== Outdoor Activities ===
Only a thirty minute ride by car, bus or train from Nuremberg, the Franconian Swiss (Fränkische Schweiz) offers fantastic opportunities for hiking, biking, climbing, cave seeking.
* The 5-Seidla-Steig (5-pint-trail) offers a truly franconian experience. At a 10/20 km trail you pass fantastic landscape and minimum 5 typical restaurants with delicious homemade food and self-brewed beer. Don´t miss to grap a beer-passport at the first beergarden to collect a stamp at every restaurant. This is your chance to recieve a colorfull pint.
* Erfahrungsfeld der Sinne: is another type of funpark. Come and explore your senses for example at the dark-restaurant. The outdoor-part is just open during the summer!
* Tiergarten: the zoo of nuremberg offers not only a big number of exotic animals (exotic in matter of Germany!) it also owns a dolphinarium.
* Lakes: there is a quite big number of lakes around nuremberg which offer a lot of different activities like sailing, swimming, fishing, canoeing, paddle. For example Rothsee, Brombachsee, Birkensee, Langsee Bad

=== Bars and Clubs ===
There are many bars especially in the city center. Most bars and clubs can be reached easily on foot or public transport. Bigger night clubs are outside the old city. The list is endless and includes our personal opinion.

'''Bars'''
* Salon Regina: this place is phenomenal. With the first sunbeam of the year the guests use the sunny place in front of the bar. The former grandma-café turned to a stylish place with good beer and traditional food. Daily changing lunch offers.
* Café & Bar Ludwigs: chilly atmosphere, great owner, fine drinks. Every tuesday you can listen to live music. They also offer a free W-lan access. Come, see and stay! Or come again ;)
* [http://weinerei.de/ Weinerei] (Prinzregentenufer 5, Friday & Saturday 9pm - 1am): A winebar/gallery. You pay 1€ deposit on your glass and then sample the wine they put up in bottles on the bar. At the end you pay as much as you think you should. Has become a regular spot for local CS people before hitting the clubs. Relaxed atmosphere with friendly staff.

'''Nightclubs'''
* [http://www.club-stereo.net/ Club Stereo]: Downtown location (Klaragasse). The club is located downstairs. It gets quite crowded for certain events.
* [http://www.desi-nbg.de/ DESI]: Not a nightclub in the strict sense. Basically it is a cultural centre with concerts but they also have DJ nights. Very mixed crowd, more on the "alternative" side. Not so bad beergarden where they also show films in an open-air cinema.
* [http://www.musikverein-concerts.de/ K4]: Great place for concerts. No air condition though which means it gets really hot in there. For events like "Bucovina", the queue is really long. Not so bad beergarden.

For more informations about events, parties and concerts have a look at curt.de or prinz.de

=== Shopping ===
There are five streets in Nuremberg suitable for shopping activities. They are called Karolinenstraße, Königstraße, Adlerstraße, Breite Gasse and Kaiserstraße and can be found directly in the old town district between main railway station and Hauptmarkt.
All the major clothing lines can be found in the Breite Gasse and Karolinenstraße: H&M (2 stores), Zara, Mango, Esprit, United Colours of Benetton, Hallhuber, S. Oliver etc. Müller and DM are drugstores though Müller also carries CDs and DVDs. Karstadt carries everything, they even have a supermarket at metro level. Wöhrl might look quite conservative from the outside but the concept store U1 at metro level caters to the taste of young and trendy people. You also find a hairdresser and a sushi bar between all the clothes racks.
In the Königstraße you can find some luxury store like Louis Vuitton and Hèrmes.

== Culture ==
=== History ===
Nuremberg used to be a central point for traders during the Middle ages due to its central position. It also was the city where the German emperors were crowned.

=== Sightseeing ===
Nuremberg has several churches, the most important ones being St. Sebald and St. Lorenz. The castle overlooking the old town cannot be missed. The inner city was severely bombed during WWII. If you want to know how it used to look before the war, take a walk through the pitoresque Weissgerbergasse where most houses were spared from destruction. For more info have a look at the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/N%C3%BCrnberg#Main_sights English Wikipedia].
If you want to grap a city map or need special informations have a look at the tourist information at the other side of the main trainstation or at the main market.

=== Nearby Cities ===
Due to its central position, you can use Nürnberg as a starting point for daytrips. There a quite a few interesting cities within a short distance (1 - 1,5 hours by train or car).
* Würzburg
* Bamberg
* Rothenburg ob der Tauber
* Regensburg

== Web Links ==
* Public Transport: [http://www.vgn.de/CFF6B06F-C0B4-11D7-AE44-00034709FE0C vgn.de]
* Tourist Information: [http://tourismus.nuernberg.de/v04/pub/index.html?navID=en1 TourismusNürnberg]

[[Category:Bavaria]]
[[Category:Germany]]

Würzburg

2012-12-06T17:58:53Z

Christian LeopoldR: Created page with "{{City |name = Würzburg |country = Germany |region = Bavaria |nickname = |group = 4906 |wikipedia = Würzburg |wikitravel = Würzburg |hit..."

{{City
|name = Würzburg
|country = Germany
|region = Bavaria
|nickname =
|group = 4906
|wikipedia = Würzburg
|wikitravel = Würzburg
|hitch = Würzburg
|image =
|imagetext =
|ambassadors = [[:cs:people/behiwue/|Behice]]
}}
'''Würzburg''' is a German city located in Lower Franconia (important: '''not''' in Bavaria, please refer to a native Franconian for more information). It is renowned for its Franconian wine (also named "Bocksbeutel") and a great and growing CS community.

== Local CS community ==
=== Regular Activities ===
There are no regular meetings yet, but check on the Würzburg CS group for other events. Feel free to join!
(Join the local group to know what is going on at the time of your travels here.)

=== Who to contact ===
If you intend to come to Würzburg or have questions during your stay the [http://www.couchsurfing.com/group.html?gid=4906 Würzburg CS forum] plus the [http://www.couchsurfing.com/group.html?gid=8903 (sorrounding) Lower Franconia CS forum] are good points to start from.

If you are looking for a host, do not post in the group but try a couchsearch and write to individual members! Read the advice on [http://wiki.couchsurfing.com/en/Writing_a_couch_request How to write a good request] to be successful.

== Getting to Würzburg ==
=== By Train ===
Würzburg has a big train station right in the city. For tickets have a look at [http://www.bahn.de/ Deutsche Bahn].
=== By Plane ===
Closest airports are either Frankfurt (FRA) or Nuremberg (NUE).
=== By Car ===
Würzburg is actually located very close to the center of Germany. It is easy to reach for travellers especially when they travel by car - or hitchhiking. There are two important motorways going by:
* A3 (Dutch border - Cologne - Frankfurt - Würzburg - Nuremberg - Regensburg - Austrian border)
* A7 (Danish border - Hamburg - Kassel - Würzburg - Ulm - Austria)

== Getting along in Würzburg ==
=== Hotels / Motels / B&Bs ===

If you look for a more economical way of staying in Würzburg you definitely should consider CouchSurfing. In the case that no couch is available throughout Würzburg you can still refer to the youth hostel. The most famous ones are the [http://www.jugendherberge.de/jh/bayern/wuerzburg/ Jugendherberge next to the river Main]. Motels are not very common in Germany but you also should keep your eyes open for "Pensionen" which are basically the same.

=== Eating and Drinking ===
...
=== Public Transport ===
...

=== In Case of Trouble ===
Würzburg is a pretty safe city but you never know. In the case of a fire break-out or general emergencies call 112, call 110 if you need police assistance. If someone gets hurt call an ambulance by dialing 19222.

These numbers should work from every cellular phone. If you don't have one look out for a phone booth or ask passers-by for help. Emergency calls don't cost anything. If you confuse the numbers it also shouldn't be a problem, you will be routed through. Please make sure to remember at least one of these numbers.

== Entertainment ==
=== Outdoor Activities ===
...

=== Bars and Clubs ===
...

=== Shopping ===
...

== Culture ==
=== History ===
Check above Wikitravel and Wikipedia for details.

=== Sightseeing ===
Würzburg, an old bishop town has several churches, the most important ones being the cathedral (Dom) and nearby Neumünster. The fortress overlooking the town cannot be missed and forms actually a good starting point for a good overview. One should not miss the Residence, regarded as one of the finest palaces in Europe and a high point of Baroque art (also UNESCO cultural world heritage!). The residence also contains a beautiful staircase with ceiling paintings be the venetian painter Tiepolo, the largest of its kind.

== Web Links ==
* Public Transport: [http://www.wvv.de/vvm/fahrplan/fahrplanauskunft/index.html WVV]
* Tourist Information: [http://www.wuerzburg.de/de/tourismus-tagungen/index.html Tourismus Würzburg]
[http://www.germany-tourism.de/ENG/destination_germany/master_tlregion-id110.htm Tourismus Lower Franconia]
* A recent radio report on the 'city of 3 world religions' (only in German): [http://www.dradio.de/dkultur/sendungen/deutschlandrundfahrt/1507988/] contains many links on local details!

[[Category:Bavaria]]
[[Category:Germany]]

Bamberg

2012-12-06T17:56:57Z

Christian LeopoldR: Created page with "{{City |name = Bamberg |country = Germany |region = Bavaria |nickname = |group = 11266 |wikipedia = Bamberg |wikitravel = Bamberg |hitch ..."

{{City
|name = Bamberg
|country = Germany
|region = Bavaria
|nickname =
|group = 11266
|wikipedia = Bamberg
|wikitravel = Bamberg
|hitch = Bamberg
|image = BambergRathaus.jpg
|imagetext = Bamberg, old townhall
|ambassadors = [[:cs:people/LeopoldR/|Christian (LeopoldR)]]
}}
'''Bamberg''' is a beautiful German city located in the norther part of Bavaria, named Upper Franconia (important: '''not''' in Bavaria, please refer to a native Franconian for more information). The old city is part of the UNESCO world heritage and Bamberg is famous for its Beer Culture (but also much more) - and a great and growing CS community.
Well - and LP states "It’s difficult not to be impressed by Bamberg, clearly one of Germany’s most beautiful cities. With a majestic centre, wonderful cathedral and superb palaces, this Unesco-listed place was built by archbishops on seven hills, earning it the sobriquet of ‘Franconian Rome’. Miraculously, Bamberg emerged from WWII with hardly a scratch, and most of the city’s finest buildings are originals. Pristine examples of architecture from the Romanesque era onwards have survived, and a genuine charm and romance pervade the city. Bamberg is also justly famous for its beer; there are 10 breweries in town and another 80 or so in the vicinity." Enough said?

== Local CS community ==
=== Regular Activities ===
There are regular meetings (every 10th of the month!) in which local and foreign members discover the city, so check on the [http://www.couchsurfing.com/group.html?gid=11266 Bamberg CS group] for other and more events. Feel free to join!
(Join the local group to know what is going on at the time of your travels here.)

=== Who to contact ===
If you intend to come to Bamberg or have questions during your stay the [http://www.couchsurfing.com/group.html?gid=11266 Bamberg CS forum] plus the [http://www.couchsurfing.com/group.html?gid=11970 (sorrounding) Upper Franconia CS forum] are good points to start from.

If you are looking for a host, do not post in the group but try a couchsearch and write to individual members! Read the advice on [http://wiki.couchsurfing.com/en/Writing_a_couch_request How to write a good request] to be successful.

== Getting to Bamberg ==
=== By Train ===
Bamberg has a big train station right in the city. For tickets have a look at [http://www.bahn.de/ Deutsche Bahn].
=== By Plane ===
Closest airports are either Frankfurt (FRA), Munich (MUC) or (very close) Nuremberg (NUE).
=== By Car ===
Bamberg is actually located very close to the center of Germany. It is easy to reach for travellers especially when they travel by car. There are two important motorways going by:
* A3 (Dutch border - Cologne - Frankfurt - Würzburg - Nuremberg - Regensburg - Austrian border)
* A9 (Berlin - Leipzig - Hof - Nuremberg - Munich - Austria)
* Both motorways connect to A70 and A73 - which again cross directly close to Bamberg.

== Getting along in Bamberg ==
=== Hotels / Motels / B&Bs ===

If you look for a more economical way of staying in Bamberg you definitely should consider CouchSurfing. In the case that no couch is available throughout Bamberg you can still refer to the youth hostel. The most famous is the [http://www.bamberg.jugendherberge.de/ Jugendherberge]. Motels are not very common in Germany but you also should keep your eyes open for "Pensionen" which are basically the same.

=== Eating and Drinking ===

This is a special one. We have made it a little tradition to meet frequently at different places in and around Bamberg. Check out at the noted [http://www.couchsurfing.com/group.html?gid=11266 Bamberg CS forum] to find out more!
You can spend a whole lifetime visiting the breweries in the region. OK, they´re not like Paul Bocuse restaurants, but that´s why everybody can afford to go there and you sometimes find whole families (from grandma to grandson) going there together.

=== Public Transport ===

In Bamberg, public transport consists of a bus system that enables you to get around in the town centre during weekdays. There are some evening and night lines in the town centre and of course plenty of taxis.
However, if you stay in the centre, the best way to get around is on foot.
If you intend to visit the region around Bamberg, you should have a rental car or at least know somebody (host?) who owns one. If you live in one of the villages around Bamberg, it is sometimes difficult to get to town by bus.

=== In Case of Trouble ===
Bamberg is
a pretty safe city (Hey, we have our own bishop!), but you never
know. In the case of a fire break-out or general emergencies call
112, call 110 if you need police assistance. (If someone gets hurt
call an ambulance by dialing 19222.)

These numbers should work from every cellular phone - even without SIM card. If you don't have one look out for a phone booth or ask passers-by for help. Emergency calls are FREE! If you confuse the numbers it also shouldn't be a problem, you will be routed through. Please make sure to remember at least one of these numbers.

== Entertainment ==

=== Outdoor Activities ===
Hiking, cycling, climbing in "Fränkische Schweiz", the beautiful region around Bamberg.
Checking out scenic beer gardens and local breweries, there are about 150 breweries still existing in the region.
In Bamberg: Relaxing in its beautiful parks like "Hain" and green areas like "Bruderwald". Going to beer gardens (again :-) like the wonderful Spezial Keller (http://www.spezial-keller.de/Spezial-Keller_Bamberg/Willkommen.html), and of course sightseeing in the centre that some people consider an open-air museum as it wasn´t destroyed in WWII.

=== Bars and Clubs ===
Have to admit, that the 'night life' here is rather scarce. But I guess, that's not what people come her for anyway? :) Though a stroll along Sandstrasse and Austrasse will show you are busy student night life.

=== Shopping ===
Well, we have here a few factories on the outskirts (i.e. Bosch for spark plugs and windshield wiper motors and Michelin for tyres) but they do not bother for factory sales obviously. On the other hand, there is everything here one needs including of course anything that a traveller needs. (Check with your host for details.) Looking for a distinctive souvenir, one should take along some of the special beer noted below...

== Culture ==
=== History ===
Check Wikitravel and Wikipedia for details.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bamberg
As a Bamberg resident, I must say that this place is so full of history that you don´t know where to start presenting it.
However, always remember, if you stay with a true Bamberger, you are not in Bavaria, but in Franconia.
It is one of the hapless misfortunes of history that Napoleon made Franconia part of Bavaria at the beginning of the 19th century.

=== Sightseeing ===
Bamberg, an old archdiocese, naturally has many great churches you can visit, the most important one being the cathedral started in 1007, meaning it´s more than 1000 years old. In it, you can find renowned statues like the "Bamberger Reiter" or "Ecclesia and Synagogue" dating back to the 13th century. Additionally, there are great altars and the tomb (made by Tilman Riemenschneider) of Emperor Heinrich and his wife Kunigunde who founded the diocese of Bamberg. But if you read http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bamberg_Cathedral - you realize that it takes weeks just to explore this one monument!

The church of St Michael used to be a monastery and is now a home for the elderly. The church has a wonderful painted ceiling and in it, there is the tomb of St Otto, bishop of Bamberg and missionary of Pomerania at the beginning of the 11th century. It is said to help cure backaches, so ask a local how to do that :-) On Michaelsberg, you´ll also find a very interesting beer museum.
The old town hall was built right in the middle of the river Regnitz and is famous for its 3D-painted facades. With the cathedral, it is the most famous monument in Bamberg. From the upper bridge, you have a beautiful view of "Little Venice", old fishermens´ houses along the river Regnitz.
This is by the way not the only point why Bamberg is sometimes compared to Italy. Bamberg is built on seven hills like Rome and the region around is sometimes referred to as "Franconian Tuscany".
Don´t forget to go to one of the brewery pubs like "Schlenkerla", "Spezial", "Keesmann", "Mahr´s Bräu". This is Franconia at its best.
Have a stroll around the old town and a break at one of the beautiful students´ cafés.
And if possible, go see a basketball match in this so-called "Freak City" of basketball in Germany or enjoy a performance of the renowned Symphonic orchestra.

There is much more to be found and experienced. Link:

http://www.bamberg.info/

== Web Links ==
* Public Transport: http://www.verkehrsbetriebe.de/page.php?page=bamberg/opnv/opnv.html
* Tourist Information: http://www.germany-tourism.de/ENG/culture_and_events/unesco_south_bamberg.htm

[[Category:Bavaria]]
[[Category:Germany]]

Bavaria

2012-12-06T17:54:56Z

Christian LeopoldR: Created page with " {{State |name =Bavaria - Bayern |country =Germany |group =1897 |wikipedia =Bavaria |wikitravel =Bavaria |hitch =Bavaria ..."

{{State
|name =Bavaria - Bayern
|country =Germany
|group =1897
|wikipedia =Bavaria
|wikitravel =Bavaria
|hitch =Bavaria
|image =
|imagetext =
}}

====[[Bavaria|(Free State of) Bavaria]] (''Bayern'')====

Bavaria (German: Freistaat Bayern, pronounced ['fʁaɪ.ʃtaːt ˈbaɪ.ɐn] ( listen)), with an area of 70,548 square kilometres (27,200 sq mi) and almost 12.5 million inhabitants, is located in the southeast of Germany and is the largest state of Germany by area, forming almost 20% of the total land area of Germany. Its capital is [[Munich]] (''München'' in Upper Bavaria.

The largest State in Germany, it is also the region where all the famous typical things (food, clothes, music...) come from.

Other large cities:
* [[Augsburg]]
* [[Bamberg]]
* [[Erlangen]]
* [[Fürth]]
* [[Ingolstadt]]
* [[Nürnberg]]
* [[Regensburg]]
* [[Würzburg]]

[[Category:Germany]]

==Geography==
[[Image:Bavarian Alps 2002.jpg|left|thumb|The Bavarian Alps]]
Bavaria shares international borders with Austria and the Czech Republic as well as with Switzerland (across [[Lake Constance]]). Neighbouring states within Germany are [[Baden-Württemberg]], [[Hesse]], [[Thuringia]] and Saxony. Two major rivers flow through the state, the [[Danube]] (''Donau'') and the [[Main]]. The [[Bavarian Alps]] define the border with Austria, and within the range is the highest peak in Germany, the [[Zugspitze]].

The major cities in Bavaria are Munich (''München''), [[Nuremberg]] (''Nürnberg''), Augsburg, [[Würzburg]], [[Regensburg]], [[Ingolstadt]], [[Fürth]] and [[Erlangen]].

===Population and area===
{| class="wikitable"
|- bgcolor=lightgrey
! | Administrative region
! colspan="2" | Population (2008)
! colspan="2" | Area (km²)
! colspan="2" | No. municipalities
|-
| [[Lower Bavaria]]
| align="right" | 1,193,444
| align="right" | 9.5%
| align="right" | 10,330
| align="right" | 14.6%
| align="right" | 258
| align="right" | 12.5%
|-
| [[Lower Franconia]]
| align="right" | 1,331,500
| align="right" | 10.6%
| align="right" | 8,531
| align="right" | 12.1%
| align="right" | 308
| align="right" | 15.0%
|-
| [[Upper Franconia]]
| align="right" | 1,085,770
| align="right" | 8.7%
| align="right" | 7,231
| align="right" | 10.2%
| align="right" | 214
| align="right" | 10.4%
|-
| [[Middle Franconia]]
| align="right" | 1,714,453
| align="right" | 13.7%
| align="right" | 7,245
| align="right" | 10.3%
| align="right" | 210
| align="right" | 10.2%
|-
| [[Upper Palatinate]]
| align="right" | 1,085,216
| align="right" | 8.7%
| align="right" | 9,691
| align="right" | 13.7%
| align="right" | 226
| align="right" | 11.0%
|-
| [[Swabia (administrative region)|Swabia]]
| align="right" | 1,787,995
| align="right" | 14.3%
| align="right" | 9,992
| align="right" | 14.2%
| align="right" | 340
| align="right" | 16.5%
|-
| [[Upper Bavaria]]
| align="right" | 4,320,934
| align="right" | 34.5%
| align="right" | 17,530
| align="right" | 24.8%
| align="right" | 500
| align="right" | 24.3%
|-
|- bgcolor=lightgrey
! '''Total'''
! align="right" | 12,519,312
! align="right" | 100.0%
! align="right" | 70,549
! align="right" | 100.0%
! align="right" | 2,056
! align="right" | 100.0%
|}

===Major cities===
{| class="wikitable sortable"
|- bgcolor=#dddddd
! City
! Inhabitants 31 December 2000
! Inhabitants 31 December 2005
! Inhabitants 31 December 2008
|-
|[[Munich]]
| align="right" |1,210,223
| align="right" |1,259,677
| align="right" |1,326,807
|-
|[[Nuremberg]]
| align="right" |488,400
| align="right" |499,237
| align="right" |503,638
|-
|[[Augsburg]]
| align="right" |254,982
| align="right" |262,676
| align="right" |263,313
|-
|[[Regensburg]]
| align="right" |125,676
| align="right" |129,859
| align="right" |133,525
|-
|[[Würzburg]]
| align="right" |127,966
| align="right" |133,906
| align="right" |133,501
|-
|[[Ingolstadt]]
| align="right" |115,722
| align="right" |121,314
| align="right" |123,925
|-
|[[Fürth]]
| align="right" |110,477
| align="right" |113,422
| align="right" |114,071
|-
|[[Erlangen]]
| align="right" |100,778
| align="right" |103,197
| align="right" |104,980
|-
|[[Bayreuth]]
| align="right" |74,153
| align="right" |73,997
| align="right" |72,935
|-
|[[Bamberg]]
| align="right" |69,036
| align="right" |70,081
| align="right" |69,989
|-
|[[Aschaffenburg]]
| align="right" |67,592
| align="right" |68,642
| align="right" |68,747
|-
|[[Landshut]]
| align="right" |58,746
| align="right" |61,368
| align="right" |62,606
|-
|[[Kempten (Allgäu)]]
| align="right" |61,389
| align="right" |61,360
| align="right" |62,135
|-
|[[Rosenheim]]
| align="right" |58,908
| align="right" |60,226
| align="right" |60,711
|-
|[[Neu-Ulm]]
| align="right" |50,188
| align="right" |51,410
| align="right" |53,866
|-
|[[Schweinfurt]]
| align="right" |54,325
| align="right" |54,273
| align="right" |53,588
|-
|[[Passau]]
| align="right" |50,536
| align="right" |50,651
| align="right" |50,717
|-
|[[Hof (Saale)|Hof]]
| align="right" |50,741
| align="right" |48,723
| align="right" |47,275
|-
||[[Freising]]
| align="right" |44,167
| align="right" |45,827
| align="right" |45,654
|-
||[[Straubing]]
| align="right" |44,014
| align="right" |44,633
| align="right" |44,496
|-
|}

{{See also|List of places in Bavaria}}

Munich

2012-12-06T17:51:32Z

Christian LeopoldR:

{{Germany}}

{{IsIn|Germany}}

{{City
|name = Munich - München
|country = Germany
|region = Bavaria
|nickname = Minga
|group = 1223
|wikipedia = Munich
|wikitravel = Munich
|hitch = Munich
|image = Munich_002.JPG
|imagetext = Marienplatz (City Centre)
|ambassadors = [[:cs:people/john.doe/|Tobi]], [[:cs:people/neurove/|Carlos]], [[:cs:people/floriangh/|Florian]], [[:cs:people/michael.s/|Michael]]
}}
'''Munich''' (or ''München'' in German) is the capital of [[Bavaria]], [[Germany]]. It is located on the Isar river, north of the Bavarian Alps. Munich is the third largest city of Germany just after Hamburg with Berlin leading in population. Approximately 1.5 million people live within the city limits.

Originally settled by Benedictine monks, Munich offically became a city in 1158 by rule of the Imperial Diet in Augsburg. It's first ruler being that of Heinrich der Löwe, or Henry the Lion.

== Meetings & Events ==
'''CS Meetings:'''

The community in Munich is growing and there is always something happening:

* '''Weekly Meeting''': Every tuesday Munich's CouchSurfers meet up in a bar, a cafe or a beergarden to mingle and have fun. Check the [http://www.couchsurfing.org/meetings.html Meeting Page] or the [http://www.couchsurfing.org/group.html?gid=1223 Munich Group] for more info on the next meeting.

* '''Munich Group''': Be sure to watch the [http://www.couchsurfing.org/group.html?gid=1223 Munich Group] for more meetings.

== Getting There ==
[[Image:MUC.jpg|thumb|200px|right|Munich Airport (MUC)]]
=====By Plane=====

Munich Airport (MUC) is one of Germany's biggest airports, second only to Frankfurt. It is also a major hub for Lufthansa. There are non-stop flights to/from Munich from/to almost anywhere in the world.

Airlines flying to/from Munich are [http://www.airfrance.com/ Air France], [http://www.british-airways/ British Airways], [http://www.delta.com Delta Airlines], [http://www.easyjet.com easyJet], [http://www.germanwings.com/ Germanwings], [http://www.lufthansa.com Lufthansa], and [http://www.flysas.com Scandinavian Airlines].

Other "nearby" airports are Frankfurt am Main (FRA), the other major hub in Germany, approx. 300 km; Nuremberg (Nürnberg), approx. 170 km; and Stuttgart, approx. 170 km. and Salzburg, Austria (SZG).

[[Image:Haupt_02.jpg|thumb|200px|right|Main Train Station (Hauptbahnhof)]]
=====By Train=====

Munich's Main Train Station (Hauptbahnhof) is easily reachable through the extensive ICE and Regional bahn trains.

Other major stations in Munich are the Munich East Station (Ostbahnhof) and Munich Pasing.

Timetables and Ticket Prices can be found at the Deutsche Bahn [http://www.bahn.de website]

== Getting Around ==

Getting around in Munich is as extremely simple and as easy using any of the public Buses, Trams, S-Bahns (fast suburban trains) or U-Bahns (underground). It is nearly impossible to find a place in Munich where there is no public transport nearby.

Current timetables and prices can be found at the transportation network's [http://www.mvv-muenchen.de/ website].

''Recent Prices:''
* 1 Day / 1 Person €5; 2-5 Person €9 (Inner City Only)
* 3 Day / 1 Person €12,30; 2-5 Person €21 (Inner City Only)

All passes allow unlimited use of the Buses, Trams, S-Bahns and U-Bahns within the purchased travel area.

If you're arriving by plane and are staying for three days, the best deal is a 3-day ticket for "Innenraum" and two 3-zone single ride tickets - it should cost around 25€.

If you're a group of two or more, one or more Partner Tickets is ideal.

== Orientation ==

...

==Necessities==

====Maps====

Free maps of the city are avaliable from the Starbucks inside the Main Train Station (Hauptbahnhof) and in most hostels and hotels attached to a tour flyer. For more detailed maps check the Hugendubel bookstore at Marienplatz or the Tourist Information office at the front of the Town Hall (Rathaus).

Another option: Go to the MVG ticket offices/counter at subway-station basement "Marienplatz" or "Sendlinger Tor". They sell excellent city maps for 3 Euros, including all public transportation.

====Internet====

=====Shops=====

There is a reputable internet and call shop located directly across the street from the Burger King attached to the Main Train Station (Hauptbahnhof).

=====WIFI=====

Free WIFI hotspots can be found by going to [http://www.hotspot-muenchen.de/hotspots.html this website].

====Help====

See [http://wiki.couchsurfing.org/en/Munich#Emergency_Contacts Emergency Contacts].

==Food==
[[Image:Viktualienmarkt.jpg|thumb|250px|right|Fruit Stand in Viktualienmarkt]]
Some of the best food in the world can be found in Munich. Be sure to check Viktualienmarkt for fresh Fruit, Vegetables, Spices, etc. The butcher shops between Marienplatz and Viktualienmarkt carry some of the tastiest meat around.

====Organic====

'''[http://www.viktualienmarkt-muenchen.de/ Viktualienmarkt]''' / [http://www.viktualienmarkt-muenchen.de/ Map]
:The best place in town to go for the freshest ingredients. Huge selection of exotic fruits with a wide variety. Be sure to 'shop around' a bit before buying to find the best deals.

====Supermarkets====

The main supermakets you will find throughout the city are [http://www.aldi-sued.de/ ALDI Süd], [http://www.lidl.de Lidl], [http://www.penny.de/ Penny Markt], [http://www.rewe.de/ REWE], and [http://www.kaisers.de/ Tengelmann]. Locations closet to the city centre are listed below. Visit the markets website for a list of more locations.

'''[http://www.aldi-sued.de/ ALDI Süd]'''
*Schwanthalerstraße 14 80336 München / Mon - Sat, 8am - 8pm / [http://www.yellowmap.de/Filialfinder/HTML/Info.aspx?Ebinr=PIP452CA53NQV69&SessionGuid=4d652719-884c-4551-918e-80f9c9dff9f9&ClearGroups=MapNav%2cGeoMap&ClearParas=Print&DetailInfoView=2 Map]

'''[http://www.lidl.de Lidl]'''
*Westendstr. 100 80339 München / Mon - Sat, 8am - 8pm / [http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&hl=de&geocode=&q=Westendstr.+100+80339+M%C3%BCnchen&sll=37.0625,-95.677068&sspn=35.357014,56.601563&ie=UTF8&ll=48.1387,11.536267&spn=0.007274,0.013819&z=16&iwloc=addr Map]

'''[http://www.penny.de/ Penny Markt]'''
*Pfeuferstr. 33 81373 München / Mon - Sat, 7am - 8pm / [http://213.144.6.113/REWE/penny/MapViewPage.aspx?zip=80339 Map]

'''[http://www.rewe.de/ REWE]'''
*Tal 13 80331 München / Mon - Fri 8am - 8pm, Sat 7:30am - 8pm/ [http://213.144.6.110/rewe/detail.do;jsessionid=993A824C6771E6C91ABCECE8E6327671?poiID=32223 Map]
*Theatinerstraße 14 80333 München / Mon - Sat, 8am - 8pm / [http://213.144.6.110/rewe/detail.do;jsessionid=993A824C6771E6C91ABCECE8E6327671?poiID=30864 Map]

'''[http://www.kaisers.de/ Tengelmann]'''
*Reichenbachstr. 19 80469 München / Mon - Fri 8am - 8pm, Sat 9am - 8pm / [http://admin.mappingservice.de/mapping.asp?ID=UNKNOWN&LNG=D&UC=YES&RAD=50000&SPCENTER=&SOCENTER=total&STOCENTER=&SSCENTER=&RADCENTER=50000&SXCENTER=1115016&SYCENTER=6660832&SIZXCENTER=350&SIZYCENTER=350&CENTER=&SOK=D80331%7CM%FCnchen%7C%7C%7C%7C1287003%7C6122532%7CD80331%7CM%FCnchen%7C%7C%7C&SP=&SO=&STO=&SS=&SESS=%7B0E99E9BF-D678-4F22-9949-42DEDF9F2766%7D&CUST=&MAPVIEW=FIRST&MAP=Karte+anzeigen...&VOLLINFOID=%7BA20CEC9D%2D4924%2D410C%2D9535%2D0FB9872205F0%7D&MAPVIEW2=FIRST Map]

====Restaurants====

'''[http://www.braeustuben.de/ Augustiner Bräustuben]''' / Landsbergerstrasse 19 80339 München / [http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&hl=de&geocode=&q=Landsbergerstrasse+19+80339+M%C3%BCnchen&sll=37.0625,-95.677068&sspn=35.357014,56.601563&ie=UTF8&ll=48.139316,11.545601&spn=0.007274,0.013819&z=16&iwloc=addr Map]
:Tradional Bavarian food and beer restaurant located in the Augustiner brewery. Excellent prices and delicous food.

'''[http://www.hofbraeuhaus.de/ Hofbräuhaus]''' / Platzl 9 80331 München / [http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&hl=de&geocode=&q=Platzl+9+80331+M%C3%BCnchen&sll=48.139731,11.545601&sspn=0.007274,0.013819&ie=UTF8&ll=48.137855,11.579847&spn=0.007274,0.013819&z=16&iwloc=addr Map]
:World Famous. Tradional Bavarian food and beer in the royal brewery. Can be a bit touristy but is always a good time.

==Accomodation==

There is a wide variety of accomodation avaliable (in case you don't find a couch) in Munich.

====Hostels====
'''[http://www.wombats-hostels.com/munich/ Wombat's]''' / Senefelderstraße 1 80336 Munich / [http://www.wombats-hostels.com/munich/how-to-get-there/ Map]
:Fall Rates: 10 Bed Dorm €14 / 6 - 8 Bed Dorm €21 / Double €34 / Breakfast €3,50
[http://www.the-tent.com/ The Tent]
:Cheapest place to stay during the summer. Open from June 6th to October 12th. Bunk €10,50

====Hotels====

...

====Permanent Accommodation====

For apartment/room/house listings check the English speaking [http://www.toytowngermany.com/ ToyTownGermany's] [http://www.toytowngermany.com/forum/index.php?s=f5f3584ef9ab0d1102c8ef0238553d6c&showforum=28 Accommodation Offered] forum.

'''Other Sources'''

[http://www.kurzfuendig.de/ Kurz & Fündig]
:Classifieds newspaper avaliable in most grocery stores and booksellers.
[http://www.sueddeutsche.de/ Süddeutsche Zeitung]
:German newspaper with apartments/house listings in Thursday's paper. Buy it Wednesday night and start calling asap.

==Nightlife==

Munich is a city that never sleeps; even on weekdays. There are hundreds of Bars, Clubs and Movie Theatres spread throughout the city. Add to that the Concerts, Operas and Football games and your certain to find something to suit your tastes on any day of the week.

====Bars====

'''[http://www.klenze17.de/ Klenze 17]''' / Klenzestr. 17 80469 München / [http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&hl=de&geocode=&q=Klenzestr.+17+80469+M%C3%BCnchen&sll=37.0625,-95.677068&sspn=35.357014,56.601563&ie=UTF8&ll=48.133416,11.578109&spn=0.007275,0.013819&z=16&iwloc=addr Map]
:Local's bar with excellent prices and Augustiner beer. They even serve American style Nachos.

====Concerts====

...

====Cinema====

now in cinemas: [http://www.muenchen.de/Stadtleben/Entertainment_Culture/Movie_Broadcast/80307/index.html cinema programm] (engl.)

====Clubbing====
[[Image:Kultfabrik.jpg|thumb|250px|right|Layout of Kultfabrik]]

The most condensed area to go out clubbing is near the East Train Station (Ostbahnhof). Here you can find two clubbing "villages" totaling 40 or so clubs in one area. The main village [http://www.kultfabrik.de/ Kultfabrik] caters to a younger crowd, while the smaller village [http://www.optimolwerke.de/ Optimolwerke] caters mostly to the 30+.

For a really great time, take the [http://www.club-and-line.de/ Club and Line] bus from the city centre out to the club district. A double length bus with a full bar and DJ on board will escort you from the main areas of the city to some of the hottest clubs in the area. Cover for the bus is €3.

=====Popular Clubs=====
[http://www.atomic.de/ The Atomic Cafe] / Neuturmstr. 5 80331 München / [http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&hl=de&geocode=&q=neuturmstr.+5+M%C3%BCnchen&sll=48.133416,11.578109&sspn=0.007275,0.013819&ie=UTF8&ll=48.1386,11.579354&spn=0.007274,0.013819&z=16&iwloc=addr Map]
:Live club and cocktail bar playing independent and vintage music.
[[Image:Atomiccafe.jpg|thumb|200px|right|The Atomic Cafe]]

[http://www.muffatwerk.de/en/ Muffatwerk] / Zellstr. 4 /
[http://maps.google.com/maps?q=Zellstra%C3%9Fe+4,+M%C3%BCnchen,+Deutschland&hl=de&ie=UTF8&ll=48.133215,11.585619&spn=0.009652,0.026565&sll=37.0625,-95.677068&sspn=46.630055,75.322266&vpsrc=0&hnear=Zellstra%C3%9Fe+4,+M%C3%BCnchen+81667+M%C3%BCnchen,+Bayern,+Deutschland&t=m&z=16 Map]
:Nice club for live music, disco + beergarden.

[http://backstage.eu/ Backstage] / Reitknechtstr. 6 /
[http://maps.google.com/maps?q=Reitknechtstr.+6,+m%C3%BCnchen&hl=de&ie=UTF8&ll=48.144986,11.518028&spn=0.00965,0.026565&sll=37.0625,-95.677068&sspn=46.630055,75.322266&vpsrc=0&hnear=Reitknechtstra%C3%9Fe+6,+M%C3%BCnchen+80639+M%C3%BCnchen,+Bayern,+Deutschland&t=m&z=16 Map]
:Nice area with clubs and live venues for alternative music.

*Americanos
*Apartment 11
*Kord
*P1
*Q Club

==Sights and Activities==

...

====Monuments====

...

====Shopping====

The main shopping area of the city centre is located on Kaufingerstrasse and Neuhauserstrasse. For upscale and luxury shopping try Maximillianstrasse. There is also a shopping mall located at the U-Bahn stop OEZ (Olmypia Einkauf Centrum).

=====Electronics=====
'''[http://www.saturn.de/ Saturn]'''
:Sells everything electronic from Apple Computers to Zenith vacuum cleaners. Don't miss the wide selection of DVDs and CDs in the basement.

=====Clothes=====
'''[http://www.hm.com/de/ H&M]'''
:Sells a wide selection of fashionable clothes which are a little more flashier than those avaliable at C&A. Expect the prices to reflect that, but it's still not that expensive.
'''[http://www.cunda.de/ C&A]'''
:Sells a wide selection of clothes at resonable prices. Check the basement level for the best deals and be on the lookout for red mark-down signs.

=====Books=====
'''[http://www.hugendubel.de/ Hugendubel]'''
:With a huge location right on Marienplatz this bookstore sells books on every subject in the German language. There is a fair selection of '''English books''' to be found at the English Hugendubel '''near Odeonsplatz'''. Coming from Odeonsplatz turn right on the street in front of the entrance to the indoor shopping area. The English store is on the right hand side of the next corner.
'''[http://www.geobuch.de/ GEOBUCH]'''
:The best travel bookstore in town with every guidebook and map imaginable. Be sure to check the tables outside for marked-down guidebooks. English titles avaliable.

====Museums====
'''[http://www.residenz-muenchen.de/ Residenz]''' / 9am - 6pm Apr - Mid Oct, 9am - 8pm Thu, 10am - 4pm Mid Oct - Mar; Adult €6 / Concession €5
:This often overlooked palace and now museum dates back to 1385, and was home to the ruling Wittelbach's Family until 1918. Well worth the entry fee which includes a free audio tour. Don't forget to check out the holy relics room which includes mummies of babies dating back to the time of christ.
[http://www.schloesser-bayern.de/englisch/palace/objects/ny_schl.htm Nymphenburg Palace]
:While the surrounding park is beautiful and extensive, the palace itself is rather small and can be seen in around 30mins without the audio guide. If you have or plan to see the Residenz than skip the palace and see King Ludwig's golden horse carriage at the Marsthall next door.

* [http://www.spielzeugmuseum-muenchen.de/ Toy Museum (Spielzeugmuseum)]: 10am - 5:30pm; Adult €3 / Concession €1
* [http://www.stadtmuseum-online.de/ City Museum (Stadtmuseum)]: 10am - 6pm, closed Mon; Adult €4 / Concession €2
* [http://www.juedisches-museum.muenchen.de Munich Jewish Museum (Münchner Jüdisches Museum)]: 10am - 6pm, closed Mon; Free
* Bier & Oktoberfestmuseum: 1pm - 5pm, Tue - Sat; Adult €4 / Concession €2.50
* Residency Treasury: 9am - 6pm, 9am - 8pm Thu; Adult €6 / Concession €5 / Under 18 w/ parents Free
* Eqyptian Art Museum: 9am - 5pm Tue - Fri, 7 - 9pm Tue, 10am - 5pm Sat & Sun; Adult €5 / Concession €4
* [http://www.pinakothek.de/alte-pinakothek/ Alte Pinakotehk]: 10am - 5pm, ext 8pm Tue, closed Mon; Adult €5 / Child €3.50 / Sun €1

====Sporting Activities====

=====Aquatics=====
'''[http://www.swm.de/de/produkte/mbaeder/hallenbaeder/volksbad.html Müller´sches Volksbad]''' / Rosenheimer Straße 1 81667 München / [http://www.swm.de/de/produkte/mbaeder/hallenbaeder/volksbad/volksbadplan.html Map]
:Swimming: Daily 7:30am - 11pm, Sauna: Daily 9am - 11pm, Swiss Baths: Mon 5:30pm - 8:30pm / Wed - Fri 8am - 1:30pm
:Admission for Pool: €3.50, Swiss Bath w/ Sauna: €13.50 (4 Hrs)
'''[http://www.therme-erding.de/ Therme Erding]''' / S2 to Erding, then Bus 550 or 560
:Europe's biggest thermal spa.
:Water Park: 2hrs €12, 4hrs €16, Day €22 w/ Thermal Bath: 2hrs €15, 4hrs €19, Day €25 w/ Sauna: 3hrs €22.50, 5hrs €26.50, Day €31

=====Bowling=====
'''[http://www.isarbowling.de/ Isar Bowling]''' / Martin Luther Strasse 22 81539 München / [http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&hl=de&geocode=&q=Martin+Luther+Strasse+22++81539+M%C3%BCnchen&sll=37.0625,-95.677068&sspn=35.357014,56.601563&ie=UTF8&ll=48.114036,11.576564&spn=0.007278,0.013819&z=16&iwloc=addr Map]
:Disco and Moonlight bowling nights. Daily Special 11:00 - 14:00, €1.60 per game(each person).

==Background==

...

'''History'''

...

''Industrialisation''

...

''Modernism and post-modernism''

...

''Future''

...

== Work & Employment ==

'''Websites'''

* [http://www.jobsinmunich.com/ Jobs in Munich]

* [http://www.toytowngermany.com ToyTownGermany]'s [http://www.toytowngermany.com/forum/index.php?showforum=26 Employment Offered] forum

== Emergency Contacts ==

'''Ambulance''': Call 112

'''Emergency Doctor''': Call 112

'''Fire''': Call 112

'''Police''': Call 110

'''Ärztlicher Notdienst (Doctor on call)''': Call 01805 191212

[[Category:Bavaria]]
[[Category:Germany]]

Germany

2012-12-06T17:45:59Z

Christian LeopoldR:

{{Germany}}

'''Germany''' is a country in [[Europe]]. 
==Typically German?!==

* The German Office of Foreign Affairs [http://www.auswaertiges-amt.de "Auswärtiges Amt"] issued a [http://www.handbuch-deutschland.de/download_en.html '''Handbook for Germany''' (pdf download)] with helpful information about German all-day life, organizational structure, history, almost everything you might wonder , available in 7 languages
* a [http://www.magazine-deutschland.de ''' ''Deutschland'' online magazine'''] in 11 languages
* [http://www.tatsachen-ueber-deutschland.de/en/ '''facts about Germany'''] in 10 languages
* and the [http://www.young-germany.de/index.php '''Young Germany''' online magazine] in English. Definitely check this out!
* YG also offers [http://www.young-germany.de/deutsch.html '''free German Lessons'''] in text and video/podcasts, and even with correction service!
* The [http://wikitravel.org/en/German_phrasebook German Phrasebook from Wikitravel] provides German basics (grammar, pronounciation, important words/phrases)
* [http://www.wetterspiegel.de/de/europa/deutschland/ Weatherforecast] for Germany. You can click around and it will show your more about local weather situations.

==States==
Germany is divided into 16 States (See Map), capital is [[Berlin]].
'''State, Capital''' '''''(writing in german if different)'''''

'''01 [[Baden-Württemberg]]''', [[Stuttgart]]

'''02 [[Bavaria|Bavaria (Free State)]]''', [[Munich]] (''(Freistaat) Bayern, München'')

'''03 [[Berlin]]''', [[Berlin]]

'''04 [[Brandenburg]]''', [[Potsdam]]

'''05 [[Bremen|Bremen (Free Hanseatic City)]]''', [[Bremen]] (''(Freie Hansestadt) Bremen, Bremen'')

'''06 [[Hamburg|Hamburg (Free Hanseatic City)]]''', [[Hamburg]] (''(Freie und Hansestadt) Hamburg, Hamburg'')
__TOC__
'''07 [[Hesse]]''', [[Wiesbaden]] (''Hessen, Wiesbaden'')

'''08 [[Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania]]''', [[Schwerin]] (''Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, Schwerin'')

'''09 [[Lower Saxony]]''', [[Hanover]] (''Niedersachsen, Hannover'')

'''10 [[North Rhine-Westphalia]]''', [[Düsseldorf]] (''Nordrhein-Westfalen, Düsseldorf'')

'''11 [[Rhineland-Palatinate]]''', [[Mainz]] (''Rheinland-Pfalz, Mainz'')

'''12 [[Saarland]]''', [[Saarbrücken]]

'''13 [[Saxony|Saxony (Free State)]]''', [[Dresden]] (''(Freistaat) Sachsen, Dresden'')

'''14 [[Saxony-Anhalt]]''', [[Magdeburg]] (''Sachsen-Anhalt, Magdeburg'')

'''15 [[Schleswig-Holstein]]''', [[Kiel]]

'''16 [[Thuringia|Thuringia (Free State)]]''', [[Erfurt]] (''(Freistaat) Thüringen,Erfurt'')

==CouchSurfers==
For the most cities in Germany there are [http://www.couchsurfing.com/group.html?gid=200 Couchsurfing-Groups] where you can get your answers to your questions. Please use the [http://www.couchsurfing.com/groups.html?search=1 search for groups] if your're not findig the right one.

If your're not getting along with the [http://www.couchsurfing.com/groups.html?group_category=0 groups], the [http://www.couchsurfing.com/wiki/Answers_to_some_common_Contact_Us_Questions FAQ1], [http://www.couchsurfing.com/help.html Help] or the [[CouchSurfing_Guide|wiki-cs-guide]] please contact your local Cityambassador first. You you can find him or her in the wiki-citybox to your city or with the [http://www.couchsurfing.com/mapsurf.html couchsearch function] on couchsurfing.com.

If you don't find an cityambassador you can talk with, please contact one of the [[German Ambassadors|German Country-Ambassadors]] or one of the [[German Ambassadors|German Nomadic Ambassadors]]. You'll find the Couchsurfing Countryambassadors in the countrybox on top of this site.

== Maps ==

* [http://informationfreeway.org/?lat=49.406720048733156&lon=8.695934319494812&zoom=8&layers=B000F000F Germany in OpenStreetMap]
* [http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&source=s_q&hl=de&geocode=&q=germany&sll=37.0625,-95.677068&sspn=49.490703,111.708984&ie=UTF8&ll=51.165567,14.985352&spn=9.884225,27.927246&z=6 Germany in Google Maps]
* [http://maps.live.de/LiveSearch.LocalLive?cp=51.78823192706475~16.182861328124986&style=s&lvl=6&dir=0&tilt=-90&alt=-1000 Germany in Microsoft Live Maps]

==Transportation==

===Taking the train===

You can find all information about departure and arrivals, fares, timetables and buy tickets online at the website of [http://www.bahn.de/-S:PtVOSN:eiu7YtNNS2IT99NNNYIM/p/view/international/englisch/international_guests.shtml Deutsche Bahn].

'''Train for Free/Less:''' There several regional and (for weekends) germanwide '''group tickets''' for 5 Persons only for the lokal (means small, stops everywhere) trains. There are often groups with less than 5 Persons who have them and it's easy - at least on common routes - to find people who have a place left on there group ticket. Often it's ''for free'' but sometimes they'll ask you if you can spend ''about 5,- €''. If you take the risk, you can just go into the trains and ask the people there. If you want to be more careful (and you are not at a very small station) you can ask people on the train platform. You can also ask people who are leaving the train if they don't need there group tickets anymore, but since last year officially you have to write a name on the tickets and very few controllers also asking for passport to check. (At big stations there are also very often people who try to sell there tickets after use. Check the date carefully, occasionally it's a rip off.)

===Hitchhiking===

It is very easy to hitchhike in Germany. There are big motorways, called '''Autobahn''' in German, which connect the big cities. If you get on these, you can use the stations on the road to change the hosting car. (''It is against the law to hike directly on the Autobahn. Often there is no speed limit and you would risk your life.'')
You have more success if you ask the drivers directly where they go and if they can give you a ride then putting you thumb up. (Best is to have a cardboard sign with your your destination.)
A very good site in the Internet is [http://hitchbase.com/ Hitchbase]. There are useful experiences from other hitchhikers.

===Ride Shares===

Ride sharing known als Mitfahrgelegenheit is common in Germany especially amongst younger people. The most popular websites to place and search adds are Mitfahrgelegenheit [http://www.mitfahrgelegenheit.de] and Mitfahrzentrale [http://www.mitfahrzentrale.de]. Both are currently only avialable in German and the first one seems more helpful.

A newer service for neal-time ridesharing is [https://www.flinc.org/ flinc].

===Public Transport===
* [http://www.verbundinfo.de.vu/ Detailed Information on Public Transport in Germany (German)]
* [http://www.oepnv-info.de/ detailed information for people with or without disabilities (German)]
* [http://www.berlinlinienbus regular Buses in Germany or abroad (German)]

===Flights===
Especially if you're going long distance within Germany flying might be an option. Very famous for it's prices is Ryanair [http://www.ryanair.de] - but they have only a few routes within Germany, often fly from suburban airports (Berlin and Bremen are an exception). Also be aware that it easily might happen they rip you off by extra fees - so be aware of their luggage limits... Other low cost airlines are:
* [http://www.airberlin.com/ Air Berlin]
* [http://www.germanwings.de/ Germanwings]

==Emergencies==

===Health and security===
Germany is known for being one of the safest countries in the Euro-
pean Union, and while you could possibly find yourself on some of
Earth's safest terrain in Germany's smaller towns and villages, travel-
ing in larger cities can be dangerous. The most serious threat for
visitors or tourists are pickpockets, who are known for frequenting
crowded places like airports, train stations, busy train wagons or
buses, and tourist attractions. For this reason, it is best to leave valu-
able items and documents in a hotel safe.

===Medical emergencies===
You should obtain medical insurance that is valid in Germany before
leaving your home country; otherwise, you will be charged for doctor
or hospital visits abroad. For less serious illnesses, you can seek
advice in one of Germany's many pharmacies (Apotheke).

===Pharmacies (Apotheke)===
German pharmacies are abundant, even in smaller towns, and are
easy to find. Just look for a red stylized "A" or the word "Apotheke"
(www.apotheken.de). Pharmacies are usually open from 8 AM –
6 PM and are generally closed evenings, Saturday afternoons, Sundays and holidays. Each of them, typically, has a list on the door of
pharmacies in the area that remain open to handle emergencies.
Most pharmacists can offer advice on minor illnesses and recommend over-the-counter remedies. Be aware, however, that all medicines (even aspirin) are behind the counter, and must be asked for,
even if you do not need a prescription to purchase them.
It is also a good idea to bring any prescription drugs from your home
country with you for the duration of your stay abroad. While you will
probably be able to find equivalent drugs in Germany, you will need a
doctor's prescription, which will not be free of charge. Prescription
drugs cannot be sent legally through the postal service if you are
planning on having them sent from home.

===Doctors===
Finding a doctor in Germany can be an intimidating process because
of the language difference, but it should not be. You can refer to the
yellow pages (Gelbe Seiten: www.gelbeseiten.de) or a local tele-
phone book (www.dasoertliche.de) in which doctors are listed by their
specialization. For a general physician look under "Allgemein-
medizin", or, simply ask a colleague or friend; the best references
are often by word of mouth. Other good sources of medical care are
university clinics, which can usually be found in major cities or univer-
sity towns. These clinics are staffed by highly skilled doctors who
often speak English.
Making an appointment
When making a doctor's appointment by telephone or in person, the
person you will speak to is the Arzthelferin or doctors assistant. She
may not speak English, but do not worry, you will not be asked many
questions, you simply need to set up a day and a time for an ap-
pointment.

===Some helpful phrases for an appointment are:===
"Ich möchte einen Termin machen."
"I would like to make an appointment."
"Es ist dringend. Haben Sie keinen früheren Termin?"
"It is urgent. Don't you have an earlier appointment?"
"Wo befindet sich Ihre Praxis?"
"Where is your practice located?"

===Urgent situations===
If you have an urgent medical situation during evenings, weekends or
holidays you can always find an available doctor who will provide
after hours medical assistance.
You can find an "on call" emergency physician by:

• Calling a general physician listed in the telephone book. If he or
she is not available, you will most likely hear a recorded message
with the telephone number of an emergency doctor.

• In large hotels medical care is usually provided on the premises. If
not, ask the receptionist to contact a doctor for you.

• Calling the "Ärztlichen Notdienst" (19292 in some parts of Germany) for the
name of a doctor in your area, see also:
www.aerztlichepraxis.de/Bereitschaft and
www.aerzte-notdienst.de.

• Going directly to the hospital or emergency room.

• Taking yourself or the patient to the nearest hospital or out-patient
clinic.

• Checking a local newspaper. Look through a local newspaper for
the heading "Notdienst Kalender" (“Emergency Calendar”) to find
an emergency doctor in your area.

• '''In immediate life-threatning situations''' (i.e, motor vehicle accident, chest pain, severe injury etc.)
'''dial 112'''(toll-free, no area code necessary)! This call will be answered by an expirienced rescue professional (most likely a Fire-Fighter) who will send appropriate help to your location (i.e., Paramedics, Ambulance). See below.

===Advice on calling in an emergency:===
How to correctly report an accident/incident.
In an emergency, a few seconds can be a matter of life and death.
When calling for help, you need to concentrate on relaying essentials
without forgetting important facts when calling the country-wide Emergency Numbers
'''112''' (Fire, Ambulance, Emergency Physician) and '''110''' (Police).

When reporting an accident in Germany, keep the 4-W’s in mind:

• '''Where?''' Where did the accident/incident happen?
(be as precise as possible! i.e., city/town, street name and house number, intersection, on a highway state the direction you are headed and the last exit you have passed or a mile marker - blue signs on the side of the highway that will read "123,5 KM")

• '''What?''' What happened?
(i.e., car accident, fire, person with chest pain, injured person etc.)

• '''Who?''' Who is injured or sick and/or how many are affected.
(Gender, approx. age)

• '''WAIT!''' Wait for further questions and provide a (mobile-) phone number where you can be reached for further questions.
(Never hang up until the calltaker tells you it's ok to do so!)

When calling in an emergency try to stay calm and listen to the questions you are asked. A calltaker will guide you through the process and will ask all the relevant questions he/she needs to dispatch the appropriate emergency personnel.

===Police===
The German police can be identified by their predominantly navy blue uniforms,
and blue and white (or nowaydays more commonly, silver) signs and auto-
mobiles. Motorized police units, known as the "Vekehrspolizei" (traffic
police), look after safety on the streets, roads and motorways, and
can be identified by their white hats. Uniformed policemen patrolling
city streets have a hat that is the same color as their uniform. Those
policemen who are responsible for criminal offences, known as the
"Kriminalpolizei" (criminal police), are usually dressed in plain clothes,
and show their identification only when necessary. Many of the German police personnel speak English and are approachable and easy
to find in busy areas like airports and train stations. The number 110
can be used to contact the police throughout Germany.
Car accidents
If you or someone else has an accident or a serious breakdown on
the German motorway, you can use one of the special orange telephones that are set every 2 kilometers along the shoulder of the road.
These telephones contact an operator who will inform the appropriate
emergency services. The emergency numbers 110 and 112 can be
accessed by every telephone, including mobile phones, free of
charge.

===German automobile clubs===
If you are staying in Germany for a longer period of time, membership
in a German automobile club has several advantages. The largest
automobile club in Germany is the ADAC (Allgemeine Deutsche
Automobil-Club: www.adac.de). This organization offers information
in English, sells insurance, publishes detailed maps and provides
emergency roadside assistance. Most cities have an ADAC office. In
addition, the ADAC has partnership agreements with some foreign
automobile clubs, including AAA in the United States
(www.AAA.com).

===Lost and stolen property===
Thefts and burglaries must be reported immediately to the police (www.polizei.de). If an insurance claim is to be made, a certificate must be obtained to show that the stolen property has been reported.
If you have lost a valuable item, try contacting the city's "Fundgrube" (Lost and Found). These exist in every German city and are often in the city hall or "Rathaus". See www.fundbuero24.de .
The German Railway has its own lost property office known as the "Fundbüro der Deutschen Bahn AG". The same applies for most airports.

===List of Emergency Numbers===
====Accidents====
;Fire Department, Rescue and Ambulance ("Feuerwehr und Rettungsdienst"):
:'''112''' (toll-free, no area-code required)
;Police ("Polizei"):
:'''110''' (toll-free, no area-code required)
;On-call Doctor (after hours, "Ärztlicher Bereitschaftdienst"):
:19292 (local numbers and availability may vary)
;Emergency Poison Hotline:
:(0761) 192 40
====Lost & Found ("Fundbüro")====
;Fundbüro der Deutschen Bahn AG (German Railroad Lost and Found):
:(01805) 99 05 99
;Zentrales Fundbüro Berlin (Central Lost and Found of Berlin):
:(030) 69 95
====Lost Credit Cards====
;Central number for all bank cards (EC), credit cards and cellular phones (with a German contract):
:116116 (toll free within Germany); from abroad: 0049/116116
;American Express:
:(069) 97 97 10 00
;Diner's Club:
:(05921) 86 12 34
;Euro-MasterCard:
:(069) 79 33 19 10
;VISA:
:(0800) 81 49 100
====German Automobile Clubs offering roadside assistance====
;ADAC (Allg. Deutscher Automobil-Club):
:(089) 76760
;AvD (Automobilclub von Deutschland):
:(069) 66060
====Useful Telephone Numbers====
;Directory enquiries, national numbers:
:11842 or 11833
;Directory enquiries, international numbers:
:11834

===Embassies===
Embassies and consulates can provide a number of useful services for their citizens while they are traveling or living abroad. If your passport is lost or stolen, officials in a consulate can issue you a replacement. The consulate will also renew passports, help you obtain legal advice, hire a translator if necessary, and assist you in contacting your family. If you think that your passport has been stolen, report it to the local police and obtain a police declaration. It is recommended that you make a copy of your passport and other important papers and keep them in a safe place to expedite replacement of lost or stolen documents. Should you lose all of your money and other financial resources, consular officers can help you contact a bank, employer, or family member and arrange for them to send you funds. In extreme circumstances, they may be able to arrange for financial loans to finance the purchase of a ticket home.

A list of foreign embassies in Germany and of German representatives abroad can be found at [http://www.auswaertiges-amt.de www.auswaertiges-amt.de].

== Germany Subcategories, Pages and Media ==
==Related Links:==

[[Category:Europe]]