Every new soldier who arrives here is required to go through what's called "German Head Start", which is a week-long class that covers the basics of living in Germany. Beyond basic language instruction, it includes information about living in the country, including shopping, traveling, setting up cell phone contracts, et cetera. On the last day of the course, the class takes a trip to the nearby city of Amberg. Unfortunately, the class was only for Soldiers, so Sharay was unable to accompany me. Nevertheless, I'm planning on taking her there as soon as we get our car. It was too nice for her to miss out.
On a side note, I forgot my camera, so I had to use the camera in my phone. I apologize if some the pictures are blurry or poorly exposed.
The trip started with a stop at the city's largest grocery store, just to give us an idea of what one is like in Germany. It really wasn't much different from one in the States, so I didn't bother with pictures.
The next stop was much better. We drove to the top of the hill that overlooks the city where we visited a Franciscan church that was built in 1699.
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Upon leaving the church, we went next door to a nice restaurant that served authentic German food. I had baked ham covered with cheese, all on a bed of steamed, white asparagus. It was delicious. Unfortunately, we weren't allowed to drink on the trip since we were considered "on duty". Luckily, I've already been able to try German beer a few times. Let me just make this clear right now: nothing I've ever had in the States comes close. There, I said it.
Anyway, the nice thing about German restaurants is that you can stay there as long as you'd like after you're done eating. There's never someone trying to hurry you out the door like back home. Needless to say, with the view from the patio, we took full advantage of this custom. We ordered coffee for dessert and chatted while enjoying the cool breeze.
Our final stop was in downtown Amberg, which sits inside the city's old defensive wall let over from the Middle Ages. The city itself has expanded far beyond the walls, but the area within has become the upscale part of town with apartments and excellent shopping. Even better, only a couple of streets allow cars in the downtown area, so pedestrians have nearly free reign.
Amberg's cathedral dominates the city square. I'm not sure when it was built, but it's definitely been there for a while.
Finally, we made our way back to the square and looked inside the cathedral.
The trip was short, but I got a great taste of what a Bavarian city is like. I can't wait to go back with Sharay and show her around!
On a side note, I forgot my camera, so I had to use the camera in my phone. I apologize if some the pictures are blurry or poorly exposed.
The trip started with a stop at the city's largest grocery store, just to give us an idea of what one is like in Germany. It really wasn't much different from one in the States, so I didn't bother with pictures.
The next stop was much better. We drove to the top of the hill that overlooks the city where we visited a Franciscan church that was built in 1699.
. |
| The view from the church's steps |
Upon leaving the church, we went next door to a nice restaurant that served authentic German food. I had baked ham covered with cheese, all on a bed of steamed, white asparagus. It was delicious. Unfortunately, we weren't allowed to drink on the trip since we were considered "on duty". Luckily, I've already been able to try German beer a few times. Let me just make this clear right now: nothing I've ever had in the States comes close. There, I said it.
Anyway, the nice thing about German restaurants is that you can stay there as long as you'd like after you're done eating. There's never someone trying to hurry you out the door like back home. Needless to say, with the view from the patio, we took full advantage of this custom. We ordered coffee for dessert and chatted while enjoying the cool breeze.
Our final stop was in downtown Amberg, which sits inside the city's old defensive wall let over from the Middle Ages. The city itself has expanded far beyond the walls, but the area within has become the upscale part of town with apartments and excellent shopping. Even better, only a couple of streets allow cars in the downtown area, so pedestrians have nearly free reign.
Amberg's cathedral dominates the city square. I'm not sure when it was built, but it's definitely been there for a while.
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| The other side of the square that faces the Cathedral |
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| The main square's fountain |
We wandered down the main street for a while, checking out the shops. I even found one that sells loose-leaf tea, so there's no doubt I'll be back.
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| At one point, we crossed over a river that bisects the city |
Finally, we made our way back to the square and looked inside the cathedral.
The trip was short, but I got a great taste of what a Bavarian city is like. I can't wait to go back with Sharay and show her around!
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