Neu + Munich

Disclaimer: Serious travel beginning, writing style going to crap.

Got up bright and early to go on the tour to Neuschuanstein Castle which was about two hours away by coach bus. The amazing story of 'Mad' King Ludwig II, his murder mystery, the history of the castle and so on was all very engaging. Fantastic guide from South Africa, Brad, who had been doing the tour for 11 years and knows everything and was quite fun. He's got it made as he simply lives by the castle now. Paragliding for free in return for turning tourists to the school that exists by the mountains and castles. In the winter, there is skiing to be had.

Important note: Munich - Beer capital of the world.

Sonja Crome (american) from Sandman's neweurope walking tours led us today. Completely free, the guides work strictly on a tip basis. Bumped into the girls from UF again after meeting them at another hostel the previous morning.

I have never been so engaged for 4 straight hours. Fascinated by history, folklore, etc. She knew everything from the history of stones on buildings to a very detailed account of the rise of Hitler and the Nazi party.

Beer is heavily engrained (ha, pun) into Bavarian history. I had no idea. They have paid of national debts with it, monks have been brewing for hundreds of years, and hold the craziest traditions centering on beer. (see maypole). Discovered a new favorite beer today, with the help of the guide. It's called, or "Noble Stout" or Eidelschtaut (sp?). From the Augustinerbrau Munchen brewery.

It apparently is the Pope's favorite beer and he imports it twice a month to the Vatican. As the guides joked, since it's the Pope's favorite beer it is God's favorite beer. The brewery never spends money on advertising and only serves from wooden barrels, never metal kegs. A third of their yearly profit also goes to charity.

I am missing so many details from the past 2 days, but nevertheless this city is truly amazing. Will come back one day for Oktoberfest, for sure!!!