Cologne Christmas Markets
So, I'm in Germany for the first time since I was fourteen. Also, driving in Europe for the first time ever.
Thoughts:
...German drivers are definitely more polite than English drivers. And the autobahns are fast, but in general I think Is a feel safer driving here than the UK.
...driving on the right is ok. Driving in a car with the gearstick on the wrong side is terrifying. All my autopilot driving has to change.
...I can't quite describe Cologne. It doesn't feel like any city I know in the UK. It's lovely, though; I suspect hip, not too expensive, feels like there's a lot going on without being too crowded. Would happily stay here more.
...the Christmas Markets here are lovely. Some mass produced tat but a lot of genuinely lovely crafts with enough variety to keep you trundling on.
...I know understand entirely that the Germans invented Christmas. And the spirit is strong here.
...German food is really underappreciated. So far we've had amazing curry wurst, delicious raclette, glorious waffles with cherries and hot chocolate, fresh baked pretzel and a hog roast roll with sauerkraut. I have not been fed this well in forever.
...German dress sense is definitely more conservative than British dress sense. Cleaner lines, sober colours and less variety.
...my spoken German is truly appalling. I need to practice!
Today, another two markets, Cologne Cathedral, and New Model Army this evening!