A Journey To Germany-Expectations Vs. Reality

Back in 2014, while living abroad in Greece, I took an unexpected trip to Germany to visit a friend. Let me begin by saying, Germany was not at the top of my list of places I wanted to see. But, the opportunity arose and I figured, why not add another country to my list? So I booked the ticket and set off to Germany.

My expectations were as follows:

• Germany would consist of the stereotypical aggressive persona that is often demonstrated in the media.
• The people would be very closed-off.
• The cities and the architecture would be nothing to write home about.
• It would be cold and gloomy (I was going in October).
• There would be nothing that catered to my vegan lifestyle.

I mean no offense by saying that my expectations were low. Until this trip, I was completely ignorant to any culture in Northern Europe.

Reality took care to slap me in my uninformed face.

The moment that I stepped out of the airport and out into the open air of Berlin, I knew that I was very mistaken for assuming so much about this country. The architecture instantly caught my attention and there was a sophisticated, retro-style air to the entire city. I spent the following two days exploring all that Berlin had to offer, and I was in love.

Walking along the Berlin Wall by day, and running the streets with our newfound hostel friends by night was definitely an experience I will carry with me forever. Berlin captured my heart in the short time that I had spent there.

The food alone is something I could talk about forever. When I stepped into this wondrous city, little did I know that it is the vegan capital of Europe. To say that I enjoyed myself would be an understatement. The food was creative, abundant and delicious. Luckily, my friend knew her way around the city and helped me to find all the best food options, although, I have to say, it was not hard to find anything. Around every corner was another vegan bakery and I indulged to my heart’s content.

My favorite spot that we stopped at was a vegan restaurant called Vöner, where they served vegan gyros. They had their “meat” on a spit that turned as they shaved it off. Being of Greek origin, I was really impressed by the detail and quality of food that they had. It was my first vegan gyro, and it did not disappoint!

Despite the food, the culture was something to behold as well. There is a rich history that was displayed throughout the country. Each little town had its own story to tell.

I ended up staying in a small town called Halle for the remainder of my trip. Save for one visit to Leipzig, which was just as incredible as Berlin. I found throughout my stay that my presumptions were crumbling before me. Each city was beckoning for me to stay. I began to love everything about this country: the cleanliness, the unique language, how it seemed that everyone was out and about, and the overall happy vibe that people carried around with them. There was something that made me feel like this was an adventure that I was meant to take.

I remember walking into my first German bar. It had all the cliché surroundings: brick walls, fireplace, big husky men surrounding a stone table, beers in hand. Little did I know that those same people would be some of the most cordial and accepting people I have ever met to this day. They welcomed me with open arms, spoke alarmingly good English, and helped my stay to be that much more enjoyable.

I even made a couple of friends that I would go out with and dance the night away. This is a big deal for me due to the fact that I can be very introverted and intimidated by social settings. So if I could do it, anyone can!

Germany was beautiful. It may not have been the oceans and mountains that I was used to back in Greece, but it held an old Victorian-style vibe to it, and I was definitely digging it. The weather was beautiful for those of you who are autumn-lovers. It had a crispness that left you wanting to stay out all night and walk down the city streets, just to take in every moment. I definitely recommend booking a flight there sometime in autumn.

Now, when I hear people say that Germany has nothing to offer, I shake my head. I was once in their shoes. I went from having no interest in this country to completely falling in love with the German lifestyle. This experience really was eye-opening for me. So much so, that I’m actually planning a trip back to Germany next year! Can’t wait!

So Germany, I’m sorry I ever doubted you! This time around, I will be bringing my husband who has never been to Northern Europe. So I will let you know how he likes it.

Have you ever been to Germany? If so, what did you like/dislike about it?

Let me know in the comments below!

<3 Val