Driving on the Autobahn

Goofy me, I thought that “the Autobahn” was a specific road, like the “LBJ Freeway “ or “I-35”, rather than the network of German highways that is actually is. You learn something new everyday.

And yes, it’s fast, but let me answer a commonly asked question. There are speed limits of varying speeds throughout many stretches of the Autobahn. So, the Autobahn does not really live up to the “drive as fast as you want to drive” reputation that it has in the US. Sure, there are several drivers that have left us behind on the Autobahn in a blaze of glory, but that myth is a bit over-rated in my opinion.

There are a few other observations I have regarding this well-known and well-publicized road system:

1. German countryside is quite picturesque but you really can’t see much of the scenery from the roads of the Autobahn. This is a result of multiple tree plantings along the sides of the highways as well fence lines or panels that have been added to cut down on road noise I suspect. It is only when you get to a hill or the top of a bridge that you see this amazing view, and then it is definitely all worth it. Now, when you get off the Autobahn network and drive on other highways, the scenery is fabulous.

2. One thing I love about the German highways is that there are no ugly billboard signs, mobile home parks, abandoned buildings or gas-stations, or other unsightly monstrosities glaring back at you from the German countryside. You realize what a disservice we have done in the US to our environment when you live other places…

3. There is not a gas station at every exit, so be sure not to let your gas tank dip too low.

4. And yes, Germans drive on the right side of the road (I get that one all the time, too).

5. A recent roadtrip also clued me in to the fact that there are not many highway lights. At night, it is quite dark and it wasn’t until a late night trip home that we realized this. Add fog to the mix, along with dark roads and lots of trees, and it was something right out of a Brothers Grimm fairy tale.

6. Yes, we stay in the right lane as much as possible (smile)….