As some of the more veteran blog readers will remember, Buddy and I traveled to Heidelberg in late May to attend a Baylor alumni event. Not knowing a soul in Germany and curious if anyone would really attend, we made the trek via train. In all, about 30 people showed up for a very nice BU Diadeloso event in Germany. As if visiting Heidelberg was not reason enough to go, we had hoped we might meet some nice Baylor grads living in Germany. We were not disappointed!
Fate was on our side that day, as we met a wonderful couple, David and Cindy, who are working at one of the military bases in southern Germany. Throughout the summer, we continued to correspond and this weekend, we went to their home to visit and do a little sightseeing. Could they have been any nicer? Not only being Baylor grads, they are warm and interesting people (native Texan/native Southerner.) whose hometown is Waco. The weekend was filled with great stories of living abroad, wonderful travel tips and anecdotes, and a lot of good food. They were wonderful and gracious hosts and it was the perfect weekend in many respects.
Interestingly enough, the area they live in is simply “chocked full” of things to see and do. Two of the highlights were a trip to Burg Eltz and Trier. Burg Eltz (Burg = castle for you non German speakers; Eltz = family name...thus, Castle Eltz) is the sight of one of the most amazing medieval castles in Germany today.
Surprisingly, this amazing structure was never destroyed in any wars (either the Eltz family was quite diplomatic or knew how to pick the winning side) and is still owned by the Eltz family. The castle was built down in a valley, rather than being built on the highest point, hilltop, or plateau, which seemed to be the going theory on castle building at that time. The castle is set in the most picturesque spot, albeit a long walk down into the valley. The good news is that capitalism does appear to be alive and well in Germany, as some guy realized that by charging 1.50 euros per person, he could charge people for van rides back up to the top of the hill. Trust me, it was the best 1.50 euro I spent all weekend.
Another interesting place was the town of Trier, which is also the sister city of Ft. Worth, Texas. Go figure! Trier has the largest collection of Roman ruins outside of Italy, including an amazing city gate that is still standing (built about the time of Christ), and a basilica built under Constantine’s reign and direction. We only scratched the surface on this visit, so Buddy and I will definitely be heading back to Trier for a future weekend jaunt.
Most of all, it was a wonderful weekend filled with beautiful scenery, lots of history, great conversation, good food, and of course, new friends. And yes, the good food, does include a trip to the US military base for Taco Bell for lunch on Sunday…it is the simple things you miss sometimes.
No comments:
Post a Comment