The German city of Cologne is less than 2 hours driving time from Brussels. I figured even less, behind the wheel of a Lexus GS hybrid, that I borrowed specially for this trip. What better way to introduce myself to the no speed limit world of German highways in a new Lexus hybrid? Fast AND environmentally friendly!!!
Once we crossed the German border, I floored it to 230 KPH (approx 145 mph). That's when one of the Japan staffers with me mentioned that he didn't think the Autobahn started until we were further into Germany! What a party pooper...
The first evening, our German host took us to dinner to Muhlen Kolsch, a restaurant/brewery. Kolsch is a style of beer that is only made within Cologne and this restaurant is the only place you can get Muhlen on tap. Everyplace else gets it in bottles (but to tell you the truth, I had never even heard of this beer before...)
Traditional German food is a meat and potato eater's paradise. Steaks, sausages, bratwurst, ham shanks, spare ribs, wienerschnitzel - it was all there. Plus, every kind of potato and sauerkraut you can think of was ordered. Oh, and did I mention they had all you can drink Muhlen beer? The waiter kept on bringing refills until we begged him to stop. I honestly lost count how many we had...
After dinner, a walk in the surrounding area is a must. The restaurant is adjacent to a nice shopping and entertainment plaza that overlooked the Rhine River.
Next to the shopping plaza was Cologne Cathedral, the most famous landmark in Cologne.
Construction began in 1248 and was completed over 600 years later in 1880. (probably the same crew that built H3 in Hawaii).
In WWII, it was the only building left standing in Cologne, after the allied bombing attacks. Say what you will, but for this building to survive, there must have been some divine intervention.
Anyways, I look forward to more visits to Germany, with Jo and the girls. As soon as I find out exactly where the autobahn starts....
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