After saying our goodbyes to our shipmates, we were off to the Vilshofen train station for the next part of the trip. We will be spending a few days in Munich, Germany.

The train ride took about two hours and was pleasant. We passed through some nice countryside scenery and farmlands before arriving in Munich.

The Munich main train station is huge and busy. After a couple of missteps, we found the proper exit and then hailed a taxi to take us to our hotel.

Our driver was pretty quiet until we asked a few questions. He warmed up to us and pointed out a few places to see. When we passed by the main shopping district, he instructed Sue to visit and buy herself lots of new things. For me, he suggested the Hofbrau House to have a few beers while she shopped.

We arrived at the Platzl Hotel, where we’ll be staying for the next few days. As it was after 3:00 pm, we were able to check right in. We are in the older or historic section of the hotel, but still have all the up-to-date amenities. We asked the receptionist about eating at the hotel’s affiliated restaurant and she called and made a reservation for us to have an early dinner.

Our room is rustic, but very pleasant. It’s authentic Bavarian in style with old hardwood floors and cabinets, windows that open, along with a wonderful shower and lots of outlets.

We settled into the room, then freshened up before heading over for dinner.

Our dinner was at Ayinger am Platzl. It’s a beer-orientated restaurant that’s around the corner from our hotel. We sat outside under the umbrellas and had a really great time. Our waitress was pleasantly surprised when we ordered and asked for the bill in German. It was a small thing, but it goes a long way.

We took a slow walk back to the hotel. It was a beautiful evening and there were many people out and about.

We had an activity planned for the evening. It was a walking tour with a lantern-bearing Night Watchman. What we didn’t know about was the outdoor concerts taking place in some of the areas we were supposed to visit. Kudos to our Watchman, Hans, for re-routing the walk and still being able to include the historical references and anecdotes.

In the medieval times, the Night Watchman would roam the town watching for problems, especially fires. With only his lantern to light the way, he would keep the townsfolk safe.

We walked back to the hotel after the excellent tour. Saturday evening around the various beer halls was rollicking with everyone having fun. For Herr and Frau Herkey, it was time to get some sleep.