They say that the early bird gets the worms. Well, I hate having to get up early so they can have my worms!

We woke up at some ungodly time so we could shower and throw the last few items in the suitcases before having to checkout. The hotel arranged for a taxi, which showed up almost instantly, and we were on our way to the airport before 7:15 am.

The taxi to the airport wasn’t cheap, but it was fast.  We were able to get out of the city before rush hour and onto the Autobahn.  This is where our driver shone, as we hit speeds of 145 kilometers/hour (90 mph). I swear, he didn’t look like a Formula 1 driver when we left the hotel.  

When we arrived at the airline terminal, we were actually too early to check-in. We were told that 3 hours before flight time was when they opened. No problem…we just found a couple of open seats and chilled for a while…me thinking I could have slept for at least a half-hour longer.

Once we did check-in, things moved along quickly. Security was easy to get through, although Sue got pulled over – probably for her racy-looking sneakers.  They let her pass – no incarceration was necessary.

Passport Control was next and that went quickly too.  Fingerprints and photo again, but the line moved quickly. 

Next, it was a speedy shuttle ride to our gate. And then a wait for a little over an hour before boarding.

No chasing down passengers…we actually had everyone on-board and left 10 minutes early. How’s that for miraculous?

It was a good flight, with just a handful of turbulence bumps along the way.  We both ended up watching two movies and even snuck in a little nap. Dinner was delicious. We both ordered the beef cheeks and they were fork-tender and tasty.

Upon arrival, we were off the plane and down in baggage claim in less than twenty minutes. We stopped at the restrooms, grabbed our bags and stepped outside for the car service. Our driver took the scenic route, but delivered us to our doorstep without a hitch.

Despite having a wonderful time, it always feels good to return home. Especially so in knowing we left Munich before a current ten day stretch of 90 degree plus days. Timing is everything…

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

So here’s our quick assessment:

AmaWaterways Danube River Cruise

We both loved the river cruise and would definitely take another one. It was our first time, so we don’t have any comparison, but AmaWaterways was outstanding.

Our cabin was a good size, very comfortable and very clean. Even the bathroom was surprisingly roomy.

The meals were all excellent. There were always numerous choices at every meal. You could eat a multi-course meal or just choose something simple. There were also little snacks available throughout the day – things like cookies, nuts and trail mix.

The staff were all excellent. They were friendly, helpful and always trying to make sure you were enjoying your trip.

It wasn’t a booze cruise. Wine and beer were included during meals, and there was a daily ‘Sip and Sail’ happy hour. Drinks were always available outside of those times, but nobody seemed to go crazy. A round of five drinks cost less than 30€ (2 wines, 2 whiskey & water and one bourbon drink).

The included excursions were all well thought out. There was something for everyone and walking tours accommodated regular and slower walkers.

We personally thought that what we paid was well worth what we received in return.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Bavarian getaway to Munich

We both really enjoyed our time in Munich. It is a city rich in history and traditions. There are plenty of things to see and experience there and nearby.

We limited ourselves to the old town area, aside from our day trip. That area is very walkable and is bigger than it looks on a map.

Public transportation is abundant – trams around the city and trains to the outside.

Bavaria / Munich is proudly defined by its beer culture. The beer halls, beer gardens and restaurants are proof of that. Mugs of beer bring people together to laugh and have a good time.

Though things look old, many of the buildings are restorations from after WWII as Munich was heavily bombed. The churches, parks and museums often include photos from before and after restorations.