Took a paddle boat steamer cruise down the Elbe (pronounced Elba) River to Meiben (pronounced Myson). Very beautiful cruise passing lots of ducks, flocks of sheep grazing in pastures amongst castle towers. The little village of Meiben is very quaint and pristine. It's known for it's porcelain and it's wine. I wonder if you can guess which one I bought?
Toured a castle while there and was awed by the complexity of the architecture and the ornate decore. Nothing like castles in England and Scotland. Much more advanced.

On my way to Karlovy Vary, Czech Repulic tomorrow.

THINGS I DIDN'T EXPECT IN GERMANY

1. To be fascinated with the language. I thought it would sound like people were angry with each other all the time, but it really doesn't. As a matter of fact, it's a little easier to pick up on because they don't speak so bloody fast.

2. The intercity trains and trams are TOTALLY on the honor system. No one ever checks to see if you have a ticket. And it really seemed that very few people actually bought them (myself included). Either no one ever checks the statistics, or they just don't care that they are losing a killing!

3. Berlin. Vibrant, gritty, creative, friendly. I'll definitely go back there.