Trace Ancestral Roots
The new world in America was an attractive destination for German citizens in search of religious freedom, political stability and also much-coveted real estate. Later on, it was the compulsory military service and also dictatorial government, which inspired younger Germans to head for the United States.
Today, tracing ancestral roots is one of the reasons to travel back to Germany. For example, the Elder Hostel educational tour programs offer guided trips to Germany, access to emigration archives, and assistance in tracing individual family members. At the same time, participants in this program enjoy walking tours of target cities and do some sightseeing.
Most Number of Zoos in any Country
(CC) Entrance to the Berlin Zoo by Dieter Bruegmann/Wikimedia Commons
Animal lovers know that as of 2003, Germany has 414 properly accredited zoos. In comparison, America only has about 355 zoological gardens. Moreover, the zoo in Berlin is famous for having the greatest number of different species represented in any one facility.
This makes it possible for families to plan a themed vacation, based on the availability of zoo attractions. While children usually will not look forward to a day of sightseeing that involves cathedrals and historic venues, they generally do enjoy the prospect of visiting a zoo later that day.
Original Oktoberfest
(CC) Berlin Oktoberfest by Wind/Wikimedia Commons
Visit Munich during Oktoberfest, and experience ground zero when it comes to this quintessential German celebration. Entrance to the festivities is free of charge and in addition to beer tents, there are amusement rides, traditionally prepared pigs' knuckles, brats, and of course the opportunity to join in with the singing and dancing that takes place in some areas of the beer tents.
Hiking in Historic Forestlands
(CC) Schluchsee by Werner Schreiber/Wikimedia Commons
Backpacking, hiking and camping are excellent reasons to travel to Germany. The historic Black Forest offers various locales for enjoyment, including the Schluchsee where skinny dipping is permitted. There are also the Jasmund National Park, Teutoburg Forest, the Fichtelgebirge Mountains, and of course the Bavarian Alps. Combine hiking with backpacking, mountaineering and swimming, and you have all the makings for an adventure travel opportunity.
