Germany

Last weekend I had the opportunity to fly out to Germany to meet Craig who was there on business. He goes to Germany a couple times a year and loves this area and has always wanted me to come. Since his trip necessitated a weekend stay, we decided it would be a good time for me to join him. We stayed in Ettlingen, a quaint little town south of Frankfurt

You can see where it says 'Hotel' on the building - that is where we stayed. Craig knows this town quite well as he has stayed here many times before. Super cute town with cobble stone streets, bridges, bakeries, old churches, and even castle ruins.

My first day there I headed to Heidelberg. Craig had to work so I was on my own. I was so proud of myself for getting there as I had to take multiple trains and a bus. I think living in Singapore has made me more comfortable with public transportation (don't know if I could have done this before). Although, a bit more difficult with the language barrier. Heidelberg was amazing! Such a beautiful, old city with an incredible medieval castle on the hill. Such a picturesque place!

You can't go to Europe and not enjoy the pastries and sweet treats!
Saturday we headed out for a drive through the famous Black Forest. One of my favorite towns was Baden-Baden - a getaway for the the rich and famous beginning in the 1800's. A well known 'spa' town, the famous would meet here for the baths, casino, races, theater, and gardens.
Dotted with old, romantic homes - the gardens down Lichtentaler Allee were beautiful and serene. I felt like I was walking through a Jane Austen novel!
The drive through the Black Forest brought us through many cute towns. I love all the old churches.
Late Saturday afternoon we headed to Strasbourg, France - just an hour away from where we ended our Black Forest drive. Another great old European town full of history. I loved the unique architecture.
Can't go to France without picking up a chocolate crepe off the streets. Besides - I had to take a picture of the gianormous Nutella jar for my kids.
The famous Strasbourg Cathedral (or Cathedral Notre Dame) - built between 1100's and 1400's. An amazing feat for the time period - and very ornate.

Talk about picturesque! This area of the city is called Petite France - half timbered town houses leaning over canals and cobblestone streets. We had a wonderful time spending a few hours in this small corner of France. Craig was joking at dinner: '..here we are Americans, living in Singapore, staying in Germany, having dinner in France'. I feel very lucky to have these experiences - especially with my passions for travel, history, and food.

Sunday we headed up to Frankfurt to attend church in an English speaking ward. We were lucky enough to pick a ward where Elder Casse, who was just recently called into the new Presiding Bishopric, was giving a farewell address to the ward (he is French but has been living in Germany as an Area Authority - and is now moving to Salt Lake with his new assignment). We also visited the Frankfurt temple grounds.
We spend the afternoon walking around and exploring Frankfurt. Much of Frankfurt was destroyed during the war but bits and pieces survived and many places were rebuilt in the same historical style.

A fast but wonderful getaway. Craig and I enjoyed spending the time together on this small adventure. I headed home after three delightful days - and Craig headed to Italy.