Cologne, Germany

Cologne, Germany

So, I'm a ways away from Berlin, but I'd like to give some mention to the mother of all German street foods, the currywurst.  The recipe is simple enough--sliced pork sausage, classic ketchup, and the go-to ingredient, some generous dashes of curry powder.  There are stands for this everywhere in Berlin--beneath train tracks, within stations, on residential streets, next to monuments--and I tried it three times.  Each stand has it's little spin, with subtle variations in sausage, sauce, or amount.  But, generally, the philosophy is consistent, and It's a real joy picking at your currywurst and watching the active Berliners stroll by.

Before moving on, let's highlight some things about Berlin:

1) You can still pretty much smoke anywhere

2)  Berlin is probably the second biggest Turkish city after Istanbul

3)  Not yet been to Amsterdam, but I've never seen a city with more bicycles

4)  David Hasselfhoff is indeed a big deal here

5)  By area, Berlin is nine times larger than Paris

Alright, Cologne, and a trip to one of the first German cities.  Cologne was originally a Roman settlement dating to 50 AD, and has since always played a key role on the strategic Rhine River and within the growing Holy Roman Empire.  The real treat here is the Cologne Cathedral, which is second to only St. Peter's in size, and dwarfs the surrounding neighborhoods.  Outside of that, well, there's not much.  Cologne is known for its brew pubs, and there are an unusual amount of them.  However, I don't think I'll be here long


So, I spent an unusual amount of time experimenting with the picture box, and I think I snapped some winners.  The cathedral is dark and foreboding, and I hope the pics convey that sense.  Now, to occupy some space, let's highlight some of the beers experienced thus far.  Yea? Yea!
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PRAGUE:  Gambrinus, legendary King of Flanders and unofficial patron saint of beer brewing.  Gambrinus is the most popular beer in the Czech Republic, sponsors the nation's soccer league, and can be found on every street corner.  The pilsner beer offers exceptional drinkability, a substantial body, and at $1 for half-liter, always a good time.


PRAGUE/VIENNA:  Budweiser, the original, and king of all pilsners in Europe.  This is the principle beer hailing from the Czech area known as Budweis.  The region is near the Austrian border, so this delightful pilsner holds a substantial fan base in both countries.  Try not to confuse this with the Anheuser-Busch fare in the States, as the locals will become quite enraged.

BERLIN:  BERLINER PILSNER, classic German-style pilsner, that is far too easy to drink, and equally easy on the wallet.  This beer goes perfect with a beer garden and a bockwurst laid across a paper plate.  Remember, always cheers before drinking, with elbows up, and never forget to look your compatriot straight in the eyes while doing so.



No surprises here, as the older I get, the lighter the beer I enjoy.  Never have I felt beer to be so refreshing as during this trip.

READING:  Democracy and Education, John Dewey

LISTENING: