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Over the last 10 years, I have traveled to Germany no less than four times. Once in a conversation with my German teacher, she remarked that I have probably been to more parts of Germany than she herself. Not being a very green person and as I traveled alone on these trips, I tend to restrict my visits to places where transportation is not an issue. Here, I describe some of the more memorable places I have been to.

If you like big cities and great parties, Berlin is the place to be. It is probably the most well-known city outside of Germany. In Berlin itself, the Brandenburg Tor ("Tor" is German for gate) is the defining landmark where key events like New Year Countdowns are held every year. The best time to go is in the evenings when the gate is lighted up and when sometimes street musicians sometimes entertain just below the gate. While you are there, you can also check out Berlin's famous hangout for nightowls - Hackesche Hfe.

Besides the Brandenburg Tor, a visit to Berlin is only complete if you have seen the "relics" of the Berlin Wall that once divided the country. Other must-see sights include the Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church on Kurfrstendamm where you see a few pieces of the original church building still standing, the Reichstag with its unique glass dome at the top and of course, Potsdamer Platz.

Next to Berlin, most people will have heard of the Bavaria city, Munich, famous for its Oktoberfest. Although the city is famous for its beer, my memories of Munich is somewhat limited to the picturesque Marienplatz. To me, it was worthwhile to pay the few Euros to climb to the bell tower of the Gothic Church of Our Lady for a remarkable view of Munich and life down on the Marienplatz. Beyond Marienplatz, Munich showcased numerous examples of beautiful architecture. My favorites include the library and buildings that form part of the Munich University of Technology.

Most visitors to Munich will also take some time out to travel to Fssen, where they can visit the nearby famous Neuschwanstein Castle inspired by Wegner. Do note that you have to pay to enter the Castle and wait for your turn to enter the Castle. Personally, I found hiking in the Blackforests more pleasurable and interesting than visiting the Castle, although as a famous landmark in Germany, one should perhaps take at least one look at it.

As the main river in Germany, no visitor should miss the Rhine river and the scenic places along its banks. My recommendation is to take a train, if you can,

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