I arrived in Hamburg on a Tuesday evening around 6 pm after a long day of flights, delayed trains, and a harrowing drive before I could check into my hotel. It was too early for bed, and I needed to do something to offset jet lag and sleepiness. I headed off to explore Miniatur Wunderland Hamburg (in German, Miniature Wonderland…
Author: karenanne
Was the US Official Language Almost German? The Muhlenberg Legend
One of my FAVORITE urban legends is one I even believed for a long time: The official Language of the United States was almost German. It gets better! The legend claims that in a Congressional vote, German lost by only one vote, and that’s why we speak English in America. I hate to bust this very exciting bubble, but it’s…
German Flammkuchen Recipe – How to Make Flammkuchen at Home
I still remember my first Flammkuchen. We were visiting my cousin and her family at their Hotel. They served it to us for dinner (my kids even got to help make them), and we were all hooked. Fast forward a few years, and I want to make it at home. After some trial and error and testing a few different…
What is a Strandkorb? And where can You BUY a Strandkorb?
I remember the first time I saw a Strandkorb (a “Beach Basket”) on the beach. Since I grew up in California, it was a bit confusing. When we went to the beach, we just needed a few towels, a cooler with drinks and snacks, MAYBE a folding chair (if you felt like schlepping it), and possibly a sun umbrella to…
Tanzmariechen- Those Fabulous Karneval Dancers!
Ever wonder about those beautiful dancing girls in “military uniforms” at Karneval/Fasching celebrations? They march and move in perfect synchronicity and even tumble through the air without landing on their head. But did you know that these “Tanzmariechen” or “Funkenmariechen” are more than just a pretty face and fun dance moves? Their history reaches back almost 200 years to early…
What is Smoked Beer? A Visit to Schlenkerla in Bamberg!
I admit, I had never heard about smoked beer until a few years ago when I was out to dinner with my parents. My father was so excited to find Schlenkerla Rauchbier on the menu! He had enjoyed it years before when stationed in Bamberg, but had never seen it in the US before. Then, I took a beer tour…
Why is New Year’s Eve called Silvester in Germany?
In Germany, New Year’s Eve is called Silvester, but WHY? My parents always celebrated New Year’s Eve with a party, but a Silvester Party? (I mean, “Who is this Sylvester, and why does he get a party?“) The whole thing is confusing. Fortunately, there is an easy explanation! And it all dates back to a pope and a change in…
What is Raclette Cheese? Cheesy German New Year’s Eve Tradition
Whenever anyone asks me, “What’s your favorite kind of Cheese?” I automatically answer, “The melted kind.” And yes, I have the kind of family that loves cheese, eats loads of cheese, and spends a lot of time talking about cheese. No wonder there were loud CHEERS when I brought the Raclette Grill home. Where has this lovely dish been my…
A German Christmas Market Tour – Magic, Food and lots of Glühwein
I spend more time regretting the things I didn’t do than I regret the mistakes I may have made. That’s why when I got an email about taking a German Christmas Market Tour only days before it started, I only hesitated long enough to clear it with my family. After all, a week away in December (well, 10 days with travel),…
Gebrannte Mandeln- German Roasted Almonds Recipe
Visit any German Christmas Market, German Fest, or Fair, and you will smell the sugary, cinnamon, nutty scent of Gebrannte Mandeln. I’m certain they waft the smell around to lure you in (and it works). Grab a bag to munch as you shop—Crunchy, sweet, nutty, and so very delicious. But there is no reason to wait until your next visit…