Germany is a country of great diversity. Its past divisions have left vast cultural differences that are evident to any traveller. Although often when you mention Germany, the things that tend to spring to mind are beer drinking lederhosen-clad men, beach towels and a frightening efficiency. But as a country it has a huge amount to offer and has long since shrugged off the 20^th century history of division and tyranny.

In the heart of Europe and bordering 9 other countries, Germany has a stunning mix of turreted castles, snow topped mountains, lush river valleys, mysterious forests and medieval villages.

Whether you are looking to experience the magnificence of the royal cities of Heidelberg and Potsdam, the beauty of the Black Forest and Bavarian Alps or the buzzing cosmopolitan centres of Munich (to enjoy the famous Oktoberfest), Frankfurt, Düsseldorf and Cologne, you are guaranteed to be mesmerized by this incredibly country.

Germany’s past is most evident in its capital, Berlin. Today it is seen as a hedonistic city where anything goes, however it still bears the scars of the past. Thousands of tourists flock to the city each year to see the Brandenburg Gate and the path of the old Berlin Wall.

Everywhere you go you are surrounded by natural beauty, stunning architecture, fine art and a rich cultural history. Beethoven, Bauhaus, Goethe and Glühwein are just a few names associated with this amazing country.

Although Germany has never been classified as one of the great gourmet nations, its cities offer a mouth-watering array of international cuisines. That coupled with fine opera, world-class DJs, beer and its excellent regional wines make it a destination that should be on everyone’s travel wish-list. And if nothing else, it surely must be worth a trip just to experience the thrill of the no speed limit autobahns!

Germany use the Euro and currency and traveller’s cheques can be exchanged at any bank, bureaux de change, post office, airport, railway station, port and major hotel. Credit and debit cards are widely accepts and ATMs are abundant. However it is worth remembering that Germans tend to prefer to use cash so you should always ensure you have some with you rather than solely rely on using your plastic.