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FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions
Getting Cash: We strongly recommend that you plan on using your ATM card once you arrive in Munich. Although your bank will charge you an access fee, you will get a better exchange rate going this route. Banks sometimes have a daily withdrawl limit - ask to raise this. Changing actual currency is complicated these days and often not even accepted. Be aware that German banks seldom accept $100 US bills. Some people order Euros through American Express or their bank. Though they claim not to charge any fees, they give you a horrible exchange rate. Be sure to test your ATM card at home and be sure that you know your PIN!
Ideally, you should arrive in Munich the morning that the tour starts. If this isn't possible, there are many other options. One option would be to arrive the day before our group.There is a hotel right on the airport property - the Hilton Munich Airport (formerly a Kempinksi property) - this would allow you to meet the group absolutely refreshed on the following day. A second choice on the airport property, but requiring a shuttle, is the new Novotel. These are the best options if you are arriving later in the afternoon or evening and want an easy solution.If you want a hotel with a little more Bavarian personality, I recommend Brauerei Gasthof Lohhof. It's a family run place, the own their own brewery, have a great restaurant and a nice beer garden. Best of all, it's simple to reach. Walk off your plane, board the S-1 suburban train (runs every 20 min), and get off 4 stops later. From the platform, you can see the hotel! Don't be put off by the all-German website: Just send an email to info@brauereigasthauslohhof.de
Other nearby hotels:
Hotel Bayerischer Hof: Located in downtown Freising, in a historically protected building in Freising’s old town built in 1840 in neo-gothic style. It was built on the site of an old brewery, but the Dettenhofer family has been running the place since 1889. It's a cozy little place with 22 double rooms and 48 single rooms. They don’t have a website, but you can send a fax to 011-49-08161 538339.
Mövenpick: 8 Minutes from the airport on the S-1 Line, shuttle to airport every 30 minutes.
http://www.esys.org/freising.de/hotels.html
Erding is also nearby: http://www.erding-tourist.de/frame.html
Erding is also nearby: http://www.erding-tourist.de/frame.html
Most flights leave in the morning. If the trip you have booked a trip with us ends in Munich, then your departure time is not so important - getting to Munich Airport from downtown Munich is very easy and we will make sure you make your flight. If the trip ends in Munich or Munich/Grünwald, you will make your own way to the airport. Downtown Munich is some 40 minutes to the airport and Munich/Grünwald is about 75 minutes. Keep in mind that booking an 8 AM flight will have you up as early as 4 AM! A few days before departure, we will try to pair you up with other guests departing at a similar time and will assist you in purchasing the proper ticket, but this is at your expense.
If we are in another city the night before departure, we will have alternative, trip specific plans, to get you to the airport.
Before the trip, we send out detailed instructions on this topic. You will have our cellphone numbers and can get a hold of us if you are on the ground when the delay happens.If you can't contact us, we issue a back up plan which tells you how to meet up with the group if you experience a significant delay.Although we can't promise it, usually one of us will stay behind and accompany you via public transit or taxi you when you do arrive.
We encourage people to stay on and enjoy the area and we are happy to give you some advice on some other things to do while you are here. Many people try to overdo it and try visiting 15 other countries. Remember it isn't a race, it's a vacation! We recommend you take it a bit slower and see more of a smaller territory, rather than spend all of your time traveling. We are happy to offer some suggestions to fit your personal needs upon request. Also, if you choose to ignore the advice, we can recommend some nice places to visit in Austria, Switzerland or Italy. Unless we are talking about the height of summer, reservations outside of Munich are usually not necessary. We recommend that you don't finalize your plans until you are in Germany. If the weather is warm and sunny, then you might want to do some outdoor activities in the mountains. On the other hand if is cold, rainy and cloudy, you might want to visit some museums and such. Stay flexible!
Yes, there is A LOT of walking! Many of the areas we are in are pedestrian-only areas, so walking is the only way to see them. During our fall 2019 trips we averaged 5.5 miles of walking each day. While it’s rare that we walk at a sustained pace uninterrupted, you should be able to cover 1 mile in no more than 25 minutes. That said, activities are optional and there is almost also an option to sit something out or take a taxi to the end destination.
Munich is a large city of 1.4 million people and is extremely safe and secure. My wife can walk alone at any hour of the night in any neighborhood with confidence. However, The greatest risk is at the Oktoberfest grounds. For such a large festival, you can imagine that some bad characters are in attendance. You just need to use your head. And be conscious of pick pockets in any busy area - typical big-city precautions will keep you out of trouble.
It depends - do you want to blend in or don't you care? The stereotypical American wears a baseball cap, white tennis shoes, shorts, a t-shirt with a huge graphic on it and a fanny pack. Most Germans wouldn't be caught dead wearing any of those items!
None of our tours require anything fancy. Most of the time, jeans are fine and matched with a polo or collared shirt, you will feel comfortable in all environments. For women, nice slacks or a skirt is very acceptable. Flip-flops and tank tops are considered bathing wear and should be avoided unless you are swimming. Weather is similar to that of the American mid-west. Local people don't wear shorts around town (unless they're made out of leather!), even when it's really hot. A sweater or light jacket should definitely find its way into your suitcase.
Keep in mind that Füssen is in the mountains and changes in weather occur commonly. No matter the forecast, be sure to being at least one warm thing you can throw on if it gets chilly. It will rain during our trip - bring a light rain jacket and and umbrella - or plan on buying one there. In September, Füssen often has snow on the mountains - 5,676 feet - the city itself is at 2,651 feet.
Trachten: One of the charms of Oktoberfest is that vast numbers of people - mainly the locals - dress up in their typical Bavarian Costumes. For Men, it's Lederhosen and for women it's a Dirndl. It is definitely not required, but if you have an interest in getting yourself some of the traditional garb, we will help you do so! A nice German shirt or vest or a hand stitched sweater also makes a nice addition to your wardrobe at home!Typically, most of our guests wear Lederhosen/Dirndl to Oktoberfest. We'll help you pick out something great! We also recommend talking to Andy at Bavarian Speciality and Bobbie a MyDirndl.com before you leave for Oktoberfest. Christmas Tours: If you are visiting the Christmas Markets with us in December - it will be cold! We typically see temperatures between 20 and 40 degrees Fahrenheit. Having snow throughout the trip is likely and near the mountains it is almost certain. You should bring sturdy, waterproof shoes - boots aren't usually necessary, but it depends on your own tolerance for stepping in the occasional snow bank. But, don't overdo it on the warm clothes or you'll be grossly over packed. It's not uncommon in Europe to see someone wearing the same sweater all week -- and we certainly won't mind! However, bring a hat and gloves/mittens so that you prepared for being in the weather a while.
None of our tours require anything fancy. Most of the time, jeans are fine and matched with a polo or collared shirt, you will feel comfortable in all environments. For women, nice slacks or a skirt is very acceptable. Flip-flops and tank tops are considered bathing wear and should be avoided unless you are swimming. Weather is similar to that of the American mid-west. Local people don't wear shorts around town (unless they're made out of leather!), even when it's really hot. A sweater or light jacket should definitely find its way into your suitcase.
Keep in mind that Füssen is in the mountains and changes in weather occur commonly. No matter the forecast, be sure to being at least one warm thing you can throw on if it gets chilly. It will rain during our trip - bring a light rain jacket and and umbrella - or plan on buying one there. In September, Füssen often has snow on the mountains - 5,676 feet - the city itself is at 2,651 feet.
Trachten: One of the charms of Oktoberfest is that vast numbers of people - mainly the locals - dress up in their typical Bavarian Costumes. For Men, it's Lederhosen and for women it's a Dirndl. It is definitely not required, but if you have an interest in getting yourself some of the traditional garb, we will help you do so! A nice German shirt or vest or a hand stitched sweater also makes a nice addition to your wardrobe at home!Typically, most of our guests wear Lederhosen/Dirndl to Oktoberfest. We'll help you pick out something great! We also recommend talking to Andy at Bavarian Speciality and Bobbie a MyDirndl.com before you leave for Oktoberfest. Christmas Tours: If you are visiting the Christmas Markets with us in December - it will be cold! We typically see temperatures between 20 and 40 degrees Fahrenheit. Having snow throughout the trip is likely and near the mountains it is almost certain. You should bring sturdy, waterproof shoes - boots aren't usually necessary, but it depends on your own tolerance for stepping in the occasional snow bank. But, don't overdo it on the warm clothes or you'll be grossly over packed. It's not uncommon in Europe to see someone wearing the same sweater all week -- and we certainly won't mind! However, bring a hat and gloves/mittens so that you prepared for being in the weather a while.
Shoes: Comfortable shoes that go with everything. The wrong choice will haunt you and make the trip miserable!
Rain gear: It will rain. Bring a jacket that repels water and a small travel umbrella. If it rains, we will do our best to stay out of the rain, but we will have to walk through it to some extent.
Backpack: Get a small one. It's better than a purse and should hold your umbrella, camera, etc. A luggage lock doesn't hurt either.
Hiking/Exercise Gear: If you want to go on the optional hike, bring along suitable clothing. It is not a technical hike at all - even tennis shoes or trail running shoes are fine. Comfortable clothing, however, is a must as well as a day pack. Personal Items: Most, but not all, our hotels have hairdryers. If you bring your own, get a dual voltage curling iron and hair dryer- check if you need an electric adapter.
Backpack: Get a small one. It's better than a purse and should hold your umbrella, camera, etc. A luggage lock doesn't hurt either.
Hiking/Exercise Gear: If you want to go on the optional hike, bring along suitable clothing. It is not a technical hike at all - even tennis shoes or trail running shoes are fine. Comfortable clothing, however, is a must as well as a day pack. Personal Items: Most, but not all, our hotels have hairdryers. If you bring your own, get a dual voltage curling iron and hair dryer- check if you need an electric adapter.
We use smaller, typical Bavarian hotels with a nice atmosphere - usually 3 stars according to the Hotel Stars Union, if they are rated. With their cozy nature and friendly staff, they more resemble a nice Bed and Breakfast in the US. The hotel we use in Füssen has a website here: www.hotel-ruchti.de . We have used Hotel Ruchti for years, because it is a family run business with excellent service and the best food in the entire city of Füssen. Steffi, her father, and their staff will literally bend over backwards to ensure you stay is pleasant. In Munich, we use the Alter Wirt in Grünwald/Munich. This beautiful hotel is owned by the Portenlaenger family and they run a top notch operation!
Bed Types: The concept of 2 double beds or 2 queen size beds in a room is not common in Germany at all. Most rooms called a "Double" room, will feature to single beds directly next to each other, each with its own bedding - the German Federbett - a cozy down comforter full of feathers. Sometimes, the beds will be split apart, sometimes right next to each other. Thus a double room is suitable for just two people, generally speaking.
Bathrooms: Fortunately, the days of "bathroom down the hall" are pretty much in the past. All the rooms we use will have a private WC and some kind of bathing option. If you receive a room with a bath, it will have a handheld shower apparatus to aid in washing your hair. Amenities: Your room usually has soap or shower gel and shampoo. Not all will have a hairdryer. Be aware that you should not use the same power adapter for hairdryers and curling irons as you do for electronics. Air-Conditioning: Does not seem to exist in Europe. I know, get over it. Triple Occupancy: Most of our hotels can accommodate you in a triple if requested, but this is honestly pretty cramped for three adults. One of the beds may be a roll-a-way or fold out sofa. And, of course, this means sharing just one bathroom! If you opt for this instead of 2 doubles and a single, each person in the triple will pay the double person rate, no single supplement.
Bathrooms: Fortunately, the days of "bathroom down the hall" are pretty much in the past. All the rooms we use will have a private WC and some kind of bathing option. If you receive a room with a bath, it will have a handheld shower apparatus to aid in washing your hair. Amenities: Your room usually has soap or shower gel and shampoo. Not all will have a hairdryer. Be aware that you should not use the same power adapter for hairdryers and curling irons as you do for electronics. Air-Conditioning: Does not seem to exist in Europe. I know, get over it. Triple Occupancy: Most of our hotels can accommodate you in a triple if requested, but this is honestly pretty cramped for three adults. One of the beds may be a roll-a-way or fold out sofa. And, of course, this means sharing just one bathroom! If you opt for this instead of 2 doubles and a single, each person in the triple will pay the double person rate, no single supplement.
Generally, no. Some of the hotels have been flexible on this depending on their level of activity. But you should not count on it. Also, Laundromats are in short supply, as is your time. That said, it is common for European travelers to rinse out undergarments and hang them to dry in the bathroom (not on the balcony!) Plan on bringing a little bottle of Woolite for this purpose.
Most of the hotels offer wireless access and you need to get the code when you check in. Finding free wifi when you are out and about is as rare as finding A/C and ice cubes.
Will I like it? German food is excellent and, if you have an open mind, you will find many things you like! We pride ourselves on selecting menus that allow you to try a cross section of traditional Bavarian Food. Our philosophy is that when in Rome, you should eat what they eat!
German food is heavy on the meats and breads. Vegetarians can be accommodated, but you should let us know ahead of time so we can notify the hotels. Vegans aren't going to find much at the places we frequent. We have successfully accommodated Vegetarians, Wheat-Allergies, and Protein intolerance - just let us know ahead of time!
Breakfast is easy since the hotels offer a buffet format with fresh baked breads, sliced meats, cheese, yogurt, jams, cereals and juices. Often, eggs are offered to American guests, although a soft-boiled egg is the typical German choice at breakfast. The coffee is strong and rich and decaf is not commonly offered. Tea and Hot Chocolate are also available. In the mornings, you will be asked if you would like a hot drink.
Most Germans consume their largest meal of the day at lunchtime, sometimes we will follow this custom and other times we will eat in the evenings together. Usually soup is offered and this course should not be missed - they are usually made from scratch and are always excellent. The main course will vary and will sometimes be a buffet. We like to have the hotels offer typical regional fare, so plan on getting a real sampling of German cuisine!
Keep in mind that we are staying at smaller inns. Germans are offended if the food they serve is not enjoyed and fully consumed. They work hard to put out a good meals and, just like at Grandma's, want to see their guests eat heartily and enjoy the meal. Open yourself to trying something different and give it a try. You might not like everything served, but we do try to offer typical, mainstream Bavarian fare at all our meals. You will find nothing too unusual and it is also top notch quality. Keep in mind also that the portion size in the United States are larger than anywhere in the world. Large by European standards, German portions are still smaller than what you might be used to at home.
Drinks: Beer is cheaper than Cola. Many drink Apple Schorle - a mix of mineral water and apple juice. A German soft drink the kids like is called Spezi - a mixture of Cola and Fanta. Be warned that the drinks are extra - and you should pay your server after the meal. Also, be warned that ice cubes are in short supply anywhere in Europe - get used to having your drinks a little warmer than you do at home.
Water: German tap water is one of the cleanest and safest in the world. It is puzzling that no German would ever drink it! Typically, they take mineral water and always with bubbles. In the restaurant you can ask for water without gas, it's called "Stilles Wasser." Look for a few bottles at the supermarket upon arrival. Finding water with absolutely no gas is sometimes impossible and pubs only grudgingly serve tap water, rarely with ice, and will likely charge you for it.
Adult Drinks: Beer is the beverage of choice, of course! You can order several different types and they are all very tasty. A draft beer, or Helles, is the most common and is similar to an American style beer, but with much more body and taste. Another choices is a Pils - a pilsner - also not unlike what we have at home, but is slightly more bitter. Many find the Weissbier to be the best - this is brewed with wheat and the yeast is unfiltered - this type of beer comprises 10% of market in Germany. There are also some other types available including dark beers, Dunkles. Experiment and try all the different varieties! At Oktoberfest, you get the Oktoberfest brew - a Märzen - a bit on the amber side, but definitely not a dark beer. There are options for non drinkers as well - soda or water most commonly.
Too much beer? There are a few tricks involved in learning to drink those big German beers. I'll teach you how to have a great time, enjoy the beer, and still be healthy enough to do it again the following day!
Although not available in the beer tents, Wine is another common choice in restaurants and they are not limited to the sweet varieties many Americans think of. They have some excellent drier whites from Austria - likely the now trendy Gruener Veltliner, and also some tasty reds, like Franken Wein. Just ask your server and specify that you want to try some regional wines.
Schnapps is a common choice at the end of a large meal. Each bar will serve their favorite - like apple, pear, or herbal schnapps. Mixed drinks are often not available and when they are, they are expensive.
Although not available in the beer tents, Wine is another common choice in restaurants and they are not limited to the sweet varieties many Americans think of. They have some excellent drier whites from Austria - likely the now trendy Gruener Veltliner, and also some tasty reds, like Franken Wein. Just ask your server and specify that you want to try some regional wines.
Schnapps is a common choice at the end of a large meal. Each bar will serve their favorite - like apple, pear, or herbal schnapps. Mixed drinks are often not available and when they are, they are expensive.
Probably, but check with your carrier and inform yourself about the rates. Using the phone at the table is considered quite rude.
If you are open to experiencing a different culture, you're sure to have a great time. Germans do things differently sometimes, just like any other country. Are you prepared to accept the differences? And, regardless of how much we plan in advance, there will be little snafus along the way. Be flexible, understanding and be of good cheer and things will stay pleasant for everyone! When troubles arise, Germans do not respond well with assertive behavior - they simply shut down and refuse to help you further. Grace and understanding will take you much further.
Also keep in mind that the food is different, the drinks are different, the hotels are different, et cetera, et cetera. The way in which you choose to respond to these difference is very important. Being flexible and good natured is the key. This FAQ is designed to help you understand in advance what some of the differences are.
We will be using the subways, trains, trams, and a few busses. Be considerate of others and be on-time. If you need some extra time or a break, let me know a bit ahead of time, and we'll plan in a stop. Be warned: I don't hesitate to leave people behind who run late!
We do not cater to American tastes - most of our guests want to experience the "real" Bavaria and we strive to deliver. No McDonalds, No Starbucks, no Coca-Cola, Gott sei Dank!
Be aware that Germany uses a different power standard than North America. Also note that the power adapter necessary for Hairdryers and curling irons is UNSAFE for electronics - Laptops, Camcorders, and Cameras. Many electronics nowadays are compatible with 110 and 220 Voltage.
Going it on your own at the Wiesn is an option, but we obviously think you should travel with us! Getting a seat at the Wiesn (only tourists call it Oktoberfest) is complicated and we have reserved seats for our guests. Reservations cannot be made unless you book and pay in advance for at least 10 people - tables are "sold" in sets of 10. For each person, you typically pay for 2 liters of beer and a 1/2 chicken dinner in advance. Credit Cards and North American checks are not accepted. To make a reservation, you need to contact each of the 14 tents separately, since they are run by separate "Tent Hosts." Reservations sell out quickly since it operates much like season tickets - last year's guests get first right of refusal. But, tent reservations are not necessarily required. Each tent is required to set aside a certain percentage of non-reserved tables. These seats are taken on a first-come first served basis. On weekends, people line up before dawn to get into the tent. If you arrive later, you will usually find the tent is over capacity and no one further is admitted. If you avoid weekends and holidays and arrive before 5 PM, you should be able to get into most any tent and find a seat. You then find the unreserved section and ask the table occupants, "Ist hier frei?" If they say yes, then you are free to sit down and occupy the seat as long as you wish. You must have a seat in order to be sold a beer. Simply put, DO NOT go on weekends - it is beyond crazy. You will be frustrated and likely will not have much fun. Other reasons to travel with us - we'll take care of the hotel rooms, take you on the subway system, teach you the words to the songs, and explain the cultural heritage behind the experience. Be sure to check out my other articles about the Wiesn on my Bavarian Culture pages: BayernTrips - Bavarian Culture
No. Buying and selling tickets violates the rules of the tent hosts.
In the following tables you can see the weather conditions in Munich and in Reutte, which is near Fuessen.
| Munich Temperatures | Reutte, Austria (Near Fuessen) | |||||||||||
| Day | Sunrise | Sunset | Avg High | Avg Low | Median | Day | Sunrise | Sunset | Avg High | Avg Low | Median | |
| 26-Sep | 7:05AM | 7:03PM | 63°F | 45°F | 53°F | 26-Sep | 7:09AM | 7:07PM | 58°F | 45°F | 51°F | |
| 27-Sep | 7:06AM | 7:01PM | 63°F | 44°F | 53°F | 27-Sep | 7:10AM | 7:05PM | 58°F | 45°F | 51°F | |
| 28-Sep | 7:08AM | 6:59PM | 62°F | 44°F | 52°F | 28-Sep | 7:12AM | 7:03PM | 58°F | 45°F | 51°F | |
| 29-Sep | 7:09AM | 6:57PM | 62°F | 44°F | 52°F | 29-Sep | 7:13AM | 7:01PM | 57°F | 45°F | 51°F | |
| 30-Sep | 7:11AM | 6:55PM | 62°F | 44°F | 52°F | 30-Sep | 7:14AM | 6:59PM | 57°F | 45°F | 50°F | |
| 1-Oct | 7:12AM | 6:53PM | 61°F | 43°F | 51°F | 1-Oct | 7:16AM | 6:57PM | 57°F | 44°F | 50°F | |
| 2-Oct | 7:14AM | 6:51PM | 61°F | 43°F | 51°F | 2-Oct | 7:17AM | 6:55PM | 56°F | 44°F | 50°F | |
| 3-Oct | 7:15AM | 6:49PM | 61°F | 43°F | 51°F | 3-Oct | 7:19AM | 6:53PM | 56°F | 44°F | 50°F | |
Operating BayernTrips isn't all we do. We like to think that pursing other interest helps us approach our work at BayernTrips with passion, excitement and freshness. If you are interested in coming along with one of your groups, I will happily e-mail you my resume and references. Also you can see some comments from others in our "About Us" Section References