Since arriving in Germany 2 weeks ago, I am convinced more than ever, that New Zealand has the best coffee in the world! Our lattes, flat whites, Cappuccinos etc are exceptional and I am missing them. It’s something New Zealand excels in and it’s no surprise that the favourite coffee houses in Berlin and London are owned and operated by Kiwis.
Although I am getting love in buckets from my German in-laws, there doesn’t seem to be the same level of warmth from our apartment hosts. Yes, our apartment is scrupulously clean and the linen is changed regularly but there seems to be a frosty distance between us and the landlords. But in a country of over 80 million people, should I expect more?
However, there are many positives to be found in Germany. It’s a beautiful country with grand sweeping scenery. New Zealand may have the best coffee, but German bread is second to none. Meet Mr Kimmel. Twice a week, this 80 year old German Baker bakes a heavy sour-dough break in a traditional wood-fired oven. Who says life stops at 80!
The Wednesday market in Hanau is full of fresh exotic fruits and veges I wouldn’t dream of buying in New Zealand because of their expense. The quality of Citrus fruit in Germany is top-shelf and most of the chicken is organic and has a far better taste. The strawberries are sublime and the tomatoes take me right back to my childhood – tasty and juicy.
Speaking of strawberries, the German bakeries make the most beautiful fruit tortes, gateaux and pastries anywhere in the world. It’s an afternoon treat I look forward to and my waistline is expanding.
Hard to choose…
It’s been a privilege to meet the small specialised shop-owners, who never sell their businesses but merely pass it on through generations, protecting and expanding the knowledge along the way. A shining example of this is Ossy Kreis and his wife who own a boutique fashion shop. They only need to take one look to assess your waist and leg measurements and then choose a style of clothing to suit. They’re never wrong!
For me, travel is not just about coffee, food or even scenery. It has a lot to do with the people – those dear ones you reconnect with across the globe.
Happy travelling.
