7) Koln/Cologne Germany-For me traveling to Germany, there is a special quaintness about the country and once you step out of the train station in Koln you can't but help fall in love with this charming city on the Rhine. The first thing you see when you leave the train station in Koln is this massive cathedral that is one of the most amazing cathedrals in Europe. It is massive and imposing. From there charming streets that lead you invariably to the river lined restaurants. Sure they are expensive and touristy but hey, that's the price to eat with such a beautiful view. We happened upon an unassuming restaurant right next to a Thai restaurant run by a lone waiter shelping beer and brats in the rain holding an umbrella. Good beer, good brats, nice price!
Caution tip: Don't buy the sweet pretzels from the bakery near the train station, they are awful, buy the donuts!
6) Lucerne, Switzerland- A beautiful and charming city on the lake. We stayed at hotel on the other side of the beautiful wooden bridge which crosses over the river. On the older side of Lucerne are lots of restaurants, the only dilemma is which one. There was even a restaurant that served horse (appalling!) give me the fondue please! Take the boat cruise around the lake, it's a nice ride and you get to see some quaint Swiss homes where I'm sure Heidi lives. The shopping is fabulous from Swiss knives, charming Black Forest cuckoo clocks to Swiss watches. Shopping tip: Don't be cheap-buy the Swiss watch, you'll regret it once you get home. I bought a Swiss watch on my last trip in 2004 and have yet to replace the battery!-Single D
