Germany/Expert Profile

Expertise

Bavarian Alps, castles, things associated with King Ludwig II, the Rhine, Rothenburg odT, Kathe Wohlfahrt, shopping, eating, crystal collecting (Swarovski, Wattens, Austria), (former) East Germany revolution of 1989-1990, concentration camps.

Experience in the area

Attended the special 350th Anniversary edition of the Oberammergau Passion Play in 1984. Fluent in German, I'm always asked by the locals where I learned to speak so well. That makes me feel good. When I go there, I want to blend right in and feel at home.

Publications

German Corner Magazine

Education/Credentials

I started my German language education in 6th grade and continued right through four years of college. I CLEP'd out of all the advanced classes.

What do you still hope to achieve/learn in this field?

I want to live there some day. Spend time hiking all through the wonderful Alps. Help others to enjoy the unsurpassed beauty of this region of the world and the pleasure of shopping for some of its greatest treasures.

Something interesting about this subject that others may not know:

I am currently writing a novel about Ludwig II and his last castle, Falkenstein.

Something controversial or provocative about this subject

I don't like to promote touristy things, especially because of the bad experiences I've seen and heard about with people who act like the stereotypical American tourist. That's one big reason why we get a bad reputation over there. However, if you go with an open mind, and expose yourself to their culture, the Germans, Austrians, and Swiss are absolutely wonderful hosts and provide the best