As soon as there is the slightest hint of warm or nice weather, Biergärten (that’s plural for Biergarten) across Bavaria will start popping up. Those long wooden tables and large umbrellas will show up in green spaces and on sidewalks. It’s a sure sign that spring has arrived after months inside at a favorite Wirtshaus,
5 Must-Visit Munich Biergarten (+ Tips for Your First Visit) Read More »
For some reason, the German language has a reputation for not being very funny. Anyone who says that has clearly never met Bastian Pastewka. Since the 1990s, actor and comedian Bastian Pastewka has been a standard of German comedy on television. He has set the bar for comedy, including ten seasons on his namesake show
Learn German with Bastian Pastewka: 3 Comedies to Watch Read More »
When people think of Germany, comedy usually isn’t the first thing that springs to mind. Fast cars? Sure. Excellent beer? Absolutely. But laughs? Most would say nein danke. Yet that stereotype couldn’t be further from the truth. German humor is sharp, weird, and delightfully self-aware. These 15 comedians—from Netflix stars to subversive satirists—prove once and
15 German Comedians to Know (Stand-Up, Satire & Sketch Favorites) Read More »
Once upon a time, using public transit when traveling could be a nightmare. What ticket do you need? Are you in the right fare zone (or zones)? How long is the ticket good for? Is it good for one person, or is it a group ticket? And that’s all before you even consider how to
Deutschland-Ticket: Your €63 Pass for Unlimited German Travel (2026 Guide) Read More »
Everyone dreams of visiting Japan during cherry blossom season… but what about winter? Despite concerns about cold and dreary weather, I decided to roll the dice and visit in January, hoping for fewer crowds, cheaper rates, and to attend the Grand Sumo Tournament in Tokyo. And I’m so glad I did! Japan in winter isn’t
The Surprising Benefits of Visiting Japan in Winter (And What to Know Before You Go) Read More »
Angela Winkler’s acting career has remained remarkably consistent since its start in the late 1960s, and it has been nothing short of stunning, with memorable roles in both German and international cinema. While she appeared in the 2018 remake of famed Italian horror director Dario Argento’s Suspiria and the popular German streaming series Dark, it
Learn German with Films of Angela Winkler Read More »
Internationally, Kobe is synonymous with beef. But on a day trip from Osaka, Japan, I discovered a vibrant city with a relaxed atmosphere, offering outdoor adventures, cultural gems, and friendly locals. Kobe provides a refreshing contrast to its busier neighbors, making it a perfect day trip destination where you won’t just feel like part of
A Scenic Day Trip to Kobe, Japan: Ropeway Views, Herb Gardens & Hidden Waterfalls Read More »
Axel Stein is the kind of entertainer who isn’t afraid to have a bit of fun. He’s appeared on Michael “Bully” Herbig‘s no-laughing streaming comedy series LOL: Last One Laughing and gone on the run for Celebrity Hunted. But he’s also a hard worker who has been in the entertainment industry since before he was
Learn German with Films of Axel Stein Read More »
When Mother Nature threatens snow and ice on the morning you’re supposed to drive more than two hours for a flight to Tokyo, you make adjustments. For my husband and me, that meant booking a room at the TWA Hotel at JFK Airport and driving up the night before. The TWA Hotel is anything but
TWA Hotel Review: What It’s Like to Stay at JFK’s Retro Airport Hotel Read More »
Anyone who thinks winter is dull hasn’t visited the Ueno Toshogu Winter Peony Festival in Tokyo, Japan. While other parts of the world brace for snow and freezing temperatures, this Japanese winter festival celebrates nature with bright, blooming flowers. Large peonies in vivid hues like pink, red, and white offer a refreshing glimpse of spring.
Why You Should Visit Tokyo’s Ueno Toshogu Winter Peony Festival Read More »
One of the wonderful things about learning another language—like German—is that it opens the door to a new culture full of diverse ideas, people, and perspectives. Actress Vicky Krieps embodies this ideal. Fluent in several languages, she has not limited her film performances to just one. This month, dive deeper into the world of Vicky
Learn German with Films of Vicky Krieps Read More »
Across Japan, there are only twelve original castles left. In the charming city of Himeji is Himeji Castle, Japan’s most famous and best-preserved castle. The UNESCO World Heritage Site is remarkable to experience–whether from inside, climbing to the top, or from outside, marveling at its architecture. In addition to this must-see fortress, Himeji offers a
Himeji Day Trip Guide: Explore Himeji Castle & Koko-en Garden Read More »
