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From Abroad

I have expressed a desire to see Germany my whole life. It is unlike any other country in the world, it is a leader in scientific and technological aspects of the world market. It’s precision craftsmenship (kunstfertigkeit), has established Germany quite a reputation. The German design and manufacture industry is extensive, it is the largest exporter of goods in the world. It’s central location in Europe makes it a transportation hub and it boasts an internal network for it’s residents to utilize. The German residents enjoy quite a high standard of living as well. Germany is also one of the leading motorsport countries in the world, their globally-respected vehicles have been a benchmark for nearly all other vehicle manufacturers.

Before I left for Vienna 2 months ago, I got in contact with a critical family member. Rolli is a distant cousin of mine who’s interest in genealogy has put him in touch with my Aunt Sabine (also curious about our family’s history), who originally hails from Germany, as does my father. So, it was only natural for me to be curious about Germany (in addition to the immense coolness factor!). Another reason for me to visit Germany was to try and hook up with my cousin Carl, who works for Ecolab (the soap company) and flies to Dusseldorf every few weeks as a part of their database/software team.

I was treated to excellent hospitality by Rolli’s family, who welcomed me most graciously into their home. Rolli’s father, who worked for Lindt for 30 years, retired, decided he didn’t like retirement, and started his own chocolate business. I think you can guess that we became close instantly, words need not to be exchanged to explain our bond!

(Quick note: throughout my stay, Rolli’s father was most generous with the chocolate his company produces, giving me little handmade packets each time he saw me, he was a man after my own heart!)

Rolli’s mother had a sparkle in her eye and a charm to accompany it, again, we had a common understanding and few words needed to be exchanged (except when we had Deutsch lessons, those were great!). Rolli was quite a guy himself! He spoke the best English I had heard yet in Europe, and was extremely conscientious with his time, money and resources. He is currently working on his diploma thesis, on a topic I will not mention because I could write an entire blog about it! He is a great role model and is someone I strive to emulate. Here I am and the man himself in Brussels at the infamous “Manneken Pis”:

My stay in Germany was so action-packed, we managed to do quite a lot! We toured Cologne, Frankfurt and Dusseldorf of Germany and Brussels of Belgium. On my last night, we met my cousin Carl at a restaurant called “Mongos”. It was a neat Mongolian barbecue joint with quite a selection meats, I ate crocodile, antelope and even kangaroo! Carl was extremely kind and treated us to quite a magnificent dinner.

Here we are, Rolli, me and Carl, stuffed and happy as clams! I only having nice things to say about Germany, I am already looking forward to when I can go back!

Bye!