This part of our German tour really was two parts. There was the north east, representing the former GDR lands, and then separated by a train hop - the south.

The GDR held fascination as a testament to recenty dramatic history. One can see so clearly the reconstruction of WWII damage, often begun after reunification, the abandoned houses still there, the plain GDR apartments, etc. Still, the area shares much with the rest of Germany and in fact the pros and cons are basically the same as for the rest of the country.

Just as the GDR added an extra dollup of historical interest, the southern Bavarian region adds an extra dollup of flat out beauty. Here are the half timbered houses, rathaus squares, bakeries, eis cafes, etc. in most abundance. For this, despite the pluses of the other parts, this remains our favourite area.

Plusses

Tremendously interesting recent history
Best bakeries in Europe, good groceries too
Bike paths and signage to every town. Easy to make your own route on a bike.
Friendly people though in the northeast people remain reserved at first
Reasonable prices
Just enough campgrounds to allow a camping tour to work
Donau area - total heaven on all counts

Minuses

Smokers!
Areas in the north with relatively few English speakers
Slight reserve of people in the north
Berlin is a mess