To holiday or not to holiday... that is the question

Having been in Germany for about 48 hours now, it has to be said that we are feeling someone confused. Is this a holiday? Are we allowed to be tourists even though we are now German residents?

Because that is exactly what we are now. Yesterday we went and registered as residents of Munich, before opening our very own German Bank Account! It was exciting and we felt as though we were finally getting down to business of what we came here to do. But then we went wandering around Munich (up towards Maxvorstadt, where we saw beautiful architecture), bought some things at the shops, and felt like tourists. So I suppose thats where the confusion comes from.

I am hoping that once we move to our new accommodation on Monday I can settle a bit. I see things I think I should buy and remind myself to wait until I'm more settled - not just living out of a suitcase in a hotel. But I am hopeful that I will feel more settled soon.

In the mean time I have had to buy shorts because the weather is just so hot over here. 30+ degrees which is classified as a heat wave over here. And you can tell the locals are loving it, with an ice cream in almost everyone's hand as they walk past. We don't mind the heat, as its not as humid as Brisbane, but in the sun you can feel it, so we have been taking shelter inside shops with aircon, because you've all met my darling pale fleshed husband! I don't want either of us to get burnt, and he's always the first!

Last night though, we couldn't help but return to a favourite of ours from our honeymoon. We visited the Augustine Keller - a beer brewery and restaurant since early 1800s. When we went in January 2012, we were seated downstairs in the 'keller' with giant beer barrels, and it was brilliant. Outside it was snowing and we loved the warm welcoming feeling of the beautiful building.


Last night however, there was hardly a soul inside
the place. Because they were all outside. They beer garden, or Bier Garten was in full swing last night, with thousands of people enjoying beer and german cuisine at outdoor tables. We were almost overwhelmed at first as there were so many people, so many tables, and up to 16 steins of beer being carried at a time by the waiters! But we established that there was a serviced area (no seats available) or a self service area, where we found some free tables. We went and got some food and drinks (yes, of course Michael had beer, I had sparkling apple juice!) and then found our seats. It was still quite light outside (8:30pm) and we sat happily eating and drinking as the sun slowly set. It was a wonderful night and it is certainly a place we will return to as our time here continues.

So I must admit that I am falling in love with Germany and Munich, and I can honestly see myself living here for a while.... and I think a few moments of fear or uncertainty are allowed. But I am pleased that the excitement outweighs the fear. On Monday I will journey to Schwabing/Beiderstein where I will meet my new colleagues and view my new workplace. After that Michael and I will move to our new accommodation. A few more days to be 'half-tourists' before I start work on Thursday. I think once a bit more certainty and security is around, I will feel a bit better. In the mean time, Michael and I are enjoying the food (it really is just so good!) and looking around this beautiful city.