Guide to Frankfurt Travel
Frankfurt was heavily destroyed in World War II,
and was rebuilt as a modern city that was to become the financial center of
Germany. And so it is. Don't expect much charm or Old World ambience
in Frankfurt -- it's a generic city that is functional and impressive, but not
touristy. It's also the hub for Germany's train system, and if you are
staying in Frankfurt you can catch a train to virtually any destination in
Europe.
The Frankfurt airport is large and modern,
but has very few restaurants, including a McDonald's and several generic
airport-type restaurants. The waiting area for each gate is set up
like a cattle pen, with four foot high metal walls. You have your
ticket stamped as you enter the gate area, and then you don't leave until
you board your flight. The business class lounges are very crowded,
and seating can be a problem.
We were most impressed with the main train
station, with its many restaurants and stores, and with the overall efficiency
of everything.
Things that might surprise you in Germany:
-
Smoking is freely allowed in most
restaurants.
-
People bring their dogs on the trains.
-
Doors on public buildings (restaurants,
stores, etc.) open inward. (Due to life safety laws, American doors
open outward, so a panicked crowd can simply push the door open and
escape.)
-
Soft drinks at a restaurant are often
served with little or no ice.
-
Many public toilets are pay toilets.
-
Most, if not all, German taxis are
Mercedes.
-
What looks like pepperoni pizza is in fact
salami pizza.
-
McDonalds, Burger King, and Pizza Hut
restaurants are everywhere.
-
And yes, there are Starbucks in Germany.
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