Many of you have e-mailed me with questions about life in Germany. I think this is the perfect opportunity to put to rest some of the myths about Europeans, while at the same time giving credibility to the things that are true. For instance, we've all heard about the infamous "autobahn" where there are no speed limits. This just simply isn't true. There are places on the autobahn where speed limits are posted and strictly enforced, and those limits are pretty similar to ours back home. In other areas there are "recommended" speed limits, although those are not enforced, meaning you can go much faster if you'd like. The autobahn is designed pretty much like our interstates in America. There are 4 lanes in most places, 6 in others. The main difference here is that it is illegal to drive in the passing lanes unless you are passing. What that means is that you never have to worry about some shmuck from Florida cruising in the passing lane 10 miles below the speed limit. Ain't gonna happen here, folks. If you cruise in the passing lane (or what I affectionately call the bat-out-of-hell lane), you'll get run over. Literally.

Now on to my favorite subject of all--FOOD! It is so true that Europeans in general take meal time seriously, as if it's a social event rather than a sporting one. You know how it goes in America: your waitress takes your drink order 5 seconds after you sit down. Then 3 minutes later she takes your meal order. Then you have about 7 minutes to eat your meal before she asks you if you want dessert. Of course, if you say "No, thank you," she will gladly bring you your check, demand a 20% tip for 11 minutes worth of work, then casually shove you out the door so that she can seat another unsuspecting family. Yeah, that sounds about right. Over here it's different. Food is to be experienced and enjoyed, not eaten as if it's the Indie 500! Usually we wait about 15 minutes before the server comes to take our drink order. Once we get our drinks, the server won't ask for our food order unless all menus are closed (this is how they know you are ready to order). The food comes shortly thereafter, and we don't get our check until we ask for it. I love it. Oh, and FYI, you don't have to tip! No, restaurants pay their servers enough so that tipping is not required, nor is it expected. If the service is great, and you want to leave a tip, fine, thank you, and good night. Otherwise, just sit back, relax, visit with friends, and enjoy delicious cuisine. Now why didn't we think of that?