Kultur 11, Carolyn Kodis

When I went to Germany, I definitely noticed a difference between North and South, just like the author of "Backward Southerners, Frigid Northerners: Germany's Real Divide."  On my tour, we went straight from Berlin to Munich.  While Berlin was very similar to an American city--very modern, very artsy, very cool--Munich was more like what I pictured Germany to be: lederhosens, heavy beer drinking, and polka music.  And although both were so different, I loved them both in their own ways.  Berlin reminded me of home and was absolutely beautiful.  While in Munich, I was able to dive into the culture of my ancestors by trying on dirndls and dining in beer gardens.  I see a similarity here in the states.  While I prefer living my northern lifestyle, when I do go to the south I try to dive into the culture down there (grits, anyone?).  I know I would probably do the same if I were to live in Germany: I'd live in Berlin but vacation down in Munich and become one with the people.  Maybe the Germans should do that too.