Hallo! Greetings from Heidelberg! This posting is by Don.
I arrived last Sunday, in advance of Holly & the boys since I had some work meetings to attend. We've rented an apartment in Heidelberg for the three weeks, located literally a 5 minute walk to the main train station. SAP is about a 10 minute train ride, plus a 5 minute bus/walk -- super convenient. My German counterparts are in disbelief that I've not rented a car. They are very car oriented in this area since SAP leases fleets of BMWs, Mercedes, Audi's to the 20K+ employee base. I keep telling them their train system throughout Europe is amazing since we really don't have anything that measures close in the U.S.. To them the train is a chore, and for me, it's new and exciting.
My first week was spent mostly working, but nights and the weekend were spent wandering the quaint and bustling area of Heidelberg. This is my umpteenth trip to the area, so I've already ticked off the major landmarks e.g. the Castle. And now, since this is more of an extended stay, it is really about being local So, I searched the local neighborhood for the supermarket, the bakery, the pub, the ice cream shop, restaurants, etc.. Alas, I did get a chance to take in some sites that I haven't been before.
On Saturday, I went to the Philosopher's Walk (Philosophenweg). Its name, it is said, stems from the fact that university professors and philosophers walked there, perhaps using the solitude of the forest and the incredible views of the city and surrounding area for inspiration. I hiked for two hours up in the forest with the view of Heidelberg city peaking through the trees every so often. Never felt philosophically inspired (more like challenged), but the views and forest were brilliant. Then, it got creepy. I made it to the top of the mountain where lies Thingstätte. This huge open-air amphitheater was built in 1935 by the Nazi party and was designed by Heidelberg native Albert Speer. It was used by the Nazi party during WWII for rallies and solstice festivals. It is now preserved as a monument, but it is still used for many festivals and cultural events throughout the year. Again creepy, yet factually interesting, and one of several Third Reich monuments thankfully in ruins.
As I write, Holly, Ben & Max are en route. I am looking forward to seeing them!
Enjoy the pics!
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| Thingstätte from the top of the stadium |
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| Heidelberg city and the Neckar River from Philosopher's Walk |
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| My view of Walldorf on my walk to work |
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| A light German meal |
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