1. The Autobahn

Driving on the Autobahn, the German highway which famously has no speed limit, was exhilarating. It's like a thrill ride at an amusement park, except you're at the wheel and in control. As I topped 100 MPH and beyond, I was in awe to watch other cars still zipping by me.

2. The Outdoor Cafés

So common in Europe, why don't we do this in the United States? It's a sublime setup for enjoying a good cup of coffee or an excellent meal.

3. The Friendly People

While I'm not one to drink, just not my thing, I experienced plenty of hospitality from the Germans. They were so friendly everywhere I went, from the small towns to the cities.

4. The Castles

Visiting Burg Eltz in particular was fantastic. I hiked to the castle in the local forests, climbed hills to get the full experience, and got a tour on the inside.

5. The History

Visiting Dom St. Peter in Trier, the oldest church in Germany, was amazing. Coming from the U.S., which was only founded in 1776, seeing sights that went back centuries was inspiring.

6. The Food

Just when you thought sausage and potatoes could only be prepared one or two ways, I came across a half dozen versions or more, and they were tasty every time.

7. The Proximity To France

Given my trip centered around southwest Germany, I was extremely close to the French border, so I got to experience France as well. French culture has its own unique attributes that made the excursion really enjoyable.