64 FOCUS - DECEMBER 2018 Bavaria (continued from page 63) he was elected Chancellor of the Third Reich, he appointed his secretary, Martin Bormann, to redesign the place. The problem was, strangers would show up unannounced, at Hitler’s doorstep, hoping to get a glimpse of the Reich Chancellor. Surrounding houses and farms were purchased by Hitler’s inner circle, and those who did not wish to sell were transported to work camps in Auschwitz and the like. Those camps, at that time, had not yet been converted into the infa- mous death camps. All in all there were 80 buildings, in a compound that resembled an industrial site, rather than a Bavarian countryside retreat. In contrast, the town of Ber- chtesgaden is quite beautiful with its small shops, cobblestone streets and many small eateries. It is a great day trip from Munich, as it is only an hour and a half away. There are many picturesque towns and villages in Bavaria, all of which are well worth the visit. If you’re doing a Rhine cruise, why not consider flying into Munich and spending a few days, rather than the typical Zurich or Amster- dam. Better yet, go in October and enjoy the largest beer festival in the world. Wherever your travels take you at this special time of year, I would like to wish each of you a very Merry Christmas. Jonathan van Bilsen is a photographer, author, columnist, keynote speaker and can be followed at photosNtravel.com Bavaria has many palaces including Nymphenburg Palace. TRAVEL TIP: Viking River Cruises announced that, as of August 1 2018, children under 18 would no longer be allowed on their trips. Previously, children as young as 12 could go on. 158 Casimir Street, Port Perry 905-985-2268 virginia.frew@marlintravel.ca (wherever you are) TICO #4577532 MC J ean Virginia Colleen Leanne