I live to travel and love exploring new locales, filled with history, cultures and cuisine. On a recent trip to Europe, I had the opportunity of spending four days in Bavaria. Munich, the region’s capital, is a fantastic city. It is also the centre for Oktoberfest, as well as the gateway to castles, villages and great food. I have had the privilege of visiting Munich at least 8 or 9 times, but decided this year to explore the city and surrounding area. For me, the best way to travel to West- ern Europe is to get as late a flight as possible. This allows me to land around 11 a.m. I always use Mozio (a global Uber system) with airport pickups (tips included), to get me to my hotel. I check in, drop my luggage, get a bite to eat and buy a day pass on a ‘Hop On Hop Off’ bus to explore the city with narration. I usually start to fade late afternoon, but make a point of staying up until at least 8 p.m. That way I get through the jet lag and the next day I am my usual self. I should mention, if you suffer from jet lag, cover yourself in talcum powder before you get dressed to board the plane. Also, buy some liquid oxygen at a health food store, and put half a dozen drops into a water bottle (you can take the small liquid oxygen bottle in your carry-on. Sip it constantly during your flight and you will be amazed how refreshed you feel (it is also good for alti- tude sickness). I would also recommend compression socks, especially if you are over 55. The city of Munich is beautiful. The old town is amazing, with shops, eateries and very old sights to visit. BMW World is another great place to stop over be- cause, next to tourism, Bavarian Motor Works is the largest revenue producer in Bavaria. Oktoberfest is of course, a big draw, and preparations begin early in the year. The sixteen-day event draws over JONATHAN VAN BILSEN JONATHAN VAN BILSEN Pastures with quaint chalets dot the Bavarian countryside. Bavaria MORE THAN OKTOBERFEST ...................... Please turn to page 63 FOCUS - DECEMBER 2018 61