I think if you grew up in the U.S. where most buildings aren't even a 100 years old and like Germany had incredible architecture so gothic almost, and the people loved to have fun, though we were all 18-21 years old at the time, you are right though, it defied all the stereotypes of Germans, mean,strict, and such a harsh sounding language etc. I think if I went anywhere in Europe I would call it magical from the view of my American eyes, Boston was fun, sometimes the only chance you have to travel is for work and it was one city that I would never choose to go to,but really loved it for the short time I was there. What country do you live Lady Rebecca? Was it Rumania?