.......
Keith...
Sent from my BlackBerry (excuzz any spelling missteaks)
Language is about communication, not spelling.
Saturday, March 26, 2011
Chugger's Score Card
Beer Halls?
I see you mention your "favorite beer halls" in the Oktoberfest Resource Page. Which might those be?? I have been going through the BDG2M and I have so many that I want to hit. A really great book. So glad I got it...
Thursday, March 24, 2011
Wednesday, March 23, 2011
Tuesday, March 22, 2011
Runner-up
This was the Runner up to the offical logo for Oktoberfest 2011. I think I would have gone with this one myself. It has a certain something I just like...
Friday, March 18, 2011
Inside
Keith...
Sent from my BlackBerry (excuzz any spelling missteaks)
Language is about communication, not spelling.
Hofbrauhaus Pittsburgh
Keith...
Sent from my BlackBerry (excuzz any spelling missteaks)
Language is about communication, not spelling.
In Pittsburgh Today
Hard to say that, being the Big Browns Fan I am. However, there will be good news.
Stopping at the Hofbrauhaus later. That will make all of the "official" ones.
Photos later.
.......
Keith...
Sent from my BlackBerry (excuzz any spelling missteaks)
Language is about communication, not spelling.
Thursday, March 17, 2011
Happy St. Patrick's day!
Hope all my good Oktoberfest friends are tipping one to the man in green today!
I expect to see photos of 6am Green Donuts and Guinesses... ;-)
I expect to see photos of 6am Green Donuts and Guinesses... ;-)
Wednesday, March 16, 2011
Beer Facts
Beer-o-logy
• Beer is the third most popular beverage in the world, comes right after tea and water.
• In the middle ages, monks who brewed beer were allowed to drink 5 quarts of beer per day. (That’s about 5.3 litres)
• The oldest written recipe ever known is beer.
• Beer is a staple food in Bavaria.
• Baking and brewing went together in the Medieval Period. This explains why women were called ale wives as they were the first European brewers.
• During the ancient Babylonia, a merchant could be put to death for diluting a beer.
• In Germany, there is a beer ice cream in popsicle form, but its alcohol content is lower than the classic beer.
• Beer is made by the fermentation caused by the bacteria feeding on yeast cells and defecating. The excrement from the bacteria is called alcohol.
• According to the World Book of Encyclopedia, people throughout the world consume about 30 billion gallons of beer annually. It continues to rise due to an increased amount of under-age drinkers and an increase in the variety of beers.
• Oktoberfest beer in the tents is only served full strength and in a 1 litre steins.
• Beer is the third most popular beverage in the world, comes right after tea and water.
• In the middle ages, monks who brewed beer were allowed to drink 5 quarts of beer per day. (That’s about 5.3 litres)
• The oldest written recipe ever known is beer.
• Beer is a staple food in Bavaria.
• Baking and brewing went together in the Medieval Period. This explains why women were called ale wives as they were the first European brewers.
• During the ancient Babylonia, a merchant could be put to death for diluting a beer.
• In Germany, there is a beer ice cream in popsicle form, but its alcohol content is lower than the classic beer.
• Beer is made by the fermentation caused by the bacteria feeding on yeast cells and defecating. The excrement from the bacteria is called alcohol.
• According to the World Book of Encyclopedia, people throughout the world consume about 30 billion gallons of beer annually. It continues to rise due to an increased amount of under-age drinkers and an increase in the variety of beers.
• Oktoberfest beer in the tents is only served full strength and in a 1 litre steins.
From the Airport
I have contacted the Alfa hotel to ask about complementary transport to and from the airport. They replied that there was a bus that stops every 20 minutes for 10.50 Euros per person that would take us to the hotel. The time we went we just used the underground train to get to the hotel. And as I remember it took a bit the get there. What do you guys usually take from the airport and why?
Tuesday, March 15, 2011
Best German Beer Joke
When looking up information on the best beer in Germany (what can I say I work for the Goverment) I came across this joke..
After work, all the brew masters from the Munich breweries sit together in a pub. Needless to say, each brewer orders beer from his own brand, i.e. the Löwenbräu guy orders Löwenbräu, the Hacker-Pschorr guy orders Hacker-Pschorr, and so on. Last one to go is the Augustiner guy. He orders a Coke. Everybody is stunned, asking - "why?" - "Well", he finally says with a wide grin, "if you are not ordering a beer, then I won't, too."
After work, all the brew masters from the Munich breweries sit together in a pub. Needless to say, each brewer orders beer from his own brand, i.e. the Löwenbräu guy orders Löwenbräu, the Hacker-Pschorr guy orders Hacker-Pschorr, and so on. Last one to go is the Augustiner guy. He orders a Coke. Everybody is stunned, asking - "why?" - "Well", he finally says with a wide grin, "if you are not ordering a beer, then I won't, too."
Beer Tent Line
What time do you guys suggest for getting in line for a seat at one of the beer tents to guarantee a place in the tent?
Alfa...
Hey I see the Alfa has “House Bar you may relax in a pleasant atmosphere; Open daily 24 hours”. Do they have someone serving alcohol 24hrs a day?
Sunday, March 13, 2011
Betrunken and his family
Betrunken, his dad, mom, sister, and pregnant wife at family Oktoberfest party. German food, beer, music, tent and lights. about 70 people attended.
Friday, March 11, 2011
Wednesday, March 09, 2011
Friday, March 04, 2011
Thursday, March 03, 2011
The Dirndls Bow
Just an interesting fact - With Dirndls it’s very important to know where to tie the bow: married women wear it tied to the right; single women on the left side. In this manner men know a woman’s availability right away. Though for me whatever side they are tied on cleavage always takes the center stage…
Drink Your Share
The German bier industry is in trouble, and every little bit helps. Be prepared to sacrifice and contribute to the well being of a culture and product we so dearly enjoy.
Reference this article on "brauereisterben" uncovered by Einfahrt.
Reference this article on "brauereisterben" uncovered by Einfahrt.
Sunday, February 27, 2011
Technical question
The most popular beer in Munich is a yellow Lager called Helles. We all agree on that.
However, most Oktoberfest beers you get have more malt and are a little darker.
At the 'fest, do we get Helles or a different Oktoberfest brew?
In the Beer Gardens, during the f'est, I usually see Helles ont he menus, but don't remember if we could also order the Oktoberfest beer.
Maybe they just give us whatever they have handy. Not sure.
What say you?
Oktoberfest - Bringing People Together
No matter what your position or views on topics, Oktoberfest has a way of bringing people together. Whether you are conservative or liberal, capitalist or socialist, god-fearing or atheist, there is always common ground when at the Wiesn. Here are just a few examples of conversations we tend to hear, please add additional ones that you may remember hearing:
"What do you think of ObamaCare?"
Liberal: "It has been proven that drinking high quality bier as produced here in München leads to a higher quality of life, and will actually reduce the need for healthcare."
Conservative: "I agree, can I buy you another Maß?"
"Should abortion be legalized?"
Conservative: "I believe everyone is entitled to choice, do you prefer a Helles or a Dunkel?"
Liberal: "I'll have what your having, as long as it is fresh."
"With today's fiscal crisis, do you believe there should be drastic spending cuts?"
Liberal: "Excessive spending does lead to catastrophic consequences. I am so glad the breweries have held the line on prices. We are entitled to good bier at affordable prices."
Conservative: "I don't know about the 'entitled' part, but I'm sure glad we are here together to enjoy it. Should we have another Maß?"
"Food and other commodity prices have beeen skyrocketing lately, what do you think?"
Conservative: "Maybe we should only have one Doner tonight."
Liberal: "Well, if we have our first at 23:30, by the time we are finished it will be tomorrow, and we can have another one."
Conservative: "I agree, and let's also have a Maß with the one tomorrow."
"What is your favorite tent song, Let It Be or Take Me Home Country Roads?"
Liberal / Conservative: Who The Fuck is Alice ! !???? ! ! ! !
"What do you think of ObamaCare?"
Liberal: "It has been proven that drinking high quality bier as produced here in München leads to a higher quality of life, and will actually reduce the need for healthcare."
Conservative: "I agree, can I buy you another Maß?"
"Should abortion be legalized?"
Conservative: "I believe everyone is entitled to choice, do you prefer a Helles or a Dunkel?"
Liberal: "I'll have what your having, as long as it is fresh."
"With today's fiscal crisis, do you believe there should be drastic spending cuts?"
Liberal: "Excessive spending does lead to catastrophic consequences. I am so glad the breweries have held the line on prices. We are entitled to good bier at affordable prices."
Conservative: "I don't know about the 'entitled' part, but I'm sure glad we are here together to enjoy it. Should we have another Maß?"
"Food and other commodity prices have beeen skyrocketing lately, what do you think?"
Conservative: "Maybe we should only have one Doner tonight."
Liberal: "Well, if we have our first at 23:30, by the time we are finished it will be tomorrow, and we can have another one."
Conservative: "I agree, and let's also have a Maß with the one tomorrow."
"What is your favorite tent song, Let It Be or Take Me Home Country Roads?"
Liberal / Conservative: Who The Fuck is Alice ! !???? ! ! ! !
Thursday, February 24, 2011
The Aftermath of a Day Trip...
Train Orgy ! ! !
Left to right: Flying Dan, BarleyMan, Paulaner Girl, Chugger
Left to right: Flying Dan, BarleyMan, Paulaner Girl, Chugger
Wednesday, February 23, 2011
Elementary German
My nephew, who is considering the trip, asked me what German he would need to know. I provided the following advice. Anything I missed?
Here's the German you need to know:
Bier: Bier (Drink this)
Wein: Don't drink this
Ratler: Beer and lemonade: Don't drink this unless you are a girl
Wasser: water Drink a lot of this
Dunkel: Dark Bier
Weissbier: Wheatbeer
Helles: Munich lager Bier (pretty much you'll always get)
Eis: Ice, don't worry they don't have it
Ein: One (as in Beer)
Zwei: Two (as in one for you, and one for me)
Drei: Three (another one for chugger)
Damen; Women (as in Bathroom) (Don't go in this one)
Pissort: Place to pee, usually free, usually a big trough, sometimes occupied by Australians
Herren: Place to go, sometimes have to pay
Hendl: Chicken, roasted...think rotisserrie
Rindfliesch: Usually beef
Kalbfleisch: Veal
Haxen: Pork Knuckle, roasted for few hours... very tasty
Wienerschnitzel: NOT a Hot Dog chain, but shmished pork, deep fried, like a texas tenderloin
Kartoffelsalat: Potato Salad
Sauerbraten: See web site, beef covered with a sour sauce..
Donner: Amazing Gyro like food found throughout Europe, best eaten after drinking
Gleis: Track, as in Train track, usually followed by a number
Zug: Train
Einfahrt: Fellow oktoberfester, also entrance
Ausfahrt: Exit, or what Einfahrt does after he had too much beer, worse the next day.
Flughaven: Airport
Hauptbahnhof: Main Central Train station (Bahnhof is secondary station)
Zimmer: Room
Police: Polizei
Jawohl: Yes, Used to be only heard on Hogan's Heroes, but more prevalent since German Unification
Nein: No
Verbotten: Forbidden
Thats about all you need to know. Everything else is self-explanatory. A few of use speak more than others, but we get by, and most Bavarians speak English. We are much better behaved than the Eastern Europeans, and the Australians, that they don't mind we are American.
Here's the German you need to know:
Bier: Bier (Drink this)
Wein: Don't drink this
Ratler: Beer and lemonade: Don't drink this unless you are a girl
Wasser: water Drink a lot of this
Dunkel: Dark Bier
Weissbier: Wheatbeer
Helles: Munich lager Bier (pretty much you'll always get)
Eis: Ice, don't worry they don't have it
Ein: One (as in Beer)
Zwei: Two (as in one for you, and one for me)
Drei: Three (another one for chugger)
Damen; Women (as in Bathroom) (Don't go in this one)
Pissort: Place to pee, usually free, usually a big trough, sometimes occupied by Australians
Herren: Place to go, sometimes have to pay
Hendl: Chicken, roasted...think rotisserrie
Rindfliesch: Usually beef
Kalbfleisch: Veal
Haxen: Pork Knuckle, roasted for few hours... very tasty
Wienerschnitzel: NOT a Hot Dog chain, but shmished pork, deep fried, like a texas tenderloin
Kartoffelsalat: Potato Salad
Sauerbraten: See web site, beef covered with a sour sauce..
Donner: Amazing Gyro like food found throughout Europe, best eaten after drinking
Gleis: Track, as in Train track, usually followed by a number
Zug: Train
Einfahrt: Fellow oktoberfester, also entrance
Ausfahrt: Exit, or what Einfahrt does after he had too much beer, worse the next day.
Flughaven: Airport
Hauptbahnhof: Main Central Train station (Bahnhof is secondary station)
Zimmer: Room
Police: Polizei
Jawohl: Yes, Used to be only heard on Hogan's Heroes, but more prevalent since German Unification
Nein: No
Verbotten: Forbidden
Thats about all you need to know. Everything else is self-explanatory. A few of use speak more than others, but we get by, and most Bavarians speak English. We are much better behaved than the Eastern Europeans, and the Australians, that they don't mind we are American.
Sunday, February 20, 2011
Food in Bavarian
It is all about the food. In this archive footage from 2001, at the Famed Kloster Andechs, the Oktoberfesters enjoy some good pork products and beer. (Excuse the quality, but that WAS all the way back in 2001).
For SchlumbergerLady
Keith...
Sent from my BlackBerry (excuzz any spelling missteaks)
Language is about communication, not spelling.
Saturday, February 19, 2011
Ein Mas for BarleyMan
Keith...
Sent from my BlackBerry (excuzz any spelling missteaks)
Language is about communication, not spelling.
Hendl for BarleyMan
Keith...
Sent from my BlackBerry (excuzz any spelling missteaks)
Language is about communication, not spelling.
Guten Tag von Hofbrauhaus
Keith...
Sent from my BlackBerry (excuzz any spelling missteaks)
Language is about communication, not spelling.
Thursday, February 17, 2011
Off to............
Prost!
The Alfa
We are staying from Sep 22nd to the 26th. The price is not that bad and most of the reviews I have read so far seem to be mostly positive. The only complaints I have read concern the size of the stairs, elevator, and bathroom. I like the idea of being able to walk to the fest. I can’t wait!
Wednesday, February 16, 2011
The Affect of the 1st Bier
Here you see Einfahrt with his first bier at Oktoberfest....
And now you see the aftermath of Einfahrt's experimentation with the golden nectar...
That's Einfahrt on the right, and working left is yours truly, Chugger, Jim Von Hollie, and Mike "Psycho" Iwicki.
And now you see the aftermath of Einfahrt's experimentation with the golden nectar...
That's Einfahrt on the right, and working left is yours truly, Chugger, Jim Von Hollie, and Mike "Psycho" Iwicki.
A Classic Traveler's Moment
One of the most memorable moments of our first trip sometimes is not believed by others. Let me set the stage....
As we are all aware, the stereotype of Japanese tourists is the large groups with their cameras, always taking pictures. On this trip, we were enjoying our golden nectar at the Augustiner Brau bier hall, when a large group of Japanese tourists arrived. It was early afternoon, and they were seated not to far from our group, taking pictures. So, being the obnoxious bier drinkers that some of us were at the time (probably alcohol induced), we decided it was appropriate to take pictures of the Japanese tourists taking pictures of us. So here ya go...
As we are all aware, the stereotype of Japanese tourists is the large groups with their cameras, always taking pictures. On this trip, we were enjoying our golden nectar at the Augustiner Brau bier hall, when a large group of Japanese tourists arrived. It was early afternoon, and they were seated not to far from our group, taking pictures. So, being the obnoxious bier drinkers that some of us were at the time (probably alcohol induced), we decided it was appropriate to take pictures of the Japanese tourists taking pictures of us. So here ya go...
Pics from the Original Trip
BarleyMan mentioned some interesting side trips, both of which we did on our very first trip in 1993. So, in full cooperation with my fellow Oktoberfestians, I present to you some pictures of those sites.
Here's the Eagle's Nest....
The train ride into the Salt Mine......
Some of us in our jump suits for the Salt Mine trip. In order, right to left... Einfahrt, Jim Von Hollie dad, Jim Von Hollie.
And finally (for now at least), the aftermath on the train ride home. Chugger and The Designated Walker.
Here's the Eagle's Nest....
The train ride into the Salt Mine......
Some of us in our jump suits for the Salt Mine trip. In order, right to left... Einfahrt, Jim Von Hollie dad, Jim Von Hollie.
And finally (for now at least), the aftermath on the train ride home. Chugger and The Designated Walker.
Monday, February 14, 2011
Fun Day Trips Part 1
Over the years we have taken many trips out into Bavaria to see the sights, and try new things. One of my favorites was the trip to Berchtesgaden. There are 2 main things to do in the town.
1. Hitler's Eagles nest. This involves a trip up to the infamous Mountain lair of Adolf Hitler. You take a bus up most of the way, then get in an elevator up to the very top. There' you will find a fantastic view of the Bavarian Alps, and a restaurant. Not much of the complex is still left, having been blown up by either the French or the US 3rd Army. A restaurant at the top does a nice business.
2. The second adventure is the Berchtesgaden Salt Mine tour. This is touristy, but different than anything you'll ever get to do in the US. First, you don some bizarre looking leather jumpers. These protect you from the wooden slides the miners used to use. Then you hop on a small train, which takes you deep within the mine. I mean, really deep. There you'll learn about salt mining, and see all sorts of stuff bored miners make out of salt. Then you get to slide down multi story wooden slides to travel between the different levels of the mine. You'll also get aboard a boat and sail across an underwater lake. How cool is that. Eventually, you get back to the train, and you go screaming out of the mine.
In Oktober, I don't remember a reservation being needed. Just take the train from Munich to Berchtesgaden, then ask for directions. Salt Mine Tour
Sunday, February 13, 2011
Reservation or not to Reservation
After conferring with the Alfa hotel they can book reservations for Saturday and Sunday for 10 people, regardless how many we actually have which I believe will be 7 in our party. I don’t mind spending a bit extra but would this be the preferred way to go you think? I e-mailed them back asking as to which beer tents were available. Also, given a choice if we were to purchase reservations which tent would be the most ideal?
Saturday, February 12, 2011
So, what do you do on the off year?
I see that you guys and gals hit Germany every other year. The fact that you go that many times for that many years means that the Oktoberfest in Munich is a part of life for you, a felling which I share. But what do you guys do on the off year? It must be sometimes almost unbearable around the hot days of August not to book that flight and room in Munich. So how do you get by? Do you all plan something here in the states? Or just hit something local?
Friday, February 11, 2011
Newbie to the Blog
Thank you Chugger for allowing me into the blog. I look forward to meeting some of you this year at Oktoberfest and throwing back some beer.
Prost,
Mark McLean
Prost,
Mark McLean
Thursday, February 10, 2011
Advice on Lederhosen
Should one buy their Lederhosen at arrival at Munich or E-bay a pair for the trip? I would like to be dressed for the occasion as soon as my boots hit the ground but I can see the nostalgia of having one from Munich. Plus the cost is also a concern, any suggestions?
Hello All!
After replying to a couple of post Chugger had kindly extended an invitation to allow me to create a post of my own. I just wanted to take this opportunity to say thank you to everyone who has made this blog one of the best resources I have found in the planning of my groups 2011 Oktoberfest trip. More over, this blog has been like a support group for me. It is nice to know that I am not alone in my love Oktoberfest and the wonderful company, beer, food, and memories which come with this my most cherished of holydays. Hope to see you all in beautiful Munich and lift a Mass of delicious beer with you all.
Sincerely,
Betrunken
Sincerely,
Betrunken
Wednesday, February 09, 2011
Is it best to book flights early?
Checking ticket prices and they seem a bit high. I'm pretty sure they will drop at some point, but what is the preferred method of booking? The only real concern I have is that Oktoberfest is a huge event and prices may remain high regardless of when tickets are booked.
Tuesday, February 08, 2011
New Oktoberfest Theme
If you remember, in January of 2010 I proposed that this year's theme be:
The idea was to turn our tradition over to our offspring. Well, for various reasons, this hasn't worked out. While the next generation may assume our awesome duties, it will not be this year.
As result, I propose a new theme to guide us:
Since this will be the "final" scheduled trip for some of us, we should treat the trip as a frontier to be explored while we reflect on our history. We should have two days available for day trips, and I suggest one trip be a return to one of of favorite venues. While I am not advocating anything at this time (a Grand Puhba Emeritus would never do that), we could revisit memories of young babies drinking bier at Kloster Andechs, or enjoy the beauty of Englischer Garden at the Chinesischer Turm . I also propose that this year we make a point to visit a sight we have always discussed, but never visited. Could it be time to finally go to Augsburg, or maybe even Nurnberg?
Or should we just go with the flow, drink our bier, and have a great time?
Let's hear from you, Oktoberfestions...
The idea was to turn our tradition over to our offspring. Well, for various reasons, this hasn't worked out. While the next generation may assume our awesome duties, it will not be this year.
As result, I propose a new theme to guide us:
Since this will be the "final" scheduled trip for some of us, we should treat the trip as a frontier to be explored while we reflect on our history. We should have two days available for day trips, and I suggest one trip be a return to one of of favorite venues. While I am not advocating anything at this time (a Grand Puhba Emeritus would never do that), we could revisit memories of young babies drinking bier at Kloster Andechs, or enjoy the beauty of Englischer Garden at the Chinesischer Turm . I also propose that this year we make a point to visit a sight we have always discussed, but never visited. Could it be time to finally go to Augsburg, or maybe even Nurnberg?
Or should we just go with the flow, drink our bier, and have a great time?
Let's hear from you, Oktoberfestions...
Monday, February 07, 2011
change of hotel
The reason to cancel the "Deutsche Kaiser" was obvious (at least if you believe the comments on one of these booking sites), but more important this one is "knee-walking" from Hofbrau Hause and Viktualien Markt.
Sunday, February 06, 2011
Dentist uses Oktoberfest Dirndle dresses to distract patients
Advanced drugs can cure many ills, new technology can revolutionise surgery but sometimes a low-cut, sorry lo-tech, solution is all you need - one dentist has bought herself and her ten nurses tight-fitting, cleavage-maximising dresses to distract worried patients while they work.
Thursday, January 27, 2011
Tuesday, January 25, 2011
Dario Diaz & Aram Guluzian Confirmed - Part II
Come on Oktoberfestians, overwhelm our newbies with information, insights, guidance, and down right worthless information. They are looking to you to guide them to the promised land. Show your sainthood, manliness and Oktoberfest expertise. Try your damndest to make them say one of the following:
- What gods these Oktoberfestians are, I aspire to their alter of bierness.
- What a bunch of drunks.
2011 Oktoberfest Trip Site Launched
The all new Oktoberfest Trip site is now live for your viewing pleasure. OK, so not a lot is new, yet. But there are updated specifics, a new recipe (just for Herr Chugger) and accurate rosters.
Click Here to visit the new site!
Monday, January 24, 2011
Dario Diaz & Aram Guluzian Confirmed
We have officially confirmed our arrangements in Munich. Aram & I will be staying at the Hilton Munich City arriving on September 22, 2011 and departing on September 26, 2011. I am in the process of learning the songs. Really looking forward to going.
Tuesday, January 18, 2011
Thursday, January 13, 2011
Tuesday, January 11, 2011
Let's remember...
It’s been a cold and snowy winter day here in Dayton, so I thought maybe it was time to challenge the Oktoberfestians. Hopefully this challenge can jog some lost memories and humor us all. The challenge is to remind us of a classic Oktoberfest moment that may have been lost in time.
There is only one rule/caveat; you cannot reference one of the all time moments that have gone done in Oktoberfest history. As the initiator of this topic, I declare the following top 5 events to be forever enshrined in our Oktoberfest hall of fame, and not available for discussion:
For those of you that experienced these events, just enjoy the memory. For those that have no clue, maybe a future topic will explore these classics.
So, who will go first?
There is only one rule/caveat; you cannot reference one of the all time moments that have gone done in Oktoberfest history. As the initiator of this topic, I declare the following top 5 events to be forever enshrined in our Oktoberfest hall of fame, and not available for discussion:
- Iwicki Stair Diving
- Tuna Fish Pizza
- Assisted ATM Withdrawal
- Bush Full of Barf
- Rang’s Woody
For those of you that experienced these events, just enjoy the memory. For those that have no clue, maybe a future topic will explore these classics.
So, who will go first?
Sunday, January 09, 2011
Now on to the waiting and drinking...
Hotel reservations are made for Amsterdam and Munchen.
Flight reservations have been made for Chugger and Bob D.
Get moving Einfahrt and BarleyMan.
Flight reservations have been made for Chugger and Bob D.
Get moving Einfahrt and BarleyMan.
Thursday, January 06, 2011
What do we do in Amsterdam?
I have never been to Amsterdam, so I am wondering, what does one do there. Tripadvisor has many fun options, like bike tours, Anne Frank house, and boat tours. There also seems to be a cool walking tour of WWII sites. Is there beer there? I hope Barbus does not make us play tennis.
Barbus, what say you?
Tuesday, January 04, 2011
Classic Oktoberfest Songs
Who the Fuck is Alice?
via YouTube
Sierra Madre
via YouTube
Die Hände zum Himmel
via YouTube
Anton aus Tirol
via YouTube
And the Grand Daddy of all German Drinking songs, the One, The Only.....
Take Me Home Country Roads You better learn this whether you like John Devnver or not !
via YouTube
Sierra Madre
via YouTube
Die Hände zum Himmel
via YouTube
Anton aus Tirol
via YouTube
And the Grand Daddy of all German Drinking songs, the One, The Only.....
Take Me Home Country Roads You better learn this whether you like John Devnver or not !
Friday, December 31, 2010
Oktoberfest Hotel and Day Trips
As BarleyMan said, our hotel of choice is the Hotel Alfa. It is convenient to the train station, The Wiesn, and other local establishments, and the staff is extremely friendly. Best way to contact them is via email, and we usually reserve sometime in January empfang@hotel-alfa.de.
BarleyMan mentioned some great day trips for first-timers. Another favorite of ours that BarleyMan did not mention is Kloster Andechs; a wonderful old monestary with great views, great food, and some good bier as well.
If you are planning four days in Munchen, I would suggest only two day trips though. Depending on your arrival date/time, Friday is usually a "get situated" day, which usually ends up with us at the Hofbrauhaus for most of the afternoon and evening. You probably would want to spend one of the days just wandering around Munchen and seeing some of the local sites; Marienplatz, Glockenspiel, and some of the local bier gardens like Augustiner Keller and Viktualienmarkt. Of course there is also Englischer Garden with its 3 huge bier gardens. You just need to have a general plan and be prepared to do something different at the last minute.
Tickets for the tents ARE NOT REQUIRED. While there are reserved seats that can be purchased, these reservations technically go on sale in January, and they are almost exclusively bought up by corporations, locals and travel groups. In the past we have been able to get reserved seats once or twice through other contacts, but it is not something you can count on. The fun part of Oktoberfest, especially for first timers like you, would be to just go to a tent, and wander around until you can squeeze into a table. These are the tables with the most party oriented people, and gives you the opportunity to meet people from around the world with the same common interests as you; good bier and fun! There are 14 tents, some seating 10k - 12k people, so you can only imagine the fun one can have.
Two good resoureces for you:
BarleyMan mentioned some great day trips for first-timers. Another favorite of ours that BarleyMan did not mention is Kloster Andechs; a wonderful old monestary with great views, great food, and some good bier as well.
If you are planning four days in Munchen, I would suggest only two day trips though. Depending on your arrival date/time, Friday is usually a "get situated" day, which usually ends up with us at the Hofbrauhaus for most of the afternoon and evening. You probably would want to spend one of the days just wandering around Munchen and seeing some of the local sites; Marienplatz, Glockenspiel, and some of the local bier gardens like Augustiner Keller and Viktualienmarkt. Of course there is also Englischer Garden with its 3 huge bier gardens. You just need to have a general plan and be prepared to do something different at the last minute.
Tickets for the tents ARE NOT REQUIRED. While there are reserved seats that can be purchased, these reservations technically go on sale in January, and they are almost exclusively bought up by corporations, locals and travel groups. In the past we have been able to get reserved seats once or twice through other contacts, but it is not something you can count on. The fun part of Oktoberfest, especially for first timers like you, would be to just go to a tent, and wander around until you can squeeze into a table. These are the tables with the most party oriented people, and gives you the opportunity to meet people from around the world with the same common interests as you; good bier and fun! There are 14 tents, some seating 10k - 12k people, so you can only imagine the fun one can have.
Two good resoureces for you:
- Semi-offical Oktoberfest site. Lots of good information, trivia and history.
- Beer Drinkers Guide to Munich. While not especially about Oktoberfest, this book guides you through many of the city's great bier establishments. We have used this "bible" since our first trip in 1993, and I suggest this be your very next purchase. Myself, BarleyMan and Einfahrt are promently pictured as Field Researchers here ---> Linky
Wednesday, December 29, 2010
Beginner's Guide to Oktoberfest - Part I
Well der Kubaner, there are two big decisions you must make rather quickly; 1) when are you going and 2) how long will you go for.
In 2011, Oktoberfest runs from 17 September through 3 Oktober. We have been on every weekend, but seem to have settled on the 2nd weekend. This means the weekend of 23 September. The first weekend is interesting if you want to watch the big parade that kicks off the festivities. That weekend tends to draw alot more people at the Weisn (short for Thereisienwiese, which is the name of the area where Oktoberfest is held). Of course you don't need to go on a weekend, it just works out best for us that way due to vacation schedules.
We tend to arrive early Friday and leave on Tuesday, about 4 full days. This has always been our modus operandi, and seems to work well for us. We take trips during the day and drink in the evening. Not to say we don't drink during the day as well.
Anyway, these two decisions are important because you then need to worry about plane tickets and hotels. We usually have our tickets booked by the end of January/beginning of February. We try to use frequent flyer miles, but might need to actually pay this year. This then leads to a hotel. As you can imagine, rooms fill up quickly, so like flight reservations, we tend to get our hotel set up at the same time. We have been staying at a small hotel right by the train station everytime we have gone, and can provide info if you desire.
Welcome to the Blog, and keep the conversation going. Remember, no question is a bad question. We had to learn this the hard way, with lots of alcohol in our system.
I will let the others introduce themselves, but I am Chugger, in Dayton, OH, and have been on every trip this group has made since 1993 ! Only two of us can say that.
In 2011, Oktoberfest runs from 17 September through 3 Oktober. We have been on every weekend, but seem to have settled on the 2nd weekend. This means the weekend of 23 September. The first weekend is interesting if you want to watch the big parade that kicks off the festivities. That weekend tends to draw alot more people at the Weisn (short for Thereisienwiese, which is the name of the area where Oktoberfest is held). Of course you don't need to go on a weekend, it just works out best for us that way due to vacation schedules.
We tend to arrive early Friday and leave on Tuesday, about 4 full days. This has always been our modus operandi, and seems to work well for us. We take trips during the day and drink in the evening. Not to say we don't drink during the day as well.
Anyway, these two decisions are important because you then need to worry about plane tickets and hotels. We usually have our tickets booked by the end of January/beginning of February. We try to use frequent flyer miles, but might need to actually pay this year. This then leads to a hotel. As you can imagine, rooms fill up quickly, so like flight reservations, we tend to get our hotel set up at the same time. We have been staying at a small hotel right by the train station everytime we have gone, and can provide info if you desire.
Welcome to the Blog, and keep the conversation going. Remember, no question is a bad question. We had to learn this the hard way, with lots of alcohol in our system.
I will let the others introduce themselves, but I am Chugger, in Dayton, OH, and have been on every trip this group has made since 1993 ! Only two of us can say that.
Tuesday, December 28, 2010
Welcome Our New Members...
The following are the first Oktoberfest enthusiasts to be allowed to participate in this blog without being part of the actual "Oktoberfest Contingent":
Welcome to Aram and Dario from Chugger !
- Aram Guluzian
- Dario Diaz
Welcome to Aram and Dario from Chugger !
Tuesday, December 07, 2010
Please welcome....
... the newest member of our blog, and our official newbie for 2011, my neighbor Bob. Bob will be joining us on this sojourn, and he promises not to meet the fate of all other newbies, the dreaded "keep up with the professionals" curse. Only time will tell.
Say hello to Bob, treat him like family, and more importantly, suggest a screen name.
Say hello to Bob, treat him like family, and more importantly, suggest a screen name.
Friday, December 03, 2010
Why we go to Oktoberfest
To get people to experience things they never would have without our help!We are Good Samaritans... ;-)
Thursday, December 02, 2010
Possible DAY --> AMS --> MUC --> DAY Itinerary
Tue 20 Sep 2011
Depart 3:25pm Dayton
Arrive 7:55am Amsterdam (Wed 21 Sept)
Fri 23 Sep 2011
Depart 7:04am Amsterdam Centraal
Arrive 2:33pm München Hbf
Tue 27 Sep 2011
Depart 9:50am München
Arrive 5:56pm Dayton
Depart 3:25pm Dayton
Arrive 7:55am Amsterdam (Wed 21 Sept)
Fri 23 Sep 2011
Depart 7:04am Amsterdam Centraal
Arrive 2:33pm München Hbf
Tue 27 Sep 2011
Depart 9:50am München
Arrive 5:56pm Dayton
Wednesday, December 01, 2010
I Reiterate...
Never too early to start our planning. I tried this before, but maybe this time the conversation will move along further.
By late January or early February we usually have our plans pretty well set. This allows us to get hotel and plane reservations. So, with that said, let's start the discussion again, leading to some conclusions on what the 2011 sojourn looks like.
We've agreed on the weekend (2nd weekend, 24 Sept - 27 Sept), but the next decision is a pre-trip. It's not a requirement, but always nice. If there is a pre-trip, I recommend one of the following:
A pre-trip is not a requirement. In fact, if we do not do one, I will probably head to Munchen a day earlier than normal (fly on Wednesday). No real reason, maybe just yearning for some quality time with my fellow Bavarians.
Thoughts?
By late January or early February we usually have our plans pretty well set. This allows us to get hotel and plane reservations. So, with that said, let's start the discussion again, leading to some conclusions on what the 2011 sojourn looks like.
We've agreed on the weekend (2nd weekend, 24 Sept - 27 Sept), but the next decision is a pre-trip. It's not a requirement, but always nice. If there is a pre-trip, I recommend one of the following:
- Amsterdam (can't go wrong here)
- Paris (always a good choice even without spousal units)
- Venice (previously discounted by Barleyman)
A pre-trip is not a requirement. In fact, if we do not do one, I will probably head to Munchen a day earlier than normal (fly on Wednesday). No real reason, maybe just yearning for some quality time with my fellow Bavarians.
Thoughts?
Monday, October 04, 2010
Saturday, October 02, 2010
Saturday, September 18, 2010
My Wife's Quote
"I don't care if all the beer companies go out of business."
Who knows a good divorce lawyer?
.......
Keith...
Sent from my BlackBerry (excuzz any spelling missteaks)
Ozapft is 2010
Don't know how, but we have to live with it that we are not there.
But for sure they will miss our company, so they have to live with it too.
Friday, September 17, 2010
Saturday, September 11, 2010
Sunday, August 29, 2010
Today My Mind Wanders
As of tomorrow, August 30th, I, along with approximately 2500 other Sterling Commerce employees, officially become an IBMer. Certainly good in the long term for the company, and probably good from a personal perspective. More opportunities for growth and hopefully travel.
Speaking of travel, as I peruse the web, I see that this year's Oktoberfest is only 19 days away. That makes me wonder, which weekend will we go next year, and will there be a pre-trip?
I know, it's early, but you know us Oktoberfestians, never too early to talk about it. I suggest we do the 2nd weekend, which seems to have become "the usual". That would mean arrival on 23 September, with departure on 27 September.
As for a pre-trip, I say Yavohl ! Back to Amsterdam? Maybe finally do Berlin? There's always Paris.
Just some weekend ramblings.
Speaking of travel, as I peruse the web, I see that this year's Oktoberfest is only 19 days away. That makes me wonder, which weekend will we go next year, and will there be a pre-trip?
I know, it's early, but you know us Oktoberfestians, never too early to talk about it. I suggest we do the 2nd weekend, which seems to have become "the usual". That would mean arrival on 23 September, with departure on 27 September.
As for a pre-trip, I say Yavohl ! Back to Amsterdam? Maybe finally do Berlin? There's always Paris.
Just some weekend ramblings.
Thursday, August 26, 2010
Friday, June 04, 2010
Another Reason we should have gone this year!
First the 200 Year Anniversary, now the Euro is below $1.20. That means a Mass of beer is about 10 bucks! Wow. Even though they raised prices this year.
Euro Falls to Below $1.20
Euro Falls to Below $1.20
Wednesday, June 02, 2010
This Year - Biggest Oktoberfest ever!
Almost wish we were going, especially with the horse races. However, can you even imagine what this year's crowds will be like? Yuck !
City officials announced, that this year's Oktoberfest will not go from September 18th to October 3rd, as originally planned, but will be extended on both ends!
On September 17th, a historic reconstruction of the festival in former centuries will be opened, featuring an old Oktoberfest-tent and an exhibition of domestic and working animals of those times. One of the many highlights will be the horse-races, which are planned to be held twice a day, to remember the origins of the Oktoberfest – a horse race to celebrate a royal wedding in Munich.
On September 17th, a historic reconstruction of the festival in former centuries will be opened, featuring an old Oktoberfest-tent and an exhibition of domestic and working animals of those times. One of the many highlights will be the horse-races, which are planned to be held twice a day, to remember the origins of the Oktoberfest – a horse race to celebrate a royal wedding in Munich.
The official tapping of the first beer barrel will be celebrated on Saturday 18th at noon, as planned. To celebrate the 200th anniversary, the Oktoberfest does however not end on Sunday, October 3rd, as planned, but will be extended until Monday, October 4th. This extra day will be special in many ways, for example the beer tents don’t hand out reservations for most of their seats, so that it will be easier to get a place at a table for locals and guests, who didn’t announce their presence beforehand.
Tuesday, June 01, 2010
Illinois with an S!
Keith I noticed you were in Lincoln Illinois. Did you have a horseshoe for lunch? See you, lets play golf one of these days
Saturday, May 01, 2010
Made it to ...
Lincoln, IL.
All in all, a wnderful day. About 9 hours to drive 150 miles. Now some time to relax, have dinner, the post some photos.
......
Keith..
Sent from My BlackBerry (excuzz any spelling missteaks)
Thursday, April 01, 2010
EU approves Sale Of ‘Fucking Hell’ Beer
Fucking a village in Austria
The main tourist attraction of the Austrian village of Fucking, some 35 kilometres northwest of Salzburg, is its sign. It is pronounced "Fooking" in German. Now the village, with a population of just around 90, gets a beer named after it, even though it doesn't have a brewery.
A place to visit in 2011?
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
Wednesday, March 03, 2010
We may need to re-visit
Interesting happenings at Closter Ettal, site of the Barf Olympics (we all remember that one, correct?)
Click Here to see the article.
Click Here to see the article.
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