Wednesday, October 22, 2014

Where in the world is Karlsruhe?

Karlsruhe, Germany is located in the Rhine valley, the warmest part of Germany. It's a smaller city that doesn't attract a lot of tourist traffic, but don't let that fool you...Karlsruhe is full of rich culture and exciting experiences that can satisfy the heart of any traveller.
As soon as you arrive in the closest airport, which happens to be in Frankfurt, you must take a train south towards Karlsruhe. Take this time to familiarize yourself with German phrases/vocabulary so that you will be able to navigate your way around once your train ride is over. 
As for accommodations, Karlsruhe has plenty of options. If you're looking for a more modern, hotel feel then Novotel Karlsruhe City is the place for you (prepare to drop a couple of Euros for this place...)This 4-star hotel is in central Karlsruhe and offers modern rooms with wi-fi internet, spas, fitness, the whole works. In fact, this is the closest hotel from the Kongresszentrum S-Bahn Train Station, where you will be arriving from. Although this specific hotel is quite expensive, it is one of the most convenient of accommodations for you! If you're looking for a more economical option, there are a variety of hostels available for a small price. But if you feel safer staying in a hotel, then the ACHAT Comfort Karlsruhe is the place for you. It is a 3-star hotel that lies in the Neureut district in the north of Karlsruhe. It offers modern rooms and has connection to the Autobahn motorways if need be.
Once things settle down after your arrival, it is a good option to go out and experience the nightlife that Karlsruhe has to offer. If clubbing is your scene, this city has multiple places to get your groove on...places including Discothek Unverschämt, Monkeyz Club, or Carambolage, the city is most definitely not lacking in the late night dance department. If clubbing really isn't your scene, then maybe going out for a nice dinner may strike your fancy. If you're like me and would like to enjoy authentic German cuisine, then Flammaurant is the place for you...offering excellent authentic German cuisine, the food is rated to be excellent and even brews their own ale on sight. The atmosphere is great, and the prices are reasonable. This is definitely a good place to spend your first night in a new country. 
Now it is time to think about your full day of exploring the exciting city of Karlsruhe...but where to begin? 
Being a historic city, Karlsruhe has a variety of exciting places to walk to that are often free of charge! 
One of the most beautiful sights in Karlsruhe is the Karlsruhe Palace. Built in 1715, this palace is what the entire city of Karlsruhe is built around, almost like a fan. There are many tours given of the palace, and you can even walk through the botanical gardens or even walk through one of their museums to educate yourself further on the history of the city. If you're wanting a more interactive experience while in Karlsruhe, there is a zoo that you can walk through, where you can ride a "gondoletta" around and watch the water organ (That happens to play every 30 minutes). 
After all of this sight seeing, food is definitely going to be on the top of your to-do list...there are a variety of restaurants throughout the town, including Zum Karlshof, a greek restaurant or Kais Pizza. No matter what you are craving, Karlsruhe has you covered with a variety of restaurants. As a foodie myself, I am very thankful for this fact. 
As you continue the rest of your trip take the time to just walk around and try to understand what the locals have been treasuring for so many years...the history of the city is kept alive through the local's love for Karlsruhe, so it is worth taking time to appreciate and respect.
There is so much more to Germany than just the hustle and bustle of modern cities. It is a country full of rich history and experiences as well. Karlsruhe is one of the hidden treasures of the country, and one that is definitely worth a visit! 

1 comment:

  1. Nice format as a travel blog. For the purposes of this class I want to see more details that show the travel planning aspect on your actual student budget and itinerary

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