Oktoberfest

When I was in college, I had the amazing experience of working an apprenticeship in Munich, Germany, for the summer. I was 20 years old (young), scared, excited and only spoke a handful of German words. To say the least, I was in over my head. But I didn’t know any better. So I was ready for the experience of a lifetime.

What a summer! I worked at the Sheraton Hotel and Towers in Munich, and I rotated throughout all the food operations in the hotel. It just so happened that the International Peace Summit was taking place in Munich, I had no idea. President George Bush Sr. was in town and he was staying at my hotel. There were only four Americans working at the hotel at that time, so I was immediately placed to work in the Biergarten. Here, I was working a grill where I was in direct contact with guests, many of them Americans. It was awesome.

Germany is such a beautiful country. It is so rich in history. On my days off I was able to travel and experience the true “Germany.” I had awesome roommates from Scotland and Finland who let me travel with them to Czechoslovakia. Prague is the most beautiful city! I would have never dreamed that any of this would be possible. AND I have an aunt from Germany (she married my uncle), so I was able to see her mom and sister while I was there and so terribly homesick. Thank you Ida Lange and Hannelore.

Wow… I am humbled to remember this adventure. Ah, yes, the food and bier. I would be remiss to not talk about his. I remember drinking radler bier while working, who needs water? And I developed a true love for spätzle mit kasse, maybe a small addiction. It’s even better with a cold German Helles bier. Cheers to Oktoberfest! Let’s feast!

Victoria