I was under the impression that we (The Allies) won the second world war. I was told that we beat the Germans who were trying to take over the world. The story goes that we would have been subject to German rule and forced to drive Volkswagens and wear short leather trousers.
More recently, of course, we have been told that all those nasty Germans have gone and only nice ones are left. In my personal experience though, I must say that the Germans I meet on holiday still have plenty of territorial ambitions when it comes to the sun loungers round the pool.
So if we won the war and thereby saved ourselves from becoming some sort of Bavarian holiday isle, how come I keep seeing most of our cities proudly displaying posters advertising that they are hosting 'Traditional German Christmas markets'?
I don't want Saint Nicholas entombed in a glass case. I don't want a knitted hat which makes me look like I have pigtails.
Glühwein? I don't want my wine tasting of glue, nor do I want it spiced or hot.
Stollen? Then give it back at once!
Wurst? I don't want the worst I want the best.
Apparently German gingerbread is called Pfefferkuchen which means 'peppercake' - what have pepper and cake got to do with each other pray tell?
I'm betting that they don't have a 'traditional British Christmas market' in downtown Dusseldorf.
Sorry but as far as 'traditional' German Christmas markets are concerned, all I have to say is "Bah! Humbug!' or for the benefit of my German friends 'Bah! Betrug!'
Tony,
ReplyDeleteI am half German (on my father's side). I must admit, I don't have a very good impression of tourists from Germany. They can be pushy and aggressive.
But that is just a generalization.
Interesting post, Tony.
In German Village in Columbus,Ohio they have
ReplyDeleteGerman Village Oktoberfest in Sept. Does that count for anything??