49!

From Poland, our ship travelled to the German port city of Rostock.  We knew from the cruise information that Rostock was to be a place that Viking would provide train travel to Berlin. However, the train ride was to be 3 1/2 hours each way. We would have only a few hours to spend in Berlin.  We were already there just a few years ago.  

So we opted for the Rostock tour, which was only 1 1/2 hours.  It’s in the German state of Pomerania.  The word Pomerania means by the sea.  The little toy dogs called Pomeranians are in fact from this region and can deal with snow and cold weather.  

Our expectations for this day were even lower than the day before as we were convinced after two spectacular days, this would have to be an off day.  And it kind of was, but wasn’t.  

Our guide took us to ‘main street’ and it was very pleasant.  They had corporate picnics taking place and it looked like the food and beer were plentiful.  This is Germany, the country that is third in beer consumption per person.  The whole park was packed - and having fun at 10 am in the morning.

Our guide probably knew he had a limited number of picture opportunities so he entertained us with stories - factual, we think.  Rostock was part of East Germany back in the Cold War Years.  Back then, to own a car, you ordered the East German Trabant then waited 15 years to get it. 

It had no heating or air conditioning system, it was small, and looking at it, you’d think it could be manufactured quickly.  Most German families during the Cold War had the parents and three children.  So when you finally got the car and took a vacation with the family, it was very interesting as you had few places to store luggage let alone squeeze the family into the car.  They say it was very quiet, however.  It was so small that in your tucked position your knees covered your ears and couldn’t hear the engine or muffler.

Another fact is a citizen can drink beer legally at age 16, and can drive legally at age 18.  You learn to drink first, then you learn to drive. We have it reversed.  BTW, DUI is at 0.5% blood alcohol in Germany, same as Utah, I believe. 

Dogs have to have Doggie Passports.  They cost 15-80 euros per month depending on dog weight.  Pomeranians would likely be in the ‘low cost’ 15 euro per month group.  The passport entitles the dog to be off leash, travel throughout Germany, and be with it’s owner most anywhere. 

Last but not least, Pomerania gets 70% of its electricity from wind turbines and 20% from solar.  They achieved their goals ahead of time, not decades after they set the goals.  

One last picture of Rostock.  After all the facts and stories, we were taken to a couple of pleasant locations.  Here is their City Hall:

On this trip we discovered some nice people from Michigan who grew up and live in Grand Rapids, Michigan.  This is where Shari was born and raised as well.  We also happen to have the same wedding anniversary date, so the four of us celebrated tonight at the upscale Italian restaurant on our ship.  

We have been married 49 years, and they have been married 37.  

It was a relaxing day, a surprisingly interesting day, and It was a prefect day!