Sylt Island, with a population of approximately twenty-one thousand, is situated to the west of the border between Germany and Denmark. It was once part of mainland Germany, but is now an island because of erosion caused by the North Sea. Westerland, a seaside resort and the capital of Sylt Island, is Germany’s most exclusive resort. Sylt Island’s summer weather is similar to that of Hamburg, with rain on most days and temperatures around 70⁰ F.

Trains leave Hamburg several times a day to bring tourists to Sylt Island. Visitors traveling from Germany can also access the island by way of the Hindenburgdamm Bridge, a six mile bridge connecting the island to the mainland. Horseback riding, golf, surfing, tennis, and biking on paths are some of the outdoor activities enjoyed by visitors. Sylt Island also offers concerts and theatrical productions.

Hameln, Germany is located in northern Germany on the Weser River, approximately one hundred miles from Hamburg. Many people know this town as “Hamelin,” the town made popular by the folk story of The Pied Piper, a thirteenth century tale by The Brothers Grimm. According to legend, The Pied Piper entered the town of Hameln in 1284 and promised to rid the town of rats. After leading all the rats out of Hameln, he then returned and led over one hundred children out of the town. The town of Hameln presents this famous German folk tale weekly from May through September in open-air theaters. A musical version, “Rats,” can also be enjoyed in the local theater.

Lubeck, Germany is located near the Baltic Coast on the Trave River, about forty miles from Hamburg. The architecture in much of the city is from the medieval period, and the streets are quite narrow. Lubeck is the world capital of marzipan, a confection consisting mainly of sugar and almonds. Marzipan can be filled with chocolate, colored and formed into shapes such as fruits and vegetables, and used as icing on cakes. Niederegger is the most well-known marzipan producer in Lubeck and welcomes many tourists every year. The weeks just before Christmas are the most popular time of year for visits to Niederegger. The legend in Lubeck is that marzipan was first made in this city, but there are claims that marzipan originated in other cities.