Gorlitz is a city of 50,000 residents balanced on the border of Germany and Poland. Mostly spared by World War II bombings, the town retained its cobblestone walks and architectural gems. Country reunification has presented challenges for both East and West Germans. The West feels heavily taxed to rebuild the East; while East feels forced to pay higher prices, has lost industrial jobs and some social services Communism offered. (child care was free for those employed)
Culturally East Germans have always placed a high value on the arts and it shows. We stumbled into a Cathedral concert complete with organ, orchestra, brass and choir. Much like westerners, easterners don't turn heat on any to soon either. Blankets and cushions were offered for your comfort. (just like at outdoor cafes.) For a minute we thought we were at a Minnesota football game, but no steaming hot beverages available.
Stepping out into evening fog, which had created a mysterious feel, we strolled across the main square, stopping at Brasserie for a meal and then returning to Hotel Bon Apart.
(Totally out of character for Tom and Katie) We sat at the hotel bar and laughed about writing our novel. The setting was all there for us--European culture, possible crime, history, fog, and an old renovated inn with interesting characters stopping by.
Culturally East Germans have always placed a high value on the arts and it shows. We stumbled into a Cathedral concert complete with organ, orchestra, brass and choir. Much like westerners, easterners don't turn heat on any to soon either. Blankets and cushions were offered for your comfort. (just like at outdoor cafes.) For a minute we thought we were at a Minnesota football game, but no steaming hot beverages available.
Stepping out into evening fog, which had created a mysterious feel, we strolled across the main square, stopping at Brasserie for a meal and then returning to Hotel Bon Apart.
(Totally out of character for Tom and Katie) We sat at the hotel bar and laughed about writing our novel. The setting was all there for us--European culture, possible crime, history, fog, and an old renovated inn with interesting characters stopping by.
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