JYM students explore Bonn’s history, Holiday Markets on weekend trip
JYM students explored Bonn’s history, holiday markets and scenic hikes, visiting landmarks, museums and Cologne before returning to Munich with lasting memories. JYMer '24-25 Katja Klopcic (American University) shares her experiences from the tour.
It was bright and early as we set off for Bonn from Munich Hbf where we were greeted by a visit from Saint Nikolaus through our JYM office. With some chocolate and a clementine in hand, we enjoyed our train ride (with no delays!). We arrived in Bonn and checked into our hostel before we took a walk to grab lunch and explore the Christmas market at Münsterplatz until it was time for our city tour.
The tour was led by students of the Deutsche Kulturgeschichte course, with groups focusing on Beethoven, Cassius and Florentius and Bonn in the Middle Ages, as well as its role as a political city. A quick visit from "Volksbank Nikolaus" and a ride on the carousel brought everyone into the magical holiday spirit. We also made quick stops at Bonn’s city hall and university, giving us a good feel for the area.
When the tour was finished, the JYMers decided to take on Köln for the evening. Visiting the Kölner Dom was first on the list and after admiring the phenomenal architecture, we wove through the cobblestone streets to find Reibekuchen for dinner. The "hole in the wall" Imbiss had a long line, but it was well worth the wait. The small menu consisted only of a choice of a small or large portion, along with six possible sauces. Some of us chose the classic Apfelmus for our fried potato pancakes, while others branched out and chose garlic, honey-chili or herb. After a quick stop at the happy hour happening at the bar next door, we set off again. The group split, some students choosing to ice skate at Heinzels Wintermärchen Weihnachtsmarkt, the rest heading to a student bar. Fun times were had by all before we made our way back to the hostel.
Hiking and history lessons
The plan for the next day was a hike up the Drachenfels. We fueled up for the day with breakfast and then got on the train. After stopping at a bakery to pick up our lunch, we began our ascent. The hike gave us the chance to learn, explore and chat.
At the top, we admired the views from above and the castle ruins. A highlight of the hike was the talking puppet dragon, who told us his version of the story of Siegfried the Dragonslayer (in which he survived and just took a long nap!).
We headed down the mountain on a different path which took us into the town of Bad Honnef. Again, we had the chance to walk around the small village until it was time to meet for our tour of the Adenauer house. Our guide gave us a full overview of Adenauer’s work and explained why his house in this location was so important to the former chancellor. She also shared humorous facts about him, such as his love of (winning) bocce ball (and his family's tendency to let him win).
Then it was time to make our way to dinner. Karawane is a restaurant that offers an all-you-can-eat array of Mediterranean food. First came a sampling of 10 dishes and then we were able to order three at a time. The evening gave everyone the opportunity to talk to one another, sharing stories and pictures, plans for the rest of the trip and ideas for spring break travel. With everyone full, we hopped on our train back to Bonn and again took advantage of free time in the city.
Museums and government sites
The next day brought optional activities, including the Beethoven-Haus and the Haus der Geschichte. The Beethoven-Haus offers visitors the chance to learn more about Beethoven’s life in Bonn and exhibits many historical artifacts belonging to him. Unfortunately, most of the Haus der Geschichte was under renovation but the exhibit called "Nach Hitler" was open. This presentation of artifacts, film and interviews highlighted the ongoing process of coming to terms with the German past and ways that history continues to affect Germans and their society. Organized by each generation of Germans since the war, this exhibit was of special interest to those of us who are enrolled in the München und der Nationalsozialismus course offered at JYM.
Following our museum visits, we were guided through the former government quarter, learning about their different functions during the Bonn Republic and what the buildings are used for today. We were able to gain insight into the various aspects of the former and current German government offices that are still in Bonn. After our tour, we went back to the hostel to pick up our things and headed to Köln to catch our train back to Munich.
A delayed but memorable return
A trip is never complete without some sort of Deutsche Bahn delay, so we found seats in the train station and bought dinner to wait it out. Our train finally arrived after an hour and a half of waiting, but we arrived safely and happily back in Munich with wonderful memories of our time in Bonn.