With no apparent sense of humour and their excessive speed when securing sunloungers, the German people and their country have had a terrible reputation among the British since time immemorial (or 1914). So, going where very few travel-writers and holidaymakers have gone before, Ben Donald has visited Germany in order to overturn stereotypes and, at the same time, fall back in love with travel. From the massed ranks on the nudist beaches of Germany's north coast (they have a reputation for liking uniform, but they'd much rather be naked), via intimate encounters in the steam-rooms of Baden-Baden and the brothels of Hamburg (where he makes his excuses and leaves), to the rite of passage that is wearing Lederhosen to the Oktoberfest (which takes place in September), the author has put his body and his dignity on the line to get beneath the skin of this most maligned of countries. He even goes to see a German stand-up comedian. In - where else? - England. And what emerges is a Germany that will surprise many who thought they knew the country and its people; an eye-opener in other words - especially those nudist beaches.

A Christmas present from Jo ... looks like it will be funny!

I was a little bit disappointed by this, to be honest. While I enjoyed the "travel" parts of the book, I didn't particularly enjoy the stereotypes or the philosophising about romanticism, and surely anyone who knows anything about Germany wouldn't be surprised by Beate Uhse shops and nudist beaches?

Actually, I think that was what rang false for me - the author was clearly familiar with Germany, but claimed not to be. He obviously speaks German, so why the need to come up with this crazy "Manny Heimway" character with a silly name?

Still, it was nice to re-visit several places I'm familiar with and it has sparked a desire for a return trip.

ETA: It seems I'm not the only one not entirely convinced by this book!

Sorting through my bookshelves recently I came across this book and decided to read again before letting it go. I didn't read my original review before this re-read.
Well, nothing has changed except that I am less inclined to review generously! The 'Manny' concept was an irritation which felt fake and pointless. The stereotypes (seemingly endless references to 'two world wars' were tiresome). I ended up skipping the long paragraphs about Romanticism.
I'm not sure why these were necessary. Donald is obviously familiar with and fond of Germany and I would have preferred more exploration of the year his family spent there or simply straightforward travelogue.
No need to keep this, I don't feel any desire to read it again.