Florence of elbe . Review on Dresden

Before talking about the tourism of any place, the fabric of the society of that place needs to be kept in mind since that helps us appreciate the character of the place.

Dresden the capital of saxony was also dubbed the Florence of the Elbe at some time. It bears Italian ,French and a lot of Russian influence.In contrast to other German cities, Dresden did not see Allied bombs until 1945.On 13th February, at 10.13pm, the first bombs were dropped on the Saxon capital.

In different waves of attack, British and American Bombers dropped more than 3,000 tons of explosives on Dresden in a space of fourteen hours 35,000 souls were killed and buildings of great historical and cultural value were lost in just one night.

Under Soviet military command, the survivors began to rebuild the city.

Hence when in you talk to the guide or anyone , they will be very proud of the fact they built back from rubbles.

There are a lot buildings to see Zwinger, Semper Opera, procession of dukes mural et al. It can be covered in a day or two. And when u are just walking around the city you will see many buildings still have bullet marks & some subtle reminders of World War.

But there are a few things to be kept in mind,

1. In Dresden, or rather the whole of East Germany language is a problem....the ppl dont understand english & if you dont speak german ....its going to be a little tough. Hence I not only recommend an English to german & german to english dictionary. But also a third thing German words with English pronunciations.

German is like Hindi most of the times ....written the way its spelt. Incase u are ever lost, younger generation is ur better bet..they still know a little english ..thanx to MTV.

1. There are many dogs on the streets( all tamed), but many will be without a lease. Hence if u arent in love with canines stay away. & if u are in love with them STAY FURTHER AWAY. The dogs might be of people who arent very fond of foreigners and dark skinned people. You don't want to mess with them.

   
   




2. At night you MUST avoid the train stations, subways & dark streets.

   
   




3. Water- thruout Europe u get BUBBLE water(which is alike India's Soda which u get on the streets ...not like Pepsi or Coke). Hence you need to know wht you want to drink. Somehow I couldnt make them understand plain water....& hence orange juice was my drink in Germany. If u drink beer or Wine .....u are in heaven.

   
   

5.People in Germany, like any where in Europe walk a lot. Finding taxies or cab can be difficult hence do carry ur comfy shoes.

1. Last but most important, Public Toilets. There arent many toilets or rest room facilities in east germany. the best option look for a train station everytime u got to go. & Mind u they are paid so always carry some change.

Another pointer that might be applicable to vegetarians..Do carry something to eat ......till u know things. Since I had some tuck with me I could manage , otherwise being a veg ( no eggs, no fish , no meat ) food was a big problem for me. German consider all sea food, and eggs vegetarian. Not many people will understand the term Vegan there.

Dont let me scare you, an average East German is a simple man, will try to help you if u ask for, doesnt pass a smile at you like they do in the USA. But as they say ''Eventhough God loves you, you got to lock ur car''. Be careful & safe & enjoy!