Podcast #8 - Visiting Fairytale Neuschwanstein Castle (5/28/2011)

Okay, stay with me here....someone gave me an idea to talk about visiting a variety of sites around Europe.  You know how when you go somewhere...and then come home...you say to yourself....I wish I had known that before we went....or, you spent too much money or whatever....I'm going to try to make trip planning EASY for you.  If you've never been or want to know more about a location, then listen to one of these podcasts.

Today I'm going to be talking about Neuschwanstein, probably one of the most visited sites in Germany and the inspiration of Disney's Sleeping Beauty castle.  Listen in on Podcast #8 to learn more.

Of course, since this is my first podcast on visiting a site, I forgot to mention a few things, plus let me expand on a few more!

Photography or videotaping is not allowed at all in either Hohenschwangau or Neuschwanstein castle.  Every time I go there, some foreigner (never seen a German do it) will either take photos openly, acting like they didn't hear the guide or will sneak photos.  In my opinion, this is just disrespectful.  Buy the interior postcards and follow the rules.  Again, just my advice and in the end, do what you are comfortable with.

The other two King Ludwig castles nearby I mentioned are Linderhof, which is between Garmisch and Neuschwantstein.  This is a wonderful castle to visit and just the gardens alone are fantastic.  Kids also love the Grotto (which is man-made by the way but looks just like a real one).  The other castle most folks have never heard of.  It is called King's House on the Schachen, and is King Ludwig's former hunting lodge.  It can only be reached by about a three hour hike and most visitors overnight there at the nearby lodge.  It is a great experience I highly recommend!

>If you have the time, a few years ago, I also wrote a blogpost on Neuschwanstein, so check that out too!  If anyone else has any tips to share on visiting any of the King Ludwig castles, please post here.  We'd love to hear them!