Trip to Germany

[Eric Huppert]

Jenny,

Haven't been to Ingolstadt, but been to the factory in Neckarsulm
(Stuttgart) several times. The factory tour there is very cool! Especially
seeing as how a friend of mine conducts the "English speaking tour".

As for the language barrier... Really isn't a issue! Without fail, the
Germans will tell you they only speak a little  "English". Generally it is
quite good and communication is not a problem. Their idea of "a little" and
mine is always quite different.... Learn the Guten Tag, Danka, etc. Do NOT
do the tourist thing, it's not necessary! Go to the hole in the wall bars to
eat, etc, etc. Treat this as a adventure, and it will be just that!

As for rental cars.... We normally used Euro car as we could get a A8 for
about 100 a day (Gov rate, but exchange was ALLOT better several years ago).
Definitely shop around! I believe Frankfurt only has diesel vehicles, but
not a issue. I personally like the diesel version A8 better than the gas!
Seemed to have more torque, and I managed to get it to 175 mph! Have the
picture (which I took while driving) to prove it!!!

Also, if you have the time on a Sunday, the "Ring" (Nurburgring) is really
worth going to. Providing weather is alright, Sundays are open track day.
You pay a small fee, and can drive the 20k track in the rental! Normally I
would take one lap then spend the rest of the day at several of the vantage
points around the track....

Eric