Why Bavaria Feels More Like Texas Than You Might Think: A Traveler's Insights
When I lived in Texas for college, I was struck by the fierce state pride—many residents pitied anyone not born in what they saw as America's greatest state, and I even knew people with Texas tattoos. Though I've lived in and visited many places since, I never expected to find a match for Texans' "don't mess with Texas" allegiance—until I visited Bavaria.
Just as Texas is the largest state in the contiguous U.S., Bavaria is Germany's largest, comprising the southeast region including Munich. Like Texas, it was once an independent nation, with a history stretching back centuries.
Bavaria's deep-rooted traditions—from beer gardens to lederhosen—are so iconic that outsiders often confuse them with all of German culture. Bavarians quickly set the record straight. On multiple occasions, I apologized for not speaking German, only to hear, "Neither do we." Locals speak their own dialects of Upper German.
After road-tripping from Munich along the German-Austrian border and up the Romantic Road, I'm convinced Bavarians surpass even Texans in regional pride. Here's what fuels that pride:
The Food
Bavarian cuisine features hearty, meat-and-potato dishes like schnitzel, sausages, and schweinshaxe—roasted pork knuckle served with potato dumplings. Brotzeit, or "bread time," is a savory snack of sliced bread, meats, and cheeses, perfect for beer gardens. Beer is a staple akin to bread and butter (or butterbrezels—pretzels slathered with butter).
Balance the savory with sweets like apple strudel, Bavarian cream, and schneeballen—deep-fried dough balls from Rothenburg ob der Tauber.
The History
Bavaria's history dates to the 6th century. Grand palaces and medieval walled towns showcase its ducal and royal past.
There's darker history too: Hitler's home and Eagle's Nest were in Obersalzberg. WWII bombings devastated some cities, but reconstructions like Würzburg's Residence—repaired for $25 million—are meticulous.
The Romance
The Romantic Road from Füssen to Würzburg lures tourists with cobblestone streets and half-timbered houses in towns like Dinkelsbühl. In December, Christmas markets add fairy-tale magic.
For majesty, visit Neuschwanstein Castle, Cinderella's inspiration, built by King Ludwig II, whose Linderhof Palace dazzles with Rococo splendor.
The Alpine Splendor
The Bavarian Alps border the south, offering snowcapped peaks, forests, and valley villages. Ideal for skiing, hiking, and trails like Partnach Gorge.
Boat across Lake Königssee to the 1134 St. Bartholomew Church. We witnessed a traditional Bavarian wedding, showcasing enduring pride rivaling Texas.
