Culture: Chapter 3 – The German Highway

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If you own a Porsche, a Ferrari, an Aston Martin or any other fast and furious car, then you must experience the German Autobahn (Highway) while you still have a chance!  The joys of driving carefree – or more precisely without having to worry about getting a speeding ticket – is absolutely unbeatable!  On certain parts of the German Autobahn, one can still experience what a good old natural rush of adrenaline feels like since there are no limits to high velocity.  Push that car as fast as it can take you!  Feel it run wild under your control!  Take your vehicle for the spin of its life while rediscovering the joys of feeling like a child once again; full of life, carefree and unrestrained to drive as fast as you want… and – most importantly – without getting into trouble!

The German Autobahn stretches and unfolds over more than 12,000 kilometers.  It is one of the biggest highway networks worldwide, which is quite amazing considering how small Germany really is compared to many other countries around the world.  The government recommends drivers to drive at 130 km/hr. even though there are no enforceable speed limits on about 40% of the highways.  However, there are several stretches over which drivers are warned about specific limitations.  Subsequently, they have to reduce their speed to 120, 100, 80 or even 60 km/hr. in some cases, depending on the highway situation; mostly in the vicinity of exits or bigger cities where traffic tends to become denser.  Furthermore, such limitations are often applied due to specific weather or traffic conditions such as snow, rain, fog or traffic jams.  However, these speed variations, or limitations, are well indicated on huge electronic signs that are clearly and visibly dispersed over the highways at regular intervals.  Drivers are therefore allowed to drive as fast as they desire until they are notified of an existing speed limitation, which must be observed all the way up to the next limit free area.  Always remember that there are plenty of hidden cameras and unmarked police cars ready to catch you in case you decide to continue on speeding when you’re not supposed to!

Did you know these high velocity highways were not always just used by little speed demons like you!  In fact, some parts of the Autobahn were especially conceived and paved to serve as auxiliary airports during World War II.  That’s right!  The German military forces used to conceal their airplanes in strategic tunnels or wooden areas near the Autobahns so that they could quickly take off and chase after their enemies!  So… Who will you be chasing after on the Autobahn?  The cute guy you saw at the service station?  The blond who previously passed you in her Mercedes?  Your wife?  After all… the war has been over for quite a while already!

What are you waiting for?  Kick that car in 6th gear, listen to the wind brush against your windshield, feel the sensation of high velocity and experience the thrill Michael Shumacher got every time he sat behind the wheel of his Ferrari on the Formula 1 Tracks!  Ride through the beautiful German hillsides, in the midst of the greenest forests and lands and enjoy the ride of your life!  Do not wait too long… there is no way of knowing how long Germany will still be allowed to preserve its “NO LIMIT” highways!  Our advice?  Happy Speeding and Drive Safely!