Prosit!

We are half way through the fortnight which annually puts Munich on the world map, the two weeks of the Oktoberfest. Traditionally this mid-point weekend is the time when the Italians cross the Alps in their motorhomes, park them as close as legally possible to the Theresienwiese, and then add their inimitable vitality to the atmosphere of the crowded beer tents. Salute!

Tonight is my chance to sample thee Oktoberfest mood, after years of abstinence. Many Munich firms, my client included,  reserve tables and welcome their staff for an annual knees-up which can be as perilous as the 'company Christmas party' in other countries. After a few litres of beer inhibitions tend to to blur until on the next working day the awfulness of one's conduct comes once again into sharp focus. I shall do my best to behave  as one might expect of a wise grandfather in the midst of colleagues few of whom are even half my age!

Speaking of inhibitions... next Wednesday, the 3rd of October, is German National Unity Day. Each year the main celebration is held in a different federal state and now it is the turn of Bavaria. From the President and the Chancellor to the state politicians, all will descend on Munich. 

Inhibitions? Well, imagine if the Germans celebrated their national day the way the French do on the Quatorze Juilliet! No, we do not anticipate a massive military parade on the Ludwigstrasse.