I was just getting back in routine at home when my new job decided I should attend a work event - in Hannover, Germany. Two days later I had my passport in hand and was in route to Paris > Hannover. This wasn't my first time to Germany, as my brother spent a few years living there when I was in university and my family and I would make regular visits, but it was my first time to Hannover. 

The Old Town was quaint and charming, but quite small, about a three block radius in total. Of course, the city took quite a hit during WWII so it was to be expected.

If you are vegetarian, Germany is not the place for you. I generally try to intake as little meat as possible, but there was no hope in Hannover. Sausage and potatoes were the hot items on every menu. 

Cheese for breakfast? Yes please! The hotel I stayed at, Hotel Wegner, was the perfect German accommodation. Traditional breakfast spreads, friendly staff, and clean rooms.

I did get one day off during my trip to venture over to the Herrenhaussen Gardens, which were completely dead due to the freezing temperatures. I am sure in the spring this place is breathtaking. 

The famous painter Niki de Saint Phalle painted this grotto in the gardens. It was beautiful, and such a contrast to the cold, empty branches I saw all about the gardens. 

I did get to see some live plants when I visited the Orchid garden across the street. To be honest, I bought a ticket to stay warm in the greenhouse, but these flowers were a nice bonus.

All in all, Hannover was - ok. It was too cold for my liking, the food too heavy, and the city a bit too bland. But for two weeks of work, it was exciting, fun, and absolutely exhausting.