I was surprised by the quietness and serene environment of my temporary home despite it is in town and near major roads. Every morning, I would hear pigeons calling, sweet.

Marisa told me the Munich city has lots of structures along highways to reduce noise pollution to residents nearby. In addition to high walls along highways, which I also see in Canada, Marisa showed me a portion of the highway near the apartment covered by a very aesthetic glass structure. That was no decoration, rather to reduce noise.

German roads are very nicely engineered and maintained. Yes, there is no speed limit on major highways unless road signs indicate. Even smaller roads, like B roads in England, the speed limit is 100 km/h. The roads are smooth but not slippery and there are no hills. Curves are nicely calculated. So on major highways, even riding at 200 km/h, I bet I wouldn't have motion sickness.

Cars, of course bimmers are everywhere. Lots of 1-series and hatchbacks which are my favourites. Good number of Mercedez too, some Audi's. Actually, I saw more Porsches than Audi's. I also saw a few Mini Coopers with soft top sunroof, which is not available in North America, yes, a piece of black cloth rather than glass sunroof.

Hotspot provided by Lufthansa and Boeing. I am cheap and don't want to pay (given I will pay $$++ for longD and roaming) even though the rate is just slightly more expensive than Orange WiFi in France. What makes me really happy is, Lufthansa provides free access to news, weather, travel information. Later in the year, this service will be provided on all Lufthansa flights, not just long-haul.

I so, so desired to extend my stay in Munchen for 2 days. I would just need to walk for 1 minute and could see the Pope in close distance, waving at me. I won't even need to fight with the crowds in Odeansplatz, Marienplatz, or at the Cathedral. I left Munich 3 hours before the Pope arrived at the airport. Chances. I guess bumping into anyone anywhere needs a lot of chances...