When many travelers think of Germany, they think of Berlin and Munich or the Rhine wine country, but there are other wonderful cities and states to visit, and Stuttgart and the state of Baden-Württemberg should be on the list. It is on the border of the Black Forest (Schwarzwald) region and is a business center for the auto industry and the U.S. military. There is plenty to see in the Stuttgart area and it’s an easy city to travel in and out of to see other parts of Baden-Württemberg. Here are some notes from my recent trip to the area.

Life is all about serendipity. We were at our favorite Mexican restaurant, Su Casa in Fennville, MI, and wandered upstairs to their gallery for an art show. I met an extraordinary artist, Crystal Overhuel, and bought a few of her gorgeous creations. We talked, and connected - Crystal is now our Michigan Arts Editor! She is just a fantastic person, so welcoming and kind. And, her art and photography? incredible!