I do not know how the Vikings felt when they went to conquer Rome and could not find it, but it is an interesting feeling when you shout: look, children, there is Germany, we are driving into Germany! – and realize that the sign says Republik Österreich which does not mean Germany at all! The marvel of GPS did this with us for the second time already during this expedition (“look, Belgium, Belgium!.. umm.. Netherlands? aargh, what the heck…”)
Austria wants money, even though you are just trying to sneak quietly into Germany. They have a 2€ one-time pass (Corridor vignette) but it is a pain in one’s posterior rather than an expense, because you have to read the 8 by 10 meter sign explaining the country’s policy and what they do with those unfortunates who dare to tread without a sticker in their window, and then you have to shop for this pass into the paradise in some obscure gas stations.
Ah, well – stop complaining. We are in Bavaria, one of the best places on the planet, because here are friends, who give us food, beer and shelter and their time – which flies by when you are having so much fun.