Our first visit to Germany. This is part 1 of 3 galleries of pictures that chronicles our trip to this wonderful country. Our first stop is to Frankfurt and then to Munich (2) and Bavaria (3).

High on a Niederwald hill, is a stunning view of vineyards in the Rhine river gorge.

Cruise ships pass through on the Rhine river.

This region is known for its fertile vineyards that produce delicious wine.

This region is known for its fertile vineyards that produce delicious wine.

Tourists and locals congregate to soak in a sunny day and enjoy the beauty from this hilltop.

Silke & Marki

A brave and adventurous Hang Glider waits for the wind to pick up before jumping.

Lift off for the hang glider

Lift off for the hang glider

Rick, Marki, and Silke

Conversational view

Rüdesheim is a winemaking town in the Rhine Gorge about an hour west of Frankfurt.

Boy ponders the vendor's ware

Silke & Marki in the Rudesheim market area

We were treated to a German-style barbeque by Silke's brother Pierre and his wife Cordula.

Marki, Cordula, Silke toast with German beer

Aunt Silke and her niece Chiara.

Pierre has the grill ready for cooking