European Stars and Stripes (Newspaper) - September 15, 1994, Darmstadt, Hesse                                Germany \ 1 % of a a " s x s a ? Elmar Baumann and Eligius Rieger take in the sights at St. Basfor Kirche left. A packed cruise boat makes its Way up the Moselle River above. Photos by Carlos Bongioanni a couple peek at Koblenz from deut Cheseck Monument. Travellers tips How to get there there Are Many ways to visit Koblenz. Most people cruising by boat on the Rhine River make a Point of stopping in the City. Usually a stroll through the narrow alleys of the old City along with a bus tour of the rest of the area is an excellent Way to take in the sights. A train ride to Koblenz is another popular Mode of travel by which visitors experience the Lush Rhine Valley. Usually those on a Low budget will mix a train ride with a River cruise to offset the relatively High Cost of a boat ride. Those wishing to drive have easy Access to the Middle Rhine Region through use of the autobahn system. Koblenz is Only 76 Miles Northwest of Frankfurt. To Start motorists should take a-66 toward Wiesbaden follow a-643 to Mainz and change to a-60 up to Bingen. From there take the a-61 exit to Koblenz and follow the signs. Accommodations because of its size Koblenz is a perfect place to stay the night while touring the Rhine area. Accommodations Are plentiful with dozens of options from which to choose. Prices per person Range from As Little As 30 Marks about $20 for a single room in a pension to As High As 230 Marks $150 in a fancy hotel such As the scandic Crown. There is also a camping area ideally situated across Koblenz on the North Side of the Moselle. The Campground is open from april to october. Call 0261/802489 to find out the prices. Etc shopping and entertainment Are endless throughout the City. A Busy walking mall conveniently intersects the old and new sections of Koblenz. High class shops malls and an assortment of Street vendors provide a perfect mix for shoppers of every genre. Koblenz also offers an enjoyable night life with its Many bars cabarets pubs and discos. Dining out restaurants abound in the Koblenz area with a diversity ranging from asian to italian and Creek to typical German cuisine. There s a Mcdonald s for americans who must have a taste of Home. In addition quite a few subterranean taverns Cater to wine lovers. Because wine tasting is so popular in Koblenz patrons must often Reserve a time to visit a Wei stube. The local tourist office located directly across from the main train station has a list of Wei stuben with Telephone numbers to make reservations. The office also has maps and other informational pamphlets about Koblenz in English. You can Call 0261/31304 or Tel fax 0261/129 3800. Carlos Bongioanni september 15, 1994 stripes Magazine 5