Our flight to Dusseldorf was a special surprise. When we boarded the plane we were greeted by our flight attendant and friend Sophia. After an emotional meeting she put us in business class and showered us with food and drinks. She even arranged for Tony to sit in the cockpit during our descent and landing … a once in a lifetime experience. At the airport we were greeted by our friend, Florian who planned an amazing three day German holiday for us in Haltern and Hamburg with his parents, Lore and Harold, and his sister Andrea.

The Tiedes are amazing hosts and make us feel like family. That night, we had a delicious schnitzel dinner at a local restaurant owed by one of Florian's friends. The next day we all went to Hamburg (except Andrea who had to work) and stayed at a very nice hotel arranged by Florian. We took the train into the city and had two fantastic days of sightseeing, eating and drinking. Florian joined us for late night talks as we enjoyed "ample portions" of Portuguese Brandy. We saw the harbor, the Elbphilharmonie Opera House, the Town Hall, the Red light district and much more. After an emotional goodbye, Florian took us to the airport for our flight to Florence.