Oktoberfest and River Surfing in Munich, Germany

Munich, the capital of Bavaria, is a thriving hub of culture and commerce wrapped in classical architecture. Come mid-September, the city transforms into a destination travellers from around the world long to experience at least once.

Oktoberfest is the largest folk and beer festival in the world, turning the entire city into a celebration that reflects friendship, festivity and traditions passed down for more than two centuries. While the festival is best known for its easygoing fun, beneath the surface lies a cultural event of considerable grandeur and refinement.

At Theresienwiese, the festival’s main grounds, legendary old Munich breweries erect enormous tents filled with traditional Bavarian music, locals in beautiful traditional dress, and lavish interior décor, a seamless blend of festivity and classic elegance.

Beyond the beer tents, the English Garden, one of the largest urban parks in the world, is another must-visit. Along its clear streams and shaded woodland, visitors can catch a special highlight: surfers riding the Eisbachwelle, a standing wave in the fast-flowing stream that has become a hidden, iconic symbol of creativity and relaxation in the heart of the city. The wave forms where the stream’s current meets an underwater obstruction, producing a large wave that holds steady in place. Surfers can ride it for as long as they like without ever moving forward, though the powerful current makes it unsuitable for beginners.

Getting there: Fly to Munich with THAI. Click here