Meet Michael Thompson
Servus! I'm Michael, a Canadian expat living in Heidelberg, Germany, with my wife, Lena, and our daughter, Sophie. I'm a brewery technician by trade, but my true passion lies in exploring new places, savoring delicious beers, and capturing it all through my lens. Join me as I share my travel experiences, from the charming corners of Germany to adventures further afield. Whether you're planning a family trip or seeking inspiration for your own travels, I hope my stories and tips will help you create unforgettable memories.
- Friendly
- Approachable
- Curious
- Enthusiastic
- Organized
- Patient
- Polite
- Hohenschwangau, Germany
- Baden-Württemberg, Germany
- Koblenz to Bingen, Germany
- Berlin, Germany
- Garmisch-Partenkirchen, Germany/Austria
Latest Travel Diaries by Michael Thompson
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8 Day TripSolo Adventure in the Huaraz RegionExplore Peru's Andean beauty solo: An 8-day journey through Huaraz's landscapes, culture, and adventure, with a cozy stay at Hotel La Joya.
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9 Day TripExploring the Historic Charm of Røros with FriendsJoin us on a 9-day exploration of Røros, Norway, a UNESCO site rich in history and beauty, perfect for photography and cultural discovery.
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15 Day TripFamily Adventure and Relaxation at Zao Onsen, JapanDiscover the tranquility of Zao Onsen in Japan with family—experience hot springs, scenic landscapes, and cozy stays for a rejuvenating adventure.
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11 Day TripSolo Cultural Exploration in Shirakawa-go, JapanDiscover the charm of Shirakawa-go's traditional gassho-zukuri farmhouses on a solo adventure, embracing Japanese culture and stunning landscapes.
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9 Day TripSolo Adventure in Trentino-Alto Adige
Explore the breathtaking landscapes of Trentino-Alto Adige on a solo adventure, immersing in alpine beauty, local cuisine, and cultural experiences.
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7 Day TripFamily Adventure in Serra de São Mamede Natural ParkJoin us on a family adventure through the scenic trails and stunning landscapes of Portugal's Serra de São Mamede Natural Park.
More about Michael Thompson
Michael grew up in Kamloops, British Columbia, developing a love for the outdoors and a strong sense of community. After high school, he pursued a degree in Chemical Engineering, which eventually led him to a job at a brewery in Heidelberg, Germany. He met his wife, Lena, while taking a German language course, and they quickly bonded over their shared love of travel and good beer. They have a young daughter, Sophie, who keeps them on their toes. Michael enjoys exploring the German countryside, sampling local beers, and sharing his travel experiences on his blog.
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34
Age
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Male
Gender
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Brewery Technician
Occupation
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Canada
Birth Country
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Kamloops
Birth City
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Germany
Current Country
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Heidelberg
Current City
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Married
Marital Status
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Lena Thompson, Female, 32
Spouse
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Children
- Sophie Thompson, Female, 6
Interest
- Craft Beer
- Hiking
- Photography
- Canadian History
- German Culture
Hobbies
- Homebrewing
- Cycling along the Neckar River
- Attending local festivals in Heidelberg
- Learning about the history of brewing in Germany
- Exploring nearby castles and vineyards
Recent Articles & Tips by Michael Thompson
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Travel AdviceHomebrewing on the Go: How to Satisfy Your Brewing Passion While TravelingLearn how to continue your homebrewing hobby while traveling, with tips on equipment, sourcing ingredients, and brewing on the road.
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Travel AdviceVineyard Explorations: Tasting and Touring Wine RegionsDive into the world of wine with a guide to exploring vineyards and tasting local wines, enhancing your travel with culinary delights.
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Travel AdviceFestivals Around the World: A Guide to Celebrations and TraditionsCelebrate cultural diversity by attending festivals around the world, and experience the unique traditions and festivities each has to offer.
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Travel AdviceCycling Adventures: Discover the World on Two WheelsExperience the joys of cycling while traveling, from leisurely rides to adventurous trails, and see the world from a unique perspective.
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Travel AdviceExploring History: How to Make the Most of Museums and Historical SitesLearn how to fully experience museums and historical sites during your travels, and uncover the stories behind them.
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Travel AdviceSustainable Travel: How to Minimize Your Environmental ImpactExplore strategies for traveling sustainably, reducing your carbon footprint while enjoying the wonders of the world.
Travel Essentials
- Passport
- Universal adapter
- Camera
- Comfortable walking shoes
- First-aid kit
- Phone and charger
- Comfortable clothing
- Snacks
- Water bottle
- Mobile device
- Travel documents
- Travel pillow
- Earplugs
- Headphones
- Medications
- Travel insurance information
- Cash and credit cards
Travel Tips
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Always pack light; you'll be surprised how little you actually need.
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Learn a few basic phrases in the local language; it goes a long way.
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Embrace spontaneity; some of the best travel moments are unplanned.
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Research local customs and etiquette to show respect for the culture.
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Don't be afraid to try new things, especially the local food and beer!
Recent Memories from Michael Thompson
This Explorers Travel Highlights
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My Travel Highlight
One of my most cherished travel experiences was hiking through the Bavarian Alps with Lena and Sophie. The breathtaking views, the crisp mountain air, and the shared sense of accomplishment made it an unforgettable family adventure.
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Favourite Destination
Heidelberg, without a doubt! It's where I built my life with Lena and Sophie. The blend of history, culture, and the stunning Neckar River creates a unique and enriching environment.
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Best Hotel
Hotel Ritter Durbach. The interiors are decadent and the food is gourmet. The Michelin-starred chef pairs his food with a fabulous list of wines, many of which are local.
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My Adventurous Destination
Exploring the Geierlay Suspension Bridge was definitely an adrenaline rush. Walking across one of Germany's longest suspension bridges, high above the valley, was both terrifying and exhilarating!
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My Food Destination
Berlin. The city's diverse and innovative food scene is incredible. From traditional German fare to international cuisine, there's always something new and exciting to discover.