Back to Germany for a weeklong work trip

It’s been a minute since I’ve been to #Germany, especially for work. While I’ve privately spent a couple of days hanging out in #Berlin, spending a working week here is a whole new experience. A lot has changed over the past eight years.
The country feels deeply divided between the left and the right, as are many Western countries.
Trains running late seems to be an ongoing drama, and the streets appear dirtier than I remember.
But what surprised me the most is the jaywalking – is it us? Have we Balkanized you that much?
Also, the love of cash and reluctance to embrace digital financial services is a real struggle.
On the flip side, the commitment to excellent service, exciting fashion brands and the flourishing art scene are all going strong.
Gyms are incredible.  I was stunned how good-looking fellow German gym rats are. Then I realized I was stunned because people looked natural, no cosmetically enhanced calves, abs, breasts or backsides. 
It’s inspiring to see Germany embracing multiculturalism more than ever before and remaining self-critical and self-reflective – a true sign of democracy.
This visit felt like a warm embrace despite the cold weather. I’ll leave you with the sound of German new wave funk and last year’s remix of Joachim Witt’s “Herbergsvater” (it’s been on repeat for me this month)