Bavaria is like a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. I must confess, that before I emigrated from the United States to this part of the world 10 years ago, my knowledge about it did not much extend beyond the lederhosen and beer cliché.

What I have come to like here, is the very laid-back lifestyle. It’s no accident Upper Bavaria is called the most Northern Province of Italy - dolce vita with a Bavarian twist. But there is so much more that makes the land of King Ludwig II a very interesting travel destination. With mountain-side castles that appear as if they must be from fairy tales, Bavaria has a storybook atmosphere.

But don’t let yourself be fooled. This industrious culture mixes the old with the new. Most noticeable in Munich with its thriving economy, rich history, and perhaps most of all, its plethora of museums.

The Alte Pinakothek rivals the Louvre for high-style display. The Deutsche Museum is the most complete scientific and technical museum in the world. No wonder, Monocle Magazine selected Munich the “Most Livable City in the World” in 2007.

For the fall and holiday season, several attractive home exchange offers - both short- and long term as well as simultaneous and non-simultaneous - are available.

Bertie and Michael in Tutzing offer their Spacious 3 Bedroom Penthouse Apartment for a non-simultaneous swap for 6 weeks in September and October 2008. The flat comes with a fantastic view to the Bavarian and Austrian Alps and a very private garden. They are open to travel destinations within Europe. For contact and more details on Home-ID 1036

Vincent and Maitri’s Comfortable Duplex is ideal for a family. They live in the quaint town of Weilheim at the footsteps of the Alps, but only 30 min from Munich. Their home is available for a non-simultaneous exchange from mid December 2008 to mid January 2009. The holiday season with its colorful christkindl markets is Bavaria’s most charming season. Don’t forget to bring your skies!

As for dream destinations, they are open to your suggestions. For contact and more details on Home-ID 2051

Another interesting home exchange offer on Lake Starnberg comes from Rebecca and Frank. Check out their Large and Inviting House in Garatshausen. From their own private path you can reach the beach in one minute. Opportunities for countless outdoors activities makes the Lake Starnberg region a top destination for families. Rebecca and Frank can’t wait to try out home exchange. Let’s give them a good start. They are up to simultaneous swaps in Europe during school holidays. For contact and more details on Home-ID 1497

All JewettStreet Listings in Bavaria …