I would have to categorise our Oktoberfest experience as mostly... refined. Despite our relative youth, I think we're generally too sensible and responsible to go too overboard with alcohol. Before the festival kicked off, we headed south to the Starnberger See. A leisurely walk along the west coast included a visit to the Rose Insel, where the locals relaxed in the pleasant surroundings.
The Wiesn kicked off with a parade featuring plenty of lederhosen, before the first keg was tapped at 12pm Saturday.
We didn't actually manage to get inside any of the tents on the first day (nor indeed on the second day), so we enjoyed the views instead.
There's also a huge fairground as well as the beer tents. I had thought it would be a side show, but it's fully half of the festival, excluding the agricultural fair. The rides are of a pretty high standard, from rollercoasters to fun houses.
I know I'll be back to Oktoberfest later in life, and the only thing I'd do differently is to stay closer to the city in a hostel or hotel. A camping site full of Australians on the outskirts can be fun, but it's no way to get a good night's rest! And make tent reservations early... especially for opening weekend. It's just manic really.
