München, California

München or Malibu? Munich actually. I was on a tram scouting out photo locations when I noticed this guy carrying a surfboard get off the tram. Didn't think much of until a minute later I noticed a woman in a wet suit (the one in the photo above) walking down the street carrying a surfboard. Well Sherlock has nothing on me; in a split second I figured out there must be a surfing location in a city hundreds of miles from the sea. I then found out that there's a river which runs through Munich's main park and surfers take advantage of the fast flowing current.

Surfers trying out their skills on the river.

Surfers queuing patiently for their turn.

This  surfer seemed to have the greatest skill; she certainly outlasted the others.

Another surfer riding the waves.

Three in a row, how long can they last?

For this guy, not that long.

For all you ladies missing your Poldark fix here's a substitute: A surfer dude getting changed.

Nearby in the park I came across this unusual scene; three people, one dressed in a traditional Bavarian costume, setting up a drinks table.

Maybe it was something to do with these guys. The local fire brigade were running a training exercise in the park. Soon after they all set off jogging. The drinks could have been an incentive.

Not only do we have surfers miles away from the sea we also have skiers miles from any snow.

This really is a beautiful park. The park is called The Englischer Garten or English Garden.

Like most parks this is full of people throwing sticks for their dogs. Will he go into the river?

He's a dog chasing a stick, what else is a dog going to do?

Next to the park was this huge sculpture resting delicately on three short poles. I was tempted to give it a push but resisted.

Coming back into the centre of Munich I was pleased to see that the people of Munich had decided to honour my visit to their city by naming one of their hotels after me. I would have been happier if they had named one of their streets after me but perhaps they are saving that for my next visit.

Loved these light fixtures in the main shopping area.

Surfers, skiers and now pirates in Munich.