I was talking to someone here awhile back, discussing the differences or lack of differences between Germany and America. I made the comment, "Sometimes, I think if I'd just been plopped here, if my ears were shut, I wouldn't know that I was in another country, but simply some large town still in the States." "Really?" Was the incredulous reply. "I feel like the parks are enough to distinguish us." Without a moment of thought, I knew she was right. Even when I first came here it was the first thing I noticed ... that and the placement of the traffic lights. So, yes. If I were simply dropped into Germany I might not realize myself to be in another country at once, but as soon as I would begin to walk I around it wouldn't be long before I ran into a park. And then it would be clear that I was no longer in the States, but some strange and fascinating land. Children's play areas are everywhere. And by that I mean literally...