This excerpt from Rick's travel memoir "Postcards from Europe" describes a recent visit to Germany, mixed with memories of his first visit to Germany as a gum-chewing teenager in 1973, reluctantly dragged there by his parents.

Travel writer Neil Taylor talks about the attractions of Berlin's overlooked neighbor, Potsdam, a one-time center of Prussian power and communist-era intrigue.

Tour guide Fabian Rueger takes Rick on a tour of the distinctive regions of Germany.

Fred Plotkin, author of "Italy for the Gourmet Traveler" and "Opera 101," describes why Vienna is one of his favorite cities, where arts and culture are accessible to everyone.

Rick talks with tour guide Ursula Klaus about her elegant hometown. Ursula walks us through Vienna, from experiencing its café culture to scoring an affordable ticket to the Opera.

Marilyn Tenoll, enthusiast of the formal ball season in Vienna, tells Rick what it's like to celebrate the New Year at one of the season's elegant balls.