Hello All, I know this is a question post. But maybe if someone reads this, it will answer the question "can this site really help me plan a trip?".
I leave tomorrow for Munich, Salzburg, Colmar, St. Goar. After a year of researching and reading question after guestion and response after response, I think I am ready. Since I am "pro-car" I have a BMW 300 series waiting for me as I leave Munich. My trip includes at least 3 nights in each town (except Andechs) with day trips planned along the way.
I have a one suitcase packed (it is not small enough to carry on, but I'm a big guy and my clothes are big) and one PacSafe 200 as a carry-on. I have $300 euros with me and a debit card, with credit cards as back-up. I know I'm rambling now so I'll just say, thanks everyone for the help. Whether you answered my question directly or that of another future traveller, you helped me tremendously.
See you in two weeks!