Vilseck, Germany

It might be a bit difficult to find something unique for a landlord in Vilseck... your daughter is likely not the first, nor last American tenant that landlord will have. But perhaps if you have a good local brand of BBQ sauce, that might go over well. Maybe a knick-knack with the Arch on it? Oh, and that well-know brewery located in St. Louis... don't even consider bringing one of their products, that could be taken as an insult (it's not well thought of in most of Europe).

Hello, Virginia - what to pack and what not to pack depends on how much luggage your daughter is allowed - does she have a special allowance because she's going to an army base? If she's restricted, remember by September it could already be quite chilly. Fleece and cashmere pack light and are warm. Also, she will surely have access to the base shops for peanut butter, oreos and cosmetics etc. As to gifts for the landlords, I might wait and make it a farewell gift. By then, she'll know what they would enjoy and can buy it on the base. Quite a few of the locals probably have relatives in the states through marriages etc. over the years to Americans, have visited the US, and are familiar with American goods. St. Louis has a rich German heritage, some hometown item that is reminiscent of that could be interesting. Incidentally, are you aware that Air Berlin flies to Nuernberg, which is not too far from Vilseck. You can get all over Europe from there quite cheaply - something to keep in mind for the fall vacation. Their website has an English version. (I paid around 60 Euro for a flight from Charles de Gaulle in Paris to Nuernberg; half of that was taxes.) Also, Nuernberg is about the halfway point between Vilseck and Rothenburg. And, of course, Nuernberg is famous for its Christmas Market and Lebkuchen (Christmas cookies.) The previous poster mentioned beer - I guess you know that the German version is a lot more potent. By the way, a lot of clothes are much more expensive in Germany than in the states. Lastly, if you haven't got Skype you both ought to get it or at least you. Again, you probably know this - it's a free download and for around $10 a month you get unlimited calls to 30+ countries, including Germany. I bet she has a wonderful time, she'll make new friends, the kids will love her and she will love it there. Best wishes, Brianna

Thanks for all the great suggestions.