Thousands visit the North German state of Lower Saxony each year. It is hardly a tourism secret.
But the northern reaches of the state are well beyond the scope of most itineraries.
That's a shame, because lower prices and charming tranquility can be found in the area Germans call Ostfriesland (pronounced "ost-FREEZE-lant"). The English equivalent is "East Frisia." The area known as "West Frisia" is very similar and on the Dutch side of the border.
In either place, you'll be surrounded by landscape that fits the stereotype for Holland: windmills, canals, wonderful cycling opportunities, and friendly villages.
One other thing that's nice about this "unknown Germany" is the prices. Since there are few large urban areas and relatively small tourist crowds, they are low for pricey northern Europe. Read on and discover how a few days here could cut expenses on your next European excursion.
