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March 15, 2004
Moin moin!
Back from my brief "do nothing" vacation and "Moin" is the greeting that you hear all the time in that part of Germany. It takes getting used to, as it does not just mean "good morning" (other parts of Germany use a similar greeting in the mornings). And of course they aren't telling you about a new "write the web" software. Anyway I had a great relaxing time, enjoying the food (fresh fish!) and watching the East Friesians in their local pastime. Lots of small fishing towns that harbor small fleets of shrimp trawlers - where you can buy shrimp fresh from the sea. What more can you wish for?
Posted by Matthew at March 15, 2004 04:56 PM
Comments
"Moin" is not related to "Morgen" at all but has the same roots as the dutch "moi" which means nice or even beautiful IIRC ...
They are wishing you a beautiful morning/day whatever.
We've been to Ostfriesland for every vacation the past few years. I really love this part of Germany and in particular the people there.
Hope you enjoyed your time as much as we usually do.
Posted by: Stefan Bodewig at March 15, 2004 06:04 PM
Hi Stefan,
yes I enjoyed myself a lot and will sure go back again - taking one or more of the family with me :).
Matthew
Posted by: Matthew Langham at March 15, 2004 07:27 PM
Mooooin ;-)
Did you also enjoy the odd "Friesisch-Herbes Jever"? And some Schnaps? They go quite well with the "Granat".
It's been quite a while since I've last been there, I'll have to see if I find the time next Christmas. We only managed to get as far as Bad Zwischenahn (although the smoked eel was nice).
Posted by: Armin at March 15, 2004 08:53 PM
Hey Armin,
Mooooin. You're right actually and it was something I noticed after a day or so - they don't just say "Moin" (i.e. short) but there is a sort of "ring" to a more lengthy pronunciation - more like "Moiyun". Nice. And yes - I sampled a Jever or two - but no Schnaps. My favorite meal was "Schollenfilet mit Krabben" - which I had twice :). Aaahhh....I want to go back! I stayed in Minsen-Förrien (Gasthof zum Deichgrafen) by the way - well recommended!
Matthew
Posted by: Matthew Langham at March 15, 2004 08:59 PM
Its just one thing - "Moin Moin" means "Hello" in northern Germany, while the "Good Morning" or "Morning" attitude exists in the "Ost Friesland" area ... nevertheless, if you're told "Moin" at the end of a conversation, its "Bye!" ... ;)
Posted by: Mike at June 9, 2004 02:07 AM