“GO” is an abbreviation of the terms “German Origins” and “German Originality,” and an important invitation to travel. But for us, it’s more than just that: it’s an inspiration, inviting Americans with German heritage to find their own unique reason to GO to Germany to explore their roots and experience the culture for themselves.

As a proud participant of the Year of German-American Friendship, the German National Tourist Office has created a comprehensive campaign encouraging the more than 44 million Americans that claim German ancestry to discover their roots in Germany. The campaign builds on the strong historical ties between Germany and the United States and inspires Americans to travel to Germany.

The campaign kicked off with a successful relaunch of the German Originality microsite www.germany.travel/heritage. Visitors can visit this site to view a timeline of German immigration to the US complete with interesting historical facts and information on emigration archives useful for genealogical research. They can also learn about famous Germans and Americans with transatlantic ties. The site marks important German heritage sites, including museums, memorials, and the birthplaces of influential Americans in Germany.

Four US influencers who traveled through Germany in search of their origins share their itineraries and stories. Their unique viewpoints on their family history, Germany’s architectural past, and German traditions shine a light on the cultural diversity of Germany and its lesser known travel destinations.  The site is an excellent starting point for discovering your German roots and making plans for your next trip to across the pond!

Want to win a free trip to Germany and learn about your own German heritage? Visit the Wunderbar Together PopUp Tour in Atlanta (September 24-28) and Portland (October 8-12) and find the German National Tourist Office’s branded iPads to enter the sweepstakes!

Check out the microsite to learn more about GO!