15 Aug 2025
The Dachau Tour was worth every bit that we paid for it. It was very well organized, highly informative, and flawlessly executed. Heim, our guide, knew the route so well he literally had the group standing in the correct places on the train platforms and bus stops to ensure we were the first on and got seats. His knowledge of the history leading up to 1933 and through the war was impressive. He remained highly factual and avoided making personal/political comments, which could have made the subject matter very uncomfortable.
Understanding we were visiting a Nazi Concentration Camp (obviously a sensitive subject for May), the tour delved into some of the horror without getting too graphic. The tour did an excellent job at exposing the living history and cut a fine balance between explaining the horror of the camp without going too far.
Time in the Bunker and Barracks X was intense. I found myself getting claustrophobic and a presence making me want to get out of those buildings. Understanding the large statue in front of the maintenance building gave me a sobering reality check... Living under those conditions was so terrible that suicide under your own terms was preferred. Make sure you take the time to view and understand the power of the sculpture.