160km/h... 170km/h... 180km/h.

These kinds of speeds in Canada -- on the open road -- would probably land me in prison (if I got caught). I'd probably lose my licence for a period of time and have whatever media vehicle I was driving, impounded. I'd cry profusely. Then I'd cry more, and I'd likely have to get a "normal" job until they let me drive again! That's not my idea of fun.

Nevertheless, when in Germany those kinds of speeds are business as usual. That's if your vehicle can handle it. Heck, even cars that were falling apart at the seams were vigorously hauling butt down the various roadways with no posted speed limits.

Deciding to take the phrase "when in Rome (aka Germany)" to heart, I did as the Deutsch do and hauled butt along with the rest of the capable motorists.

Photo: Alexandra Straub

It was quite fantastic.

Allowing me to experience the glory of open-road, high-speed driving was the 2013 Audi Q5 luxury crossover. A recent media event took me across the Atlantic to Munich, Germany, where a group of Canadian and international journalists got a taste of Audi's refreshed product, due out in October.

Taking the all-wheel drive vehicle around the various towns and villages in the Bavaria region was wunderbar (German for "wonderful"'). Furthermore, the combination of speed-limitless driving,which were then honed in by speed zones of 30km/h were quite the juxtaposition.

And while straight stretches are fun for a while, the meandering roads through the townships, combined with large churches set to a backdrop of bright blue sky made my drive time even livelier.

During a photo shoot with the Q5, the warm summer air combined with a gentle breeze made me feel a little more energized, especially after enduring a long flight in an air-conditioned plane.

Although I enjoyed piloting the Q5s, I thoroughly enjoyed being a passenger as well. Soaking in the sights of southern Germany through the comfort of the front seat was not a bad way to spend my time. The cuteness and quaintness of the surrounding domiciles added to the local charm that was already present. People watching was also quite entertaining.

However, when in Bavaria there are two things that must be experienced that aren't driving related: schnitzel and Haribo gummy bears. I recommend eating them separately, but do as you please.

Having been a schnitzel lover since I could eat, any opportunity to eat deep-fried, breaded meat cutlets is most welcome. Served with my favourite starch, potatoes, life couldn't get much better.

And on the note of gummy bears, years ago when I lived in northern Germany, I made myself sick by eating copious amounts of Haribo candy. I don't think I touched the sugary goodness for years after that. Nevertheless, I'm back on the candy wagon and I'm right where I left off, and my dentist loves me for it!