Traveling to Germany for hyperthermia: what to expect

When my husband first said the word "Germany," I almost laughed. I could barely get across my own house some days — how on earth was I going to get across the ocean? But we did it, as a family, and looking back, the trip itself was far more doable than the fear of it. Let me demystify the whole thing.

First, take a breath

Germany has been a hub for whole-body hyperthermia for a long time, and the clinics there are used to welcoming sick people from all over the world. You won't be the first wobbly, nervous traveler they've helped. They do this every single week.

Bring someone with you

If you take one thing from this whole article, let it be this: do not go alone if you can possibly help it. A spouse, a parent, a friend — someone to carry the bags, remember the details, sit with you on the hard days, and celebrate the good ones. James was with me, and I honestly don't know how I'd have done it otherwise.

Apartment or hotel?

This is one of the most practical decisions, and here's how I think about it:

• An apartment gives you a kitchen (huge when you're on a special diet), laundry, more room to rest, and a more homey feel for a longer stay.
• A hotel is simpler and more serviced for a shorter trip, with less to manage day to day.

For longer treatment, most families I talk to lean toward an apartment near the clinic — being able to make your own safe food is worth a lot.

Come a few days early

Don't fly in and start treatment the next morning. Give yourself a few days to land, sleep, adjust to the time change, and let your body settle. You'll handle treatment better rested than wrecked from travel. Arriving early was some of the best advice we got.

What to pack

• All your medications and supplements, in your carry-on, with a little extra in case of delays
• Comfortable, easy clothes and layers — you'll be resting a lot
• Any comfort items that help you feel human: your own pillow, cozy socks, a favorite tea
• Snacks and safe foods for the flight and the first day
• A folder with your medical records, test results, and a simple summary of your history
• Entertainment for the downtime — books, headphones, downloaded shows

The practical stuff

• Language: the clinic staff generally speak English, but a translation app on your phone is handy for shops and taxis.
• Money: have a card that works internationally and a little local cash for small things.
• Getting around: staying close to the clinic keeps daily travel short, which matters a lot when you're wiped out.
• Phone: sort out an international plan or eSIM before you go so you can stay in touch with family back home.

One honest thing about the treatment itself

The hyperthermia done in Germany is the extreme form of whole-body hyperthermia — high, carefully controlled heat aimed at killing the organisms directly. For us, it worked: follow-up testing and darkfield microscopy confirmed it cleared 100% of the Borrelia. But I want you to know something I learned the hard way — clearing the infection isn't the same as becoming immune to it. When my daughter was bitten again, she was reinfected. That's why I now pay close attention to newer approaches that pair moderate hyperthermia with Treg therapy to help the immune system recognize Borrelia going forward. I explain all of this in my complete guide to whole-body hyperthermia.

You can do this

I know it feels like a mountain. But thousands of people make this trip and come home changed. If you want, I'll help you think through the logistics for your specific situation — I've walked this exact path, suitcase and all.

Medical disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes only and reflects personal experience and research. It is not medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and it does not replace consultation with a qualified healthcare professional. Individual results vary. Always consult your physician before pursuing any treatment.