Munich was recently rated the most livable by city by Monocle Magazine - and for good reason. The German city’s mix of low and high rise architecture, good public transport, cafe culture and Italian approach to lifestyle is unparalleled.

Extremely low crime rates, liberal-mindedness, nearly 500 free Wi-Fi spots and good drinking hours are making me want to pack up my bags and flee the Vancouver coop for a while. While researching the city further, I became intrigued by Eisbach, a small man-made river that flows through Munich. The Eisbach, which translates into “ice brook” or “ice river”, forms a wave creating an excellent urban surfing spot. Located beneath a bridge just past the Haus der Kunst art museum, the one meter-high standing wave is a sought after location by surfers from around the world.

This spot is not for amateurs though, as the sign warns the cold and shallow water is only suitable for the more advanced rider. This spot has been surfed since 1972, and several professional river surfing competitions have been held there.