When it comes to big issues, like world politics or climate change, it's safe to say things aren't that great at the moment.
So in all the doom and gloom, sometimes you’ve just got to make the most of what you’re given...and this year that was a long, hot and, at times, simply unbearable summer.
After a record-breaking run of uncharacteristically warm weather, the German Weather Service (DWD) has forecast that much of the country is set to be drenched in tropical rain.
Extreme temperatures led to public health warnings and even the temporary closure of Hanover airport as the thermometer hit highs of 36 degrees in some parts of Germany on Tuesday.
Most of Germany basked in pleasant summer sunshine on Friday. But more extreme weather is on the horizon. By Monday temperatures could soar into the mid-30s.
Train travellers are in for an uncomfortable 10 days ahead, with rail authorities warning that Deutsche Bahn’s air conditioners are built only to cope with temperatures of up to 32 degrees, according to a Thursday media report.