You plan to move to Germany soon, huh? It’s a big decision. It can be exciting. You are probably dreaming of a better future and you want to move to a country that can help you achieve your dreams. Before you pack your bag and say “Auf Wiedersehen” (Goodbye) to your motherland, there are a couple of things you need to learn about Germany.
Germany is a great country. Everyone wants to at least experience it. Nevertheless, there is nothing like a perfect country. There are a couple of things in Germany that may be done differently from the way you are used to. Now that you are moving to a new country, you have to unlearn some things and learn new things. You have to start again almost from scratch to learn a new culture, new language, new friends, and so much more. It can be overwhelming. This is why we have chosen to let you know some important things to consider before coming to Germany.
Top 7 Things To Know Before Moving To Germany
1. You Absolutely Need to Learn German
Someone may have told you that you don’t need to learn German if you are moving to cities such as Berlin, Munich, or Frankfurt. Sorry to burst your bubbles… You actually need to learn German unless you are only visiting for a couple of weeks. If you plan to live, study, or work in Germany, the knowledge of Deutsch is irreplaceable. Of course, some works especially in tech doesn’t require Deutsch. However, general living, traveling, and socializing becomes so much easier when you can easily express yourself in German. So get cracking…. make a plan to learn German before you arrive or do so once you are here.
2. Carry Some Cash
Cash is still widely accepted in Germany, Surprisingly, some stores accept only cash. However, this is charging. Most Germans usually carry cash worth over Euro 100 whenever they are going out to settle transactions. No doubt, it is a cash-loving nation. Make sure you change your local currency to Euros and have some ready in your wallet on your arrival.
3. Germans Are Direct
Germans usually don’t sugar-coat their response or use euphemism to soften their response. Most of them are very direct and short with their response. This is something that you may find hard to get used to. As a foreigner, you may feel it is rude. Do not feel offended or insulted.
4. Everything is Closed on Sunday (Ruhetag)
Do not forget to do your shopping on Saturday or you will regret it. Everything, including supermarkets, is closed on Sundays. Generally, Sundays are considered “day-of-rest” in Germany and it is strictly observed. In fact, you are not allowed to do any work in your home that may disturb your neighbor. Additionally, playing loud music on Sundays is not allowed.
Tip: If you live in a big city and forget to do your shopping before Sunday, you may be lucky to see a shop opened for a few hours in the city Hauptbahnhof.
5. You Pack Your Own Groceries
Most Americans are surprised that sales clerks in supermarkets expect them to pack their own groceries. Yes, this is the way things are done in Germany. You are not only expected to pack your groceries but you must do it very fast. Otherwise, you will get an angry stare from those behind you. Don’t worry, you will get used to it with time.
6. Social Life is Planned
Your German classmate may be nice. Your neighbor may be nice too. However, never show up to their home without first informing them. Germans love to plan everything to the tiniest detail. If you want to hang out with a friend or acquaintance, the time and date must be planned in advance. If you make a plan, make sure you show up and on time. Otherwise, you will be despised for wasting their time.
7. Political Correctness
Germans love to be politically correct in their conversation. Here, youths are interested in politics. It is considered rude to talk ill about another person’s culture. You may be curious about the Second World War, but do not bring it up during a conversation. It is a very sensitive topic and generally avoided in Germany.
8. You Will Learn About Green Living
Most people coming from a developing country are mostly not interested in green living until they get to Germany. Germans are very environmentally conscious. Here, wastes are separated and recycled. You pay an extra 25 cents when you buy a drink in a plastic bottle. However, you will get your money back when you return it. If you are not into green living, Germans will teach you.
9. Make An Appointment (Termin)
You need an appointment for almost everything such as – meeting with your professor, seeing a doctor, and even getting a haircut. You may even require an appointment to meet with your friend.
10. Nudity in Public
Nudity in public is pretty normal in Germany. Don’t be surprised to see a completely naked dude in the park under the sun or a gym locker room full of naked guys. There are even mixed-gender saunas where clothes are not allowed. If you don’t like it, just mind your business.