Vacation in Germany

So we are planning a vacation in Germany. How about that! Of course I got myself a “Reiseführer” with some useful hints what to do and how to behave in Germany. Here is what they write:

• Most Germans under age 50 speak at least some English.
• Typically Germans are very friendly and helpful towards foreigners including Americans.
• Do not address a German you barely know by his or her first name. Always use “Herr” or “Frau” with the last name as a sign of respect.
• Germans take life at a slower pace than Americans. Study cultural considerations to blend in and be comfortable on your vacation.
• Germany is not as customer friendly as the U.S. Be aware of this so you do not embarrass yourself and other tourists by being loud or demanding your rights.
• German drivers tend to drive faster and more aggressively than you might be used to. Some people will drive really fast and expect everyone else to accommodate them. Stay calm and let them pass as soon as you can, but don’t be bullied into unsafe maneuvers.
• The Germans have earned themselves a reputation for being stiff and strict with rules. If you are caught breaking the rules, this will be pointed out to you by a fellow citizen. The two exceptions to rules in Germany seem to be queues and speed limits.
• It is considered bad manners to eat with your elbows resting on the table. Keep only your wrists on the table. If you go to a restaurant with your German friends, you may want to pay attention to do so, too.
• Germany is a very safe country. Crimes rates are low and the rule of law is strictly enforced.

Check out the full Guide here.

We will be in Germany from March 6th to March 31st. If we get our American passport in Time that is. Check out the plans so far.