Which of these points surprised you the most and which ones did you already know about? Let me know in the comments below! 👇 Also, if you have more tips that you wanna share with people who plan on visiting Germany in the future, please feel free to share those as well! 😊 Let's help everyone have an amazing time in Germany once it's possible to travel again! 🇩🇪❤️
The sunday is free die to a contract between government from 19th century and chzrches. WHO needs 7 x 24 grocery Shopping ? In the 90s you could do grocery only from 9 to 19 and in Saturdays from 9 to 13 ... and then they added thursday evening Till 21. Guess what. did work till 1995 or so and No one started
Important addon: Even if electronic payment is possible, many locations accept only bank cards, not credit cards, as they are not that widespread in germany. Especially when visiting restaurants, either bring cash or check in advance whether credit cards are accepted.
@@SYCHR0N There was a change. Covid pushed electronic payment. Apple Pay works at many super markets (I know only one without credit card payment), restaurants, bakery... If you can pay contactless, apple pay will work.
None, they are all very good. Are Germans afraid of getting their credit or debit card hacked. Is cash the norm because its not as traceable as cards and Germans think that people might go through their transactions.
about jaywalking. I (german) was in colombia and in the middle of the night I stopped at a pedestrian light. then a stranger stopped beside me and we waited for the light turning green. no cars in 2 minutes. then we realised that we are both germans :D
About 30 years ago my parents visited Germany for a vacation. I'm unsure of what city they were in, but after arriving at their hotel, they went out to see the town. They were careful to note down the name of the street their hotel was on, copying it off a street sign. Anyway, when ready to find their way back to the hotel they realized several of the streets had the same name as they'd marked down. Later they learned they'd copied down a German sign that said "one way".
I'll play. Don't worry about ice in your soft drink unless you have sensitive teeth. You can usually get a free refill if it doesn't come from a bottle or a can. And you can always ask for no ice or just a little if that is your preference. Even after it has been delivered. They'll take the glass away and bring you a new one as you request it to be served. Most fast food restaurants will have a machine where you can refill your cup yourself. In a restaurant where you are seated by the staff, and if you drink the house coffee, your wait person will often come by to refill your cup to keep it hot and fresh. This costs you nothing and all you need to do is gesture to cover your cup if you have had enough. If they are busy and you are getting low, just get their attention and point to your cup (and gently smile) and they will get to you as soon as they are free. This is also true for tea in asian restaurants and sushi bars, but they usually bring an insulated carafe so large, I've never been able to finish it.
@@I_Have_The_Most_Japanese_Music excuse you? I don't need anyone telling me what to watch also if the suggested channel's name isn't "the Hot American Chick in Germany" then your description of it is pretty disrespectful
As a frequent traveller to Germany I would agree with everything you have said. I would also add learning basic German words like please, thank you, hello etc. Yes Germans are very good with their English, but greeting in German, they'll pick you arent and will help in English. When you are at a busy place like a train station and you want to buy food, for example, stand back from the crowd, work out what you want so you dont delay others, then once you know what you want, i simply greet them with "allo" (hello) point at the item and say "Ein Stück bitte" (one piece please) and place the cash on the plate in front of the server, take your change and item and leave with the item and change and a wave and "danke" (thanks). To Americans out there reading this, dont complain that things in Germany are not like they do things in the US. Most hotels do not have ice machines, AC is not as common as it is in the US, sodas are not bottomless and are often more expensive than beer. The reason to travel is to experience new things and the different ways that people live. So embrace it.
When Feli said: Don't be thrown off if you speak to someone in German and they reply in English. I immediately thought of one of my upstairs neighbors. He's from the UK and is learning German and I'm from Germany and trying to brush up on my English (especially when talking). When we talk with each other, he talks in German and I in English, which is quite funny when other people hear us with our accents 😂
Actually for both of you learning the languages better, it would make sense to agree on special days for each language, e.g. Monday is English day, Tuesday is German day, and so on.
@@kathom67 damn, we should've used this when a guy from kansas was living here... he speaks german decently but we mid-aged cosmopolitial were all like "yeah, don't worry, we all speak english just fine..." and so we mostly just chilled out speaking english all the time while actually wanted to teach him more german :D
I don't understand why, as french who lives in France, I like watching a german girl talking about differences between USA and Germany. 😁😁 It makes me feel I am traveling during the lockdown. Moreover as many french I love Germany. Vive l'amitié entre la France et l'Allemagne !! 🇨🇵🇩🇪❤
As a German I had many bad times in France and Paris. When I was there with a pupils exchange, when I was there two or three times with my family and when I was there with my girlfriend. Now my girlfriend is my wife and we have two sons, which where 12 and 14 in 2019. We drove around with a camper 14 days. And I don't know why, but everything was positive. Even if there are still many older people who don't speak any English, but they tried to help. We had a very good time. Maybe it was because of the European Union - we feel as one now. Maybe it is because we are now far away from the big wars, instead of 1988 or 1990 or 1994. But I am sure we will come back more often... Thanks. Merci beaucoup et aurevoir!
@@MartinSagel I think I know what you mean. I was born in 1988 and fortunately I grew up in peaceful Europe. In school I learnt the construction of the EU based on the German/France friendship. I had to learn all the couples : De Gaulles/Adenauer, Brandt/Pompidou, Shmidt/Giscard d Estaing, khol/Mitterand and Chirac/Schroder. So basically it is natural for my generation to consider Germany as our closest friend and partner. In the other hand when I talk to my grandmother, (she is 96 today), who has known WW2 and grew up in total period even she likes EU because it brings Peace, she explains me she is still quite suspicious with german people. Depends on generation, the feelings are completely. Of course what I say it is really general and every one is different. Anyway maybe you had a bad experience with french late of the 80s because German national team beat France in semi final of the world cup both in 82 and 86. 🤣🤣
@@pierrotm4450 I am glad to hear that, dude. I've been to Paris too a few times and also in some other parts of France, especially the south. I love your country. What I've noticed the people in Paris are more hasty and rude. I guess it's a stressful city. But everywhere else even in Marseille, people are very nice and helpful. Well OK depends on who you meet, right? The German activist against racism and former captain Jürgen Schwandt said that very precisely: "In my travels, I've met good people all over the world. And also a few assholes. It has nothing to do with skin color, passport or religion."
I loved the customer service in Europe. I’m from Canada which has basically the same customer service style as the USA and I hate the constant annoying fake-friendly conversations and they never leave you alone. Germany was great because they did what I needed and left me alone and when I needed them again you just wave them over
Hehe and I might add, that in the US I also often had to flag the waiters down. I had my worst service experience in Las Vegas in a Hooters restaurant (what else would you expect?). The waitress really managed to bring me the check belonging to another table - twice. I mean how inattentive could one be? And between these two wrong checks I had to wait for about 10 minutes in a not crowded restaurant. I've never experienced such a nerve wrecking waitress in Germany.
I prefer something in middle, like here in Czechia. Waiter ask you what you want and then time to time come to you and ask again and that's all. When I was in Croatia or in Portugal, we were sitting there 1 hour and nobody cared about us so I realized I have to wave to waiter, but that's very rude in my country, you have to always wait before waiter comes to you here.
in Germany customer : hello am searching for ( anything) ? seller : we dont have it any more or you can find there . and you go for your own . if he/ she came with to show it where you can find it , this maybe can happen once in a life time . customer : thanks Seller : no word
Definitely learned about cash culture in Germany the hard way. I ordered a coffee and they only accepted cash. The guy gave me the coffee. So nice! I felt so bad I took a train a half hour to the ATM and back and gave him a big tip for me being a doofus.
The first time I went to Germany, 1973, I was in München and looking for with the post office. I saw a couple of Polizei and asked them for directions auf deutsch. They answered me in perfect English. The experience made such a favorable impression on a then 16 year old American boy.
Similar experience when I first went in 1985 as an exchange student. We would make a game of going into a store to buy something and speaking with the cashier, with the objective of trying to get the cashier not to respond in English.
I often hear non native speakers kind of annoyed about that, because they travel to germany try to learn better german and everyone answers in english.
Nowadays it's the opposite imo. If you start the conversation in German, the whole conversation will be in German even when your accent or bad grammar tells you're a foreigner.
One experience I'll never forget was when I was in Germany for work. We went to a Chinese restaurant for lunch. Hearing a Chinese person speak english with a german accent is something to wrap your head around. Tschüß!
I had a similar experience when I was in Ireland! As an American English speaker, it was sometimes difficult for me to understand Irish accents and my comprehension was compounded when I encountered ethnic Asians with Irish accents. 😎
Try asking for food at a Chinese restaurant in New York and getting the waiter to answer you in Spanish. It was hilarious! I went back many times and tipped this chinese dude handsomely. He had me pegged as a Puerto Rican. Slick dude!
Had the same experience I had as an American stationed in Katterbach. Chinese restaurant with a Chinese family that spoke English with a German accent. Very odd.
I visited the Schwartzwald with my family, some years ago, armed with my school German language learning. Every time I spoke German in the shops and restaurants, I could make myself understood. Then we met another English family at a swimming pool and I remarked on how few Germans spoke English. The husband said he spoke no German but had no problem being understood in English. Puzzled by this, I asked a young waitress who spoke faultless English and she told me it was a matter of courtesy in Germany to reply in whatever language a visitor used. Lesson learned!
Also... as I tell people traveling to Germany... if you atleast try to speak German most Germans love that you are trying and will be alot more responsive and nice... will then switch to english because they realize you may be struggling... I may be biased but Germans are some of the nicest people I know... Yes there are exceptions but for the most part they are wonderfully warm people...
We like to help. Most of the times ;-) . The main difference is, that we Germans are not your best buddy at the first few Meetings. But later on, when you reached the "friend zone", we are normally friends for the rest of the live. Exceptions are a given.
As someone that lived in Germany for over a decade, this is absolutely true. Just try to speak the language. They will be happy you cared to try then they will speak English to make the conversation more efficient.
I don't speak any German. I have spent considerable time there and enjoyed every minute. I generally have found people helpful and friendly. I have also learned some lessons the hard way. You can't get all the cultural differences from a book or video. Just stay relaxed and friendly and everything will work out. At least they did for me!
The recipe for Germany and any other country in the world is: be prepared to be surprised, enjoy the differences to your home country, whether they're positive or negative and be friendly! Cordiality makes everything easier and better.
I’m reading this in comment sections here and there, and I wonder if the almighty algorithm will some day start ignoring postings with the word algorithm in it. ^^
I like how since I watch "some" metal (rock) videos, the algorithm thinks i would like a guy pretending to be a UPS driver jumping on a pee-ann-ohh at a mall ... see how i didn't feed the machine there.
Some years ago while visiting Germay, I decided to take a walk through the city after dinner. I got a little disoriented on the way back to my hotel, so stopped in front of a large hotel that I was sure my German speaking friend would know... I phoned her so she could come and pick me up. She asked me which hotel I was standing in front of, so I looked up and read her the name of the hotel printed on the archway over my head. I told her I was in front of the "Hotel Eingang". ... Which made her laugh because the sign meant, "Hotel Entrance". 😅🤣😂
You should definitely come someday. But then, don’t forget to visit the north!! Germany is not bavaria and Oktoberfest ist not all over the country. Hamburg e.g. is a beautiful city and the north or the Baltic Sea are beautiful areas to be! :-)
When you use a restroom, remember to put some change in the plate. The person, usually a lady, who is sitting by the door is responsible for keeping the restrooms clean and the change you place in the plate is a large part of their pay. Be nice and generous because it's a shitty job, literally!
That's actually hilarious. So our waiters rely on tips while German bathroom attendants rely on tips. Inversely the US bathroom attendants get paid properly.
When you use a restroom, remember that the lady who is sitting by the door and who is responsible for keeping the restrooms clean is fully employed and paid and work-insured by the place and doesn't need to depend on alms to complement an otherwise exploitative pay.
@@kaldo_kaldo Nah, that's that guy talking out of his arse. Cleaning staff is fully paid and work-insured by either the place or a contractor unless self-employed, so, tips are literally gratuity and, if anything, a remnant of older times.
I spent 5+ years in Germany in the early '80s and I have only fond memories of the people and country. I achieved a Jagdschein [after a lengthy course and much experience in the field] I was able to [with my new BMW] travel all over Deutchland and the rest of Europe. Wonderful memories!
I lived in Munich for 3 years, from 1986 to the end of 1989. I miss it terribly. I recall how overwhelmed I was when I returned home, even having a panic attack in a store because the experience was too much. Things are done so well in Germany, with respect of others and quality of life being primary, that it felt chaotic to me to be surrounded by so much over the top *everything* that is here. I had my first child in a German Women’s Klinik and even the maternity care was so superior to the U.S. that my mother (a maternity and NICU nurse) was impressed and stunned by the difference. She said if she spoke German she’d move there in a heartbeat. The country is stunningly beautiful-so much so that it takes your breath away. I remember the first spring there as if it was yesterday. Every window had a flower box, every street filled with beauty. Even the cemeteries are cared for and treated as gardens by loved ones. Bicycle paths everywhere, everyone seemed to hike, people of all ages enjoyed the outdoors. Public transportation is amazing, clean, and plentiful. There was always something to do, somewhere to go. I never wanted to leave. I want to go back more than anything. We were there during the Cold War and our 3 years were up shortly after the wall came down. What a time that was! I would so love to see the entire county now that it is whole. I’d love to know how it feels to be there now. Oh, how I want to explore it fully! Though I remember very little of the language since I hadn’t used it for so long, when I hear someone speaking German I get a little closer, close my eyes and smile. I’m always surprised by realizing I have a lump in my throat and I feel a bit homesick. Germany is part of me. ❤❤❤
When you travel in east Germany today, you will find whole areas looking like brand new. We (westgermans) spend so much money to bring everything there on a new standard, that many places are nowadays nicer than the (old) west ones.If you love Germany, just do it an learn german. We really need people that can work in jobs like healthcare and it technology. We losse about 400.000 specialists every year they say …
@@haggihug3162 That is not true that the West Germans paid for everything. All Germans (West and East) paid the solidarity surcharge for the reconstruction of the East for a certain period of time after reunification. Please do not forget the historical context: the East paid the largest part of the war debt to the Russians (reperations, deindustrialization), while the West had the American Marshall Plan for reconstruction. It is true, however, that many West German cities urgently needed the money from the social tax to modernize their infrastructure and restore their buildings after reunification. They should have made one plan for the whole country.
These are all excellent tips. My biggest recommendation for Americans going to Germany is to do sufficient advance research on where you are going. Learn in advance how the S-Bahn and U-Bahn systems work (how to pay for and validate tickets for various time periods and zones, etc.). Public transportation in Berlin and other cities is extensive and prompt -- you do NOT need a car. Book tickets through the Internet for museums and other places you want to go. You can print out the tickets at home, saving you time and hassle when you get there. This is Germany -- you get no points for "winging it." And seriously, do NOT stand in the bike lanes, unless you want to bring home a tire-track tattoo.
This is so right! I‘m german and if I visit another city around Germany, the first thing I do, is to check how the ÖPNV (German for public transport) works because it‘s different everywhere (and not everywhere of the same quality). Also, always check out what you want to visit because of Ruhetage (basically means „days off“) for museums and other attractions, that are open on sundays. Bike lanes! Very important!
My first time in Germany, I noticed the price of gasoline/benzine was about the same as in the US. Until, that is, when I refueled my rental vehicle, I found out that price was for a litre, not a gallon.
I have traveled a couple of times in Germany and found all of this to be true, or at least consistent with my experience there. Germans are not overly talkative, but are happy to help if you ask respectfully. This happened several times when I got confused at the train stations. It's a great place and I'd love to go back.
I lived in Germany from 1986-89. I found that the most rude people that I met there were Americans. I always found the German people kind and very helpful when needed. They may not have been big on starting conversations, but, for the most part, were more than happy to spend time talking with you. . . . .as long as you were respectful.
I think you're right about "the rules" in Germany. I was traveling with a friend in either Germany or Switzerland and we were talking to each other while riding on the train, maybe a little loudly. After a while, a man got our attention and said, "This is the quiet car." I saw that he was right - there was a sign that said "Quiet Car." I felt sorry for having done the wrong thing and for being the stereotypical rude American.
Something similar happened to me in Korea, except there it was apparently just a cultural rule for the whole train (KTX high-speed) that I hadn’t been aware of, where carrying on a conversation at a normal volume with a fellow passenger I’d just met was considered rude and we were ‘shushed’ by the person in the next row. The train glided on in serene silence, the color TV monitors on the ceiling muted, displaying only subtitles in four languages, Korean, English, Chinese & Japanese as it showed Metropolitan promotional videos for each region we were passing through. The silence was only broken be clearly enunciated announcements over the speaker system for the next approaching stop in the same languages, matched by scrolling light-bar displays at the front of the car. Any other conversations were hushed and brief, cellphones were well contained, though a couple of brief conversations did occur.
@@Vivi_9 KTX is the bullet train system, which is significantly more expensive and both a great deal faster and more comfortable than the Mugunghwa system, where I don’t believe you’d be shushed. Your choice of the word dystopian is important. Korea is the same country that produced both Snowpiercer and Parasites, each of which powerfully addresses the issue of class stratification, and the first of which specifically does so with the physical allegory of a horribly stratified, even cannibalistic, if I remember correctly, endless train journey through a post-apocalyptic frozen hellscape.
@@jonathanjordahl5345 indeed, I find it interesting when comparing Eastern and Western cultures.. my knowledge is only surface level, but I thought it was interesting that in the west where people are more free to behave without consideration for others people are becoming increasingly narcissistic and downright unpleasant to deal with, whereas in a country where people are much more used to the idea of being under the thumb of authority their inherently collectivist nature shines through in basic community-based ideas like not being a loud tit on the train.
Years ago it was a report in Daily Mail. One Scottish Pub put a sign on the door "Loud American Tourists are not Welcomed!" 😳 That's weird as they have their own loud customers. Maybe it's too much for the owner of that pub. 😀
I was stationed in Germany from 05 -10. I never had an issue with customer service. I appreciated that they left you alone and didnt bug you constantly. They are reserved and do keep to themselves. Which is another thing that I appreciated. Bars weren't loud unless there were alot of Americans there.
I'm first generation from Austrian parents. Now I know why American service is so irritating and intrusive and annoying. I found that in Italy also; a waiter takes the order, does what is needed and leaves one alone. But; somehow when I needed something, there he was without interrupting. Love that.
Been living in Germany for a while. Once I got all the paperwork and bank details done, I wanted to buy a membership for the gym so I can work out and stay in shape. I saw this place near my Uni and it had a big board that says ‘Gymnasium’. I thought to myself, how convenient, I can workout right after the lectures are done for the day😅 Only thing that put me off about that place was that I never saw anyone coming out of it who looked like they work out. They all looked like school-age kids and there were lots and lots of them. And I was like ‘that’s odd’ 🧐 Now that my German has drastically improved, I’ve come to realize that ‘Gymnasium’ in Germany means High School 😂😂😂 Viele Grüße aus Schweinfurt ❤☺️🇩🇪
I would like to return to Germany sometime, I do miss it. Story: I grew up in the U.S. speaking English and took French in school. I was going to be working in Central America, so I took a full time (45 hours per week) Spanish language class, and was in Panama, Honduras and El Salvador for five months. Then, I found out that I was going to be going to Germany. I ended up taking a full time (45 hours per week) German course and learned German. I remember as an American, being in France trying to buy a souvenir to send home, talking to the vendor in German. I was an American in France speaking German to a French woman... Once I realized what I was doing, I stopped and realized that I had forgotten French. It took a few moments to come back to me, but I was able to speak French and get the item. It is amazing how your brain operates when fully immersed in another culture and language. I was in Germany for only 19 months, and loved every minute of it.
Well, it might have changed in a few places but most places that only took cash before still only take cash. What has changed is that discounters or supermarkets have become a bit more aggressive in their attempt to push paying without cash on customers.
As an American soldier who has been to 5 different nations (including Germany) thanks to military service NEVER forget that YOU are the foreigner in the host nation. Show the same respect for the hosts that you expect of others visiting the States and you'll get along fine. It'll even be a fun adventure.
@@tweek7284 - You would be surprised, or you may not be, at the number of Americans that travel in Germany and act in the most rude and obnoxious ways towards those around them. Many Americans carry an attitude that they are far superior to everyone else and expect to be treated as such.
The transportation system in the USA is a mess. No, it's a catastrophe. Almost like not existing at all. I was there in 2004, in a village about 10 kilometres away from Philadelphia Airport. I had 5 (FIVE!) hours to get my flight. And I almost missed it. No taxi driver was available in all this time, there was no tram, then I searched the next bus station and found out that I had to wait two hours for the next bus (without any hint where that bus would go), and when it arrived I was told that, yes, the bus will go to the airport, too, but will only arrive there in about two hours...which was simply too risky for me. I only got my flight by driving with my fathers car to the airport and informing him that I had to take it and hopefully a colleague could drive him there to get his car back. Since that day, I completely disagree with the term "Servicewüste Deutschland". If Germany is a service-desert, the USA are a black hole in terms of service.
I still am amazed at how good your English is. I used to teach accents to actors and I'm usually very good at picking up something in people's accents that will tip me off as to from where they come. I'd be hard-pressed to figure you out if I didn't know you were German. Kudos.
Hi Timothy, different between Feli and US Citizien.... She speaks clearly and distingushly without any accent. OK, her pronounciation became more and more US Style
@@TimothyOBrien1958 no in fact Americans, and in fact all English speakers get a little lazy on their speech and change things up. Her accent is spot on usually just like my grandmother. Who emigrated from Germany and learned English so well she has 0 foreign accent. Even when she was young
@@TimothyOBrien1958 But sometime the pronunciation is a little too precise that Americans would not say all the time. Like certain “big words” for example
@@LG-bs1rs I'm from Ireland originally. My grammar was spot on until I went to school here. I went from reading on a 3rd grade level in 1st but was forced to write right-handed. I became dyslexic, with ADHD, and I began to stutter. I've overcome all and I pride myself on my diction. I also became a professional writer. Don't lump all of us together. I take great offense.
re: Small talk: This happened in Chicago, in the states that really struck me about small talk. My late partner, who had gone to school and then lived in Germany for a number of years as a translator, were riding the subway and came across 2 German travellers looking at a transit map. (I swear, we could never go anywhere without running into some Germans. He loved it.) I don't speak German but know the sound of it and he went right over as they were having trouble figuring out where they needed to go. He launched into German to help out and they continued. He got them straightened out, but it was all very direct and 'do this, do that' sounding. I asked him after they were on their way: "they didn't sound surprised you knew German or even how you got your accent (it was Hanoverian which I guess is the "purest" German) and spoke so well." He told me Germans just get right to it and don't "do" small talk. Very odd for this American... Great channel!!
Yes, indeed, even in business relations, it's very different from the USA; I know that when there are meetings, let's say to sign an important contract, American firms start with lunch and smalltalk and then after some time they do the work. In Germany, the work is done first and afterwards, when (for example) the treaty is signed, dinner and wine or beer and smalltalk is like the reward for the good cooperation or the good work. Even for me, I would feel uncomfortable getting too private too soon, with people I don't know at all.
yes tru germans are very straight in conversations and are not good/dont like small talk. But thats as she said just a cultural differents they are not trying to be rude or so.
@@EK-gr9gd actually in America pre-1980 or so we used to have the "three-martini lunch". Martinis are quite strong alcoholic drinks & the lunch with alcohol was thought of as the way to "lubricate" business - get deals done. Worked pretty well. Did Americans realize that getting sloshed while taking a 2 1/2 hour lunch mid-workday was bad for health or productivity & stop the practice? Not really. In the end, changes in tax codes "mostly" killed off the practice. Food & entertainment ceased being fully deductible during business lunches & dropped to 50%.
You have such a lovely narration manner; clear pronunciation, cheerful attitude, politeness towards cultural differences. It was very pleasant to listen to you. Thank you!
Hi Dolores, I hope my comment didn't sound like some kind of invasion of privacy. Your comment tells of a wonderful woman with a beautiful heart, which prompted me to comment. I don't usually write in the comments section, but I think you deserve this compliment. If you don't mind, can we be friends? Thank you, God bless you....🌹🌹
As a midwesterner who has been to Germany a number of times, I can tell you all of this is true. Its good to know these things before going, otherwise the service differences and lack of small talk can affect your perception. I was fortunate to have known beforehand and I just accepted it when I got there. I totally love it there though and everyone should go, its a great experience and there are many wonderful people and incredible sights. I can't wait to be able to go back, I miss it there a lot!
I was in the military stationed in Germany in the early 80's. I absolutely LOVED Germany in many, many ways. I was aware of the "ugly" American stories and DID NOT want to be included in that stereo type. So, on my own, I ventured out to the local pubs and restaurants outside the Kaserns I was stationed at being mindful not to go to the places nearest the Kaserns. I found that once Germans knew that I was willing to speak their language, no matter how bad, they responded with kindness and consideration; and would practice their broken English! I also found that the eldest Germans were the most friendliest, and most interested in American politics. I was compelled to answer tons of American political questions, esp about Ronald Reagan then about the Kennedy's! As an American 20 something at the time, I had infantile knowledge of our political systems or of Reagan or Kennedy's other than what I remembered from our media. So I did my best to field questions and I totally faked many of the conversations in that regard. But Never did any one German call me out. Only when I mingled with the younger generations, Germans in their 20's, 30's, that I became a "target" of their angst. I was never assaulted but I was absolutely made uncomfortable. I will always have fond memories of Germany and I will return to visit some day. Fun fact my eldest son was born in Weisbaden, an American born abroad. I still, although fading, remember many German words and sentences. Being stationed, rather living in Germany was the best 3 yrs of my life! Keep up the great vids chatzi.
You and I are on the same page. Too bad that not all soldiers were respectful and caused problems with the Polizei. I had a great time in Germany. Respect is everything when you travel outside your country. I have traveled all over the USA, Europe and the Caribbean where I live. People are the same all over the world. Just don't act like you are superior or try to impose your values when you travel. If you can't do that. stay the hell home!
I can relate to your experience! Everything you described it’s still how it is even now in 2022. I was suprised how much they like American politics. I had to know how to respond to their questions/ expressions.
You have to HAVE TO .. hunt down and view the limited series from Germany... "Deutschland 1983". No one I could imagine will have an experience in the arts that is so relevant to YOU. There were two follow ups .. the 3rd is an essay on the fall of East Berlin. DEUTSCHLAND 1983 just amazing kismet. Do not fail in this quest.
This was interesting to watch from Wales as an English - occasionally we’re more similar to us, but much more similar to Germany. Interesting differences though - gut Video, danke schön
My favorite thing about houses in Germany is the Rolladen (window blinds). The windows in general are awesome as most windows open two different ways. Probably the thing I remember most about shopping is having to have your own shopping bags with you as they don't provide them in most stores. Also, in the area we lived the stores were all closed a couple of hours in the afternoon which took a while to get used to. Love Germany.
Thank you for sharing. I lived in various locations in Germany for over 12 years while serving in the U.S. Army (All of my 20s). It was difficult coming back to the U.S., because I had become so acustomed to living in Germany for so long. Everything you stated is exactly as I remember. It doesn't sound like much has changed. Germany was a great place to live. There is so much to do and experience.
"Culture shock" is universal! (As you well know.) I haven't been to Germany in many years, but your points applied then, as now. Keep up the good (interesting) work!
Regarding ATM fees: Bank of America and Deutsche Bank are both part of the Global ATM Alliance, so you can get cash from each other’s machines with no fees (except the currency conversion fee).
It is still cheaper to take some currency with you. I live in the Uk and if I travel into Europe I always take 500 euros with me in various note denominations, if I'm there for a week or more. You can usually get local currency at major bank outlets for a reasonable exchange rate but it is always better to arrive with some in case you want a drink, food or take a cab from the airport.
I generally recommend germans who go to the US (or in general to non EU countries) to get a credit card with 0 fees for abroad. There are loads of them and usually they cost nothing in the first or 2nd year. Also credit cards are often a lot better abroad than the german "debit cards" so that is often a surprise to germans as a lot of germans almost never use credit cards or may not even own one at all.
@@colinp2238 many people in the US don’t live in major cities so they’re probably not going to have access to foreign currencies from their local bank. I live in a smaller town so when I travel to Europe I’ll just get money from the cash station. In order to decrease the amount of fees I recommend that you get higher amounts each time you go to the cash station because many of the fees are per transaction.
@@pjschmid2251 Can't you request it and maybe collect it a couple days later? Atleast banks here in Germany usually offer that service. They may not always have certain foreign currencies in storage but you can request it (be it USD or Tanzanian shilling or anything in between) and you can usually collect it the next day or a couple days later.
@@pjschmid2251 I guess that you would be going to an international airport, so you could arrange to collect money from a branch in that city, if you could be bothered to that is.
I love everything about Germany. I found the people kind, funny and very direct. I love how they know how to truly relax. Bike riding along the River and enjoying life.
My friend is currently hosting a girl from Munich. She's a delightful young woman. I love speaking with her about the differences she finds here vs there. I even told her about your channel.
By my comments, you can tell I just discovered your channel, and as a foreign national living in Germany, I find many things useful. My perception of Germans has changed severally over the last 7 years of living here. The “cold” attitude was shocking at first, but now I have met many nice people who sometimes just come up to me. I once talked for an hour with a stranger in a shop. I was just fascinated with the person’s friendliness.😊
Thank You or Danke Schön for your video. It was really informative and good. My family and I are planning a trip back to Germany, Switzerland and Austria in May. We lived there for 5 years and our son was born there. So thank you for the refresher.😊
Grüße aus Texas! Ich habe mehrere Jahre in Europa gelebt, hauptsächlich in Schweden und Deutschland. = Greetings from Texas! I lived several years in Europe, mainly in Sweden and Germany. Your tips about living in Germany are exactly right. I enjoyed living in Germany, and I have many fond memories! It is true. There are some cultural differences in Germany. Here are a few more that I'd like to share: 1. Americans have the reputation of being loud in the general public. Europeans (in general) don't speak loudly where everyone around them can overhear their conversation. So, please speak more softly in restaurants, on public transportation, walking on the street/inside a store, etc. Of course, this doesn't apply at a sporting event or at a beer or wine fest. Prost! Use common sense! 2. Germans do follow the rules. Unlike in the States where some people try to challenge the rules, it doesn't happen in Germany. And, yes, they really do wait for the green pedestrian light before crossing the street, even if there isn't any traffic. 3. Germans like cleanliness, tidiness and order. For example, the majority of Germans have very clean cars, both inside and out. You'll be impressed by even the taxis in Germany. Windows on German houses actually glisten! When entering someone's home, it is customary to remove your shoes before going inside. 4. Germans are more formal when addressing one another. In the German language, there is a formal and an informal way of addressing people. When meeting someone for the first time, Americans are very quick to address someone by his/her first name. This isn't as common in Germany, especially when you first meet. It's always safe to address someone by his/her last name, such as Frau (Ms.) Schmidt or Herr (Mr.) Hoffman. ALWAYS address a person this way when you are speaking to an older person and/or in a business or professional setting. (If you are from Texas or somewhere in the South, you can probably relate. In our part of the country, it's our custom to address persons whom we don't know well as sir or ma'am or as Mr. Thomas or Ms. Smith). 5. Germans are very punctual! 10:00 means 10.00. Don't be late. It's very rude. If you are running late, be courteous and call the person to let them know. The 24-hour clock is used to tell time in Germany, just like military time in the States. So, 8:00 a.m. is 08.00 (notice the one "."). 2:00 p.m. is 14.00. 6. If you should be invited to someone's home for a meal, it is customary to take a small gift, such as a bottle of wine or some flowers. 7. Lastly, please mind your manners and be on your best behavior. Attempt to learn some German, especially words like Bitte (please) and Danke (thank you). When I first moved to Deutschland/Germany, I didn't speak any German. It took some time, but I got pretty good with the language. Germany is a great country and the German people are wonderful. If you have a German friend, you have a TRUE friend. Auf Deutsch: Ich werde die schönen Zeiten in Deutschland nie vergessen. Vielen Dank, Deutschland! Dieser Texaner wird immer dein Freund sein! Alles Gute!!
I take exception regarding Americans being louder than Germans. I don't hear loud Americans when I'm in tourist areas. and Germans get every bit as loud in the Kneipes.
I spent a wonderful summer in Heidelberg...loved it! So beautiful, the culture, the people, and I didn’t feel that they were “cold or impolite’. Just different. As an American, I tried to always speak German, even if I didn’t know any, but I felt it made a difference. I did get yelled at when I tried to cross the street!! Ha Ha!
I was in Munich for Oktoberfest several years ago.... I forgot about the differences between German and American culture after a few hours of drinking. In addition to Germans, I was drinking with English, Irish, French, and Italians. We had a blast - the best international gathering I ever attended - fuel by good beer!
My partner and I have given up on the Divided Kingdom and are moving to Bamberg, Bavaria in a few months. We can't wait! This video helps us understand some of the differences, so vielen dank! We are looking forward to finally spending Euros anywhere in Europe; no more rip off currency exchange charges.
I am not from the States, but can I say that I found German people always very welcoming and friendly? I have been more than once in Germany (twice for a famous metal festival called Wacken) and I always had an amazing time and met lots of lovely people. I also had some of the best beers I've ever tried in my life..
I loved the "Tschüß" at the end. I got so used to saying it, rather than "Auf Wiedersehen", that I STILL catch myself saying it 30 years later. The problem is that not many people seem to be familiar with the word here in the States. Hearing you say that felt like I was listening to an old friend.
I definitely appreciate German waiters. There are certain rules and signals (such as the particular placement of your knife and fork), and as long as you know them, everything goes quite smoothly. In many American restaurants (the affordable chain restaurants especially) the waiter tells you their name and checks on you every 5 minutes like some sort of intensive care nurse. I find it awkward, pointless, and intrusive. Not to be too judgemental though, it's just a different culture. With fewer rules and less training, we definitely need more friendly customer service just to make things work.
My German sister wants to come and visit my family in the US. I hope she will change her mind as I cannot afford to feed her with all that delicious food they have in Germany(not here). She lives in historical town and knows the best cafe and restaurants. Since CovidLockdown it's been very bad here - food and service. Shortage. No one wants to work for 10$ per/h anymore. The best times are gone. 😢
I lived in Germany for a few years and I loved it. Can’t wait to go back and visit one day. Although back then you didn’t have the euro yet, it was still the Deutsche Mark.
Hi,I always liked what you post here on UA-cam but we are not friends yet, I Normally don't comment here on UA-cam but your unique close resemblance with an old friend of mine made me text you.
Between the customer service style, the focus on following rules, and the apathy towards small talk, Germany is looking more and more like a place in which I would be happy to live. I'm all about efficiency in all aspects of life and it seems many Germans are too.
Thank You for the informative video. I found it refreshing remembering the 6 years, that i lived in Germany. It brought back wonderful experiences. I wish the states would consider going to some of these. Munich is a wonderful city I have been their and loved it. my German friends helped explain their way of life to me so that helped. Thank you.
I have been to Germany a few times and I have never noticed people or customer service people being "unfriendly". Maybe I have just been lucky. Regarding speaking German, I had a funny experience at a Subway in Germany. I tried to order in German and the guy couldn't quite understand what I was asking for. He said in perfect English "why don't you just order in English" . Turns out he was from Canada. 😁
I think it's always a matter of expectations. And then it can obviously change somewhat from person to person. But some people at least believe that the people in the North of Germany - while generally seen more tight-lipped or taciturn perhaps - can still come off as having a more friendly or warm attitude. I know some people that grew up in East-Frisia that didn't really enjoy living in Bavaria for that reason.
@@jadasilly I had the same thing, moving from NRW to Munich. I don‘t know what itis about bavarian bakeries. Plus they didn‘t have any milk read rolls. Main reason to move back 😉
I travel extensively, and speak six languages, and often people have no awareness of the differences that I might encounter in their country. This video is fascinating to me, because it is simply so filled with useful information!
Thanks for saying - subscribe for free. For a year or so I did not press - subscribe as I did not wish to enter into any card or bank payments. The word seems to have drifted as the dictionary implies 'payment'.
I speak German pretty well but they can tell I’m English because of my accent. Most will reply in English if they can as they use it to practice the language with a native speaker. I’ve had many conversations where I only speak in German and the other person only speaks in English. It’s good practice for both parties
We spent 50% of our time in Germany for work until COVID. These tips would have been so helpful five years ago!! :) Parking is always a challenge and putting the time you parked on the flat clock on your dashboard was new for us. Also, bringing your own bags to all stores to carry your purchases was a must. We love watching your videos...we can’t wait until travel opens up again!
In 1987, I was just 22 years & I went to Würzburg from Mumbai for my studies in the university. I virtually knew nothing about Germany or Germans. No social media then. Even my German language was at rudimentary stages. Learnt everything from the scratch (thanks to my stay in a studentenwohnheim). After a decade I was almost Germanized. Germans used to ask me if my father or mother was a german. So much for the transition. 😁😁😁
I lived in Würzburg for a few years. It is one on the most beautiful, friendliest cities I have ever been in. I would move back, today, if I were able.
I've made three trips to Germany. The first many years ago on a business incentive program where I was a host for other Americans coming into in multiple groups on multiple days. Naturally we dealt almost exclusively through people who were multi-lingual. And, since our groups were bringing substantial economic value with them, we all treated very well. The other two trips were with my significant other who is a German native. Being with a native eliminated many of the problems you discussed. But I did find myself alone, often in stores, and had little trouble especially in the larger cities. On my first trip, I took a drive from Munich into Austria with a couple of friends and did have some the problems you mentioned, but nothing severe. I like Germany a lot and look forward to returning.
I was in Dresden and Berlin. I'd like to visit other cities this spring. Germans are very friendly, speak very good in english, and the regular stores are quite cheap.
You shuld come to the North of Germany! If you like citys Bremen and Hamburg are lovely. In case you would like to see something different the Nordsee and it's Wattenmeer and Watt is very special, smal locations there are always a nice visit!
i found your channel. love your videos. wow, you speak great english. you don't even have an accent. you're giving me reasons to go to germany after this pandemic passes.
One more thing about the restaurant when paying. You can pay together (zusammen) or separately (getrennt) I found this SOOO cool because you don't have to do the separate payment on your own when dinning out with friends. The staff will come with a wallet and if you say (getrennt) she will let you know how much your share cost and how much your friend's share cost so you can pay your own share accordingly. This really cuts out the awkwardness especially if you have friends who tends to ' forget' to pay you after you pay first.
You're right. When you are in a restaurant with another couple or some other friends and it becomes time to pay, the waitre / waitress will normaly ask you first "getrennt oder zusammen?" (means: divided or together), cause most of us Germans like to pay seperate... 😅🙃
I went to Germany back in 2001, when I was 16 years old. Everything you talked about I noticed. Like every single thing LOL. I went during Christmas so it was lots of fun. The only thing you didn't mention that was quite a shock to me was nudity in media that was meant to family friendly!
Nudity doesn't impact family friendliness by german standards. Maybe "full nudity" but definitely not naked boobs. Violence on the other hand is a MAJOR factor in that regard. For all kinds of media: TV, movies, video games etc..
@@lane0mator Also allowing all kinds of violence on TV. Btw one thing that particularly shocked me about quite a few US news channels I have seen is that they show accident victims if they got crushed in a car etc. . This is especially a problem if they arrive at the scene while there are still ambulances etc. around. They just zoom in onto corpses etc.. That is honestly so crazy to me (here they wouldn't even show that image blurred, let alone raw. It's just disrespectful to the victims but also imo just morally wrong, let alone the impact it can have on kids or mentally unstable adults etc.).
No, I had traveled to Europe a few times previously, so I was fairly prepared. The one thing that caught me off guard was that national holidays follow the same closure rules as Sundays. My stay in Munich included Labor Day...fortunately, I stayed next to the main train station, but the grocery store there was PACKED! 😅
Credit Cards: The acceptance has changed rapidly since Corona. In the meantime you can pay nearly everywhere with credit card in germany, even small amounts of money. Credit cards (Visa and Mastercard, not American Express!) are very well acepted and maybe only a problam at very small snack businessrs.
This is going in a list of important videos for reference. A bucket list item for me is going to Germany. Especially because I want to try and track down more of my genealogy.
I fell in love with a German woman while we were both on vacation. Coincidentally, she's also from Munich. She was super cold as we first met. I was drawn to her and her confident beauty. I broke her down with my constant chatter over that first day and she grew to give me more details of her life. Unfortunately, we broke it off after I left Munich because the timing wasn't good for either of us. I hope to see her later on in life.
The part about German people speaking English is so true. Whenever I went snowboarding in Germany, my boyfriend and I talked to the people in German. I always had to laugh because they answered me in German, but my boyfriend in English, even if we were both talking to the same person 😂😂 It happened multiple times too.
I think you should have mentioned “The German Stare”. I experienced this going on a train. Man did he stare me down when I thought I was politely asking if I could sit in his row. It was quite disturbing. But I didn’t let it ruin my trip.
I am German and I don't really know what this is all about. I've never experienced "The German Stare" - or I am part of it and don't realize it. In my opinion this is just a normal behavior to look at other people. Then I think it might be a misunderstanding: Sometimes I try to look in the eyes of strange people passing by, just in order to greet them or smile at them. Especially when I come back from a trip to Asia (where people are so open and friendly) and try to maintain this behavior. Interesting observation: now during the lockdown in Germany, going out for a walk became a thing even more than it was before. During these "corona walks" I often get a smile back. In the past I might be mistaken as a staring guy - but I always just wanted to be polite.
@Ali Miri I'm not sure to which experience you refer. My experience "in Asia" does perhaps not fit to Japan. I've never been there. In Vietnam, Thailand or Indonesia I got the feeling that people are very polite and often smile to me when passing by. That's what I meant above stating that people "in Asia are open and friendly".
@12:30 is soooo true. Huge culture of efficiency. Enjoy this aspect of Deutschland. It is refreshing compared to most of the superficial conversations in the USA. direct. Honest. No fluff.
Hi,I always liked what you post here on UA-cam but we are not friends yet, I Normally don't comment here on UA-cam but your unique close resemblance with an old friend of mine made me text you.
It’s been my goal to have a semester abroad in Germany for the last 4 years. Should have gone this fall but it got Covid-ed. Thank you for the tips hopefully I can use these if I go this upcoming fall 😁.
I always wonder why people are so astonished about foreign cultures. In the end you travel abroad like you go to university: to learn something new. If I had wanted everything like at home I would have stayed there.
As an American who has lived in Germany I can relate to the customer service difference. Good customer service is not just about smiling and engaging in small talk. Good customer service involves empowering an employee to resolve an issue before it ever escalates into a bad customer experience. To this day I don’t see German business structured this way and I think it is something Germany could improve upon.
I've lived in six different European countries in the last ten years, and I can vouch for the fact that it's much more a European thing (substandard customer service) than a German one. I've worked in a customer service role all my life (last 20 years in CS departments for various online businesses) and found that North American customer service is much more personable and consumer friendly than pretty much anywhere in Europe. It's definitely cultural. Good customer service does exist in European countries, but generally speaking it's more common in high-priced places like fancy hotels and restaurants than in everyday places like stores, fast food places, or when contacting mobile phone carriers or utility companies, for example.
Great video! Very informative. Same rules, 100% applies to neighbored Poland, if you happen to wander there in your travels. I let several of my friends watch this video before they travel to Germany, Poland or most of European countries for that matter. Prost!
Tip: US hairdryers usually have a discrete voltage switch for foreign travel purposes. If you locate it, you'll notice it says 125 on one side of the switch and 250 on the other. Switch it to 250 while visiting European places while using a European outlet adapter and you should be able to use it abroad.
As a german, I was actually surprised to learn that many countries do NOT dub movies in their language and have subtitles instead. Because almost all movies get dubbed in Germany I just assumed that every country does this in their language.
It´s a lot more expensive dubbing movies, shows etc. for 8 million swedish speakers than for 100 million german ones. That´s one of the, at least historical, reasons why people in countries with less spoken languages usually speak better english.
@@clysen8234 When it is made bad, your're right. But normally the german movie companies do it really good. So i can watch movie and don't have to read. If I want to read, I take the newspapers...
If you've never been to Germany, put it on your bucket list. My experience was terrific there; I found the people warm, friendly, outgoing, and helpful. And unlike some places I've lived, they seemed to like Americans and Canadians who look like Americans. Yay! And what GG said about Sunday in Germany is true, as my son and I discovered one Sunday. But the train stations are the best for travelers, clean, well run and friendly employees. Don't speak German, no problem; someone will help you. Ditto at the airports.
This year I started learning German, my dream is to be able to visit the country someday. Your tips really helped me to understand the culture a lot more ❤
I almost agree with everything 😁 Customer service is still a point for sure, but it went so much better over the decades. Sometimes you even can have a small talk with the cashier if there is no big waiting line. It's still not the same level like in the States but it's improving steadily. One thing is the 24 hour system: I had a friend from North Carolina here in Germany and we were sitting at the computers he was like "what is this? 10 minutes after nothing?". I had to laugh so hard when I saw it was 0:10 Uhr 😂 This is almost 18 years ago but I still remember it like yesterday. Please keep up the excellent work, it's always fun and entertaining to watch your videos. Even as an old guy I'm still learning some new things every time. Prost aus Gevelsberg/NRW 🍺🤘😍
As a Brit who lives in the US, I found this video fascinating, because a lot of what you said about Germany is also the case in the UK. Petrol prices are high and the streets are much more walkable. Your description of Germans also fits the average Brit, who will be rather cold and unfriendly on the surface (in the south-east). Generally, people got friendlier as you got to know them in my experience. On the other hand, here in Florida, people are very friendly on the surface and will happily chat with strangers. However, I find that making deeper friendships is a lot more difficult
When I was growing up in Chicago circa 1948-50, it was and unwritten rule to stand on the right on escalators. Nobody had to be told everyone just did it. Also, people kept to the right on sidewalks and especially in crosswalks at intersections. The "loop" (downtown Chicago) was very busy all the time so keeping to the right made it worlds easier to walk places in the loop. When a stop light turned green two waiting crowds of pedestrians on each side of the intersection moved toward each other and passed left shoulder to left shoulder without interference. I don't know if this is still the case. I haven't been to the loop since 1955 when I was 10. A lot of things in America have changed since I was a boy, many for the better but some for the worse.
I always do this and don't even think about it, except that I'll walk on the street side of a woman if there's water on the street. Easier to deal with splashes for a man and his clothes than for most women. My dad and grandfather just drilled it into ne as a small kid and I teach the same things. It's not as common as when I was little but a lot of men still do it, especially lower middle class and working class areas.
I thought only people in Prague metro are doing this, but I saw similar behavior even in Lisbon metro. We have rule that people are staying on right and peolpe are walking on left, because when you don't have time and you need catch tram or bus, you can't stay 2 minutes on stupid escalators so most of people are not staying. In most of other countries people are staying randomly and also when they entering or leaving bus or tram, it's very random. Here in Czechia you have to always let people leave first and then you can go in.
@@Pidalin Ha, I live in Seattle and at some bus stops people are in such a rush they all try to get on at the same time and sometimes forget to let people off. I have to get off the bus slowly because I am old and I have a badly injured leg, and an impatient young man will sometimes push me out of the way because he is in a big hurry. About 50-60 kilometers south of here in Tacoma, it is completely different, people wait patiently and even step aside for me because of my age. I am not used to such deference, and it practically embarrasses me. I like to hear about civilized places. Civilization will save us, it's absence will destroy us.
@@tonygumbrell22 Well, USA is big country, we can't even imagine it here in Europe where you drive few hunderd kilometers and people speak different langauge there. Don't let people leave bus first is very rude here and it's even faster for everyone let them exit vehicle first.
@@Pidalin People in Seattle often act as though, if they don't charge on the bus right away, they will be left behind. That's American individualism in the big city. It has gotten better since the covid-19 epidemic. That has forced everyone to take things more seriously, and think what they are doing.
Which of these points surprised you the most and which ones did you already know about? Let me know in the comments below! 👇 Also, if you have more tips that you wanna share with people who plan on visiting Germany in the future, please feel free to share those as well! 😊 Let's help everyone have an amazing time in Germany once it's possible to travel again! 🇩🇪❤️
The sunday is free die to a contract between government from 19th century and chzrches.
WHO needs 7 x 24 grocery Shopping ?
In the 90s you could do grocery only from 9 to 19 and in Saturdays from 9 to 13 ...
and then they added thursday evening Till 21.
Guess what. did work till 1995 or so and No one started
Important addon: Even if electronic payment is possible, many locations accept only bank cards, not credit cards, as they are not that widespread in germany. Especially when visiting restaurants, either bring cash or check in advance whether credit cards are accepted.
@@SYCHR0N There was a change. Covid pushed electronic payment. Apple Pay works at many super markets (I know only one without credit card payment), restaurants, bakery... If you can pay contactless, apple pay will work.
None, they are all very good. Are Germans afraid of getting their credit or debit card hacked. Is cash the norm because its not as traceable as cards and Germans think that people might go through their transactions.
@@RalfD_R Apple pay might work, as well as contactless credit cards, but normal credit cards are still not widespread.
about jaywalking. I (german) was in colombia and in the middle of the night I stopped at a pedestrian light. then a stranger stopped beside me and we waited for the light turning green. no cars in 2 minutes. then we realised that we are both germans :D
Yeahhhhhhh typisch deutsch
sounds typical
Funny lol.
That's funny! 😂😂🤣
Not only Germans do that but us Aussies as well...... Tschuess aus Australien
About 30 years ago my parents visited Germany for a vacation. I'm unsure of what city they were in, but after arriving at their hotel, they went out to see the town. They were careful to note down the name of the street their hotel was on, copying it off a street sign. Anyway, when ready to find their way back to the hotel they realized several of the streets had the same name as they'd marked down. Later they learned they'd copied down a German sign that said "one way".
😂
Die Einbahnstraße 😂
One great travel tip is to get the business card of the hotel from the desk when you check in. That has saved me several times.
This is too good :D
Okay
Uno reverse card:
You're watching this as a German to get to know what's different in America
I'll play.
Don't worry about ice in your soft drink unless you have sensitive teeth. You can usually get a free refill if it doesn't come from a bottle or a can. And you can always ask for no ice or just a little if that is your preference. Even after it has been delivered. They'll take the glass away and bring you a new one as you request it to be served. Most fast food restaurants will have a machine where you can refill your cup yourself.
In a restaurant where you are seated by the staff, and if you drink the house coffee, your wait person will often come by to refill your cup to keep it hot and fresh. This costs you nothing and all you need to do is gesture to cover your cup if you have had enough. If they are busy and you are getting low, just get their attention and point to your cup (and gently smile) and they will get to you as soon as they are free. This is also true for tea in asian restaurants and sushi bars, but they usually bring an insulated carafe so large, I've never been able to finish it.
Thats me lol. Immer diese Deutschen unter den Videos xD
Other youtubers also do same or similar..for example Nellifornication. 🙄
You're supposed to be watching the Hot American Chick in Germany channel.
@@I_Have_The_Most_Japanese_Music
excuse you? I don't need anyone telling me what to watch
also if the suggested channel's name isn't "the Hot American Chick in Germany" then your description of it is pretty disrespectful
As a frequent traveller to Germany I would agree with everything you have said.
I would also add learning basic German words like please, thank you, hello etc. Yes Germans are very good with their English, but greeting in German, they'll pick you arent and will help in English.
When you are at a busy place like a train station and you want to buy food, for example, stand back from the crowd, work out what you want so you dont delay others, then once you know what you want, i simply greet them with "allo" (hello) point at the item and say "Ein Stück bitte" (one piece please) and place the cash on the plate in front of the server, take your change and item and leave with the item and change and a wave and "danke" (thanks).
To Americans out there reading this, dont complain that things in Germany are not like they do things in the US. Most hotels do not have ice machines, AC is not as common as it is in the US, sodas are not bottomless and are often more expensive than beer. The reason to travel is to experience new things and the different ways that people live. So embrace it.
its hallo not allo. also you could just say "guten Tag" which means "Good day" and is also a common greeting in all parts of germany
wooow you litteraly describing the soup nazi system in Seinfeld
When Feli said: Don't be thrown off if you speak to someone in German and they reply in English. I immediately thought of one of my upstairs neighbors. He's from the UK and is learning German and I'm from Germany and trying to brush up on my English (especially when talking). When we talk with each other, he talks in German and I in English, which is quite funny when other people hear us with our accents 😂
Actually for both of you learning the languages better, it would make sense to agree on special days for each language, e.g. Monday is English day, Tuesday is German day, and so on.
@@kathom67 That is not a bad idea... THX
I would love this! Excellent learning situation.
I feel that you must have a more intimate relationship with the poster than the rest of us since you refer to her as "Feli".
@@kathom67 damn, we should've used this when a guy from kansas was living here... he speaks german decently but we mid-aged cosmopolitial were all like "yeah, don't worry, we all speak english just fine..." and so we mostly just chilled out speaking english all the time while actually wanted to teach him more german :D
I don't understand why, as french who lives in France, I like watching a german girl talking about differences between USA and Germany. 😁😁
It makes me feel I am traveling during the lockdown. Moreover as many french I love Germany. Vive l'amitié entre la France et l'Allemagne !! 🇨🇵🇩🇪❤
If I can't have a confederated EU I still would love to have a French/German confederation!
As a German I had many bad times in France and Paris. When I was there with a pupils exchange, when I was there two or three times with my family and when I was there with my girlfriend. Now my girlfriend is my wife and we have two sons, which where 12 and 14 in 2019. We drove around with a camper 14 days. And I don't know why, but everything was positive. Even if there are still many older people who don't speak any English, but they tried to help. We had a very good time. Maybe it was because of the European Union - we feel as one now. Maybe it is because we are now far away from the big wars, instead of 1988 or 1990 or 1994. But I am sure we will come back more often... Thanks. Merci beaucoup et aurevoir!
I’m from Ukraine and I’m watching too) It’s very interesting for me))
@@MartinSagel I think I know what you mean. I was born in 1988 and fortunately I grew up in peaceful Europe. In school I learnt the construction of the EU based on the German/France friendship. I had to learn all the couples : De Gaulles/Adenauer, Brandt/Pompidou, Shmidt/Giscard d Estaing, khol/Mitterand and Chirac/Schroder. So basically it is natural for my generation to consider Germany as our closest friend and partner. In the other hand when I talk to my grandmother, (she is 96 today), who has known WW2 and grew up in total period even she likes EU because it brings Peace, she explains me she is still quite suspicious with german people. Depends on generation, the feelings are completely. Of course what I say it is really general and every one is different.
Anyway maybe you had a bad experience with french late of the 80s because German national team beat France in semi final of the world cup both in 82 and 86. 🤣🤣
@@pierrotm4450 I am glad to hear that, dude. I've been to Paris too a few times and also in some other parts of France, especially the south. I love your country. What I've noticed the people in Paris are more hasty and rude. I guess it's a stressful city. But everywhere else even in Marseille, people are very nice and helpful. Well OK depends on who you meet, right? The German activist against racism and former captain Jürgen Schwandt said that very precisely: "In my travels, I've met good people all over the world. And also a few assholes. It has nothing to do with skin color, passport or religion."
I loved the customer service in Europe. I’m from Canada which has basically the same customer service style as the USA and I hate the constant annoying fake-friendly conversations and they never leave you alone. Germany was great because they did what I needed and left me alone and when I needed them again you just wave them over
Hehe and I might add, that in the US I also often had to flag the waiters down. I had my worst service experience in Las Vegas in a Hooters restaurant (what else would you expect?). The waitress really managed to bring me the check belonging to another table - twice. I mean how inattentive could one be? And between these two wrong checks I had to wait for about 10 minutes in a not crowded restaurant. I've never experienced such a nerve wrecking waitress in Germany.
@@tychobra1 Hooters' waitresses have other features for which they were selected.
@@V100-e5q obviously 😂😂
I prefer something in middle, like here in Czechia. Waiter ask you what you want and then time to time come to you and ask again and that's all. When I was in Croatia or in Portugal, we were sitting there 1 hour and nobody cared about us so I realized I have to wave to waiter, but that's very rude in my country, you have to always wait before waiter comes to you here.
in Germany
customer : hello am searching for ( anything) ?
seller : we dont have it any more or you can find there . and you go for your own . if he/ she came with to show it where you can find it , this maybe can happen once in a life time .
customer : thanks
Seller : no word
Definitely learned about cash culture in Germany the hard way. I ordered a coffee and they only accepted cash. The guy gave me the coffee. So nice! I felt so bad I took a train a half hour to the ATM and back and gave him a big tip for me being a doofus.
@@frankuvlkanSHE IS NOT LETTING YOU HIT LMAOO
@@specc.mp4CRYING
The first time I went to Germany, 1973, I was in München and looking for with the post office. I saw a couple of Polizei and asked them for directions auf deutsch. They answered me in perfect English. The experience made such a favorable impression on a then 16 year old American boy.
Honestly then you probably had a LOT of luck with that one. Not many people, especially in 1973 spoke *good*, let alone perfect english back then.
Don't forget there were the Olympic games in 1972 in Munich. So most of the officals were trained on English.
Similar experience when I first went in 1985 as an exchange student. We would make a game of going into a store to buy something and speaking with the cashier, with the objective of trying to get the cashier not to respond in English.
I often hear non native speakers kind of annoyed about that, because they travel to germany try to learn better german and everyone answers in english.
Nowadays it's the opposite imo. If you start the conversation in German, the whole conversation will be in German even when your accent or bad grammar tells you're a foreigner.
One lesson I learned in Frankfort, when they make a long announcement in German and EVERYONE gets off the U-bahn, get off the train!
@Hik :\ Thank you for the correction!
*Frankfart
What happend? 😳😅
@@jayna_4snowboard831 After everyone got off the train (except me), it reversed direction. I got off the train the next time it happened.
@@justme_gb so basically you are too polite like me to want to disrupt anyone by asking what’s going on and pay the consequences 😂😂 🤦♂️
One experience I'll never forget was when I was in Germany for work. We went to a Chinese restaurant for lunch. Hearing a Chinese person speak english with a german accent is something to wrap your head around. Tschüß!
Same here. Even back in the 80's
🤣
I had a similar experience when I was in Ireland! As an American English speaker, it was sometimes difficult for me to understand Irish accents and my comprehension was compounded when I encountered ethnic Asians with Irish accents. 😎
Try asking for food at a Chinese restaurant in New York and getting the waiter to answer you in Spanish. It was hilarious! I went back many times and tipped this chinese dude handsomely. He had me pegged as a Puerto Rican. Slick dude!
Had the same experience I had as an American stationed in Katterbach. Chinese restaurant with a Chinese family that spoke English with a German accent. Very odd.
I visited the Schwartzwald with my family, some years ago, armed with my school German language learning. Every time I spoke German in the shops and restaurants, I could make myself understood. Then we met another English family at a swimming pool and I remarked on how few Germans spoke English. The husband said he spoke no German but had no problem being understood in English. Puzzled by this, I asked a young waitress who spoke faultless English and she told me it was a matter of courtesy in Germany to reply in whatever language a visitor used. Lesson learned!
That courtesy makes it difficult to learn German.
In the Schwarzwald they have a pretty heavy accent. I doubt you even would understand a word with only German C1 level or so
Also... as I tell people traveling to Germany... if you atleast try to speak German most Germans love that you are trying and will be alot more responsive and nice... will then switch to english because they realize you may be struggling... I may be biased but Germans are some of the nicest people I know... Yes there are exceptions but for the most part they are wonderfully warm people...
We like to help. Most of the times ;-) . The main difference is, that we Germans are not your best buddy at the first few Meetings. But later on, when you reached the "friend zone", we are normally friends for the rest of the live. Exceptions are a given.
I hate to be this guy, but *there. (Just kidding I love to be this guy)
@@jw4277 lol thx... fixed it
This is true; I travel to Germany every year to attend Neo-Nazi rallies and have noticed it as well.
As someone that lived in Germany for over a decade, this is absolutely true. Just try to speak the language. They will be happy you cared to try then they will speak English to make the conversation more efficient.
I don't speak any German. I have spent considerable time there and enjoyed every minute. I generally have found people helpful and friendly. I have also learned some lessons the hard way. You can't get all the cultural differences from a book or video. Just stay relaxed and friendly and everything will work out. At least they did for me!
You sound like you've had positive experiences with German women.
The recipe for Germany and any other country in the world is: be prepared to be surprised, enjoy the differences to your home country, whether they're positive or negative and be friendly! Cordiality makes everything easier and better.
@@RioMuc Correct, cordiality is the key.
Just the old people here in Germany are friendly all the other’s are Karen’s or boomers
Am already in Germany. Just feeding the algorithm
I’m reading this in comment sections here and there, and I wonder if the almighty algorithm will some day start ignoring postings with the word algorithm in it. ^^
I like how since I watch "some" metal (rock) videos, the algorithm thinks i would like a guy pretending to be a UPS driver jumping on a pee-ann-ohh at a mall ... see how i didn't feed the machine there.
@@bbranett2188
Maybe the algorithm thought, “yeah, that UPS truck was rocking.” ;)
@@3.k vielleicht
dude you're messing with the universe
Some years ago while visiting Germay, I decided to take a walk through the city after dinner. I got a little disoriented on the way back to my hotel, so stopped in front of a large hotel that I was sure my German speaking friend would know... I phoned her so she could come and pick me up. She asked me which hotel I was standing in front of, so I looked up and read her the name of the hotel printed on the archway over my head. I told her I was in front of the "Hotel Eingang". ... Which made her laugh because the sign meant, "Hotel Entrance". 😅🤣😂
😂
I love that story 😂😂
Lol......to me it sounded like the name of the Hotel 😂😂😂😂
😂😂😂
So interesting
My brother who use to be in the Air Force, always told us how beautiful Germany is. Going to Germany is on my bucket list.
You should definitely come someday. But then, don’t forget to visit the north!! Germany is not bavaria and Oktoberfest ist not all over the country. Hamburg e.g. is a beautiful city and the north or the Baltic Sea are beautiful areas to be! :-)
@@grgr8238 what??
@@hodjatebrahimajdari4755 usa has been created to defeat te nazi
@@grgr8238 what please
@@grgr8238 You're such a history pro... the US were founded in the 18th century while the Third Reich was created in the 1930s😂
When you use a restroom, remember to put some change in the plate. The person, usually a lady, who is sitting by the door is responsible for keeping the restrooms clean and the change you place in the plate is a large part of their pay. Be nice and generous because it's a shitty job, literally!
That's actually hilarious. So our waiters rely on tips while German bathroom attendants rely on tips. Inversely the US bathroom attendants get paid properly.
I wonder if the people using public restrooms there are worse than those using them here in the States? People here in the U.S. are DISGUSTING.
@@tempest411 I guess public restrooms are nasty all around the world
When you use a restroom, remember that the lady who is sitting by the door and who is responsible for keeping the restrooms clean is fully employed and paid and work-insured by the place and doesn't need to depend on alms to complement an otherwise exploitative pay.
@@kaldo_kaldo Nah, that's that guy talking out of his arse. Cleaning staff is fully paid and work-insured by either the place or a contractor unless self-employed, so, tips are literally gratuity and, if anything, a remnant of older times.
I spent 5+ years in Germany in the early '80s and I have only fond memories of the people and country. I achieved a Jagdschein [after a lengthy course and much experience in the field] I was able to [with my new BMW] travel all over Deutchland and the rest of Europe. Wonderful memories!
ok now seriously, getting a Jagdschein -- this is like PURE germanification there! :D
Was ist Jagdschein ????
I lived in Munich for 3 years, from 1986 to the end of 1989. I miss it terribly. I recall how overwhelmed I was when I returned home, even having a panic attack in a store because the experience was too much. Things are done so well in Germany, with respect of others and quality of life being primary, that it felt chaotic to me to be surrounded by so much over the top *everything* that is here. I had my first child in a German Women’s Klinik and even the maternity care was so superior to the U.S. that my mother (a maternity and NICU nurse) was impressed and stunned by the difference. She said if she spoke German she’d move there in a heartbeat. The country is stunningly beautiful-so much so that it takes your breath away. I remember the first spring there as if it was yesterday. Every window had a flower box, every street filled with beauty. Even the cemeteries are cared for and treated as gardens by loved ones. Bicycle paths everywhere, everyone seemed to hike, people of all ages enjoyed the outdoors. Public transportation is amazing, clean, and plentiful. There was always something to do, somewhere to go. I never wanted to leave. I want to go back more than anything. We were there during the Cold War and our 3 years were up shortly after the wall came down. What a time that was! I would so love to see the entire county now that it is whole. I’d love to know how it feels to be there now. Oh, how I want to explore it fully! Though I remember very little of the language since I hadn’t used it for so long, when I hear someone speaking German I get a little closer, close my eyes and smile. I’m always surprised by realizing I have a lump in my throat and I feel a bit homesick. Germany is part of me. ❤❤❤
When you travel in east Germany today, you will find whole areas looking like brand new. We (westgermans) spend so much money to bring everything there on a new standard, that many places are nowadays nicer than the (old) west ones.If you love Germany, just do it an learn german. We really need people that can work in jobs like healthcare and it technology. We losse about 400.000 specialists every year they say …
You know the German word for cemetery is: "Friedhof"? (Peace Garden).
@@billgracey6369 Naja, wohl eher Peace Yard, oder?😉
At least, Europeans get something for all the taxes they pay...
@@haggihug3162 That is not true that the West Germans paid for everything. All Germans (West and East) paid the solidarity surcharge for the reconstruction of the East for a certain period of time after reunification. Please do not forget the historical context: the East paid the largest part of the war debt to the Russians (reperations, deindustrialization), while the West had the American Marshall Plan for reconstruction. It is true, however, that many West German cities urgently needed the money from the social tax to modernize their infrastructure and restore their buildings after reunification. They should have made one plan for the whole country.
These are all excellent tips. My biggest recommendation for Americans going to Germany is to do sufficient advance research on where you are going. Learn in advance how the S-Bahn and U-Bahn systems work (how to pay for and validate tickets for various time periods and zones, etc.). Public transportation in Berlin and other cities is extensive and prompt -- you do NOT need a car. Book tickets through the Internet for museums and other places you want to go. You can print out the tickets at home, saving you time and hassle when you get there. This is Germany -- you get no points for "winging it." And seriously, do NOT stand in the bike lanes, unless you want to bring home a tire-track tattoo.
This is so right! I‘m german and if I visit another city around Germany, the first thing I do, is to check how the ÖPNV (German for public transport) works because it‘s different everywhere (and not everywhere of the same quality).
Also, always check out what you want to visit because of Ruhetage (basically means „days off“) for museums and other attractions, that are open on sundays.
Bike lanes! Very important!
My first time in Germany, I noticed the price of gasoline/benzine was about the same as in the US. Until, that is, when I refueled my rental vehicle, I found out that price was for a litre, not a gallon.
One reason why Feli talks about different prices AND UNITS. ;)
So, yeah, ~ 4x higher. Meanwhile, back in the US that senile idiot Biden is canceling the US' attempts at energy independence. F#ckwit...
Thanks. I'm actually laughing out loud in metric system!
@@Ork20111 what?
LOL! that's hilarious, @@Ork20111!
I have traveled a couple of times in Germany and found all of this to be true, or at least consistent with my experience there. Germans are not overly talkative, but are happy to help if you ask respectfully. This happened several times when I got confused at the train stations. It's a great place and I'd love to go back.
I lived in Germany from 1986-89. I found that the most rude people that I met there were Americans. I always found the German people kind and very helpful when needed. They may not have been big on starting conversations, but, for the most part, were more than happy to spend time talking with you. . . . .as long as you were respectful.
As a German I can say: Very good tips, nothing to complain about.
While watching your videos I learn more and more how much German I really am 😂
I think you're right about "the rules" in Germany. I was traveling with a friend in either Germany or Switzerland and we were talking to each other while riding on the train, maybe a little loudly. After a while, a man got our attention and said, "This is the quiet car." I saw that he was right - there was a sign that said "Quiet Car." I felt sorry for having done the wrong thing and for being the stereotypical rude American.
Something similar happened to me in Korea, except there it was apparently just a cultural rule for the whole train (KTX high-speed) that I hadn’t been aware of, where carrying on a conversation at a normal volume with a fellow passenger I’d just met was considered rude and we were ‘shushed’ by the person in the next row.
The train glided on in serene silence, the color TV monitors on the ceiling muted, displaying only subtitles in four languages, Korean, English, Chinese & Japanese as it showed Metropolitan promotional videos for each region we were passing through.
The silence was only broken be clearly enunciated announcements over the speaker system for the next approaching stop in the same languages, matched by scrolling light-bar displays at the front of the car.
Any other conversations were hushed and brief, cellphones were well contained, though a couple of brief conversations did occur.
@@jonathanjordahl5345 God that sounds so dystopian
@@Vivi_9 KTX is the bullet train system, which is significantly more expensive and both a great deal faster and more comfortable than the Mugunghwa system, where I don’t believe you’d be shushed.
Your choice of the word dystopian is important. Korea is the same country that produced both Snowpiercer and Parasites, each of which powerfully addresses the issue of class stratification, and the first of which specifically does so with the physical allegory of a horribly stratified, even cannibalistic, if I remember correctly, endless train journey through a post-apocalyptic frozen hellscape.
@@jonathanjordahl5345 indeed, I find it interesting when comparing Eastern and Western cultures.. my knowledge is only surface level, but I thought it was interesting that in the west where people are more free to behave without consideration for others people are becoming increasingly narcissistic and downright unpleasant to deal with, whereas in a country where people are much more used to the idea of being under the thumb of authority their inherently collectivist nature shines through in basic community-based ideas like not being a loud tit on the train.
Years ago it was a report in Daily Mail.
One Scottish Pub put a sign on the door "Loud American Tourists are not Welcomed!" 😳 That's weird as they have their own loud customers. Maybe it's too much for the owner of that pub. 😀
So people from New Jersey and NYC will get along great in Germany, brilliant!
I was stationed in Germany from 05 -10. I never had an issue with customer service. I appreciated that they left you alone and didnt bug you constantly. They are reserved and do keep to themselves. Which is another thing that I appreciated. Bars weren't loud unless there were alot of Americans there.
I'm first generation from Austrian parents. Now I know why American service is so irritating and intrusive and annoying. I found that in Italy also; a waiter takes the order, does what is needed and leaves one alone. But; somehow when I needed something, there he was without interrupting. Love that.
Been living in Germany for a while. Once I got all the paperwork and bank details done, I wanted to buy a membership for the gym so I can work out and stay in shape.
I saw this place near my Uni and it had a big board that says ‘Gymnasium’. I thought to myself, how convenient, I can workout right after the lectures are done for the day😅
Only thing that put me off about that place was that I never saw anyone coming out of it who looked like they work out. They all looked like school-age kids and there were lots and lots of them. And I was like ‘that’s odd’ 🧐
Now that my German has drastically improved, I’ve come to realize that ‘Gymnasium’ in Germany means High School 😂😂😂
Viele Grüße aus Schweinfurt ❤☺️🇩🇪
😂😂😂you story is funny
😂😂😂😂😂
I would like to return to Germany sometime, I do miss it.
Story: I grew up in the U.S. speaking English and took French in school. I was going to be working in Central America, so I took a full time (45 hours per week) Spanish language class, and was in Panama, Honduras and El Salvador for five months. Then, I found out that I was going to be going to Germany. I ended up taking a full time (45 hours per week) German course and learned German. I remember as an American, being in France trying to buy a souvenir to send home, talking to the vendor in German. I was an American in France speaking German to a French woman... Once I realized what I was doing, I stopped and realized that I had forgotten French. It took a few moments to come back to me, but I was able to speak French and get the item. It is amazing how your brain operates when fully immersed in another culture and language. I was in Germany for only 19 months, and loved every minute of it.
A small correction about the cash culture: the current pandemic changed a lot. By now you can almost anywhere pay by card.
True. One good thing about Covid.
I hope this actually stays. It's so much better. I don't like and want to carry cash (especially coins) around.
Careful, often they only accept debit cards and not credit cards.
@@e.458 Yeah, that what I tought. Sorry, but German EC sucks. Many places does not accept Visa/Mastercard etc.
Well, it might have changed in a few places but most places that only took cash before still only take cash. What has changed is that discounters or supermarkets have become a bit more aggressive in their attempt to push paying without cash on customers.
Most travel only channels don’t cover these types of subjects. You cover them as a genuine way to help people. Doin a great job
As an American soldier who has been to 5 different nations (including Germany) thanks to military service NEVER forget that YOU are the foreigner in the host nation. Show the same respect for the hosts that you expect of others visiting the States and you'll get along fine. It'll even be a fun adventure.
Including Mexico.
@@jimcook8852thanks Mr. Obvious
@@tweek7284flew over your head
@@tweek7284 - You would be surprised, or you may not be, at the number of Americans that travel in Germany and act in the most rude and obnoxious ways towards those around them. Many Americans carry an attitude that they are far superior to everyone else and expect to be treated as such.
Ish ferstein, I spent three years in West Berlin and I miss it terribly.
5:32 "We have a pretty good Trainsystem in Germany" That's true but in Germany you need to have a littlebit of Geduld for that.
Not as much as in the US. So it's a comparative improvement.
And a little bit of Geld
100 Millionen Reisende jedes Jahr muss man erstmal bewältigen. Da brauchts a bissel Geduld.
@@mcm111able wär ja kein Problem wenn man nicht Privatisiert hätte. Hat ja auch super funktioniert
The transportation system in the USA is a mess. No, it's a catastrophe. Almost like not existing at all.
I was there in 2004, in a village about 10 kilometres away from Philadelphia Airport.
I had 5 (FIVE!) hours to get my flight.
And I almost missed it.
No taxi driver was available in all this time, there was no tram, then I searched the next bus station and found out that I had to wait two hours for the next bus (without any hint where that bus would go), and when it arrived I was told that, yes, the bus will go to the airport, too, but will only arrive there in about two hours...which was simply too risky for me. I only got my flight by driving with my fathers car to the airport and informing him that I had to take it and hopefully a colleague could drive him there to get his car back.
Since that day, I completely disagree with the term "Servicewüste Deutschland". If Germany is a service-desert, the USA are a black hole in terms of service.
I still am amazed at how good your English is. I used to teach accents to actors and I'm usually very good at picking up something in people's accents that will tip me off as to from where they come. I'd be hard-pressed to figure you out if I didn't know you were German. Kudos.
Hi Timothy, different between Feli and US Citizien.... She speaks clearly and distingushly without any accent. OK, her pronounciation became more and more US Style
@@frankbr5991 So, you think every American does not speak clearly? That's a bit silly. I'm from Ireland originally.
@@TimothyOBrien1958 no in fact Americans, and in fact all English speakers get a little lazy on their speech and change things up. Her accent is spot on usually just like my grandmother. Who emigrated from Germany and learned English so well she has 0 foreign accent. Even when she was young
@@TimothyOBrien1958 But sometime the pronunciation is a little too precise that Americans would not say all the time. Like certain “big words” for example
@@LG-bs1rs I'm from Ireland originally. My grammar was spot on until I went to school here. I went from reading on a 3rd grade level in 1st but was forced to write right-handed. I became dyslexic, with ADHD, and I began to stutter. I've overcome all and I pride myself on my diction. I also became a professional writer. Don't lump all of us together. I take great offense.
re: Small talk: This happened in Chicago, in the states that really struck me about small talk. My late partner, who had gone to school and then lived in Germany for a number of years as a translator, were riding the subway and came across 2 German travellers looking at a transit map. (I swear, we could never go anywhere without running into some Germans. He loved it.) I don't speak German but know the sound of it and he went right over as they were having trouble figuring out where they needed to go. He launched into German to help out and they continued. He got them straightened out, but it was all very direct and 'do this, do that' sounding. I asked him after they were on their way: "they didn't sound surprised you knew German or even how you got your accent (it was Hanoverian which I guess is the "purest" German) and spoke so well." He told me Germans just get right to it and don't "do" small talk. Very odd for this American... Great channel!!
Yes, indeed, even in business relations, it's very different from the USA;
I know that when there are meetings, let's say to sign an important contract, American firms start with lunch and smalltalk and then after some time they do the work.
In Germany, the work is done first and afterwards, when (for example) the treaty is signed, dinner and wine or beer and smalltalk is like the reward for the good cooperation or the good work.
Even for me, I would feel uncomfortable getting too private too soon, with people I don't know at all.
yes tru germans are very straight in conversations and are not good/dont like small talk. But thats as she said just a cultural differents they are not trying to be rude or so.
@@Rauschgenerator Well, you don't make you partners drunk before signing a contract, that would be a bit of a risk.
@@EK-gr9gd actually in America pre-1980 or so we used to have the "three-martini lunch". Martinis are quite strong alcoholic drinks & the lunch with alcohol was thought of as the way to "lubricate" business - get deals done. Worked pretty well.
Did Americans realize that getting sloshed while taking a 2 1/2 hour lunch mid-workday was bad for health or productivity & stop the practice? Not really. In the end, changes in tax codes "mostly" killed off the practice. Food & entertainment ceased being fully deductible during business lunches & dropped to 50%.
@@robcampbell3235
I know what Martinis are.
Hell, I can roll every 007, from "Dr. No to "Casino Royal" in my head.
You have such a lovely narration manner; clear pronunciation, cheerful attitude, politeness towards cultural differences. It was very pleasant to listen to you. Thank you!
Hi Dolores, I hope my comment didn't sound like some kind of invasion of privacy. Your comment tells of a wonderful woman with a beautiful heart, which prompted me to comment. I don't usually write in the comments section, but I think you deserve this compliment. If you don't mind, can we be friends? Thank you, God bless you....🌹🌹
As a midwesterner who has been to Germany a number of times, I can tell you all of this is true. Its good to know these things before going, otherwise the service differences and lack of small talk can affect your perception. I was fortunate to have known beforehand and I just accepted it when I got there. I totally love it there though and everyone should go, its a great experience and there are many wonderful people and incredible sights. I can't wait to be able to go back, I miss it there a lot!
I was in the military stationed in Germany in the early 80's. I absolutely LOVED Germany in many, many ways. I was aware of the "ugly" American stories and DID NOT want to be included in that stereo type. So, on my own, I ventured out to the local pubs and restaurants outside the Kaserns I was stationed at being mindful not to go to the places nearest the Kaserns. I found that once Germans knew that I was willing to speak their language, no matter how bad, they responded with kindness and consideration; and would practice their broken English! I also found that the eldest Germans were the most friendliest, and most interested in American politics. I was compelled to answer tons of American political questions, esp about Ronald Reagan then about the Kennedy's! As an American 20 something at the time, I had infantile knowledge of our political systems or of Reagan or Kennedy's other than what I remembered from our media. So I did my best to field questions and I totally faked many of the conversations in that regard. But Never did any one German call me out. Only when I mingled with the younger generations, Germans in their 20's, 30's, that I became a "target" of their angst. I was never assaulted but I was absolutely made uncomfortable. I will always have fond memories of Germany and I will return to visit some day. Fun fact my eldest son was born in Weisbaden, an American born abroad. I still, although fading, remember many German words and sentences. Being stationed, rather living in Germany was the best 3 yrs of my life! Keep up the great vids chatzi.
Here in the US I learned during a business trip that anyone more than 75 miles from home is an expert!
You and I are on the same page. Too bad that not all soldiers were respectful and caused problems with the Polizei. I had a great time in Germany. Respect is everything when you travel outside your country. I have traveled all over the USA, Europe and the Caribbean where I live. People are the same all over the world. Just don't act like you are superior or try to impose your values when you travel. If you can't do that. stay the hell home!
I can relate to your experience! Everything you described it’s still how it is even now in 2022. I was suprised how much they like American politics. I had to know how to respond to their questions/ expressions.
You have to HAVE TO .. hunt down and view the limited series from Germany... "Deutschland 1983". No one I could imagine will have an experience in the arts that is so relevant to YOU. There were two follow ups .. the 3rd is an essay on the fall of East Berlin. DEUTSCHLAND 1983 just amazing kismet. Do not fail in this quest.
It's "Wiesbaden", FYI.
This was interesting to watch from Wales as an English - occasionally we’re more similar to us, but much more similar to Germany. Interesting differences though - gut Video, danke schön
My favorite thing about houses in Germany is the Rolladen (window blinds). The windows in general are awesome as most windows open two different ways. Probably the thing I remember most about shopping is having to have your own shopping bags with you as they don't provide them in most stores. Also, in the area we lived the stores were all closed a couple of hours in the afternoon which took a while to get used to. Love Germany.
Thank you for sharing. I lived in various locations in Germany for over 12 years while serving in the U.S. Army (All of my 20s). It was difficult coming back to the U.S., because I had become so acustomed to living in Germany for so long. Everything you stated is exactly as I remember. It doesn't sound like much has changed. Germany was a great place to live. There is so much to do and experience.
"Culture shock" is universal! (As you well know.) I haven't been to Germany in many years, but your points applied then, as now. Keep up the good (interesting) work!
Regarding ATM fees: Bank of America and Deutsche Bank are both part of the Global ATM Alliance, so you can get cash from each other’s machines with no fees (except the currency conversion fee).
It is still cheaper to take some currency with you. I live in the Uk and if I travel into Europe I always take 500 euros with me in various note denominations, if I'm there for a week or more. You can usually get local currency at major bank outlets for a reasonable exchange rate but it is always better to arrive with some in case you want a drink, food or take a cab from the airport.
I generally recommend germans who go to the US (or in general to non EU countries) to get a credit card with 0 fees for abroad. There are loads of them and usually they cost nothing in the first or 2nd year. Also credit cards are often a lot better abroad than the german "debit cards" so that is often a surprise to germans as a lot of germans almost never use credit cards or may not even own one at all.
@@colinp2238 many people in the US don’t live in major cities so they’re probably not going to have access to foreign currencies from their local bank. I live in a smaller town so when I travel to Europe I’ll just get money from the cash station. In order to decrease the amount of fees I recommend that you get higher amounts each time you go to the cash station because many of the fees are per transaction.
@@pjschmid2251 Can't you request it and maybe collect it a couple days later? Atleast banks here in Germany usually offer that service. They may not always have certain foreign currencies in storage but you can request it (be it USD or Tanzanian shilling or anything in between) and you can usually collect it the next day or a couple days later.
@@pjschmid2251 I guess that you would be going to an international airport, so you could arrange to collect money from a branch in that city, if you could be bothered to that is.
I love everything about Germany.
I found the people kind, funny and very direct.
I love how they know how to truly relax. Bike riding along the River and enjoying life.
I like your second personality in the Commercial!
hello Mrs how are you doing, I'm Dwayne, what's your name
My friend is currently hosting a girl from Munich. She's a delightful young woman. I love speaking with her about the differences she finds here vs there. I even told her about your channel.
By my comments, you can tell I just discovered your channel, and as a foreign national living in Germany, I find many things useful. My perception of Germans has changed severally over the last 7 years of living here. The “cold” attitude was shocking at first, but now I have met many nice people who sometimes just come up to me. I once talked for an hour with a stranger in a shop. I was just fascinated with the person’s friendliness.😊
Thank You or Danke Schön for your video. It was really informative and good. My family and I are planning a trip back to Germany, Switzerland and Austria in May. We lived there for 5 years and our son was born there. So thank you for the refresher.😊
Grüße aus Texas! Ich habe mehrere Jahre in Europa gelebt, hauptsächlich in Schweden und Deutschland. = Greetings from Texas! I lived several years in Europe, mainly in Sweden and Germany.
Your tips about living in Germany are exactly right. I enjoyed living in Germany, and I have many fond memories! It is true. There are some cultural differences in Germany. Here are a few more that I'd like to share:
1. Americans have the reputation of being loud in the general public. Europeans (in general) don't speak loudly where everyone around them can overhear their conversation. So, please speak more softly in restaurants, on public transportation, walking on the street/inside a store, etc. Of course, this doesn't apply at a sporting event or at a beer or wine fest. Prost! Use common sense!
2. Germans do follow the rules. Unlike in the States where some people try to challenge the rules, it doesn't happen in Germany. And, yes, they really do wait for the green pedestrian light before crossing the street, even if there isn't any traffic.
3. Germans like cleanliness, tidiness and order. For example, the majority of Germans have very clean cars, both inside and out. You'll be impressed by even the taxis in Germany. Windows on German houses actually glisten! When entering someone's home, it is customary to remove your shoes before going inside.
4. Germans are more formal when addressing one another. In the German language, there is a formal and an informal way of addressing people. When meeting someone for the first time, Americans are very quick to address someone by his/her first name. This isn't as common in Germany, especially when you first meet. It's always safe to address someone by his/her last name, such as Frau (Ms.) Schmidt or Herr (Mr.) Hoffman. ALWAYS address a person this way when you are speaking to an older person and/or in a business or professional setting. (If you are from Texas or somewhere in the South, you can probably relate. In our part of the country, it's our custom to address persons whom we don't know well as sir or ma'am or as Mr. Thomas or Ms. Smith).
5. Germans are very punctual! 10:00 means 10.00. Don't be late. It's very rude. If you are running late, be courteous and call the person to let them know. The 24-hour clock is used to tell time in Germany, just like military time in the States. So, 8:00 a.m. is 08.00 (notice the one "."). 2:00 p.m. is 14.00.
6. If you should be invited to someone's home for a meal, it is customary to take a small gift, such as a bottle of wine or some flowers.
7. Lastly, please mind your manners and be on your best behavior. Attempt to learn some German, especially words like Bitte (please) and Danke (thank you). When I first moved to Deutschland/Germany, I didn't speak any German. It took some time, but I got pretty good with the language.
Germany is a great country and the German people are wonderful. If you have a German friend, you have a TRUE friend.
Auf Deutsch: Ich werde die schönen Zeiten in Deutschland nie vergessen. Vielen Dank, Deutschland! Dieser Texaner wird immer dein Freund sein! Alles Gute!!
Grüße nach Texas. Ich liebe es dort. Leider hat es nur für Urlaub gereicht, auch wenn ich dort gerne mal länger bleiben würde. Ich vermisse es 💙🤍❤
wahre worte solche Personen die andere Kulturen respektieren lädt man gerne ein :3 ^^
I take exception regarding Americans being louder than Germans. I don't hear loud Americans when I'm in tourist areas. and Germans get every bit as loud in the Kneipes.
@@saskiaargauer8975 Danke!
I'm a Texan about to study abroad in Germany, and this was super helpful :) Bitte!
I spent a wonderful summer in Heidelberg...loved it! So beautiful, the culture, the people, and I didn’t feel that they were “cold or impolite’. Just different. As an American, I tried to always speak German, even if I didn’t know any, but I felt it made a difference. I did get yelled at when I tried to cross the street!! Ha Ha!
I was in Munich for Oktoberfest several years ago.... I forgot about the differences between German and American culture after a few hours of drinking. In addition to Germans, I was drinking with English, Irish, French, and Italians. We had a blast - the best international gathering I ever attended - fuel by good beer!
My partner and I have given up on the Divided Kingdom and are moving to Bamberg, Bavaria in a few months. We can't wait! This video helps us understand some of the differences, so vielen dank! We are looking forward to finally spending Euros anywhere in Europe; no more rip off currency exchange charges.
I am not from the States, but can I say that I found German people always very welcoming and friendly?
I have been more than once in Germany (twice for a famous metal festival called Wacken) and I always had an amazing time and met lots of lovely people.
I also had some of the best beers I've ever tried in my life..
I live in Berlin now so I'm your best friend in bed
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I'm giving you a thumbs up 👍
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I will go to Wacken next year 🤞🏾
I loved the "Tschüß" at the end. I got so used to saying it, rather than "Auf Wiedersehen", that I STILL catch myself saying it 30 years later. The problem is that not many people seem to be familiar with the word here in the States. Hearing you say that felt like I was listening to an old friend.
I definitely appreciate German waiters. There are certain rules and signals (such as the particular placement of your knife and fork), and as long as you know them, everything goes quite smoothly. In many American restaurants (the affordable chain restaurants especially) the waiter tells you their name and checks on you every 5 minutes like some sort of intensive care nurse. I find it awkward, pointless, and intrusive. Not to be too judgemental though, it's just a different culture. With fewer rules and less training, we definitely need more friendly customer service just to make things work.
My German sister wants to come and visit my family in the US. I hope she will change her mind as I cannot afford to feed her with all that delicious food they have in Germany(not here). She lives in historical town and knows the best cafe and restaurants. Since CovidLockdown it's been very bad here - food and service. Shortage. No one wants to work for 10$ per/h anymore. The best times are gone. 😢
@@ludastout2852 $10 per hour is practically slavery. Is that legal in the U.S.?
I need to hear more about the special placement of knife and fork in Germany when you finish. Crossed? Point-to-point? Teepee?
Believe it or not, some people like to feel like they are pampered when they go out to eat!
@@pyrmontbridge4737 25 to 30 US Dollars would be more fair and kind.
This might be the most helpful video on the Internet with regards to Germany. Thank you so much!
I lived in Frankfurt from 87-90 when I was in the Army. I absolutely love Germany!
I lived in Germany for a few years and I loved it. Can’t wait to go back and visit one day. Although back then you didn’t have the euro yet, it was still the Deutsche Mark.
Hi,I always liked what you post here on UA-cam but we are not friends yet, I Normally don't comment here on UA-cam but your unique close resemblance with an old friend of mine made me text you.
Between the customer service style, the focus on following rules, and the apathy towards small talk, Germany is looking more and more like a place in which I would be happy to live. I'm all about efficiency in all aspects of life and it seems many Germans are too.
Probably I also want things to be efficient you know
Thank You for the informative video. I found it refreshing remembering the 6 years, that i lived in Germany. It brought back wonderful experiences. I wish the states would consider going to some of these. Munich is a wonderful city I have been their and loved it. my German friends helped explain their way of life to me so that helped. Thank you.
Germans can't small talk 🤣TRUE.
We always do BIG talk 🤣
@@slygem899 or NO talk, we are pretty good in that too
@@i_can_c_u_2295 klar bei nem Bier sitzen und einfach mal Nix sagen geht auch immer gut 😆
@@slygem899 Leichtes Kopfnicken in eine Richtung reicht meistens
@@i_can_c_u_2295 Ein Kommentar oder kurzer Ausstausch geht manchmal auch - habe ich mir sagen lassen.
I have been to Germany a few times and I have never noticed people or customer service people being "unfriendly". Maybe I have just been lucky. Regarding speaking German, I had a funny experience at a Subway in Germany. I tried to order in German and the guy couldn't quite understand what I was asking for. He said in perfect English "why don't you just order in English" . Turns out he was from Canada. 😁
I think it's always a matter of expectations. And then it can obviously change somewhat from person to person. But some people at least believe that the people in the North of Germany - while generally seen more tight-lipped or taciturn perhaps - can still come off as having a more friendly or warm attitude. I know some people that grew up in East-Frisia that didn't really enjoy living in Bavaria for that reason.
they were friendly to you because you're canadian :D
Maybe it's a Munich thing a friend moved from Cologne to Munich and told me she hates ro go to bakery there because they are so unfriendly for example
@@jadasilly She should have gone to a different bakery then!
@@jadasilly I had the same thing, moving from NRW to Munich. I don‘t know what itis about bavarian bakeries. Plus they didn‘t have any milk read rolls. Main reason to move back 😉
I travel extensively, and speak six languages, and often people have no awareness of the differences that I might encounter in their country. This video is fascinating to me, because it is simply so filled with useful information!
I was stationed there for three years, I knew them all! Thanks for sharing. I do still have a few Deutsche marks left over from my time there.
The first time I was in Germany I was surprised at how cheap the gas prices were. Eventually I realize that was the price per liter, not per gallon.
2/3 of the price is tax. But most European Countries have comparable taxes on fuel.
Hahaha...I made exactly the same mistake my first time as well!
metric system
Thanks for saying - subscribe for free.
For a year or so I did not press - subscribe as I did not wish to enter into any card or bank payments. The word seems to have drifted as the dictionary implies 'payment'.
I speak German pretty well but they can tell I’m English because of my accent. Most will reply in English if they can as they use it to practice the language with a native speaker. I’ve had many conversations where I only speak in German and the other person only speaks in English. It’s good practice for both parties
We spent 50% of our time in Germany for work until COVID. These tips would have been so helpful five years ago!! :)
Parking is always a challenge and putting the time you parked on the flat clock on your dashboard was new for us. Also,
bringing your own bags to all stores to carry your purchases was a must. We love watching your videos...we can’t wait until travel opens up again!
Great video! Everything mentioned in the video is 100% true. I visit Germany a few times a year. Great country!
In 1987, I was just 22 years & I went to Würzburg from Mumbai for my studies in the university. I virtually knew nothing about Germany or Germans. No social media then. Even my German language was at rudimentary stages. Learnt everything from the scratch (thanks to my stay in a studentenwohnheim). After a decade I was almost Germanized. Germans used to ask me if my father or mother was a german. So much for the transition. 😁😁😁
I lived in Würzburg for a few years. It is one on the most beautiful, friendliest cities I have ever been in. I would move back, today, if I were able.
I've made three trips to Germany. The first many years ago on a business incentive program where I was a host for other Americans coming into in multiple groups on multiple days. Naturally we dealt almost exclusively through people who were multi-lingual. And, since our groups were bringing substantial economic value with them, we all treated very well. The other two trips were with my significant other who is a German native. Being with a native eliminated many of the problems you discussed. But I did find myself alone, often in stores, and had little trouble especially in the larger cities. On my first trip, I took a drive from Munich into Austria with a couple of friends and did have some the problems you mentioned, but nothing severe. I like Germany a lot and look forward to returning.
This youtuber gives me a 2011 youtuber vibe, which is totally amazing. Love it
I was in Dresden and Berlin. I'd like to visit other cities this spring. Germans are very friendly, speak very good in english, and the regular stores are quite cheap.
You shuld come to the North of Germany! If you like citys Bremen and Hamburg are lovely. In case you would like to see something different the Nordsee and it's Wattenmeer and Watt is very special, smal locations there are always a nice visit!
You’re a great ambassador! 🥇
i found your channel. love your videos. wow, you speak great english. you don't even have an accent. you're giving me reasons to go to germany after this pandemic passes.
I love that y'all close on Sundays 👏🏽
Hey from Tx🌵
One more thing about the restaurant when paying. You can pay together (zusammen) or separately (getrennt)
I found this SOOO cool because you don't have to do the separate payment on your own when dinning out with friends. The staff will come with a wallet and if you say (getrennt) she will let you know how much your share cost and how much your friend's share cost so you can pay your own share accordingly. This really cuts out the awkwardness especially if you have friends who tends to ' forget' to pay you after you pay first.
You're right. When you are in a restaurant with another couple or some other friends and it becomes time to pay, the waitre / waitress will normaly ask you first "getrennt oder zusammen?" (means: divided or together), cause most of us Germans like to pay seperate... 😅🙃
I went to Germany back in 2001, when I was 16 years old. Everything you talked about I noticed. Like every single thing LOL. I went during Christmas so it was lots of fun. The only thing you didn't mention that was quite a shock to me was nudity in media that was meant to family friendly!
oh and sizing difference in clothing and shoes
True! The nudity thing really is something that's common in many European countries, not just Germany. Same goes for the sizing.
Nudity doesn't impact family friendliness by german standards. Maybe "full nudity" but definitely not naked boobs. Violence on the other hand is a MAJOR factor in that regard. For all kinds of media: TV, movies, video games etc..
While in the US you censor someone´s mouth when he is saying things like "bullshit" or swear-words. Thats funny to Germans ;)
@@lane0mator Also allowing all kinds of violence on TV. Btw one thing that particularly shocked me about quite a few US news channels I have seen is that they show accident victims if they got crushed in a car etc. . This is especially a problem if they arrive at the scene while there are still ambulances etc. around. They just zoom in onto corpses etc.. That is honestly so crazy to me (here they wouldn't even show that image blurred, let alone raw. It's just disrespectful to the victims but also imo just morally wrong, let alone the impact it can have on kids or mentally unstable adults etc.).
Where was this video 2 years ago when I needed it? 🙃
Oh no did you have a bad experience in Germany? 🙈 Maybe you can go again in the future with this newly gained knowledge?
No, I had traveled to Europe a few times previously, so I was fairly prepared. The one thing that caught me off guard was that national holidays follow the same closure rules as Sundays. My stay in Munich included Labor Day...fortunately, I stayed next to the main train station, but the grocery store there was PACKED! 😅
probably it was born in Felis brain....and growing
Credit Cards: The acceptance has changed rapidly since Corona. In the meantime you can pay nearly everywhere with credit card in germany, even small amounts of money. Credit cards (Visa and Mastercard, not American Express!) are very well acepted and maybe only a problam at very small snack businessrs.
Gutentag! I lived in biebesheim growing up and loved it!
This is going in a list of important videos for reference. A bucket list item for me is going to Germany. Especially because I want to try and track down more of my genealogy.
Good luck in your future travels. A family member was able to trace back to 1500s Prussia, near Gdansk/Danzig.
I fell in love with a German woman while we were both on vacation. Coincidentally, she's also from Munich.
She was super cold as we first met. I was drawn to her and her confident beauty. I broke her down with my constant chatter over that first day and she grew to give me more details of her life. Unfortunately, we broke it off after I left Munich because the timing wasn't good for either of us. I hope to see her later on in life.
I lived there for 5 years. You nailed it. I had forgotten about paying for using the bathroom in some places and about restaurant customer service.
The part about German people speaking English is so true. Whenever I went snowboarding in Germany, my boyfriend and I talked to the people in German. I always had to laugh because they answered me in German, but my boyfriend in English, even if we were both talking to the same person 😂😂 It happened multiple times too.
I guess I speak German well enough and look German enough, whenever I went to Germany and spoke with the locals they always spoke German with me.
I think you should have mentioned “The German Stare”. I experienced this going on a train. Man did he stare me down when I thought I was politely asking if I could sit in his row. It was quite disturbing. But I didn’t let it ruin my trip.
I am German and I don't really know what this is all about. I've never experienced "The German Stare" - or I am part of it and don't realize it. In my opinion this is just a normal behavior to look at other people. Then I think it might be a misunderstanding: Sometimes I try to look in the eyes of strange people passing by, just in order to greet them or smile at them. Especially when I come back from a trip to Asia (where people are so open and friendly) and try to maintain this behavior. Interesting observation: now during the lockdown in Germany, going out for a walk became a thing even more than it was before. During these "corona walks" I often get a smile back. In the past I might be mistaken as a staring guy - but I always just wanted to be polite.
You can get The Stare even when you haven't violated protocol.
@Ali Miri I'm not sure to which experience you refer. My experience "in Asia" does perhaps not fit to Japan. I've never been there. In Vietnam, Thailand or Indonesia I got the feeling that people are very polite and often smile to me when passing by. That's what I meant above stating that people "in Asia are open and friendly".
Loved my time in Germany! If we ever get out of covid, I'm going back!
Very helpful, especially about knowing the rules, what to know in restaurants and driving.
@12:30 is soooo true. Huge culture of efficiency. Enjoy this aspect of Deutschland. It is refreshing compared to most of the superficial conversations in the USA. direct. Honest. No fluff.
Hi,I always liked what you post here on UA-cam but we are not friends yet, I Normally don't comment here on UA-cam but your unique close resemblance with an old friend of mine made me text you.
It’s been my goal to have a semester abroad in Germany for the last 4 years. Should have gone this fall but it got Covid-ed. Thank you for the tips hopefully I can use these if I go this upcoming fall 😁.
I always wonder why people are so astonished about foreign cultures. In the end you travel abroad like you go to university: to learn something new. If I had wanted everything like at home I would have stayed there.
"getting covided" really should make it into the dictionary :D
I hope that you can go this year 🙏
Me too
@@Ltrippie hello Mrs how are you doing, I'm Dwayne, what's your name
As an American who has lived in Germany I can relate to the customer service difference. Good customer service is not just about smiling and engaging in small talk. Good customer service involves empowering an employee to resolve an issue before it ever escalates into a bad customer experience. To this day I don’t see German business structured this way and I think it is something Germany could improve upon.
I've lived in six different European countries in the last ten years, and I can vouch for the fact that it's much more a European thing (substandard customer service) than a German one. I've worked in a customer service role all my life (last 20 years in CS departments for various online businesses) and found that North American customer service is much more personable and consumer friendly than pretty much anywhere in Europe. It's definitely cultural. Good customer service does exist in European countries, but generally speaking it's more common in high-priced places like fancy hotels and restaurants than in everyday places like stores, fast food places, or when contacting mobile phone carriers or utility companies, for example.
I like the way it is here in Europe. The employees do not have to cope with costumers who think they are entitled and the CS is their lackey.
Great video! Very informative. Same rules, 100% applies to neighbored Poland, if you happen to wander there in your travels. I let several of my friends watch this video before they travel to Germany, Poland or most of European countries for that matter.
Prost!
Tip: US hairdryers usually have a discrete voltage switch for foreign travel purposes. If you locate it, you'll notice it says 125 on one side of the switch and 250 on the other. Switch it to 250 while visiting European places while using a European outlet adapter and you should be able to use it abroad.
Who travels with a hairdryer? I have never traveled somewhere that didn't provide one and they are bulky as hell to pack.
Thank you for this tip.❤
As a german, I was actually surprised to learn that many countries do NOT dub movies in their language and have subtitles instead. Because almost all movies get dubbed in Germany I just assumed that every country does this in their language.
hey need your help
I prefer subtitles. Like to keep original voices. The dub annoys me.
It´s a lot more expensive dubbing movies, shows etc. for 8 million swedish speakers than for 100 million german ones. That´s one of the, at least historical, reasons why people in countries with less spoken languages usually speak better english.
@@clysen8234 When it is made bad, your're right. But normally the german movie companies do it really good. So i can watch movie and don't have to read. If I want to read, I take the newspapers...
@@drau331 yeah, but the mouth is not in sync. Lips move in one direction voice comes in other. I don't like that.
If you've never been to Germany, put it on your bucket list. My experience was terrific there; I found the people warm, friendly, outgoing, and helpful. And unlike some places I've lived, they seemed to like Americans and Canadians who look like Americans. Yay! And what GG said about Sunday in Germany is true, as my son and I discovered one Sunday. But the train stations are the best for travelers, clean, well run and friendly employees. Don't speak German, no problem; someone will help you. Ditto at the airports.
Generally, if you love/like people, they will love/like you back.
This year I started learning German, my dream is to be able to visit the country someday. Your tips really helped me to understand the culture a lot more ❤
I almost agree with everything 😁 Customer service is still a point for sure, but it went so much better over the decades. Sometimes you even can have a small talk with the cashier if there is no big waiting line. It's still not the same level like in the States but it's improving steadily. One thing is the 24 hour system: I had a friend from North Carolina here in Germany and we were sitting at the computers he was like "what is this? 10 minutes after nothing?". I had to laugh so hard when I saw it was 0:10 Uhr 😂 This is almost 18 years ago but I still remember it like yesterday. Please keep up the excellent work, it's always fun and entertaining to watch your videos. Even as an old guy I'm still learning some new things every time. Prost aus Gevelsberg/NRW 🍺🤘😍
As a Brit who lives in the US, I found this video fascinating, because a lot of what you said about Germany is also the case in the UK. Petrol prices are high and the streets are much more walkable. Your description of Germans also fits the average Brit, who will be rather cold and unfriendly on the surface (in the south-east). Generally, people got friendlier as you got to know them in my experience.
On the other hand, here in Florida, people are very friendly on the surface and will happily chat with strangers. However, I find that making deeper friendships is a lot more difficult
Not only Germany and the UK but most of Europe applies by the same rules actually haha.
So.. Americans are fake people?
When I was growing up in Chicago circa 1948-50, it was and unwritten rule to stand on the right on escalators. Nobody had to be told everyone just did it. Also, people kept to the right on sidewalks and especially in crosswalks at intersections. The "loop" (downtown Chicago) was very busy all the time so keeping to the right made it worlds easier to walk places in the loop. When a stop light turned green two waiting crowds of pedestrians on each side of the intersection moved toward each other and passed left shoulder to left shoulder without interference. I don't know if this is still the case. I haven't been to the loop since 1955 when I was 10. A lot of things in America have changed since I was a boy, many for the better but some for the worse.
I always do this and don't even think about it, except that I'll walk on the street side of a woman if there's water on the street. Easier to deal with splashes for a man and his clothes than for most women. My dad and grandfather just drilled it into ne as a small kid and I teach the same things. It's not as common as when I was little but a lot of men still do it, especially lower middle class and working class areas.
I thought only people in Prague metro are doing this, but I saw similar behavior even in Lisbon metro. We have rule that people are staying on right and peolpe are walking on left, because when you don't have time and you need catch tram or bus, you can't stay 2 minutes on stupid escalators so most of people are not staying. In most of other countries people are staying randomly and also when they entering or leaving bus or tram, it's very random. Here in Czechia you have to always let people leave first and then you can go in.
@@Pidalin Ha, I live in Seattle and at some bus stops people are in such a rush they all try to get on at the same time and sometimes forget to let people off. I have to get off the bus slowly because I am old and I have a badly injured leg, and an impatient young man will sometimes push me out of the way because he is in a big hurry. About 50-60 kilometers south of here in Tacoma, it is completely different, people wait patiently and even step aside for me because of my age. I am not used to such deference, and it practically embarrasses me. I like to hear about civilized places. Civilization will save us, it's absence will destroy us.
@@tonygumbrell22 Well, USA is big country, we can't even imagine it here in Europe where you drive few hunderd kilometers and people speak different langauge there. Don't let people leave bus first is very rude here and it's even faster for everyone let them exit vehicle first.
@@Pidalin People in Seattle often act as though, if they don't charge on the bus right away, they will be left behind. That's American individualism in the big city. It has gotten better since the covid-19 epidemic. That has forced everyone to take things more seriously, and think what they are doing.
great tips! The last time I was in Germany was 1984...I really needed this refresher course!