There is one important thing missing. In a restaurant in Germany you can stay for as long as you want. In the USA, they normally want have you to leave if you have already eaten to make room for those, that come next. Not so in Germany, in Germany you can stay and sit at your table the whole evening in a restaurant until it closes and no one will have something against such a behaviour.
OpenGL4ever that is very true. and I think I should mention that in regards to reservations as that has been something tourists have asked me before. thanks for the heads up!
I think in the US, if you stay too long it says some thing like "this guy is not paying for his food". Thats why you get thrown out. Not really sure about that.
the main reason is, that german restaurants make the most money with the drinks, since you don't get free refills here and don't get tab water (not sure about the spelling). It's in the restaurant's interest that you stay longer and have a little talk, so that you'll have more drinks... You can have a meal for around 12-14€ where i live, but each drink is another 2.30ish€
Agreed OpenGL. That rush has become more evident in American restaurants, bars, over the past two decades or so. European cafes overall are much more enjoyable as a relaxing aspect of the various cultures. Of course, I've heard the salaries per hour are much higher in European countries than in some U.S. States. Some states like Florida pay servers only $3, or $4.00 an hour which should be illegal. Nobody can make a living on that and tips from tables will in many cases leave you still struggling. I've noticed younger generation of waiters/servers, don't even thank you and take even a generous tip as "expected". Places don't offer you, or buy you a drink anymore as they once did after so many. All the American establishments care about is the money and "turn and burn" the seat at the bar or the table. Don't think their staff meetings don't discuss this "time interval" before the doors open. It doesn't make me very happy at how my country has become. Of course, the real high end famous restaurants in various large American cities would be a much more refined, dining experience comparable to those in many European capitals. Many American waiters I've spoken to also bemoan about Canadians, or even some Europeans that can afford to come to the US on holiday, or rent or buy a condo but "pretend" they didn't know about tipping at a restaurant. RIGHT.
Service in Germany won´t be so friendly? That´s not true! But in Germany is a different understanding of what is friendly and what is not. I would feel uncomfortable if every 2 Min the waitor asks me if I´m ready.
I like the service in Germany better than in the U.S. It's too distracting as they would keep coming back, asking me how's everything going. I was like fine, staring deep into their souls in the process.
+Walters World I do absolutely agree with zuckerschneuzchen. In Germany it's more a sign of respect *not* to disturb the guests smalltalk all five minutes. It is seen as being unpolite when you all the time pass by and ask "do you want to have some orders?" "No? Oh, I'll be back right in a minute...". This would be seen here as if you'd say: "Still no orders? Come on...?"... ;-) I think it's different understanding of service. If you do want to order something just have eye contact to the waiter or waitress and maybe do some shy wave and they'll pass by happily as soon as possible for getting your orders. But they won't bother you all the time by interrupting your talking with your partner or friends. Everything else here in germany would be experienced as "aufdringlich" or as you'd probably say "pushing". Just ask or give a sign so they can see you're ready for the service and they'll happily help you. Any bet!
+Cris Yorke ...the waitstaff at most chain or big restaurants in the United States, are instructed by the owners or managers to constantly make sure the customer is completely happy. For example...Olive Garden, the chain restaurant tells the waitstaff that if a customer has a soft drink, that it should never be empty sitting on the table. If the waitstaff don't meet all these requirements that these owners/managers have, they can get fired.
***** ... and that's the exact clash of cultures. In Germany most people would experience a waiter passing by all 2 minutes to see if you might want to order something being kind of touting. In Germany waitstaff is looking if you are showing them you really want them for orders or answering questions and so on. They don't want to disturb you (and maybe your guests).
What's worth mentioning, regarding your order in a restaurant: Leave your menu open (if it comes in a kind of folder, or sth.) until you're ready. The waiters usually won't approach you as long as they can see that you are still looking into the menu. When you're done, close it, lay it to the side and there you go! The waiter won't have to come back later, you won't have to call him/her again, everyone's happy. :)
This is really helpful! I was little nervous when he was talking about ordering in a restaurant, so I feel better knowing that I can take a little more time to look through the menu!
that's amazing, i will try that. (and i'm from germany, i just never considered that...) maybe that's why it takes so long sometimes. the thing is, i often keep the menu often because i point to it when ordering, because in my experience it all goes more smoothly that way. so from now on, i'll make sure to close it, and then be ready to reopen it in order to point to it.
Usually german service personal is very friendly. They just aren't overly fake-excited like it seems to be a requirement in the US. Also nobody will come to you all the time, because that would just be annoying. But usually they are walking through the restaurant at all times. If you need something, just raise your hand and they'll be right there with you.
It is not "fake-excited". From school we are taught the following: "That person has his own problems. Do not put your problems on them".. If we are mad when working, why will we be mad at the customer? Suck it up and be nice. Are you so mad you HAVE to be angry? Then be a adult and call to say "I cannot work today". Acting nice does not mean want to be friends or anything more. It means that you have control of brain and body to present yourself in a pleasant fashion. Being "fake-excited" means: "I know you are a person. You want to come here to have a good time and it is MY job and i am a ADULT so i will be happy for you" if you are to much of a child to control yourself then why the fuck are you working customer service?
The Service Personal don´t come around every few minutes like the US Service thats right. And they don´t have to because they´re paying more attention to the Guests. Normally they come to the Table and take your Order, when they´re see that you lay down the Menu Card.
Ok if it isn't fake-excited, then it is masochism. No, we don't have to be angry. But sometimes people can make us angry, and we are honest. Of course if it is an achievement for you to be able to please and flatter insulting and arrogant idiots, so be it. We prefer to be direct and genuine. If we lose those guys, so be it, one idiot less to deal with. We spare real friendliness (apart from professional politeness) to people who deserve it.
@ Nope. If you do not tip you are either a jerk, or it is a signal that the service was extremely bad. Otherwise you tip by rounding up so that it is in the 5-15% range (4,30 EUR > 5 EUR, 23,60 EUR > 25 or 26 EUR).
If anyone of you is going to Germany soon, then read this carefully! 1. Not every german is a freakin' Nazi 2. We don't hate the US and stuff but if you ever refear to us as Nazis some of us might get angry 3. Like it's said in the Video most of us can speak english (but in school we learn British English) 4. Out Service is indeed very friendly and you can always speak in English with them Hope I could help a bit!
One thing I have to disagree about: Tipping! We *do* tip in Germany - but we do it very _selectively_. Basically speaking, if the service is quick and/or friendly, it's understood that you tip about 10%. Not doing so won't be the kind of social suicide as it is in the US - but it'll still be considered bad form.
We ALWAYS tip in germany ! the waitstaff Not Friendly ???? really ? my take is just that they're not Fake Friendly like this guy basically says how it is here in the U.S. "because they don't get paid fairly so that for they have to kiss ass?'
I've worked in the food service industry my whole life. Done everything from busses to owning my own restaurant now. It's not that were super fake or over the top. It's that we understand that there are so many options for our customers to eat. We realize the customer is the reason we have jobs and our reason for having that job.
i don't know it iam from germany and this bus Tour musst be extra for tourist it's not normal!!!! normal prise for one adult person for 60min 18-30€ 20-35$
I am german and in the restaurants when you come and sit down they bring you the menu card and ask you what you want to drink. while they prepare your drinks you can look what you want to eat. When they bring you the drinks they will ask you what you want to eat. If you need more time you can tell them and they will come back in some minutes. And not giving tip means that you didn't like the service. Normally we give here 10% tip.
Regarding German restaurants: "Service won't be very friendly"? Are you kidding me? It's simply a different attitude. In most European countries the assumption is that you're in a restaurant to enjoy the food and have a good time with your companions. As a result the staff will give you your privacy, stay out of your way and generally be as unobtrusive as possible. Whenever you need something you just wave someone over. In German restaurants the staff will seat you, bring you the menu and ask what you'd like to drink. When they bring you your drinks they'll ask if you're ready to order food. If not, they'll usually wait until you signal them unless you're taking a very long time to decide in which case they'll ask if you'd appreciate some assistance. My own experience with German restaurants is that the staff will be very helpful if you'd like something that isn't on the menu or if you have specific requirements (for example due to allergies). They're also usually very knowledgeable about the food they're serving and will quite happily explain what it is, where it's from and how it's made. A very important thing to know is that in Germany, politeness is considered VERY important, sometimes to the point where it borders on being formal.Yes, you are the customer but that doesn't make you the center of the universe. The staff will treat you with respect and expect you to return the courtesy. Having said that, they're usually quite happy to have a chat but since not all customers appreciate that you'll have to start the conversation. The attitude of the people can also differ greatly depending on which part of Germany you're in. My own experience is that in the former East Germany (DDR) which was under communist rule for a long time, people tend to be a bit more distant and reserved until they get to know you better. My guess is that this is because for a very long time they had to be careful what they said to whom or else they'd end up in prison. By contrast, people in Bavaria are generally very jovial and open from the very start. Another noteworthy thing is that like Belgium, Germany has many different local beers. You should definitely ask about them, the restaurant staff will usually appreciate your interest and be able to provide lots of information. And of course there's the food itself. German cuisine is mostly centered on meat and poultry, fish is less common unless there's a large body of water nearby. The variety of vegetables will be limited but most restaurants will have vegetarian dishes. For dessert there's usually cake or ice cream. As with the beer there'll probably be some local specialties which you should definitely try. Finally, most restaurants will be closed one day per week. This is called "Ruhetag", literally "resting day". Which day of the week is up to the owners so check in advance whenever possible. Enjoy your stay in Germany!
most Americans are just used to smiling, friendly formalities etc. I like the German set up for dining and the American for different reasons. I definitely will say, if you come to America, you will notice the servers are super friendly, but Germans are made nervous by that and aren't able to react well to it socially. That and the American servers refill waters and drinks without asking.
Ian Wehmeyer what? So they don’t even ask you? Is that even allowed? I mean they are literally ordering and buying something without your permission. I don’t know how it works in America but in Germany they make money usually off of beverages and not particularly of the food. So the drinks will cost more and then some waiter will (a German expression for spending money recklessly) throw your money out of the window!
I agree with everything, but the tipping part is wrong regarding Germany. As a native German who is still living in Germany I can assure you that it is very well expected to give a tip in restaurants (10%). Always presumed the service was good of course.
+Gabal W. and or higher (10 to 16%). that also doesn't stop at high class restaurants. regardless, the tipp in europe is smaller because the waitresses are way better payed (at least that's what i've been told). so don't have hard feelings tipping us lower
When I go to a restaurant here in germany, I mostly order a drink and when thebwaiter brings it to my table I order the food. And we do tip; mostly rounding up for example from 32,40€ to 35 or sth like that. Make sure the tip is around 10%
***** Exactly this, nothing to add. Order drinks, order food when they deliver the drinks, so you have time to think about the food. You can tip more if you were really happy with the service, but around 10% is normal.
Ordering in a german restaurant. This is how it works: They´ll come quick and ask you to order the drinks first, since usually you know what you want to drink. Then you have some sparetime to studdy the menu and when the drings getting served they´ll take your food Order. If you have a ard time to decide what to eat, just say you gonna need another few minutes an they will be back soonish. If you need something else, just look for eye contact and nod your head slightly or give a friendly beckon. They won´t bother you every few Minutes at the table.
As a german I was in the USA and I knew that the service is more friendly than in europe. But: I don't like it. It's not that I don't like friendly service - it's too much for me. I don't want someone to collect my stuff in the supermarket. I don't want to be asked all the time if everything is fine. I go into a restaurant, they bring the menu and ask about the drinks. When I get the drinks I order the food or ask for some more time to read the menu. The waiter will come if you look at them or as soon as you give them a sign. Just raise your hand a little bit and look at the waiter. He will come and ask for your wishes. And I prefer that - because you can talk without someone is interrupting you. You can be for yourself and if you need service you just have a look at can give your orders. If you like to talk, you just talk to the waiter. If he's having time, you can have a nice conversation. I absolutely like to go to brewery houses in cologne with foreigners. There the waiters come and ask what you like. You will order a cologne beer. If you order i.e. a coke the waiter will look at you and wait until you order a beer. Or he goes away and comes back and give you a beer. That happens last time. So the foreigner says that he ordered a coke and the waiter says: That's your coke. After drinking our first beer - more or less while drinking our first beer - the waiter came, took away our almost empty glasses and gave us fresh ones. So the foreigner was complaining that he hadn't order a new beer. And that's true, but he hasn't ordered no more beer. A waiter is called "Kellner" in german. In cologne we call these unfriendly waiters 'Köbes'. What you never ever should do is to order another beer than a cologne beer. You order a "Kölsch". If you order a beer from Düsseldorf you might be kicked out. Very bad mistake in a cologne brewery pub. If you want to drink a beer in a cologne pub and the waiter is friendly - you're definitely in the wrong pub.
The "Köbes" is culture shock for you? That's why it's funny to go to a cologne brewery house with people from outside from cologne. :-) Is a kind of shock even for germans outside from cologne. Usually you don't even order your drink. The "Köbes" comes to you... not exactly comes to you... he is going through the pub with dozents of beers and at some point he passes you. By passing he assign one beer to you. If you don't have a glass you get one. If your glass is empty you got a new one. You came to a brewery house you get a beer. No questions asked. That's also the way he leaves you. You come in, get beer, that's it. So if you speak to the "Köbes" and order something different it's a kind of protest. They don't like it. ;) If you order a coke, they have to go back to the counter and get you a coke. They have plenty of beer with them. It's a brewery house not a candy bar. You don't have to go to a brewery house to protest - you're there to drink beer. So shut up and drink your beer - or beg for a coke. If you want to order food you interrupt the Köbes from assigning beer to the people. They don't stop assigning just for you to ask for your wishes. They might come back if they don't have any beer anymore and the guy behind the counter is cleaning and refilling the glasses. Be so be quick - the guy behind the counter is a professional. If they have time to listen to your wish they usually they are kind enough to ask you what you want to eat. Or at least to ask you if you want to eat what they assign to you. If you brave enough you can negotiate to get a menu and hope that the köbes comes back before he get fresh beer to assign. ;) A Köbes is straight. VERY straight. Offensive. Imagine the Köbes recognizes something special on your shirt and tells you that he likes it and that they use the same rags to clean the kitchen. But it always comes with a wink. And it's funny to see foreigners who expect waiter who showes interest in your wishes. As a native you expect what you get. And you're disappointed if the Köbes is too friendly. You don't want a waiter in a cologne brewery house. That's a special kind of entertainment. As a native it's fun to see the WTFs in the face of the neighbor table. Did the waiter really just said what I heard? In the first place the Köbes was not a waiter, it was an apprentice in the brewery. So he was not teached to be a professional waiter. It was just a young man who had to sell beer at the end of a long working day. So he was tired and not to much enthusiastic and usually not the kind of friendly smiling waiter you expect today. Today they are professional waiters with a special sense of humor. Not every waiter is able to become a Köbes because you have to be quick at repartee and to know how far can he go and to be able to go far enough as the people expect from a Köbes. And it is a hard job to run around in the pub with dozends of beers in one hand. In cologne the Kölsch is served in 0,2 liter glasses. So the waiter must be quick.
Mike NullAchtFünfzehn: :-D Das mit dem Kölsch habe ich schon häufiger gehört von Leuten, die anschließend von Spülwasser besoffen waren, obwohl das ja eigentlich gar nicht geht... Ansonsten ist Kölsch tatsächlich ein leckeres, süffiges Bier, das ich schon durch die halbe Welt exportieren musste.
Sascha Atrops yeah the köbes was a culture shock but I was more shocked that you like that, but then again its probably a culture shock to you why I like the waiters here in the US, so I can't judge.
pufferkuesser97 um ehrlich zu sein pfeife ich auf solche Regeln. Ist mir ziemlich egal. Wenn ich ausgehe und habe keine Lust Trinkgeld zu geben, tue ich es nicht.
Jeremy Thomas In Eastern Europe, it is, too, but in Western Europe, it's more about half a salary. Still, if you have to pay a tour bus, you are paying both driver and bus, and don't forget, driving is expensive in Europe, gas costs somewhere about double the US price and up. And if you're away for a longer trip, you quickly need 2 bus drivers, because of the legal driver's working hours. It quickly adds up...
Jeremy Thomas Well, if you can share the bus with about 40 to 50 others, it's only some 20 euro. Transport is expensive in Europe, luckily, distances are often not half of what you could commonly find in the US. Visit Paris, then Bruges? It's only 300 km... On to Brussels? Only 100 more. Per km, it costs a lot, but you don't have to travel far to get to the next interesting town or city. It also explains why small cars are so popular in many European countries...
The thing with the service is easily to explain: If you want to order some more look at the waitress and raise your index finger. That's the appropriate sign. I work as a waitress in Germany and my boss wants me to ask people more often if they want something else because then she'll make more money but a lot of people - including myself - consider that inpolite. Most of the people in Germany just want to sit, eat and talk and they don't want the waiter or waitress to disturb them. And please don't tell people that we don't tip in Germany. For me it is normal get a tip of 10% if the service was good. However it seems to be a myth in the USA that you don't tip because never ever did an English speaking person gave a tip. Not tipping means the service was bad.
+Larissa Schiefer And even with bad service you should give 3% except you really want to be rude. At the same time giving no tip used to be the worldless sign that you do not intend to ever come back because the service was that bad. Wait that works for those pesky american tourists ;-) Anyway even 15% should not be that unusual if the service if above the expected standard.
Exactly. There are only two reasons not to give a tip: 1. Your order was very small (like, you only had a cup of coffee somewhere) or 2. You felt that the service was bad. So if you don't tip you basically tell the waiter that you think he didn't do a good job. What is correct is that our waiters actually get paid, so they aren't as reliant on the tips as the US service staff usually is. But at the very least round up the sum, and if you spend a lot of time in a restaurant, go for the 10%.
swanpride i think there is a third reason: if the prices are really high already. sure, it's not that waiters' fault, so it feels not so nice. on the other hand, if the prices are that high, hopefully the waiters get paid well already. if someone has any hints on how to do that well, i'd appreciate it... of course you could come in, look at the menu and just stand up and leave again if the prices are outrageous. i recall doing that exactly once, i was with two friends and we all left, but usually that goes a little too far.
Well, you don't have to tip, but everyone I know here in Germany considers it extremely rude not to tip. And yeah, it should be 10 %, but if you're a student (or look like you could be), it can also be okay to tip less, because the waiter will assume you don't have more money.
Germany is a fascinating and beautiful country. Berlin is dynamic and becoming one of the world's most important capitals again. Americans should know that there is a lot of anti-American hatred in Germany, so be prepared and aware. I have had many good experiences and it is definitely worthwhile to visit Germany, but it is helpful to know that anti-Americanism is very widespread.
I agree that the German service staff might not be as super friendly as in the US. But please keep in mind when you are in a shop or restaurand as an English speaking person that the people there are not used to speak English - so they concentrate on providing the information you need so that it's likely for them to forget (or just don't know) the casual polite phrases.
Great video, as a german i have to say that you´re right at the most points and that i would be happy to find videos like this before traveling to another country :) keep up your qualitiy ;)
mroneraven Danke Schoen! We started making these last year and have Germany, Belgium, Malta, Spain, Austria so far up. I just got back from Italy and France so those will be up in the next month or so. Glad to hear they are helpful! THanks for watching and all the best on your travels!
Interesting Video. I am an American/German. The thing I missed most in Germany was ice in my drinks. But, since I mostly drank beer, it was not that big a deal. Beautiful Country!
When you're talking about the service in restaurants you're kind of wrong. usually they seat you and ask you about drinks right away. Then when they serve you your drinks they ask about about what food you want. But when you still have not decided what you want you can just tell them and they come back a couple of minutes later.
+Rising Sun Also German waiters look for clues, if you put down or close your menu they know youre ready to order. If your glas is empty the ask if you want some more, notice here: its common to leave little bit of liquid in the glass to signal that you dont need a new one. If you need service you signal your waiter, but he/she also may come sometimes (depends on workload) and ask you if you need something.
+Destroyedearth Americans lack of culture which manifest itselfs in food culture aswell. It's actually easy to get a waiter to come, just close your menu. Many of my american friends didn't know that this is a clear sign here that you want to be served.
You´re right. As soon you (and anyone accompanying you) close the menu a waiter/waitress will consider this as a clear message: "we´ve made up our minds what we want". This is a universal custom all over Germany.
I heard quite a funny story about Wal Mart which is an american supermarket. It's far in my past. And someday it disappeared. Well I asked my parents in someway what actually happened to it. They told me that it was awfully bad here in Germany. The serveices from Wal Mart came everytime to the customer. Asked them all the time if they can help. Well the Problem is. American strategys don't work in Germany. In America (they told me) is it quite common that the services asks the customer. The customer is thankful for the help. But the germans thought something like this: "Do you think I'm to stupid to find the bread?" And thats why Wal Mart disappeared. That's how they told me. Funny little story.
yes us guy here, about the Walmart thing. its actually one of the less helpfull stores. they might as if there is anything they can help you find. but probably 90% of people who walk into a Walmart are not asked if they need anything. but one difference is that sometimes I will immedietly go ask someone where the whatever is paper towels etc. as far a tipping 15-25-30% depending if they pour a good drink, if its a place that you frequent and of course it would have to be good Service
A comment on the "service". Germans normally want to eat without being disturbed by the staff ever 5 Minutes so if we need/want something we just kindly ask for the staff and then order. Ohh and on ordering food in the first place normally the bring you the menue and ask what you wan't for a drink and come back after some 5 minutes you look through it. Or as I said before simply ask kindly for the stuff np. In the end just a difference in behaviour between the culture and has nothing to do with bad service
Exactly, you don't go to the restaurant only for the food, but to enjoy time with your family and/or friends and not to chat with the waiters. That's why germans often spend a couple hours in a restaurant, even if they've finished eating. And as for the tipping: it is ok not to tip a waiter if you can't afford it or you "only" tipp 50ct... just as it is ok to tip more if you thought the waiter earned it. No one will bat an eye, not even the waiter.
JaniceHope So a 10 seconds "Yes everything is perfect" will make you forget your mother or father in front of you? I guess you are not like this, but in the US families love each other and will always love each other even if someone makes us stop talking for 10 seconds. When you love someone, a restaurant is the best place you can take someone to talk to them?.. Americans do not cry about stupid things like 10 seconds of a waiter coming to say "is the food good?" so they will not cry if you say "Please don't come back unless i call you" but maybe it is for business? But will 10 seconds make you lose 100 billion euros? If yes then why go "talk" at a restaurant? The truth is you are looking for a problem.
well that's a cultural difference. If in germany something isn't right you can bet that people will tell the waiter. If i am not giving the waiter a signal that i am in need of his service, i don't want to be bothered by him/her. Privacy is regarded a lot different here compared to the us and we do not enjoy/do small talk. A good server takes your order, brings you the food, stays within contact reach and comes to your help, when you signal him/her to do so. Why would i want my privacy disturbed and intruded by a complete stranger? I want to relax, spent time with the people i am with and enjoy myself, almost like in a small bubble and not be bothered by the suroundings. That's also why it can take hours before we leave, because we are enjoying company in a private space. The best waiters are those, who take care of all your wishes and at the end of the evening you don't even know their face, since they worked so subbtle.
Look. If a waiter coming to ask "is everything okay" ruins your evening. Maybe look into yourself before going out. Are you happy? Are you upset? Do you really want to spend time with these people?.. Otherwise who gives one fuck that a STRANGER is working for you. No mater what culture you are ftom, I don't think that culture means to give one fuck about a SERVER and how he/she serves.
Lol I could have a absent waiter or one in my face. I love my mother and I love my girl. Telling a waiter to go away won't ruin my life. Like serious? Mother fuckers are eating mosquitos in Africa. Get over it
Isn't it the other way around? The hard towels suck up the water much better and you are dry in a secound whereas these soft smooth towels don't do shit? At least that's what I experienced.
+drembo i thought the exact same thing! my grandma insists on using the fluffy towles and it just kind of feels like you're getting yourself wet all over again with them?!?
You had to pay €800 cash at the tourbuss? Thats bisar.. With that amount of money you can aways pay with your bank card (not credit card) In Germany they speak mostly German. They learn English in school, but because every thing is in German (even movies are dubbed) they hardly speak English. ps. tipping is optional. €2 is fine if your bill is €48 for example.
+Urahara12squad "hardly speaking english" I don't know where in germany you live, but except for older people who did not learn it in school, many Germans have some level of fluency in English, young adults probably the most. And in any German major city there'll be staff able to serve you in English.
+ledzepgirl92 im dutch but live in germany. i have lived in warburg for about a year but the people at school had a hard time speaking english to me. i can understand that because everything is in germany on tv.
It seems as though you have made this video simply based on Berlin. Germany is a pretty big country you know and while many of your statements are true for all or big parts of it, many just aren't (especially concerning service, which is generally good, and tipping, which is generally required)..
SImple fact: US-American servers in most restaurants wait on 5-10 tables. In Germany, make that 10-25. We just don't have the same amount of time for our customers. It may end up being less personal, but it is more efficient and more in tune with the German culture.
Lisa La Also: Germans feel annoyed when the waiter comes over every minute to ask if you need anything. We just want to eat our food. We can't answer with food in our mouths anyway.
As an American I perceive Germans to be intelligent and civilized.The ones from experience can be pretty shy and quiet.Not that it's a bad thing. You would get the feeling initially that it's being less friendly but that's just cultural differences.Americans are always over excited and urgent Germans are more cooler.
@ intelligence can be used either for the betterment of common health or for the worse, although Germany is imperfect, it looks like they have learned from what they fell into 89 years ago as a past nation. And now, I hope that Mexico and other countries can be humble and comprehensive enough to do the same.
Where does that myth come from that tipping is uncommon here in Germany? I have friends that work in bars, and they are a bit pissed when groups of foreigners (sometimes Americans) drink all night and don't tip because they are misinformed about the tipping policy. The rule I know (and I'm German) is: tip around 10%. Unless you are unhappy with the service, of course. Bartenders' wages are not overwhelming here, so the tip is important for them and also a sign of courtesy. Of course my friends are professional enough to stay friendly and polite. Also, German waiters are usually friendly, they're just not pretending to be your friends (and as a German I would be really annoyed if they did, because I know it's fake). So, if you ask for something, they will usually be professional AND friendly.
A good tip for ordering when eating out: Know what you want to drink first - when they come the first time just order drinks, so until you get your drinks (waiter comes back) you will have bought some time to choose
He's a moron it's nothing like that here in Westfalen. And the coins are worth something COZ INFLATION KILLED US! Besides that why is he talking about money Americans live on plastic money its why they are fuckin BROKE!
there were a lot of comments about the service in German restaurants...and they are right, it's not like the video is saying...you usually get seated and asked if you already have a drink order...if not they come back...when they serve the drinks, you give your food order (if you are still not ready they come back in 5-10 minutes)...it is inpolite here to ask if everything is alright while you are still eating...if you have the desire to order a new drink you shortly give a sign to the waiter and he will serve you... when you are ready with your food they ask for anything else....while in Germany you can sit as long as you like, I experienced in the USA that they want to get rid of you as soon as possible...in Germany we go to a restaurant to eat and chat and have a nice time, no matter how long....in the US I got the feeling they wanted to get rid of you (and the restaurant wasn't even full of patrons)... and with the tipp you can't take this video seriously! A usual tip is 10% in Germany! It is true that you give more in the US, but that is because (as far as I know) you don't get minimum wage as a waiter/waitress in the US, therefore the tipps they get is more important (and they work for it hard...for me it gets mostly annoying but yeah....)
What are you talking about? Of course YOU TIP in GERMANY!!!!! I don´t know where exactly you have been eating but in a normal Restaurant you tip the person who waits on you. They don´t earn a lot and they need that extra tip money. Also I think most of the waitresses and waiters are very nice and helpful. But maybe when there are a lot of tourists in certain areas, who don´t tip because for some reason they think you don't tip in Germany, they get "bad" service.... Maybe the waitress then thinks, why bother, I won't get tiped and I will never see that tourist again anyway... I can see that actually...
Germans tip basically nothing in the US. Waiters in the US hate German tourists because of it. It literally came up in dozens of conversations with waiters in US tourist destinations.
Ok. I am really sorry about that. My Family, my friends and me always tip 20 % when we are in the US.... But nevertheless just because some Germans don´t tip American waiters, doesn´t mean to tell Americans you don´t need to tip in Germany...
Neilson, I lived in Germany for 10 years then I moved to America, ugh, and they expect to be tipped from 1-10 euros a tip. My dad always over payed because he's rich.
Disagree with restaurants. Waiters are usually very friendly, and often take special care to make sure the younger kids stay entertained. Many restaurants will even bring bowls of water for your dog. However, once restaurants fill up, the wait staff will start being much more professional in order to keep everything moving along. Larger cities will also be more professional, so that's something to keep an eye on
just to let you know, i work in the hotel business in Cologne. We do hope for tip. When we have a group of 3-4 people that eat/drink for 50 euros, we hope we get the 10 %. When there are bigger groups having a big dinner ( for example 20 people ), eating/drinking for 500 euro, a tip beween 10 and 20% is expected. The problem is, people think we don't want tip because of social stigmatism, but in reality we are one of the most underpayed group of workers in the system. So receiving tip helps us out a lot. We sure aren't as friendly as our american counterparts because we see it as generally bad to disturb you too often. A good service needs to be effective, precise and swift. If i need to come to your table 10 times, then i am not doing a good job, since i need to disturb you from enjoying your evening . just thought i'd let you know, cheers.
Tips are 10 %, it IS common and kinda expected to tip. Exceptions are just if you're really unstatisfied with the service. And while it's common to order food and drinks together, you're often asked for drinks right away when you're handed your menu and they come back for your food order and other drink orders (like wine which you have to check out first). If you need some extra time, you can just ask them to check back in 5 minutes. It's not uncommon at all and will cause no trouble. If the place is crowded, it might take a while though. Depends.
As a german, I have to say that there are many waitress in Germany who have to give their tipping away. It's like they all throw it into a big box and the employees get about 20% of it - in some restaurants there is no tipping at all. So, speaking of myself, I think that it's quite awkward to give away about 15 - 20% of the price to a person who served me well, knowing that the person might not get a cent for that..
That seems incredibly illegal and I've never heard of it. What does happen a lot is that tips are shared between the staff, which only seems fair. Afterall people will not only tip for good service but also for the food ahving tasted good, so the cook should get some of the tip, too.
I agree there are restaurants where this happens. But instead of just not tipping anywhere anymore, you can just asking your servers whether they will receive the tip or whether they have a tipping pool. They will generally be happy to tell you and you can then tip accordingly.
Marcel a.k.a. Marcivo Thats not correct. Some restaurants throw all together in a pot and then the chef and his helpers in the kitchen get a part of that tip too. But thats not regular. Its just in some restaurants. In Germany tip is for the employee...if the boss take 80% you can go to court and make a report against him. Its illegal to do so. ;)
The order thing differs very much depending on the restaurant. When you are in a good restaurant they have no problem to come back in a minute if you were not ready to order.
I can agree with you for the most part, but i have to say that giving no tip in Germany is very impolite. And usually the Germans are used to it. For example I feel very bad when I'm in a country like Italy where it is very common to give no extra coin because they allready have a fixed amount of tip on their bill. A guiding principle is to give atleast 10% of the bill as tip in Germany. Another thing is, that you think german waitresses are impolite.. But it's only a matter of perspective: Most Americans like it to be very cared for and that the waitress shows up every few minutes. Germans would take that as a little bit annoying.
Hold on! You do tip in Germany! I worked as waitress a few years and yes, it's just nice and friendly to tip. Mostly people just make it "round". if you have to pay 10,50€ - you pay 11€. If you have to pay 12,35€ - you pay 12,50€ (or 13€). I mostly tip around 1€ till 3€ because I know what it's like to be a waitress.
What about crime? I live in an American city of about 110,000 people and there are probably 1-2 stabbings or shootings (sometimes both) per week here. I've lived in larger U.S. cities where it is far worse. The key is to be careful what neighborhoods you go to and at what time of day. If you are careful in that way, you should be safe. I'm assuming Germany, and probably most of Europe, is much safer generally speaking than the U.S., but do you have any information about public safety?
Rishab Dhar like white people in the third world are treated well. We are robbed, beaten and cheated all over the third world so take your bullshit and stuff it.
Rishab Dhar That "eye-doctor-problem" is very typically for Germany and has nothing to do with your skin color... I'm white and I had to wait a half year untill I get an appointment... (and that was at the third doctor I've asked for one) Two others rejected doctoring me. (because they had too many patients) (sorry for my bad english) but I agree with you that Europe had done bad things in the past (and still doing today) to other parts of the world... For example, colonization...
It's been since June 2001 when I visited Germany, but he reminded me of some of the towels in Germany. Not all of them, but some of them didn't use terry cloth towels like we use in the US, some were some odd thin sheet blanket cloth towels. I totally forgot about that, I remember still being wet getting dressed, it was a warm slightly humid day somewhere in Bavaria in some small town, was actually kind of fun. Was like our train ride from Berlin to Munich sleeping on the train, and we spent all day wondering around Munich without having a shower. We were practicing being "European" LOL! My hair was super oily and I put lots of cologne. Memories. Germany is beautiful. Southern Germany and along the Rhein all the way to Frankfurt reminds me of western Oregon, lush and green with many rainy or cloudy days and mild temperatures. It can get hot and sunny though.
We DO tip in Germany, at least here in Munich. Giving 10% is the norm. And German service or service in Europe in general is everything but unfriendly. It is rather that the service in the US is artificially over-friendly and since Americans are used to this, they perceive our service as "not so friendly".
woltersworld A BBC worldwide survey has shown in 2010 that the Germans abroad are the most tip giver just behind the US Americans. So that the Germans dident give no tip is more a rumor spread by the German service personal. In Germany many branches have a also special tip flat rate tax for service personal to include their tip income with taxes.But actually the worst tip spender in Germany are US visitor, because the most of them interpretate the 19% MwSt. on a service bill as a tip fee. So I a knew a waitress in Berlin who has bought a red stamp with the text: MwSt. is V.A.T. - and it worked, as she told.
I just returned from my first trip to Germany. The thing that surprised me is how few people could speak English. In Munich many people could, but when I went out into the countryside, in Stuttgart and also in the Black Forest I went four days without meeting an English speaker. Luckily I spoke enough German to get by. I loved the trip and will be returning. People were generally very friendly and eager to help.
That can be true in many countries. Usually in the larger cities or metro areas, English can be very common, but in the rural areas the locals may only know their native language. In any event, it's always best to be respectful of everyone you encounter and not necessarily expect (and certainly not demand) that they accommodate the tourists by speaking in English.
You do tip in Germany unless you were dissatisfied with the service. The waiters won't say anything if you don't, but it is customary to tip, eg. if the bill is €28 you'll give €30 and say "stimmt so" (i.e. "keep the change"). There's even a German word for it: "Trinkgeld".
Hello Wolter, i just wan to thank you, for your Vids. You are very proffesional and you know the little things to pay attention. To know a few german words for for example. People from the USA seem to think that everybody on the world is speaking english. They dont even try to ask you if you speak english too. That made me angry a little. And the Payement ass well. I was wondering why the Tourist's want to pay the the smallest things by card even if they are carrying a lot of cash. But now i know the reason and other people will be prepaired with cash. The Service also, you did understand the difference. Tourist from USA are expecting evrything from the employers ( Im working in a Bakory near a Mainstation i a big City, Restaurant is different.) but here is self service. The Guests think we are unfriendly and we dont want to annoy them with asking 100 times if they are ok. That things are culture differences and watching yout video learned me why some people are how they are. And it will help me me, when im traviling around, because i think its good to know something about the poeple in the countrys you are visiting. People watching your videos learn how to behave with people all around the world and we see how to make the holidays be fine. Thanks a lot for your help ;)
You have to tip in germany too! About 10% is ok. I live in berlin and worked about 1 year in a restaurant. So if you visit germany remeber: tip is for the german service in a restaurant very important.
about the tipping: my husband is a German and a Waiter in Hofbräuhaus. "Tips are expected at least 10%". Those who don't tip or very cheap are the Germans according to him and his colleagues and friends in Gastronomy. Maybe you got that "no tipping" idea from the Germans. Tips are expected mostly everywhere in Germany. it's like an unwritten law. For example are the Cleaning lady in every toilet in Germany. Minimum 50 cent. That's how it works here.
My advice as an American to anyone interesred in going to Germany is to go and have a good time. This guy is totally over complicating what for me and my wife was a great time. Was in Bavaria for 2 weeks and am looking forward to returning. Most people and establishments spoke english, but its always nice to learn some basic everyday phrases(as a human being I would do this for any foriegn country I was going to visit as it comes down to respect). A basic understanding of the money and thats all you need. Mercy.
the german train system might be well constructed, but especially national trains are often not in time or where cancelled and you will get problems to get your connections. local train system is better. to get a ticket might be difficult on the ticket machine because of so many things you have to answer. and you have the tickets for Deutsche Bahn and for some regional traffic assoziations. you have to know which ticket do you need for what. if you´ve bought tickets for some times it will be no problem any more.
The plug at 4"06" is a Europlug and specified for maximal 2.5 A. The typical plug/socket system in Germany is called Schuko. It can be found in many other European countries, too.
I wonder what hotels u visited cause i always had fluffy towels. Sheets u only get on the coutryside in Czec republic ;) (yep im from germany but im on business and visiting hotels often)
Do you pay the rooms for yourself? Good service is quite expensive in germany and I only got good beds and fluffy towels in hotel rooms for 130euro and more per night. And who wants to spend 2000euro or more just for the hotel on his 2 week vacation trip in germany?
About the restaurant thing: It's common to look at the waiter or waitress, taise your hand and wave at him/her, or if he/she walks by sying "Excuse me" and then he/she will come back to you in a minute. Tipping is also very common. Round up the bill. I always tip 10% of the bill.
I guess that "unfriendly" service thing is a cultural thing. I am sure Germans would be seriously annoyed if the waiter stopped by every ten minutes to ask if everything is alright. But if you give them a sign they will come over to take your order.
Mark,just a small critique -- You really should point out to all foreigners visiting America -- You really need to talk more about Amtrak!! Amtrak actually serves a good portion of our country & people globally need to know that it's a very real option besides flying or driving from NYC to Chicago.
We are doing a trip from Chicago up to Prince Edward Island in Canada, Canada side there, US side back and we will be making a lot of videos on issues like Amtrak and other options. Thanks for the heads up. I was not sure if people were interested in knowing about it. Thanks!
woltersworld I just thought any travelers from abroad should be apprised of the rail-travel option. You do a great job in your videos & we really enjoy your insights! Thanks for the information!
Read Shrill Yes, but appart from your destination, you only see the inside of some random airport. That's why I prefer train travel, plus, it's a lot more comfortable.
woltersworld I know at least in the NYC-Metro area there are a TON of options for public transit. NJ-Transit, Metro-North Rail Road, MTA (busses and subways), amtrack, Greyhound buses, Ferry boats (3 companies operate ones), plus the plethora of private services like yellow cabs, livery cabs, Uber, and even the bike cart guys.
I really enjoy watching your videos about Germany (although I'm German myself^^), they really give a good and mostly correct overview and show both the nice and the ridiculous sides of Germany :D About the tipping: Restaurants with service are the only place where you should give tips. The amount depends: Bad service / not friendly --> No tip! Low price --> round it up (e.g. a coffee for 2,40€ --> give 2,50€). Standard price --> about 10%. At self-service restaurants or at food-stands (Imbissbuden) you don't have to tip, it's up to you. People here don't live off tips, it's just a way to show your appreciation. The credit-card situation is getting better by the way, at least Visa and Mastercard are accepted in most big places. It's never wrong to carry some cash though (especially vending machines don't accept cards or not even bills, just coins -.-). Some comments here make me feel really ashamed but I guess those people have never left and probably will never leave this country so their minds and opinions stay very limited... Once again, thank you for your great videos and greetings from the southwest of Germany!
as i know it from germany and austria, you go into a restaurant, someone comes to take your drinking order and in the meantime you decide what you want to eat. mostly it takes a few minutes until you get your drinks.
Woltersworld is standing right above the latest built stretch of the U5 U-Bahn, the 'Lückenschluss Strecke" ( or missing link) between Alexanderplatz and Hauptbahnhof via Brandenburger Tor. Turn the camera 180° and you see the Fernsehturm.
I like watching your videos. You do a great job without any racism or bad words, just facts. And I always love to see your wife in your videos, she's beautiful :)
3:54 One more hint about the different currents by me: The current in USA is 120 volts, while in Germany (and whole Europe) the current is 230 volts. Most of the modern devices (e.g. power adaptors for Monitors, Laptops...) can handle currents between 100 and 240 volts. But some older devices like my shaver have still a Switch for switching between currents. Be sure, your device whatsoever is switched to the correct current. Your american toaster won´t work in Europe, because most toasters and some hair dryers have no switch for this. :)
You describe Germany very well. But don't forget that you shouldn't ever cross the street while the lights are red since here in Germany noone is used to that. I've never been to the US but in London everybody crossed randomly. In Germany you'll cause a car accident or something. Greetings :D
+jmkbartsch plenty of fools cross on the "red man" but yeah as a general rule of thumb it is ALWAYS best to wait for the "green man". Especially when there are children waiting with their parents for the light to change (nothing worse than setting a bad example). I have heard some harsh words spoken to the law breakers as they arrived on the other side of the street condemning their reckless ways.
+woltersworld Certainly less than in the U.S., but the norm if you're satisfied with the service really is 10%. Exceptions are some cheap restaurants around universities where they don't really expect a tip from all the students coming there, but they still appreciate it. The one region in the world I know where you don't tip (don't even try to, it's actually considered offensive -- BTDT) is China ;)
Here are a couple of of things to know--or remember. 1) I'm an American civilian, so I'll say that I stared writing this comment about 2:45 PM on October 14, 2014 or 10-14-14. In the United States (outside the armed forces), dates are specified in the following format: *the month*, *the day of the month*, *the year*. So, something scheduled to happen on 10-31-14 in the United States (except in the military) is scheduled to happen on the 31st day of October in 2014. In Germany, dates are specified in the following format: *day of the month*, *the month*, *the year*. So something scheduled to happen on 31.10.14 is scheduled to happen on the 31st day of October in 2014. Also, note Americans use a dash ("-") or a backslash ("/") to separate numbers in dates while Germans use dots ("."). BTW, the German expanded form of 31.10.14 is 31 Oktober 14 or 31 Oktober 2014. You might also have noticed that when the month, day, and the year are written by Americans, a comma is used to separate the year from the month and day (e.g., December 25, 2014). 2) In the United States, only the armed forces and certain other organizations that operate on a 24 hour basis use the 24 hour time format (24 hour clock). In the United States time we use the 12 hour format (12 hour clock). en.wikipedia.org/wiki/12-hour_clock. And time is both spoken and written in the 12 hr format. In Germany, everyone uses the 24 hour format (24 hour clock). en.wikipedia.org/wiki/24-hour_clock en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Date_and_time_notation_in_Europe en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Date_and_time_notation_in_the_United_States
You're so wrong about the tipping, man! In restaurants where someone services you, you definitely tip 10-15%, otherwise they will not be mad at you obviously, but they'll definitely trash-talk about you when you're gone and see you as a greedy fuck. Tipping is definitely a rule. If you eat for 40€, you should definitely tip at least 4€, if not 5 or 6. They are not dependant on it like in the US, but still waiters/baarkeepers don't really earn all that much. Tips make sure they can party. And germans love partying! Especially gastronomy people. ;)
"In Germany you don't tip." You didn't just say that on YT, did you? WTF?! I am German, a waitress (certainly not unfriendly) and I am inclined to demand my tips from you, Mister, retrospectively for every US American that didn't leave me a tip. What do you think a waitress makes that warrants no tipping? I'd like to know.
woltersworld I guess it's the different amounts, like you said. In the US, you'd leave about 15-20%, which would be considered a bit excessive over here. But usually, you do tip in Germany (rough guideline is about 10% or less). But it also depends on the quality of service.
raleighman3000 Just because I don't make my customers feel like a tip is expected (because that would be rude), doesn't mean it isn't. Most servers in Germany work for 5-8 euros an hour, so tipping is a big part of their wage. If the service was good and so was the food, I think 10% is fair and so do most of my customers apparently.
A tipp for the restaurant problem. Just lay the menu shut on the table and they'll know you're done and if they're any good they are going to notice and come by. Works for my most of the times
***** If locals don't tip, would the staff find it rude if they don't get tipped? After all, it's perfectly normal to them... In general, I give approx. 1 to 2 euro tip, in bars, I might round the amount, but not always.
***** I always wait for the change, it's not up to them to decide I'm going to tip. If I tip, I leave some money on the table when I'm leaving. I rarely say to keep the change, even if that's what I leave on the table, generally.
***** I usually tip taxi drivers. I think it is polite. Taxi drivers, waiters and hairdressers/barbers. Also, sometimes I leave behind the small change at the baker. Because I know how hard they work and how shitty they get paid (and also because I hate the one and two Euro cent coins ;-))
FutureChaosTV I tip the hairdressers, especially two. One is good, one does an almost perfect job. Especially, she knows how "vorne fransig" should look. :-)
The generalizations are strong in this one. For example I've stayed in german hotels several times and not once have I seen towels as you described. It's always the normal terry cloth stuff like everywhere else. Also, about the tipping, not leaving a tip is generally understood as you didn't like the service and/or food. It's customary to at least round up, but most people will leave around 5-10%.
I dont know in which german resteraunt this guy has been, but saying the service there is not friendly, is a fucking lie. Srsly, dont know where he heard this
woltersworld To be fair, and I say this as a german, most places in Berlin are below standart. The times I went to places in Berlin were generally dissapointing and worse than for example my hometown or Frankfurt, Heidelberg etc. in regards to food aswell as friendliness and service. I guess its a regional thing.
woltersworld Depends on the restaurant. I am from another city in Germany, and by far the friendliest waiters in all of Germany can be found in Asian restaurants, espiacially in Vietnamese restaurants.
you can take your time viewing the menue in germany but then you have to wave or make eye contact to your service personal in order for them to come back.
to the waiter and service thing in germany. a good waiter is supposed to not be around you 24/7. the best waiter is the one you never get to see unless he realises you are completly lost.
It´s usually not on the waiter - waiting for a order - its more the wage niveau in Germany, that it is expensive to employ a waiter who is carryiin for 5 guest at a evening. Next time go to a Michelin Star restaurant and you have your special waiter, but you will also find his menhours on your bill.
Hi guys, I'm from germany. I can say, germany is an nice country. The people are nice and the nature is dreamly. You can look at the web about " Sächsische Schweiz". It's dreamly!
How rude! Don't you dare not tipping your german waitress! It does not have to be 15-20%, 10% is just fine. Thats because german waitresses get a higher salary than amaricans. But still: It's not ok to not tip at all!
MrsKonjunktiv then why don't Germans tip when they travel? US waiters like "Hate" german tourists. I only say that because a lot of waiters I have spoken with in the US have made a point to mention it to me and tell me to make videos telling Germans to tip :) great travels to you!
woltersworld Before the introduction of the Euro in 2001, it was usual to give good tips. Rule of thump was about 10% of the bill, but most simply rounded up to next 5DM. If you had to pay 23 DM for lunch and drinks, you gave 25 DM, which means 2 DM in tips for the waiter. Then the Euro was introduced as currency. Keep in mind, that the exchange rate was roughly 2 DM = 1 Euro During the first weeks after the introduction, people continued to give the same amount they gave for tips in Euro as they gave in DM. So, if you would have to pay 18 Euro for lunch and drinks now, many people gave 20 Euros which is 2 Euros in tips. But that's basically worth 4 DM. Also many businesses used the introduction of the Euro to raise their prices by quite a lot. The sneaky thing was: Our lunch of 23 DM would cost now 18 Euro. We got the feeling, that prices have beend dropping because of the Euro, but the truth was, that they have in fact risen. 18 Euros is about 36 DM. It took a while to realise this, and then, people started to cut their expenses. And where did they start to cut? The tips. A few weeks after the introduction of the Euro, people hardly gave tips. And tips are still pretty low since then.
woltersworld Since we have the Euro people become cheap. Before the Euro for example my dad as electrician receive sometimes up to 50DM (~25Euro) tip from customer. Or at least 5-10DM...that was more the norm. Same like in restaurants or parlor...most people gave tips. But since we have the Euro people are way more cheap and not giving tip anymore. One reason is that we now have almost only half of the money than we had with DM(Deutsche Mark) before. Thats because income is 1:1 (DM:Euro) but prices like food and electricity and all that expenses double up (and more). In short words: Since the Euro the expenses double up (and more) and income stays almost the same. Beside that too many people become the mentality, "Geiz ist geil"..."cheap is awesome". The people here in Germany giving Tips are mostly poor or with low income or the opposite - rich. Regular people with regular income are cheap nowadays. Why "poor" people are more often giving tips? Because they know what it means if people are cheap or they work in a service job. (Thats btw something that service people or parlors told me too...not only my experience..)
i am german and been living for one year in the us. i can totally relate to the service part. the thing is, foreigners often think that people here are rude here in germany, because you easily can feel ignored in a restaurant or a store as customer. the truth is, we like this. for example, when we go to a restaurant we want to chat with our friends and enjoy the food or look at things in the store peacefuly. somebody coming up to us asking if we need anything or if we need help often is considered as annoying. maybe not the first time, but a second or third time yes. also this is most of the time a hint from the waitress to either order more (once you are done eating) or leave to make room for new customers, if the place is busy. on the downsite, if you need assisstance, it is hard to get a hold on a waitress or a store clerk, if it is an busy place or large store. great vid btw.
wer sein mund zum essen aufbekommt kann auch höflich fragen.... someone who can open mouth to eat he/she could do it to ask sth.... or not? greetings from germany ;)
You are right, good german service staff member only disturb you four times: 1. What do you wish to drink./ Was möchten Sie drinken? 2. When he/she brings the drink: Do you already choose (your meal)? / Haben Sie bereits gewählt? 3. When he/she brings the meal. 4. When he/she clear the table after your meal. When the clients are talking with each other, (often) no service staff member will disturb you. Important: When you wish to talk to a service staff member (also when you want the bill) make a discreet sign (e.g. eye contact) or then that doesn't help lift discreet your finger (forefinger/pointer) And I know that I talking about, I'm German.
I wonder why America don't have coins around 1 or 2 $. having everything in bills must be inconvenient. Fun Fact: In germany we had a coin for 5. Just imagine having a 5$ coin. BTw, Amercians, if you don't want the euro coins for change, you can give them to me :P
We do have $1 coins but you only get them from machines or road tolls usually. Personally I hate carrying heavy coins when I can put a few $100 dollars in my wallet.
deadbolt9019 I think, it doesn't hurt to carry like 5 dollars in coins around. You never know when to need it... except you can pay with 1$ bills everywhere... I dunno o_o
There are many comments below for restaurants and ordering food there. But I was missing 2 straight facts there as well as in the video. 1) The waiter will bring you a menu and then come back a few minutes later or even ask you when he/she brings the menu. If you know that you wanna drink a beer or a coke, you do not need the menu for that, right? They try not to be annoying, so they will stay in the background and not interrupt your privacy (this is not bad service!) 2) You signal the waiter that you want to order when you put down and close the menu. Most times a waiter will appear instantly. If you put a finger in the menu, you still know what you wanted to order, when the waiter arrives. (Looking friendly and exspecting at the waiter will do the same thing)
Most Germans use their debit card for everythingand only carry a minimum of cash. Also, anything under 10% tipping is beyond rude. Most wait staff in restaurants is are very friendly and discreet - they will give you time to choose from the menu but will come to get your order as soon as they see you close or put away the menu. Sorry, but your "facts" are nonsense and untrue.
no tipping is bs! you tip10%. the service personal won't ask you every two seconds if you need something. and the thing with the doubble room and the towels may depend on the hotel.
One thing you might consider as an alternative in many parts of the world, including Germany and the US is trying out HI youth hostels. They're much cheaper; in many, family rooms are available; often located downtown; and the best part is you'll most likely run into other foreign tourists. If you like your first experience, think about getting a hostel pass, since in most, you receive a member discount for having it.
There is one important thing missing.
In a restaurant in Germany you can stay for as long as you want. In the USA, they normally want have you to leave if you have already eaten to make room for those, that come next.
Not so in Germany, in Germany you can stay and sit at your table the whole evening in a restaurant until it closes and no one will have something against such a behaviour.
OpenGL4ever that is very true. and I think I should mention that in regards to reservations as that has been something tourists have asked me before. thanks for the heads up!
I think in the US, if you stay too long it says some thing like "this guy is not paying for his food". Thats why you get thrown out. Not really sure about that.
***** That's what I heard, no idea if this is true.
the main reason is, that german restaurants make the most money with the drinks, since you don't get free refills here and don't get tab water (not sure about the spelling). It's in the restaurant's interest that you stay longer and have a little talk, so that you'll have more drinks... You can have a meal for around 12-14€ where i live, but each drink is another 2.30ish€
Agreed OpenGL. That rush has become more evident in American restaurants, bars, over the past two decades or so. European cafes overall are much more enjoyable as a relaxing aspect of the various cultures. Of course, I've heard the salaries per hour are much higher in European countries than in some U.S. States. Some states like Florida pay servers only $3, or $4.00 an hour which should be illegal. Nobody can make a living on that and tips from tables will in many cases leave you still struggling. I've noticed younger generation of waiters/servers, don't even thank you and take even a generous tip as "expected". Places don't offer you, or buy you a drink anymore as they once did after so many. All the American establishments care about is the money and "turn and burn" the seat at the bar or the table. Don't think their staff meetings don't discuss this "time interval" before the doors open. It doesn't make me very happy at how my country has become. Of course, the real high end famous restaurants in various large American cities would be a much more refined, dining experience comparable to those in many European capitals. Many American waiters I've spoken to also bemoan about Canadians, or even some Europeans that can afford to come to the US on holiday, or rent or buy a condo but "pretend" they didn't know about tipping at a restaurant. RIGHT.
Service in Germany won´t be so friendly? That´s not true! But in Germany is a different understanding of what is friendly and what is not. I would feel uncomfortable if every 2 Min the waitor asks me if I´m ready.
+zuckerschneuzchen
she`s right with this fact.
do not believe every fact
I like the service in Germany better than in the U.S. It's too distracting as they would keep coming back, asking me how's everything going. I was like fine, staring deep into their souls in the process.
+Walters World I do absolutely agree with zuckerschneuzchen. In Germany it's more a sign of respect *not* to disturb the guests smalltalk all five minutes. It is seen as being unpolite when you all the time pass by and ask "do you want to have some orders?" "No? Oh, I'll be back right in a minute...". This would be seen here as if you'd say: "Still no orders? Come on...?"... ;-)
I think it's different understanding of service. If you do want to order something just have eye contact to the waiter or waitress and maybe do some shy wave and they'll pass by happily as soon as possible for getting your orders. But they won't bother you all the time by interrupting your talking with your partner or friends. Everything else here in germany would be experienced as "aufdringlich" or as you'd probably say "pushing". Just ask or give a sign so they can see you're ready for the service and they'll happily help you. Any bet!
+Cris Yorke ...the waitstaff at most chain or big restaurants in the United States, are instructed by the owners or managers to constantly make sure the customer is completely happy. For example...Olive Garden, the chain restaurant tells the waitstaff that if a customer has a soft drink, that it should never be empty sitting on the table. If the waitstaff don't meet all these requirements that these owners/managers have, they can get fired.
*****
... and that's the exact clash of cultures. In Germany most people would experience a waiter passing by all 2 minutes to see if you might want to order something being kind of touting. In Germany waitstaff is looking if you are showing them you really want them for orders or answering questions and so on. They don't want to disturb you (and maybe your guests).
What's worth mentioning, regarding your order in a restaurant:
Leave your menu open (if it comes in a kind of folder, or sth.) until you're ready. The waiters usually won't approach you as long as they can see that you are still looking into the menu. When you're done, close it, lay it to the side and there you go! The waiter won't have to come back later, you won't have to call him/her again, everyone's happy. :)
Peter Pepper I wanted to comment the same thing :) That's exactly how it works.
+Peter Pepper thats america too
right, the don't bother you until you close the menu.
This is really helpful! I was little nervous when he was talking about ordering in a restaurant, so I feel better knowing that I can take a little more time to look through the menu!
that's amazing, i will try that.
(and i'm from germany, i just never considered that...)
maybe that's why it takes so long sometimes.
the thing is, i often keep the menu often because i point to it when ordering, because in my experience it all goes more smoothly that way.
so from now on, i'll make sure to close it, and then be ready to reopen it in order to point to it.
Usually german service personal is very friendly. They just aren't overly fake-excited like it seems to be a requirement in the US.
Also nobody will come to you all the time, because that would just be annoying. But usually they are walking through the restaurant at all times. If you need something, just raise your hand and they'll be right there with you.
It is not "fake-excited". From school we are taught the following: "That person has his own problems. Do not put your problems on them".. If we are mad when working, why will we be mad at the customer? Suck it up and be nice.
Are you so mad you HAVE to be angry? Then be a adult and call to say "I cannot work today".
Acting nice does not mean want to be friends or anything more. It means that you have control of brain and body to present yourself in a pleasant fashion. Being "fake-excited" means: "I know you are a person. You want to come here to have a good time and it is MY job and i am a ADULT so i will be happy for you"
if you are to much of a child to control yourself then why the fuck are you working customer service?
The Service Personal don´t come around every few minutes like the US Service thats right. And they don´t have to because they´re paying more attention to the Guests. Normally they come to the Table and take your Order, when they´re see that you lay down the Menu Card.
Ok if it isn't fake-excited, then it is masochism. No, we don't have to be angry. But sometimes people can make us angry, and we are honest. Of course if it is an achievement for you to be able to please and flatter insulting and arrogant idiots, so be it. We prefer to be direct and genuine. If we lose those guys, so be it, one idiot less to deal with. We spare real friendliness (apart from professional politeness) to people who deserve it.
Nazdreg1 So be it so be it lol. USA is the best. Get over it
Kaveman _ But isnt "sucking up your anger and be 'friendly' even though you are mad" the definition of fake-excited? :D
no tipping in germany is also considered rude
Aber Trinkgeld nur für guten Service 😁
Funny why americans Think so germans tip 10-15%
Bedienung inbegriffen
@ Nope. If you do not tip you are either a jerk, or it is a signal that the service was extremely bad. Otherwise you tip by rounding up so that it is in the 5-15% range (4,30 EUR > 5 EUR, 23,60 EUR > 25 or 26 EUR).
If anyone of you is going to Germany soon, then read this carefully!
1. Not every german is a freakin' Nazi
2. We don't hate the US and stuff but if you ever refear to us as Nazis some of us might get angry
3. Like it's said in the Video most of us can speak english (but in school we learn British English)
4. Out Service is indeed very friendly and you can always speak in English with them
Hope I could help a bit!
Anni Daigini no. 3 is not true at all.
+Anni Daigini what is "out service"?
+Mc Kenna Our service! Sorry for my autokorrecture
Anni Daigini no problem. ... I didn't know if that meant take - out or eating out in a beergarden
+Cap America
we atleast took em strong enemys not like the 3th world countrys like u, if u call that a win i feel sorry for u
One thing I have to disagree about: Tipping! We *do* tip in Germany - but we do it very _selectively_. Basically speaking, if the service is quick and/or friendly, it's understood that you tip about 10%. Not doing so won't be the kind of social suicide as it is in the US - but it'll still be considered bad form.
thank you for the 10% heads up. now if we could get German tourists to realize they need to tip in the US then all will be well :)
We ALWAYS tip in germany ! the waitstaff Not Friendly ???? really ? my take is just that they're not Fake Friendly like this guy basically says how it is here in the U.S. "because they don't get paid fairly so that for they have to kiss ass?'
Plenty of US waters are simply friendly people. Most aren't fake.
I've worked in the food service industry my whole life. Done everything from busses to owning my own restaurant now. It's not that were super fake or over the top. It's that we understand that there are so many options for our customers to eat. We realize the customer is the reason we have jobs and our reason for having that job.
Wolters World maybe they simply dont tip because people form the us are never tiping in Germany;)
890 Euro bucks for a tour bus? Did you buy the freaking bus or what??
i don't know it iam from germany and this bus Tour musst be extra for tourist it's not normal!!!! normal prise for one adult person for 60min 18-30€ 20-35$
It appears he rented the whole bus (for a day).
lol those that don't know about euros are overpriced everywhere.
Mikosch2 haha...maybe a tour around Europe
he also has two kids and a wife. so 4 people...so about $200 each person
Tipping 10% is pretty much the norm in Germany. Not tipping in restaurants means you were disappointed. That's how I see it.
I am german and in the restaurants when you come and sit down they bring you the menu card and ask you what you want to drink.
while they prepare your drinks you can look what you want to eat.
When they bring you the drinks they will ask you what you want to eat.
If you need more time you can tell them and they will come back in some minutes.
And not giving tip means that you didn't like the service. Normally we give here 10% tip.
Regarding German restaurants: "Service won't be very friendly"? Are you kidding me? It's simply a different attitude. In most European countries the assumption is that you're in a restaurant to enjoy the food and have a good time with your companions. As a result the staff will give you your privacy, stay out of your way and generally be as unobtrusive as possible. Whenever you need something you just wave someone over.
In German restaurants the staff will seat you, bring you the menu and ask what you'd like to drink. When they bring you your drinks they'll ask if you're ready to order food. If not, they'll usually wait until you signal them unless you're taking a very long time to decide in which case they'll ask if you'd appreciate some assistance. My own experience with German restaurants is that the staff will be very helpful if you'd like something that isn't on the menu or if you have specific requirements (for example due to allergies). They're also usually very knowledgeable about the food they're serving and will quite happily explain what it is, where it's from and how it's made.
A very important thing to know is that in Germany, politeness is considered VERY important, sometimes to the point where it borders on being formal.Yes, you are the customer but that doesn't make you the center of the universe. The staff will treat you with respect and expect you to return the courtesy. Having said that, they're usually quite happy to have a chat but since not all customers appreciate that you'll have to start the conversation.
The attitude of the people can also differ greatly depending on which part of Germany you're in. My own experience is that in the former East Germany (DDR) which was under communist rule for a long time, people tend to be a bit more distant and reserved until they get to know you better. My guess is that this is because for a very long time they had to be careful what they said to whom or else they'd end up in prison. By contrast, people in Bavaria are generally very jovial and open from the very start.
Another noteworthy thing is that like Belgium, Germany has many different local beers. You should definitely ask about them, the restaurant staff will usually appreciate your interest and be able to provide lots of information.
And of course there's the food itself. German cuisine is mostly centered on meat and poultry, fish is less common unless there's a large body of water nearby. The variety of vegetables will be limited but most restaurants will have vegetarian dishes. For dessert there's usually cake or ice cream. As with the beer there'll probably be some local specialties which you should definitely try.
Finally, most restaurants will be closed one day per week. This is called "Ruhetag", literally "resting day". Which day of the week is up to the owners so check in advance whenever possible.
Enjoy your stay in Germany!
most Americans are just used to smiling, friendly formalities etc. I like the German set up for dining and the American for different reasons. I definitely will say, if you come to America, you will notice the servers are super friendly, but Germans are made nervous by that and aren't able to react well to it socially. That and the American servers refill waters and drinks without asking.
Ian Wehmeyer what? So they don’t even ask you? Is that even allowed? I mean they are literally ordering and buying something without your permission. I don’t know how it works in America but in Germany they make money usually off of beverages and not particularly of the food. So the drinks will cost more and then some waiter will (a German expression for spending money recklessly) throw your money out of the window!
JC130676 Thank you, this was extremely helpful information.
@@windshieldlaugh7411 no, refills are almost always free. In US they make money from the food, and then underpay their staff
@@windshieldlaugh7411 Refills tend to be free at least for water and soft-drinks.
I agree with everything, but the tipping part is wrong regarding Germany. As a native German who is still living in Germany I can assure you that it is very well expected to give a tip in restaurants (10%). Always presumed the service was good of course.
+Gabal W. and or higher (10 to 16%). that also doesn't stop at high class restaurants. regardless, the tipp in europe is smaller because the waitresses are way better payed (at least that's what i've been told). so don't have hard feelings tipping us lower
+Gabal W. In which part did you grow up? Cause I know places where no tipping is the norm.
+MaleficaWitch
Tipping with about 10% of the bill is normally expected i all parts of Germany.
+Gabal W. oder man rundet den Betrag auf. Das passt auch.
Wird in anderen Videos alles viel besser erklärt, aber jede Info hilft Touristen.
Die 10% regel gibt es in deutschland nicht hör auf scheisse zu labern
When I go to a restaurant here in germany, I mostly order a drink and when thebwaiter brings it to my table I order the food. And we do tip; mostly rounding up for example from 32,40€ to 35 or sth like that. Make sure the tip is around 10%
***** Exactly this, nothing to add. Order drinks, order food when they deliver the drinks, so you have time to think about the food.
You can tip more if you were really happy with the service, but around 10% is normal.
Ordering in a german restaurant. This is how it works: They´ll come quick and ask you to order the drinks first, since usually you know what you want to drink. Then you have some sparetime to studdy the menu and when the drings getting served they´ll take your food Order.
If you have a ard time to decide what to eat, just say you gonna need another few minutes an they will be back soonish.
If you need something else, just look for eye contact and nod your head slightly or give a friendly beckon. They won´t bother you every few Minutes at the table.
Vertikalo high on point.
The last bit is very important. If you want something extra ordered, call them. It's not embarassing like they provide poor service as in the US.
As a german I was in the USA and I knew that the service is more friendly than in europe.
But: I don't like it. It's not that I don't like friendly service - it's too much for me. I don't want someone to collect my stuff in the supermarket. I don't want to be asked all the time if everything is fine. I go into a restaurant, they bring the menu and ask about the drinks. When I get the drinks I order the food or ask for some more time to read the menu.
The waiter will come if you look at them or as soon as you give them a sign. Just raise your hand a little bit and look at the waiter. He will come and ask for your wishes.
And I prefer that - because you can talk without someone is interrupting you. You can be for yourself and if you need service you just have a look at can give your orders. If you like to talk, you just talk to the waiter. If he's having time, you can have a nice conversation.
I absolutely like to go to brewery houses in cologne with foreigners. There the waiters come and ask what you like. You will order a cologne beer. If you order i.e. a coke the waiter will look at you and wait until you order a beer. Or he goes away and comes back and give you a beer. That happens last time. So the foreigner says that he ordered a coke and the waiter says: That's your coke. After drinking our first beer - more or less while drinking our first beer - the waiter came, took away our almost empty glasses and gave us fresh ones. So the foreigner was complaining that he hadn't order a new beer. And that's true, but he hasn't ordered no more beer.
A waiter is called "Kellner" in german. In cologne we call these unfriendly waiters 'Köbes'.
What you never ever should do is to order another beer than a cologne beer. You order a "Kölsch". If you order a beer from Düsseldorf you might be kicked out. Very bad mistake in a cologne brewery pub.
If you want to drink a beer in a cologne pub and the waiter is friendly - you're definitely in the wrong pub.
wow that's a culture shock for me.
The "Köbes" is culture shock for you? That's why it's funny to go to a cologne brewery house with people from outside from cologne. :-)
Is a kind of shock even for germans outside from cologne.
Usually you don't even order your drink. The "Köbes" comes to you... not exactly comes to you... he is going through the pub with dozents of beers and at some point he passes you. By passing he assign one beer to you. If you don't have a glass you get one. If your glass is empty you got a new one.
You came to a brewery house you get a beer. No questions asked. That's also the way he leaves you.
You come in, get beer, that's it.
So if you speak to the "Köbes" and order something different it's a kind of protest. They don't like it. ;)
If you order a coke, they have to go back to the counter and get you a coke. They have plenty of beer with them. It's a brewery house not a candy bar. You don't have to go to a brewery house to protest - you're there to drink beer. So shut up and drink your beer - or beg for a coke.
If you want to order food you interrupt the Köbes from assigning beer to the people. They don't stop assigning just for you to ask for your wishes. They might come back if they don't have any beer anymore and the guy behind the counter is cleaning and refilling the glasses.
Be so be quick - the guy behind the counter is a professional. If they have time to listen to your wish they usually they are kind enough to ask you what you want to eat. Or at least to ask you if you want to eat what they assign to you. If you brave enough you can negotiate to get a menu and hope that the köbes comes back before he get fresh beer to assign. ;)
A Köbes is straight. VERY straight. Offensive. Imagine the Köbes recognizes something special on your shirt and tells you that he likes it and that they use the same rags to clean the kitchen.
But it always comes with a wink.
And it's funny to see foreigners who expect waiter who showes interest in your wishes. As a native you expect what you get. And you're disappointed if the Köbes is too friendly. You don't want a waiter in a cologne brewery house. That's a special kind of entertainment. As a native it's fun to see the WTFs in the face of the neighbor table. Did the waiter really just said what I heard?
In the first place the Köbes was not a waiter, it was an apprentice in the brewery. So he was not teached to be a professional waiter. It was just a young man who had to sell beer at the end of a long working day. So he was tired and not to much enthusiastic and usually not the kind of friendly smiling waiter you expect today.
Today they are professional waiters with a special sense of humor. Not every waiter is able to become a Köbes because you have to be quick at repartee and to know how far can he go and to be able to go far enough as the people expect from a Köbes.
And it is a hard job to run around in the pub with dozends of beers in one hand. In cologne the Kölsch is served in 0,2 liter glasses. So the waiter must be quick.
+Sascha gut das ich aus Berlin und nicht Köln bin
und Kölsch ist besseres Spühlwasser kein echtes Bier
Mike NullAchtFünfzehn: :-D
Das mit dem Kölsch habe ich schon häufiger gehört von Leuten, die anschließend von Spülwasser besoffen waren, obwohl das ja eigentlich gar nicht geht...
Ansonsten ist Kölsch tatsächlich ein leckeres, süffiges Bier, das ich schon durch die halbe Welt exportieren musste.
Sascha Atrops yeah the köbes was a culture shock but I was more shocked that you like that, but then again its probably a culture shock to you why I like the waiters here in the US, so I can't judge.
germans DO tip, we round the bill up most of the time so like if its 18,50€ we give 20€
Naja nicht wirklich lol
Ich würde auf 19 aufrunden, aber ich denke da ist jeder anders.
+boredom tv bist halt geizig ;)
Malte Preißler nee ich geh nicht oft aus :3
+boredom tv Naja streng genommen ist die "gesellschaftliche" Regel 10% vom Preis :D
pufferkuesser97 um ehrlich zu sein pfeife ich auf solche Regeln. Ist mir ziemlich egal. Wenn ich ausgehe und habe keine Lust Trinkgeld zu geben, tue ich es nicht.
Wait wait wait wait wait...you paid EIGHT HUNDRED AND NINETY EURO for a tour bus? What were you doing? A tour around all of Europe?
That's an entire month's salary for many folks in America!
Jeremy Thomas In Eastern Europe, it is, too, but in Western Europe, it's more about half a salary. Still, if you have to pay a tour bus, you are paying both driver and bus, and don't forget, driving is expensive in Europe, gas costs somewhere about double the US price and up. And if you're away for a longer trip, you quickly need 2 bus drivers, because of the legal driver's working hours. It quickly adds up...
barvdw That's insane! I'd rather just take a train and then walk around asking people questions, hahaha. I still can't wait to visit Europe some day.
Jeremy Thomas Well, if you can share the bus with about 40 to 50 others, it's only some 20 euro.
Transport is expensive in Europe, luckily, distances are often not half of what you could commonly find in the US. Visit Paris, then Bruges? It's only 300 km... On to Brussels? Only 100 more. Per km, it costs a lot, but you don't have to travel far to get to the next interesting town or city.
It also explains why small cars are so popular in many European countries...
Jeremy Thomas a normal bus drive cost between 1-2€ (bills)
The thing with the service is easily to explain: If you want to order some more look at the waitress and raise your index finger. That's the appropriate sign.
I work as a waitress in Germany and my boss wants me to ask people more often if they want something else because then she'll make more money but a lot of people - including myself - consider that inpolite. Most of the people in Germany just want to sit, eat and talk and they don't want the waiter or waitress to disturb them.
And please don't tell people that we don't tip in Germany. For me it is normal get a tip of 10% if the service was good. However it seems to be a myth in the USA that you don't tip because never ever did an English speaking person gave a tip. Not tipping means the service was bad.
+Larissa Schiefer
I work in the same industry
and she`s right
+Larissa Schiefer And even with bad service you should give 3% except you really want to be rude.
At the same time giving no tip used to be the worldless sign that you do not intend to ever come back because the service was that bad. Wait that works for those pesky american tourists ;-)
Anyway even 15% should not be that unusual if the service if above the expected standard.
Exactly. There are only two reasons not to give a tip: 1. Your order was very small (like, you only had a cup of coffee somewhere) or 2. You felt that the service was bad.
So if you don't tip you basically tell the waiter that you think he didn't do a good job. What is correct is that our waiters actually get paid, so they aren't as reliant on the tips as the US service staff usually is. But at the very least round up the sum, and if you spend a lot of time in a restaurant, go for the 10%.
wtf is wrong with you?
swanpride
i think there is a third reason:
if the prices are really high already.
sure, it's not that waiters' fault, so it feels not so nice. on the other hand, if the prices are that high, hopefully the waiters get paid well already.
if someone has any hints on how to do that well, i'd appreciate it...
of course you could come in, look at the menu and just stand up and leave again if the prices are outrageous. i recall doing that exactly once, i was with two friends and we all left, but usually that goes a little too far.
In Germany you definitly tip. No idea where this common misconception comes from. It's usually about 10% of the total bill!
not true at all.
100% true
yeah then u dont tip but otherwise you usually tip 10%
Dr. KoNfLiCt thats true in Germany! you are right on the money!
Well, you don't have to tip, but everyone I know here in Germany considers it extremely rude not to tip. And yeah, it should be 10 %, but if you're a student (or look like you could be), it can also be okay to tip less, because the waiter will assume you don't have more money.
the german service IS very friendly but not fake-friendly like the american one. And remember to tip the waiters 5-10% they live on tips too
Germany is a fascinating and beautiful country. Berlin is dynamic and becoming one of the world's most important capitals again.
Americans should know that there is a lot of anti-American hatred in Germany, so be prepared and aware. I have had many good experiences and it is definitely worthwhile to visit Germany, but it is helpful to know that anti-Americanism is very widespread.
I agree that the German service staff might not be as super friendly as in the US. But please keep in mind when you are in a shop or restaurand as an English speaking person that the people there are not used to speak English - so they concentrate on providing the information you need so that it's likely for them to forget (or just don't know) the casual polite phrases.
Great video, as a german i have to say that you´re right at the most points and that i would be happy to find videos like this before traveling to another country :) keep up your qualitiy ;)
mroneraven Danke Schoen! We started making these last year and have Germany, Belgium, Malta, Spain, Austria so far up. I just got back from Italy and France so those will be up in the next month or so. Glad to hear they are helpful! THanks for watching and all the best on your travels!
Interesting Video. I am an American/German. The thing I missed most in Germany was ice in my drinks. But, since I mostly drank beer, it was not that big a deal. Beautiful Country!
When you're talking about the service in restaurants you're kind of wrong. usually they seat you and ask you about drinks right away. Then when they serve you your drinks they ask about about what food you want. But when you still have not decided what you want you can just tell them and they come back a couple of minutes later.
+Rising Sun Also German waiters look for clues, if you put down or close your menu they know youre ready to order. If your glas is empty the ask if you want some more, notice here: its common to leave little bit of liquid in the glass to signal that you dont need a new one. If you need service you signal your waiter, but he/she also may come sometimes (depends on workload) and ask you if you need something.
+Destroyedearth True! Wolter is talking shit...
+Rising Sun I think it changed rom restaurant to restaurant, but in 2016 the waiters come very often an ask what you want..
+Destroyedearth Americans lack of culture which manifest itselfs in food culture aswell. It's actually easy to get a waiter to come, just close your menu. Many of my american friends didn't know that this is a clear sign here that you want to be served.
You´re right.
As soon you (and anyone accompanying you) close the menu a waiter/waitress will consider this as a clear message: "we´ve made up our minds what we want". This is a universal custom all over Germany.
I heard quite a funny story about Wal Mart which is an american supermarket. It's far in my past. And someday it disappeared. Well I asked my parents in someway what actually happened to it. They told me that it was awfully bad here in Germany.
The serveices from Wal Mart came everytime to the customer. Asked them all the time if they can help. Well the Problem is. American strategys don't work in Germany. In America (they told me) is it quite common that the services asks the customer. The customer is thankful for the help. But the germans thought something like this: "Do you think I'm to stupid to find the bread?" And thats why Wal Mart disappeared.
That's how they told me. Funny little story.
yes us guy here, about the Walmart thing. its actually one of the less helpfull stores. they might as if there is anything they can help you find. but probably 90% of people who walk into a Walmart are not asked if they need anything. but one difference is that sometimes I will immedietly go ask someone where the whatever is paper towels etc. as far a tipping 15-25-30% depending if they pour a good drink, if its a place that you frequent and of course it would have to be good Service
+TurKlack i heard they failed because the price competion in germany between them and other "diskonters" like aldi was way to over the top for them
I´m a european myself. I went to a Walmart in Florida, asked for help, but all the help I could get was in spanish. So much for service though.
+Phil Jones no habla Español.
A comment on the "service". Germans normally want to eat without being disturbed by the staff ever 5 Minutes so if we need/want something we just kindly ask for the staff and then order. Ohh and on ordering food in the first place normally the bring you the menue and ask what you wan't for a drink and come back after some 5 minutes you look through it. Or as I said before simply ask kindly for the stuff np. In the end just a difference in behaviour between the culture and has nothing to do with bad service
Exactly, you don't go to the restaurant only for the food, but to enjoy time with your family and/or friends and not to chat with the waiters. That's why germans often spend a couple hours in a restaurant, even if they've finished eating.
And as for the tipping: it is ok not to tip a waiter if you can't afford it or you "only" tipp 50ct... just as it is ok to tip more if you thought the waiter earned it. No one will bat an eye, not even the waiter.
JaniceHope So a 10 seconds "Yes everything is perfect" will make you forget your mother or father in front of you? I guess you are not like this, but in the US families love each other and will always love each other even if someone makes us stop talking for 10 seconds. When you love someone, a restaurant is the best place you can take someone to talk to them?.. Americans do not cry about stupid things like 10 seconds of a waiter coming to say "is the food good?" so they will not cry if you say "Please don't come back unless i call you"
but maybe it is for business? But will 10 seconds make you lose 100 billion euros? If yes then why go "talk" at a restaurant?
The truth is you are looking for a problem.
well that's a cultural difference. If in germany something isn't right you can bet that people will tell the waiter. If i am not giving the waiter a signal that i am in need of his service, i don't want to be bothered by him/her. Privacy is regarded a lot different here compared to the us and we do not enjoy/do small talk. A good server takes your order, brings you the food, stays within contact reach and comes to your help, when you signal him/her to do so. Why would i want my privacy disturbed and intruded by a complete stranger? I want to relax, spent time with the people i am with and enjoy myself, almost like in a small bubble and not be bothered by the suroundings. That's also why it can take hours before we leave, because we are enjoying company in a private space. The best waiters are those, who take care of all your wishes and at the end of the evening you don't even know their face, since they worked so subbtle.
Look. If a waiter coming to ask "is everything okay" ruins your evening. Maybe look into yourself before going out. Are you happy? Are you upset? Do you really want to spend time with these people?.. Otherwise who gives one fuck that a STRANGER is working for you. No mater what culture you are ftom, I don't think that culture means to give one fuck about a SERVER and how he/she serves.
Lol I could have a absent waiter or one in my face. I love my mother and I love my girl. Telling a waiter to go away won't ruin my life. Like serious? Mother fuckers are eating mosquitos in Africa. Get over it
Isn't it the other way around? The hard towels suck up the water much better and you are dry in a secound whereas these soft smooth towels don't do shit? At least that's what I experienced.
+drembo i thought the exact same thing! my grandma insists on using the fluffy towles and it just kind of feels like you're getting yourself wet all over again with them?!?
+drembo You are excactly right. This is why you don´t use softener on towels.
I’ve noticed the same thing! Fluffy for my body and something a little less nice for my hair to actually soak up the water
You had to pay €800 cash at the tourbuss? Thats bisar.. With that amount of money you can aways pay with your bank card (not credit card)
In Germany they speak mostly German. They learn English in school, but because every thing is in German (even movies are dubbed) they hardly speak English.
ps. tipping is optional. €2 is fine if your bill is €48 for example.
+Urahara12squad cash is king in Germany.
I live in germany. I think you got riped off mate :)
I just came across your channel yesterday. It's very informative for travellers. I like it.
+Urahara12squad I think the 800€ is fore the whole tourbus. So about 20 to 40€ per person. That would be a normal price.
+Urahara12squad "hardly speaking english" I don't know where in germany you live, but except for older people who did not learn it in school, many Germans have some level of fluency in English, young adults probably the most. And in any German major city there'll be staff able to serve you in English.
+ledzepgirl92 im dutch but live in germany. i have lived in warburg for about a year but the people at school had a hard time speaking english to me. i can understand that because everything is in germany on tv.
It seems as though you have made this video simply based on Berlin. Germany is a pretty big country you know and while many of your statements are true for all or big parts of it, many just aren't (especially concerning service, which is generally good, and tipping, which is generally required)..
SImple fact: US-American servers in most restaurants wait on 5-10 tables. In Germany, make that 10-25. We just don't have the same amount of time for our customers. It may end up being less personal, but it is more efficient and more in tune with the German culture.
Lisa La Also: Germans feel annoyed when the waiter comes over every minute to ask if you need anything. We just want to eat our food. We can't answer with food in our mouths anyway.
As an American I perceive Germans to be intelligent and civilized.The ones from experience can be pretty shy and quiet.Not that it's a bad thing.
You would get the feeling initially that it's being less friendly but that's just cultural differences.Americans are always over excited and urgent Germans are more cooler.
intelligent - they started TWO world wars!
@ intelligence can be used either for the betterment of common health or for the worse, although Germany is imperfect, it looks like they have learned from what they fell into 89 years ago as a past nation. And now, I hope that Mexico and other countries can be humble and comprehensive enough to do the same.
I’m watching a lot of your Germany videos because I’m going to Germany for a school trip next year!
Where does that myth come from that tipping is uncommon here in Germany? I have friends that work in bars, and they are a bit pissed when groups of foreigners (sometimes Americans) drink all night and don't tip because they are misinformed about the tipping policy. The rule I know (and I'm German) is: tip around 10%. Unless you are unhappy with the service, of course. Bartenders' wages are not overwhelming here, so the tip is important for them and also a sign of courtesy. Of course my friends are professional enough to stay friendly and polite.
Also, German waiters are usually friendly, they're just not pretending to be your friends (and as a German I would be really annoyed if they did, because I know it's fake). So, if you ask for something, they will usually be professional AND friendly.
A good tip for ordering when eating out: Know what you want to drink first - when they come the first time just order drinks, so until you get your drinks (waiter comes back) you will have bought some time to choose
He is exaggerating with the (unfriendly) service in restaurants here in Germany. That's not so true. And a good tip in Germany is 10%, not 5%.
then why do Germans tip so little when they visit the US ;) (that is from a waiter that deals with a lot of German tourists, not me)
Because people don't know that the usa companies don't pay their employees enough to live from
He's a moron it's nothing like that here in Westfalen. And the coins are worth something COZ INFLATION KILLED US! Besides that why is he talking about money Americans live on plastic money its why they are fuckin BROKE!
10% is the minimum.
Always tip in Germany. Always.
there were a lot of comments about the service in German restaurants...and they are right, it's not like the video is saying...you usually get seated and asked if you already have a drink order...if not they come back...when they serve the drinks, you give your food order (if you are still not ready they come back in 5-10 minutes)...it is inpolite here to ask if everything is alright while you are still eating...if you have the desire to order a new drink you shortly give a sign to the waiter and he will serve you...
when you are ready with your food they ask for anything else....while in Germany you can sit as long as you like, I experienced in the USA that they want to get rid of you as soon as possible...in Germany we go to a restaurant to eat and chat and have a nice time, no matter how long....in the US I got the feeling they wanted to get rid of you (and the restaurant wasn't even full of patrons)...
and with the tipp you can't take this video seriously! A usual tip is 10% in Germany! It is true that you give more in the US, but that is because (as far as I know) you don't get minimum wage as a waiter/waitress in the US, therefore the tipps they get is more important (and they work for it hard...for me it gets mostly annoying but yeah....)
What are you talking about? Of course YOU TIP in GERMANY!!!!! I don´t know where exactly you have been eating but in a normal Restaurant you tip the person who waits on you. They don´t earn a lot and they need that extra tip money. Also I think most of the waitresses and waiters are very nice and helpful. But maybe when there are a lot of tourists in certain areas, who don´t tip because for some reason they think you don't tip in Germany, they get "bad" service.... Maybe the waitress then thinks, why bother, I won't get tiped and I will never see that tourist again anyway... I can see that actually...
Germans tip basically nothing in the US. Waiters in the US hate German tourists because of it. It literally came up in dozens of conversations with waiters in US tourist destinations.
Ok. I am really sorry about that. My Family, my friends and me always tip 20 % when we are in the US.... But nevertheless just because some Germans don´t tip American waiters, doesn´t mean to tell Americans you don´t need to tip in Germany...
+Charlotte Nielsen That ist right her are 10 till 15 Porecent are Normal, But you havnen´t to..but ..don´t give a TIP here ist a little bit rude.
Neilson, I lived in Germany for 10 years then I moved to America, ugh, and they expect to be tipped from 1-10 euros a tip. My dad always over payed because he's rich.
+Charlotte Nielsen 3:05
Disagree with restaurants. Waiters are usually very friendly, and often take special care to make sure the younger kids stay entertained. Many restaurants will even bring bowls of water for your dog. However, once restaurants fill up, the wait staff will start being much more professional in order to keep everything moving along. Larger cities will also be more professional, so that's something to keep an eye on
just to let you know, i work in the hotel business in Cologne. We do hope for tip. When we have a group of 3-4 people that eat/drink for 50 euros, we hope we get the 10 %. When there are bigger groups having a big dinner ( for example 20 people ), eating/drinking for 500 euro, a tip beween 10 and 20% is expected. The problem is, people think we don't want tip because of social stigmatism, but in reality we are one of the most underpayed group of workers in the system. So receiving tip helps us out a lot. We sure aren't as friendly as our american counterparts because we see it as generally bad to disturb you too often. A good service needs to be effective, precise and swift. If i need to come to your table 10 times, then i am not doing a good job, since i need to disturb you from enjoying your evening .
just thought i'd let you know, cheers.
Tips are 10 %, it IS common and kinda expected to tip. Exceptions are just if you're really unstatisfied with the service.
And while it's common to order food and drinks together, you're often asked for drinks right away when you're handed your menu and they come back for your food order and other drink orders (like wine which you have to check out first). If you need some extra time, you can just ask them to check back in 5 minutes. It's not uncommon at all and will cause no trouble. If the place is crowded, it might take a while though. Depends.
As a german, I have to say that there are many waitress in Germany who have to give their tipping away. It's like they all throw it into a big box and the employees get about 20% of it - in some restaurants there is no tipping at all. So, speaking of myself, I think that it's quite awkward to give away about 15 - 20% of the price to a person who served me well, knowing that the person might not get a cent for that..
That seems incredibly illegal and I've never heard of it.
What does happen a lot is that tips are shared between the staff, which only seems fair. Afterall people will not only tip for good service but also for the food ahving tasted good, so the cook should get some of the tip, too.
*****
That is highly illegal.
*****
Yes, very much so in germany. Restaurant owners can't just take tips from the service personal. That is theft.
I agree there are restaurants where this happens. But instead of just not tipping anywhere anymore, you can just asking your servers whether they will receive the tip or whether they have a tipping pool. They will generally be happy to tell you and you can then tip accordingly.
Marcel a.k.a. Marcivo Thats not correct. Some restaurants throw all together in a pot and then the chef and his helpers in the kitchen get a part of that tip too. But thats not regular. Its just in some restaurants.
In Germany tip is for the employee...if the boss take 80% you can go to court and make a report against him. Its illegal to do so. ;)
The order thing differs very much depending on the restaurant. When you are in a good restaurant they have no problem to come back in a minute if you were not ready to order.
I can agree with you for the most part, but i have to say that giving no tip in Germany is very impolite. And usually the Germans are used to it. For example I feel very bad when I'm in a country like Italy where it is very common to give no extra coin because they allready have a fixed amount of tip on their bill. A guiding principle is to give atleast 10% of the bill as tip in Germany.
Another thing is, that you think german waitresses are impolite.. But it's only a matter of perspective: Most Americans like it to be very cared for and that the waitress shows up every few minutes. Germans would take that as a little bit annoying.
Hold on! You do tip in Germany! I worked as waitress a few years and yes, it's just nice and friendly to tip. Mostly people just make it "round". if you have to pay 10,50€ - you pay 11€. If you have to pay 12,35€ - you pay 12,50€ (or 13€). I mostly tip around 1€ till 3€ because I know what it's like to be a waitress.
What about crime? I live in an American city of about 110,000 people and there are probably 1-2 stabbings or shootings (sometimes both) per week here. I've lived in larger U.S. cities where it is far worse. The key is to be careful what neighborhoods you go to and at what time of day. If you are careful in that way, you should be safe. I'm assuming Germany, and probably most of Europe, is much safer generally speaking than the U.S., but do you have any information about public safety?
Europe in general is very much safer than the US.
Rishab Dhar like white people in the third world are treated well. We are robbed, beaten and cheated all over the third world so take your bullshit and stuff it.
Rishab Dhar That "eye-doctor-problem" is very typically for Germany and has nothing to do with your skin color... I'm white and I had to wait a half year untill I get an appointment... (and that was at the third doctor I've asked for one) Two others rejected doctoring me. (because they had too many patients) (sorry for my bad english) but I agree with you that Europe had done bad things in the past (and still doing today) to other parts of the world... For example, colonization...
Rishab Dhar
As they will tell you in EVERY country in the world... don't like it.. leave !
actualy in 2007 the german po po shot 97 times or so in the entire year in the us there was a cop shooting 100+ bullets at 1 person
It's been since June 2001 when I visited Germany, but he reminded me of some of the towels in Germany. Not all of them, but some of them didn't use terry cloth towels like we use in the US, some were some odd thin sheet blanket cloth towels.
I totally forgot about that, I remember still being wet getting dressed, it was a warm slightly humid day somewhere in Bavaria in some small town, was actually kind of fun. Was like our train ride from Berlin to Munich sleeping on the train, and we spent all day wondering around Munich without having a shower. We were practicing being "European" LOL! My hair was super oily and I put lots of cologne.
Memories. Germany is beautiful. Southern Germany and along the Rhein all the way to Frankfurt reminds me of western Oregon, lush and green with many rainy or cloudy days and mild temperatures. It can get hot and sunny though.
We DO tip in Germany, at least here in Munich. Giving 10% is the norm. And German service or service in Europe in general is everything but unfriendly. It is rather that the service in the US is artificially over-friendly and since Americans are used to this, they perceive our service as "not so friendly".
then why do germans not tip when they go abroad if they tip at home? ;) just wondering
woltersworld well... maybe they were from Swabia :))
heheheh ;) love it!
woltersworld A BBC worldwide survey has shown in 2010 that the Germans abroad are the most tip giver just behind the US Americans. So that the Germans dident give no tip is more a rumor spread by the German service personal.
In Germany many branches have a also special tip flat rate tax for service personal to include their tip income with taxes.But actually the worst tip spender in Germany are US visitor, because the most of them interpretate the 19% MwSt. on a service bill as a tip fee. So I a knew a waitress in Berlin who has bought a red stamp with the text: MwSt. is V.A.T. - and it worked, as she told.
woltersworld
Germans won't tip if the service is shit. So if we don't tip in the US, that might say more about you than us. ;)
im from germany, and he is really talking the truth. good video
I just returned from my first trip to Germany. The thing that surprised me is how few people could speak English. In Munich many people could, but when I went out into the countryside, in Stuttgart and also in the Black Forest I went four days without meeting an English speaker. Luckily I spoke enough German to get by. I loved the trip and will be returning. People were generally very friendly and eager to help.
That can be true in many countries. Usually in the larger cities or metro areas, English can be very common, but in the rural areas the locals may only know their native language. In any event, it's always best to be respectful of everyone you encounter and not necessarily expect (and certainly not demand) that they accommodate the tourists by speaking in English.
You do tip in Germany unless you were dissatisfied with the service. The waiters won't say anything if you don't, but it is customary to tip, eg. if the bill is €28 you'll give €30 and say "stimmt so" (i.e. "keep the change").
There's even a German word for it: "Trinkgeld".
Hello Wolter, i just wan to thank you, for your Vids. You are very proffesional and you know the little things to pay attention. To know a few german words for for example. People from the USA seem to think that everybody on the world is speaking english. They dont even try to ask you if you speak english too. That made me angry a little.
And the Payement ass well. I was wondering why the Tourist's want to pay the the smallest things by card even if they are carrying a lot of cash. But now i know the reason and other people will be prepaired with cash.
The Service also, you did understand the difference. Tourist from USA are expecting evrything from the employers ( Im working in a Bakory near a Mainstation i a big City, Restaurant is different.) but here is self service. The Guests think we are unfriendly and we dont want to annoy them with asking 100 times if they are ok. That things are culture differences and watching yout video learned me why some people are how they are. And it will help me me, when im traviling around, because i think its good to know something about the poeple in the countrys you are visiting. People watching your videos learn how to behave with people all around the world and we see how to make the holidays be fine.
Thanks a lot for your help ;)
Seyhan Ceyhan thank you seyhan! all the best to you
You have to tip in germany too! About 10% is ok. I live in berlin and worked about 1 year in a restaurant. So if you visit germany remeber: tip is for the german service in a restaurant very important.
its funny - the credit card is invented in germany but its more used in other countrys out there then in germany. The same with nuclear power!
As a novice traveller, I found that very informative. Worth knowing. Thank you.
890 bucks cash for a bus????? where you going? Peking?
it was a tour group
about the tipping: my husband is a German and a Waiter in Hofbräuhaus. "Tips are expected at least 10%". Those who don't tip or very cheap are the Germans according to him and his colleagues and friends in Gastronomy. Maybe you got that "no tipping" idea from the Germans. Tips are expected mostly everywhere in Germany. it's like an unwritten law. For example are the Cleaning lady in every toilet in Germany. Minimum 50 cent. That's how it works here.
+clei ondiviella And even for the toilet lady the same rule applies, if you liked the service you tip generously.
My advice as an American to anyone interesred in going to Germany is to go and have a good time. This guy is totally over complicating what for me and my wife was a great time. Was in Bavaria for 2 weeks and am looking forward to returning. Most people and establishments spoke english, but its always nice to learn some basic everyday phrases(as a human being I would do this for any foriegn country I was going to visit as it comes down to respect). A basic understanding of the money and thats all you need. Mercy.
Awesome
I think that one of the most important thing is that you can drink the water from the water tap! Sorry for my bad english
If you want to order or pay etc. and don't want to wait you can call the waiter/waitress. It's not rude or something. =)
the german train system might be well constructed, but especially national trains are often not in time or where cancelled and you will get problems to get your connections. local train system is better.
to get a ticket might be difficult on the ticket machine because of so many things you have to answer. and you have the tickets for Deutsche Bahn and for some regional traffic assoziations. you have to know which ticket do you need for what.
if you´ve bought tickets for some times it will be no problem any more.
haha. passt.
Very nice but the usual tip in Germany is about 10% of the bill.
:-)
The plug at 4"06" is a Europlug and specified for maximal 2.5 A. The typical plug/socket system in Germany is called Schuko. It can be found in many other European countries, too.
I wonder what hotels u visited cause i always had fluffy towels. Sheets u only get on the coutryside in Czec republic ;) (yep im from germany but im on business and visiting hotels often)
Do you pay the rooms for yourself? Good service is quite expensive in germany and I only got good beds and fluffy towels in hotel rooms for 130euro and more per night. And who wants to spend 2000euro or more just for the hotel on his 2 week vacation trip in germany?
Lars Allermann Believe me, the tourists do this rather than the companys ;)
About the restaurant thing: It's common to look at the waiter or waitress, taise your hand and wave at him/her, or if he/she walks by sying "Excuse me" and then he/she will come back to you in a minute. Tipping is also very common. Round up the bill. I always tip 10% of the bill.
I guess that "unfriendly" service thing is a cultural thing. I am sure Germans would be seriously annoyed if the waiter stopped by every ten minutes to ask if everything is alright. But if you give them a sign they will come over to take your order.
Tipp: the service people come always back if you give them a sign. A little wave or something. They will come over and ask if you need something :)
Mark,just a small critique -- You really should point out to all foreigners visiting America -- You really need to talk more about Amtrak!! Amtrak actually serves a good portion of our country & people globally need to know that it's a very real option besides flying or driving from NYC to Chicago.
We are doing a trip from Chicago up to Prince Edward Island in Canada, Canada side there, US side back and we will be making a lot of videos on issues like Amtrak and other options. Thanks for the heads up. I was not sure if people were interested in knowing about it. Thanks!
woltersworld
I just thought any travelers from abroad should be apprised of the rail-travel option.
You do a great job in your videos & we really enjoy your insights! Thanks for the information!
Last time I priced Amtrak (Washington State to California), it was slightly cheaper to fly, and flying was a 2 hour trip instead of a 2 day trip.
Read Shrill Yes, but appart from your destination, you only see the inside of some random airport. That's why I prefer train travel, plus, it's a lot more comfortable.
woltersworld I know at least in the NYC-Metro area there are a TON of options for public transit. NJ-Transit, Metro-North Rail Road, MTA (busses and subways), amtrack, Greyhound buses, Ferry boats (3 companies operate ones), plus the plethora of private services like yellow cabs, livery cabs, Uber, and even the bike cart guys.
I really enjoy watching your videos about Germany (although I'm German myself^^), they really give a good and mostly correct overview and show both the nice and the ridiculous sides of Germany :D
About the tipping: Restaurants with service are the only place where you should give tips. The amount depends:
Bad service / not friendly --> No tip! Low price --> round it up (e.g. a coffee for 2,40€ --> give 2,50€). Standard price --> about 10%.
At self-service restaurants or at food-stands (Imbissbuden) you don't have to tip, it's up to you. People here don't live off tips, it's just a way to show your appreciation.
The credit-card situation is getting better by the way, at least Visa and Mastercard are accepted in most big places. It's never wrong to carry some cash though (especially vending machines don't accept cards or not even bills, just coins -.-).
Some comments here make me feel really ashamed but I guess those people have never left and probably will never leave this country so their minds and opinions stay very limited...
Once again, thank you for your great videos and greetings from the southwest of Germany!
I wonder what kind of cheap Hotels in Germany you go to? Never heard of this and i am German.
Ja, der hat ne Macke!
DerPsychotiker Also in Hamburg gibt es da schon echt billige Hotels
ibis budget are pretty good
***** da kriegt man dann auch Herpes und Pilzbefall inklusive zum Preis dazu^^
as i know it from germany and austria, you go into a restaurant, someone comes to take your drinking order and in the meantime you decide what you want to eat. mostly it takes a few minutes until you get your drinks.
you tip! unless the service or food was really bad
Woltersworld is standing right above the latest built stretch of the U5 U-Bahn, the 'Lückenschluss Strecke" ( or missing link) between Alexanderplatz and Hauptbahnhof via Brandenburger Tor.
Turn the camera 180° and you see the Fernsehturm.
I like watching your videos. You do a great job without any racism or bad words, just facts. And I always love to see your wife in your videos, she's beautiful :)
3:54 One more hint about the different currents by me: The current in USA is 120 volts, while in Germany (and whole Europe) the current is 230 volts. Most of the modern devices (e.g. power adaptors for Monitors, Laptops...) can handle currents between 100 and 240 volts. But some older devices like my shaver have still a Switch for switching between currents. Be sure, your device whatsoever is switched to the correct current. Your american toaster won´t work in Europe, because most toasters and some hair dryers have no switch for this. :)
You describe Germany very well. But don't forget that you shouldn't ever cross the street while the lights are red since here in Germany noone is used to that. I've never been to the US but in London everybody crossed randomly. In Germany you'll cause a car accident or something. Greetings :D
+jmkbartsch In big cities like berlin, hamburg or düsseldorf many people cross the strett while lights are red :D
+jmkbartsch In big cities like berlin, hamburg or düsseldorf many people cross the strett while lights are red :D
+8thHorcrux street*
+8thHorcrux street*
+jmkbartsch plenty of fools cross on the "red man" but yeah as a general rule of thumb it is ALWAYS best to wait for the "green man". Especially when there are children waiting with their parents for the light to change (nothing worse than setting a bad example). I have heard some harsh words spoken to the law breakers as they arrived on the other side of the street condemning their reckless ways.
So looking forward to going to Germany and Italy. These videos are extremely helpful. Thanks Mark.
thank you. you will have a fun time. I love visiting Germany and Italy. anytime I can visit them I go :)
Wolters World , may have missed them, do you have any videos on visiting Hungary? That is one of our destinations as well.
You tipp in Germany!!!
Just not very well ;)
+woltersworld true, but they do not rely on this money that much than in the us :)
+woltersworld it is something special :)
+Abu Manfred
Thats right Manfred! I dont know how much it is in other regions, but here in Hamburg it is normally approximate 10% from the bill.
+woltersworld Certainly less than in the U.S., but the norm if you're satisfied with the service really is 10%. Exceptions are some cheap restaurants around universities where they don't really expect a tip from all the students coming there, but they still appreciate it. The one region in the world I know where you don't tip (don't even try to, it's actually considered offensive -- BTDT) is China ;)
Here are a couple of of things to know--or remember.
1) I'm an American civilian, so I'll say that I stared writing this comment about 2:45 PM on October 14, 2014 or 10-14-14. In the United States (outside the armed forces), dates are specified in the following format: *the month*, *the day of the month*, *the year*. So, something scheduled to happen on 10-31-14 in the United States (except in the military) is scheduled to happen on the 31st day of October in 2014. In Germany, dates are specified in the following format: *day of the month*, *the month*, *the year*. So something scheduled to happen on 31.10.14 is scheduled to happen on the 31st day of October in 2014. Also, note Americans use a dash ("-") or a backslash ("/") to separate numbers in dates while Germans use dots ("."). BTW, the German expanded form of 31.10.14 is 31 Oktober 14 or 31 Oktober 2014. You might also have noticed that when the month, day, and the year are written by Americans, a comma is used to separate the year from the month and day (e.g., December 25, 2014).
2) In the United States, only the armed forces and certain other organizations that operate on a 24 hour basis use the 24 hour time format (24 hour clock). In the United States time we use the 12 hour format (12 hour clock). en.wikipedia.org/wiki/12-hour_clock. And time is both spoken and written in the 12 hr format. In Germany, everyone uses the 24 hour format (24 hour clock). en.wikipedia.org/wiki/24-hour_clock
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Date_and_time_notation_in_Europe
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Date_and_time_notation_in_the_United_States
You're so wrong about the tipping, man! In restaurants where someone services you, you definitely tip 10-15%, otherwise they will not be mad at you obviously, but they'll definitely trash-talk about you when you're gone and see you as a greedy fuck. Tipping is definitely a rule. If you eat for 40€, you should definitely tip at least 4€, if not 5 or 6. They are not dependant on it like in the US, but still waiters/baarkeepers don't really earn all that much. Tips make sure they can party. And germans love partying! Especially gastronomy people. ;)
The german woard for good bye is "tschüss" not "tchus" ok ?
"In Germany you don't tip." You didn't just say that on YT, did you? WTF?! I am German, a waitress (certainly not unfriendly) and I am inclined to demand my tips from you, Mister, retrospectively for every US American that didn't leave me a tip. What do you think a waitress makes that warrants no tipping? I'd like to know.
kikifcb31 then why don't Germans tip so much when they travel?
A small tip is ok but not not like in the US. I am an American in Belgium/Holland and was just in Germany. No way is a tip expected.
woltersworld ignore her
woltersworld
I guess it's the different amounts, like you said. In the US, you'd leave about 15-20%, which would be considered a bit excessive over here. But usually, you do tip in Germany (rough guideline is about 10% or less). But it also depends on the quality of service.
raleighman3000 Just because I don't make my customers feel like a tip is expected (because that would be rude), doesn't mean it isn't. Most servers in Germany work for 5-8 euros an hour, so tipping is a big part of their wage. If the service was good and so was the food, I think 10% is fair and so do most of my customers apparently.
A tipp for the restaurant problem. Just lay the menu shut on the table and they'll know you're done and if they're any good they are going to notice and come by. Works for my most of the times
Normally u give tip in germany, if you dont its rude
a slight tip that is true
***** If locals don't tip, would the staff find it rude if they don't get tipped? After all, it's perfectly normal to them... In general, I give approx. 1 to 2 euro tip, in bars, I might round the amount, but not always.
***** I always wait for the change, it's not up to them to decide I'm going to tip. If I tip, I leave some money on the table when I'm leaving. I rarely say to keep the change, even if that's what I leave on the table, generally.
***** I usually tip taxi drivers. I think it is polite. Taxi drivers, waiters and hairdressers/barbers. Also, sometimes I leave behind the small change at the baker. Because I know how hard they work and how shitty they get paid (and also because I hate the one and two Euro cent coins ;-))
FutureChaosTV I tip the hairdressers, especially two. One is good, one does an almost perfect job. Especially, she knows how "vorne fransig" should look. :-)
The generalizations are strong in this one.
For example I've stayed in german hotels several times and not once have I seen towels as you described. It's always the normal terry cloth stuff like everywhere else.
Also, about the tipping, not leaving a tip is generally understood as you didn't like the service and/or food. It's customary to at least round up, but most people will leave around 5-10%.
I dont know in which german resteraunt this guy has been, but saying the service there is not friendly, is a fucking lie.
Srsly, dont know where he heard this
Massaker 96 probably from my 3 years living in Berlin ;)
woltersworld So now you are still wrong
woltersworld To be fair, and I say this as a german, most places in Berlin are below standart. The times I went to places in Berlin were generally dissapointing and worse than for example my hometown or Frankfurt, Heidelberg etc. in regards to food aswell as friendliness and service. I guess its a regional thing.
woltersworld Depends on the restaurant. I am from another city in Germany, and by far the friendliest waiters in all of Germany can be found in Asian restaurants, espiacially in Vietnamese restaurants.
dani sechzehn Oh ja
you can take your time viewing the menue in germany but then you have to wave or make eye contact to your service personal in order for them to come back.
to the waiter and service thing in germany. a good waiter is supposed to not be around you 24/7. the best waiter is the one you never get to see unless he realises you are completly lost.
It´s usually not on the waiter - waiting for a order - its more the wage niveau in Germany, that it is expensive to employ a waiter who is carryiin for 5 guest at a evening. Next time go to a Michelin Star restaurant and you have your special waiter, but you will also find his menhours on your bill.
Hi guys, I'm from germany. I can say, germany is an nice country. The people are nice and the nature is dreamly. You can look at the web about " Sächsische Schweiz". It's dreamly!
How rude! Don't you dare not tipping your german waitress! It does not have to be 15-20%, 10% is just fine. Thats because german waitresses get a higher salary than amaricans. But still: It's not ok to not tip at all!
Other than that: great video! ;)
MrsKonjunktiv then why don't Germans tip when they travel? US waiters like "Hate" german tourists. I only say that because a lot of waiters I have spoken with in the US have made a point to mention it to me and tell me to make videos telling Germans to tip :) great travels to you!
woltersworld maybe we just dont know what is right in other countries? but thanks to you we know now.
woltersworld Before the introduction of the Euro in 2001, it was usual to give good tips. Rule of thump was about 10% of the bill, but most simply rounded up to next 5DM. If you had to pay 23 DM for lunch and drinks, you gave 25 DM, which means 2 DM in tips for the waiter.
Then the Euro was introduced as currency. Keep in mind, that the exchange rate was roughly 2 DM = 1 Euro During the first weeks after the introduction, people continued to give the same amount they gave for tips in Euro as they gave in DM. So, if you would have to pay 18 Euro for lunch and drinks now, many people gave 20 Euros which is 2 Euros in tips. But that's basically worth 4 DM.
Also many businesses used the introduction of the Euro to raise their prices by quite a lot. The sneaky thing was: Our lunch of 23 DM would cost now 18 Euro. We got the feeling, that prices have beend dropping because of the Euro, but the truth was, that they have in fact risen. 18 Euros is about 36 DM.
It took a while to realise this, and then, people started to cut their expenses. And where did they start to cut? The tips. A few weeks after the introduction of the Euro, people hardly gave tips. And tips are still pretty low since then.
woltersworld Since we have the Euro people become cheap. Before the Euro for example my dad as electrician receive sometimes up to 50DM (~25Euro) tip from customer. Or at least 5-10DM...that was more the norm.
Same like in restaurants or parlor...most people gave tips.
But since we have the Euro people are way more cheap and not giving tip anymore. One reason is that we now have almost only half of the money than we had with DM(Deutsche Mark) before.
Thats because income is 1:1 (DM:Euro) but prices like food and electricity and all that expenses double up (and more).
In short words: Since the Euro the expenses double up (and more) and income stays almost the same.
Beside that too many people become the mentality, "Geiz ist geil"..."cheap is awesome".
The people here in Germany giving Tips are mostly poor or with low income or the opposite - rich. Regular people with regular income are cheap nowadays.
Why "poor" people are more often giving tips? Because they know what it means if people are cheap or they work in a service job. (Thats btw something that service people or parlors told me too...not only my experience..)
i am german and been living for one year in the us. i can totally relate to the service part. the thing is, foreigners often think that people here are rude here in germany, because you easily can feel ignored in a restaurant or a store as customer. the truth is, we like this. for example, when we go to a restaurant we want to chat with our friends and enjoy the food or look at things in the store peacefuly. somebody coming up to us asking if we need anything or if we need help often is considered as annoying. maybe not the first time, but a second or third time yes. also this is most of the time a hint from the waitress to either order more (once you are done eating) or leave to make room for new customers, if the place is busy. on the downsite, if you need assisstance, it is hard to get a hold on a waitress or a store clerk, if it is an busy place or large store.
great vid btw.
wer sein mund zum essen aufbekommt kann auch höflich fragen....
someone who can open mouth to eat he/she could do it to ask sth....
or not?
greetings from germany ;)
You are right, good german service staff member only disturb you four times:
1. What do you wish to drink./ Was möchten Sie drinken?
2. When he/she brings the drink: Do you already choose (your meal)? / Haben Sie bereits gewählt?
3. When he/she brings the meal.
4. When he/she clear the table after your meal.
When the clients are talking with each other, (often) no service staff member will disturb you. Important: When you wish to talk to a service staff member (also when you want the bill) make a discreet sign (e.g. eye contact) or then that doesn't help lift discreet your finger (forefinger/pointer)
And I know that I talking about, I'm German.
I wonder why America don't have coins around 1 or 2 $. having everything in bills must be inconvenient.
Fun Fact: In germany we had a coin for 5. Just imagine having a 5$ coin.
BTw, Amercians, if you don't want the euro coins for change,
you can give them to me :P
Sypaka we do have a $1 coin but they just never caught on for some reason
We do have $1 coins but you only get them from machines or road tolls usually. Personally I hate carrying heavy coins when I can put a few $100 dollars in my wallet.
deadbolt9019 I think, it doesn't hurt to carry like 5 dollars in coins around. You never know when to need it... except you can pay with 1$ bills everywhere... I dunno o_o
Credit cards are acceptdd so easily in US. Cash is becoming ghetto.
raleighman3000 Its the other way around, no one likes to carry cash. Because of some dudes yelling "HIJACK; GIMME YO MONEY"
There are many comments below for restaurants and ordering food there. But I was missing 2 straight facts there as well as in the video.
1) The waiter will bring you a menu and then come back a few minutes later or even ask you when he/she brings the menu. If you know that you wanna drink a beer or a coke, you do not need the menu for that, right?
They try not to be annoying, so they will stay in the background and not interrupt your privacy (this is not bad service!)
2) You signal the waiter that you want to order when you put down and close the menu. Most times a waiter will appear instantly. If you put a finger in the menu, you still know what you wanted to order, when the waiter arrives.
(Looking friendly and exspecting at the waiter will do the same thing)
Most Germans use their debit card for everythingand only carry a minimum of cash. Also, anything under 10% tipping is beyond rude. Most wait staff in restaurants is are very friendly and discreet - they will give you time to choose from the menu but will come to get your order as soon as they see you close or put away the menu. Sorry, but your "facts" are nonsense and untrue.
no tipping is bs! you tip10%.
the service personal won't ask you every two seconds if you need something.
and the thing with the doubble room and the towels may depend on the hotel.
In germany it is very cool when you go on a Big Public Place , then look at a Boy an say "Hurensohn" he will be very happy :)
+Philipp Großkopf So unlustig aber trotzdem musste ich lachen ;)
+TheKarl9381 Genau so :D
+Philipp Großkopf Yeah, it's a tradition passed on to us by our forfathers. It will be very well seen.
Philipp Großkopf Wohl keine gute Kinderstube gehabt, was?
One thing you might consider as an alternative in many parts of the world, including Germany and the US is trying out HI youth hostels. They're much cheaper; in many, family rooms are available; often located downtown; and the best part is you'll most likely run into other foreign tourists. If you like your first experience, think about getting a hostel pass, since in most, you receive a member discount for having it.
of course you can drive in Germany have we not forgotten the Autobahn? German roads are way better then American roads
American roads are still pretty good look at other countries in the world and see how they are like
Very useful information on little things that matter. Thanks you so much for this review.