Moving to Germany Post

Moving to Germany has been my first real shot at living abroad. We set up post in Germany 6 months ago and plan on spending at least the next three years here (I could spend more time here if it were up to me).  I never imagined I would love it as much as I do...and,  I have learned a thing or two...

 LEARN DEUTSCH

Learning German makes your life much easier.  The basics can help with getting around, ordering in restaurants and simply telling someone you don't understand what they're saying.  Germans love when Americans try to make an effort to speak a little Deutsch, and across the country there are Volkshochschules (like a YMCA) where you can take a beginner German class. I have been studying Pimsleur CDs and Rosetta Stone and know a few basics–it's not too difficult to pick up the essential words. Most every German knows English so if you're stuck in a bind–sprechen sie English always works.

EVERYTHING TASTES BETTER CARBONATED

Germans love carbonated drinks.  Water is always carbonated, unless you ask for it otherwise. There are a variety of bubble sizes you to choose from.  When you want to order water without bubbles, ask for–stilles wasser, and be careful, unlike in the states water is likely the most expensive beverage on a menu. The cheaper carbonated drinks that Germans enjoy are mainly their local brewed beers, fruit spritzers (juice with bubble water) or a cola.

IT'S TIME TO OWN A BIKE

Germans love to bike, and so do we!  City and town infrastructures are built with cyclers in mind–there are bike lanes found almost everywhere, and the streets are so nice and flat it is great for biking in. When the weather is nice, Jordan even bikes to work!

CASH IS KING 

Don't presuppose that a credit card will work in any shop, restaurant or carpark.  In most scenarios plastic isn't of much value. Keep extra bills in your pocket and your coins close–they're of strong value! 

EVERYTHING CAN BE RECYCLED

Germans are some of the most environmentally friendly people I have met.  Every piece of trash has a specific place.  Glass bottles are separated by color, organic waste goes in its own bin, and paper and plastics are separated into their own bins too.  Our kitchen has FOUR different trash cans based off which type of waste is being thrown away. All the grocery stores have recycle centers and in some cities people leave their bottles out for the homeless to collect for extra change. 

SMILES DON'T GO VERY FAR

It's totally normal for Germans to have a serious face, they still like you.  Don't mistake their disciplined and hardworking nature as a sign of hostility–they aren't known for being silly and clowning around but they do appreciate ironic and cynical humor.  They do smile, and if you make one laugh you must be genuinely funny.

ONLY DRIVE IF YOU REALLY KNOW HOW

Need I say more...?

We are having a great time here, visitors always welcome, and we would love to see you.