Currency
Noise complaints and name lists: 10 facts about life in Germany that may shock you
Germans are known for being restrained and calmn. However, the customs of this country can shock unprepared foreigners. OBOZREVATEL has compiled 10 facts you should know before traveling to the land of beer and festivals.
Germans never argue with their neighbors. They immediately report them to the police, so don't be surprised if you receive an official complaint about the noise in your house or your lawn not being mowed.
Residents of this country can drink a bottle of beer or a glass of wine before driving. However, Germans rarely stop there and often get behind the wheel in a drunken state, for which they pay high fines.
Every Sunday is a "quiet day" in Germany. Here, you won't be able to listen to music at full volume or even make repairs on weekends.
By the way, shops in this country are not open for long on weekends. This also applies to other establishments such as cafes, restaurants, or clubs. Pubs, on the other hand, are open until late night.
In Germany, you are unlikely to meet people with strange or funny names. Germans name children only as approved in the official lists. This was done to protect parents from rash decisions.
Education at all universities in the country is free for both locals and visitors. Germans believe that going to university is a human right that cannot be taken away.
Be prepared to receive comments from strangers. In this country, it is considered normal to express your opinion about the clothes, habits or opinions of any person.
There are special gestures for ordering beer in Germany. To order one glass, you should hold up your thumb, two glasses - your index finger. Just don't mix them up, as you'll have to pay for everything.
In general, the locals take the intoxicating drink particularly seriously. For example, there is an approved beer recipe according to which it can be brewed. If the experts find any illegal additives, your product will not be allowed for distribution.
Germans register their affiliation to a particular denomination or lack thereof at the passport office. Believers have to pay a church tax every month.
In general, life in Germany is characterized by stability and tranquility. Perhaps that is why crimes do not occur so often here, and people are always confident in their safety.