Germany
What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Germany?
We asked people in Germany if they could share any humorous cultural blunders they commited. For new expats, keep in mind that these incidents are an inevitable part of expat life. Learning to laugh about them is the key!...
"Try to be aware of local customs and courtesies to avoid making a cultural faux pas in Germany. Respect, politeness and courtesy are highly valued in German culture. Avoid making any disparaging remarks about the German language, culture or people. Unlike some other countries, it is considered impolite to dress casually when attending social events and it is also frowned upon to be late for appointments. Be aware that it can be considered rude to point at people or objects with the index finger, and in general public displays of affection are not encouraged," mentioned another expat when asked about moving to Germany.
"Yes, but it is really a language mistake. My wife was 7mos pregnant and we went to a Spa region to find a hotel to relax and unwind for a couple of days. I went in to ask about availability and told the hotel clerk I wanted my wife to be 'Verdorben'. I thought I was saying that I wanted to spoil her with a luxurous experience, but apparently it literally means to spoil (ie. go rotten) and in the case of people it means to have them move into less respectable professions (ie. corrupt). The clerk was a little surprised especially after my wife came in to check on me. We then had a good laugh once she cleared up that I was still practicing new uses for my new found language skills," commented one expat who made the move to Cologne, Germany.
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Other Questions:
- What should I pack when moving to Germany?
- Where should I setup a bank account in Germany?
- Will I be able to find a job in Germany?
- What is life like in Germany?
- What do expats in Germany appreciate most about the local culture?
- What do expats find most challenging?
- Is there a lot of crime in Germany?
- Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in Germany accepting of differences?
- What are the schools in Germany like?
- What are healthcare services like in Germany?
- What are medical services in Germany like?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Germany?
- What are emergency services like in Germany?
- Will I need to travel to see a specialist?
- Are common prescription medications available in Germany?
- How are local medical facilities in Germany?
- As a foreigner living in Germany, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?
- What have your experiences during the pandemic with the local healthcare system been like?
What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Germany?
If you live in Germany, newcomers to Germany would love to hear your answer to this question.
About the Author
Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC
Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.
Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.
