Germany, a Western European gem where every cobblestone street tells a story of the past, boasts a diverse landscape of forests, rivers, mountain ranges, and North Sea beaches. With its deep historical roots, lively culture, remarkable architecture, and stunning natural beauty, Germany provides a truly unparalleled travel experience.
Germany remains a major global center for machinery and automobile manufacturing, presenting travelers with a remarkable mix of cultural heritage and historical depth. Its charming timber-framed houses, renowned beer, delectable bread, grand castles, and ornate buildings make it a must-visit destination. With its fairytale-like castles and dynamic art scenes, Germany combines timeless charm with modern innovation.
Check out this list of do’s and don’ts that you must follow while on a trip to this spectacular country.
The Do’s
1. Always greet with a firm handshake
While in Germany, if you’re meeting someone for the first time, it is customary to greet them with a firm handshake. Do maintain eye contact, smile, and offer a polite “Guten Tag” (Good day) or “Hallo” (Hello) while you do so as a strong and confident handshake signifies respect and professionalism.
2. While addressing someone, do use title and last names
When you address someone by their titles and last names, it signifies respect. If you’re unsure, it’s safer to use “Herr” (Mr) for men and “Frau” (Mrs) for women, followed by their last name, until they tell you to use their first name.
3. Do be on Time
Germans admire punctuality and being late is considered rude. Make sure you arrive on time for your appointments, meetings, and reservations. And, if you expect a delay, make sure you inform the concerned individual as soon as possible.
4. Do carry enough cash
Germans prefer paying their expenses in cash as it gets easier for them to monitor how much they’ve spent. Also, many places in Germany prefer payments in cash, and some might not even accept cards.
5. While dining, keep your hands on the Table
When dining, it’s considered polite to keep your hands visible on the table even at times when you’re not actively eating as resting hands in your lap is considered secretive or disrespectful.
The Don’ts
1. Avoid Small Talk
Germans generally avoid casual small talk with strangers, especially while in public transport or waiting areas. Do respect personal spaces and privacy until they develop a conversation naturally.
2. Don’t assume everyone speaks English
While many Germans do speak English, especially in urban areas, don’t expect that everyone you speak to is fluent in English. Learning a few basic German phrases can go a long way in building harmony.
3. Don’t assume tipping is optional
In Germany, tipping is customary, and it’s generally expected to round up your bill or leave a tip of around 10% – 15%. Also, check if service charges are included in the bill.
4. Avoid J-Walk
Jaywalking is considered illegal in Germany. Make sure you always cross the street from designated crosswalks and obey traffic signals as failure to do so can result in fines.
5. Don’t interfere with the quiet hours
In residential areas of Germany, especially during the afternoon and at night, do maintain a lower noise level to avoid disturbing the neighbors as it is seen as a sign of consideration.
