Information about day-to-day life, German holidays and traditions, and other aspects of navigating life in Germany.
A week after Christmas on the night of December 31st, Germans celebrate the coming of the new year with friends and family. In Germany, New Year’s Eve is called Silvester. The Origin of the Word Silvester The name Silvester originates from the Christian feast which takes place on the anniversary of the death …
Do you have some time off for Christmas and New Year’s? Expand your German vocabulary with this list of German words for the holiday season! From die Adventszeit to das Weihnachtsessen, here are some words you should know: der Adventskalender — The advent calendar. These are available in stores starting …
There are many traditions that make Christmas in Germany an especially festive time of year. So what can you look forward to during the holiday season in Germany? Christmas Markets in Germany Christmas decorations already started appearing in the shops at the end of October. However, the Christmas season in …
What comes to your mind when you think of classic German foods? Sausage? Schnitzel? As it turns out, each region has its own classic dishes, and not all of them contain pork — just take a look at the dishes listed below! Classic foods of Northern Germany With access to …
As the price tags on higher education programs in the United States and England continue to soar, many students who want to go to college or graduate school are considering studying in Germany. Why is this and what should you know before applying? 1. Internationally recognized degrees The system of …
Are you considering moving to Germany? Moving abroad can be difficult enough without the added pressure of ensuring your entire family settles in as well. To help you prepare for the journey ahead, here are five useful things to know about family living in Germany — from figuring out the …
Germany, especially in the north, is a cold, gray place in winter, and the first hints of spring draw everyone out into the sunshine like hibernating bears emerging from their winter caves. Springtime (der Frühling) is very much appreciated in Northern Europe, and with this special time of year come …
Tipping in Germany works differently than in the United States, where tips usually constitute the majority of the waitstaff’s paychecks. In fact, a waiter or waitress in the U.S. can even lose money if they don’t receive a tip, as the general tipping standard is accounted for in taxes. In …
German can be a tricky language. But even if you’re not always able to express yourself perfectly at the beginning, it’s good to be able to clarify your intentions. So for those awkward moments in German – and in life! – here are a few different words and phrases to …
For the curious and open-minded traveler, visiting European countries can come with all kinds of unique gastronomic experiences. Not knowing how to read a menu or order food can limit things substantially! Learning how to order food in German may lead you to regional dishes that you’ve never even heard …
