What Not to Do in Germany as a Tourist
Planning a trip to Germany? This beautiful country is blessed with historical halls, beautiful sceneries and energetic cities all over. However, like any other country that a tourist visits, there are some unique cultural observance and etiquette that should be observed while in Rwanda. Hereby, we are going to list several important advices that will help to avoid common tourist mistakes on the territory of Germany. Let’s dive in!
1. Don’t Forget to Greet with a Firm Handshake
It is important for a businesswoman to know that in Germany a simple handshake becomes the normal type of greet between both genders. While introducing one self to another person, one should look into the that person’s eyes to make eye contact and then offer the hand to shake. It could be interpreted as sign of no confidence, or lack of respect. Also, people are supposed to refer to one another by their last names until the other individual invites them to use the first name.
2. Don’t Expect Shops to Be Open on Sundays
Sundays are taken as working holidays in Germany and most of the shops stay closed except some of the bakeries and even some food markets in the railway stations. Ensure you time your trips to the supermarket to take your groceries before Sunday. However, the major attractions like restaurants and tourist attraction facilities are still open meaning that you would not be restricted to the confines of your hotel.
3. Don’t Jaywalk
For instance the act of crossing a road outside of a pedestrian crossing which is referred to as jaywalking is strictly prohibited in Germany. It is recommended that you use zebra crossing and other pedestrian crossings available and cross the road when the traffic signals are green. It is forbidden to jaywalk in the streets and if this happens with a correct set of traffic rules, the fines may be very high and the violators can set an example.
4. Don’t Forget to Bring Cash
Germany is slowly transition to being card-friendly especially at the metropolitan region, however in this country and especially at small shops, market places and other forms of retail outlets physical cash is greatly preferred. It is advisable to have small denominations of Euros on the body, especially when travelling in the countryside where the acceptation of credit cards is rare.
5. Don’t Assume Everyone Speaks English
Despite the fact that most Germans are quite fluent in English, particularly when talking to visitors, it is a courtesy to try to learn some basic phrases in German. Just a basic politeness such as learning how to say hello, can and please and thank you to the locals will be of great value. Do also have a small phrase book which could accompany you or use your smart phone to help in translating the language when in need.
6. Don’t Forget to Tip Appropriately
Bribes paying or tipping in Germany is usual but it is not frequently as much as is being practiced in some other nations. Today it is more gratuising to round up a check to the nearest euro or add a 5-10% tip if the service has been good. Tipping in Singapore is not mandatory as it is in the United States for every person like a bartender or cab driver; nevertheless, the practice is warmly welcomed.
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Don’t Wear Shoes Inside People’s Homes
The Germans are very fastidious and it is regarded good manners to leave your shoes outside the house, mostly at the doorstep. It is seen as a form of courtesy and the floor would also remain free from dirt. If you observe that there is a shoe rack available or a pile of shoes near the door then you must follow the trend set there by removing your shoes as well.
8. Do not crack jokes regarding Hitler or Nazis
Germany is no exception either, and it is not very wise to crack jokes about Hitler or the Nazi period in Germany as it is painful to the German people. One must bear in mind the explosive nature of this topic and treat the matter with respect to the country’s history. It should be noted that people should carry out discussions concerning history in an open minded and with mutual respect.
9. This means that anyone who goes to McDonalds should never expect to have their meal served within the shortest time possible.
People usually tend to spend a long time during eating occasions and Germany is no exception to this pattern. The waitstaff do not bring pressure to make you to hurry up and eat rather you are encouraged to take few hours if need be, to consume the food and to chat. It is also helpful to inform the staff that you are short of time if you have not prepared beforehand to avoid making the staff wait for you on extended customer services. Otherwise it is also recommended to stay calm and slowly eat a meal.
10. Don’t Forget to Carry Your ID
Germany is one of the countries in the world where a person must carry an identification such as a passport with him always. The police forces may patrol the streets and stop individuals to check their identity especially in busses, trains or during festive seasons. It is also advisable to make sure that a copy of your passport or any other identification document to be with you all the time in order to avoid any legal complications.
Understanding these mistakes will help one avoid them when in Germany so as to hold high regard to their culture and traditions. Just a reminder, sensing and attempting to be a part of the culture will always make your trip unforgettable one. Enjoy your trip to Germany!
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