Society.
Modern German society is predicated on broad political consensus and a high degree of social solidarity. Though growing, the gap between rich and poor is less pronounced than in many countries, largely the result of massive state intervention: taxation is comparatively high, while social benefits are relatively generous.
As foreigners quickly come to realize, life in this crowded country is highly regulated and rather bureaucratic. Free enterprise does not always sit well with the country’s collectivist instincts: Germans like to feel that - come what may - they’re all in the same boat.
The viability of the country’s “social market” model in the era of globalization is now hotly debated: unemployment is stubbornly high and growth is often sluggish. The demographic trend is dire.
Despite this, the standard of living in the world’s third-largest economy is enviably high, and Germany remains the world’s top exporter.
Festivities.
The year offers many possibilities for enjoying a good time with a celebration. These festivities are born of traditions and local customs. The Christian belief stamped most holidays, like Easter, All Saint’s or Christmas for example...
Statutory Holidays in NRW.
In Germany, there are two kinds of statutory holidays: religious and political. The best examples for political holidays are Labour Day and Unification Day. In NRW 1 May is officially called "day of the confession...
Traditions.
There are some customs in Germany which might appear strange and funny to anyone who is not familiar with them. Most know that on 1 April a colleague will play a trick on you but why would a man sweep away the straw on...
Etiquette.
Cautious, law-abiding and reluctant to set a bad example for children, German pedestrians tend to avoid jaywalking and almost always wait for the light to turn before crossing at intersections. Break either of these rules and...
Tipping.
How much is normal? In the U.S., many waiters are heavily underpaid, so they need a relatively high tip to earn their living. In Germany, service charges are included in all restaurant and pub bills. Nonetheless, it is customary...
Bribes.
Whatever one was seduced to think or hoped to read here the answer is no. Almost. Germany is not so eastern Europe and there is no culture of tipping in that way. So keep bank notes in the wallet and try to talk to...
Fines.
It’s pay-up time when it comes to fines and numerous possibilities to benefit the public purse. It’s true, there is no general speed limit on German freeways or motorways, but many stretches of autobahns are covered by...
Do's & Don'ts.
Because Germany doesn’t necessarily issue resident foreigners with a document like a green card, alien registration certificate or carte de séjour, you really need to carry your passport with you at all times...
