Culture and Tips

Germany is similar to the United States in many respects, but there are some differences you should be aware of before arriving in Munich. The following are some tips on adjusting to the culture and everyday life in Germany.

Cultural Differences

One of the first things an American tourist will notice after landing in Munich is the ubiquity of bicycles: Germans love to ride their bikes all over the city and are able to reach many parts due to its relatively small size. To promote bicycling as a cost-efficient and healthy mode of transportation, there are bike lanes on nearly every sidewalk. Be sure to watch where you’re going and stay alert when using a shared walkway!

Another obvious difference from the United States is that many shops, including grocery stores like Aldi and Edeka, usually close after 8pm (20:00). If you know you need something from the stores, be sure to get it before this time instead of finding out the store isn’t open late after waiting too long! This advice is especially important for any supplies you may need over the weekend since many stores close altogether on Sundays. This included the Gasthaus cafeteria where we stayed for Saturday and Sunday, so be sure to buy any important groceries well beforehand.

Note that German cuisine is meat- and bread-heavy. Food variety exists, and you can buy a lot of fresh produce from street stalls, but be prepared to encounter difficulty finding certain options even in larger grocery stores. Thankfully, food is very cheap and you can find open eateries all over the city. There are a million varieties of sausage, pastries, and of course pretzels. Be sure to try a Döner – a popular Turkish specialty!

There are a few customs that you should be conscious about following in Germany in order to help maintain order and punctuality. For example, recycling is important in Germany as is environmental consciousness in general. The various disposal bins and smaller trash cans make it easier to be mindful about your waste. You can dispose of special items like glass bottles at supermarkets. Another rule of thumb is to observe the quiet hours from around 10pm – 7am (22:00 – 07:00). Be respectful of the Germans’ need for quiet and don’t be too boisterous or play loud music during these times. This rule also applies to Sundays – it is even taboo to mow one’s lawn on Sunday lest the noise disturb the neighborhood quiet. You should also be cognizant of the stereotype that Americans are seen as particularly loud tourists. Lower your voice so you don’t embarrass yourself or your friends!

Finally, familiarize yourself with how to use public transportation; like any major city, you can get transportation to most parts of the city. Riding public transportation requires a valid pass, which you will get as part of the program. These passes can get you to nearly any part of the city whether by subway, bus, or tram. You do not have to check or scan your pass every time you board a train or a bus but instead are expected to have it on your person as per an honors system. Public workers will check that passengers have their cards with them every so often after they’ve already boarded. This system makes travelling quicker and more accessible. But don’t assume you won’t be checked: the workers will often dress in civilian clothing and the fine for not having your pass is over €60!

More Info and Tips

Here is some more practical information to know before travelling:

You can organize international data and service plans with your provider prior to arriving in Germany (though you should be fine with T-Mobile if you already have that!), but SIM cards are an alternative that you can buy relatively cheaply in many convenience or tech stores. The plans offered with SIM cards can vary to be shorter or longer than one month, meaning they are flexible for how long you plan on staying aside from the program. Generally, SIM cards are good for cellphone connection though they seem to get better connection outdoors.
Internet in Germany is somewhat old-fashioned. For example, our Gasthaus only had wired internet connection that required an ethernet cable (the cable was provided as a courtesy, but many computers will need an adaptor). WiFi is not as readily available as in the US. You can get it at many Cafes but this becomes especially difficult on Sundays when shops close.
Outlets are also different. Be sure to bring a converter so you can charge your devices. You can get this and other supplies for electronics mentioned above at technology stores in Germany or even at the airport.

The public train-system is the best way to get to class and it is usually reliable. The lines are supposed to run every 10 minutes, but we have had significant holdups on them; give yourself plenty of time to get to wherever you’re headed, especially in the early morning.
Note that tipping for service is not as prevalent as in the United States. Most of the wages for waiters and waitresses is included in the price of the food or drink you order. If you eat at a restaurant, simply round up to the next Euro for your server.
Coffee is generally not as strong! Make sure to get as much sleep as possible and to establish a consistent schedule.
Pack clothes for unpredictable weather. The 2018 Pitt in Munich program encountered favorable summer weather but we did not. The weather can turn cold, windy, and overcast quickly and then stay that way. Be sure to bring windbreakers, rain jackets, and umbrellas for rain. Comfortable walking shoes are important for exploring but consider bringing more water-resistant or waterproof footwear as well.

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