The school has already given us a schedule for what we can do. We’re going to museums, factory tours, that sort. So no suggestions for any activities to do or places to go to.
I would like some tips on some things I should know about Germany, perhaps some German phrases I should understand, cultural differences, or laws I need to know. Anything important that I should be aware of?
It will be about a weeklong trip
Prepare for people to speak with quite an accent. Drugs (Cigarettes, most Alcohol and Weed) are allowed from 18 y.o. Even though weed is kinda legal in germany for some reason Bavaria decided to be increadibly strict about it, so I’d advise to steer clear. Obviously Nazi paroles and insignia as well as the Hitler-Gruß are illeagal.
If people are hellbent on speaking German with you, which I assume you do not speak, here is a handy phrase:
English is taught from a young age, so you’ll find many people who are able to speak it.
When in a pinch you can approach people to ask for i.e. directions. This includes police officers, should you see some. They’ll usually will be happy to help.
In an emergency, <Help> means <Hilfe>. It is best to point or directly adress a single person when asking for help to ensure they’ll jump into action.
Emergency numbers are 110 for police and 112 for firefighters/medics. But 911 also works. I’d like to add that these services are usually free, no need to fear a transport by ambulance for financial reasons.
Thanks, that was super helpful!
I won’t be doing drugs or drinking alcohol, I don’t normally and definitely won’t on an educational trip.
I will make note of the emergency numbers!
If you want to be stereotypical foreigner you can also say “ich nix deutsch”. Lol (dont do it unless you want to look like an idiot)
I would add that in many places, you will find absolutely no English signs or menus. I don’t know how it is in Munich, but outside airports and central stations you are often SOL if you speak 0 German and don’t have a way to translate text from images.
Alcohole is allowed with 14 in the presents of a guardian
That’s literally a myth
It is not xd I wish but it is not
Source?
Just dont offer the officers a “gift” for helping you.
112 is the European standard for emergency services (including police). Also works in many other countries.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/112_(emergency_telephone_number)