What actions or clothing is offensive in Germany?

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Lupin_da_3rd

well from my stay there they are very nice people but basically be polite, avoid cussing in public, I heard tapping your head can be offensive, avoid bringingg up WW2 cause it's just an awkward moment (Similar to bringin up the civil war or the equal rights moment in the south)

I would however suggest not wearing anything covered in US logos like the flag, or USA etc cause its suppose to make you a more potential terrorist target (and of course don't wear anything that is Nazi logo-ed)

http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/cis/cis_1123.html Check what dept of state has to say on other issues that might come up

OH and always make sure you have a 50 euro cent piece on you, they use them all the time for their toilets (normally marked WC [think of the old name of Water Closet]) and many of the public restrooms require you to pay the .50 Euros to get in

_______
DON"T LISTEN TO THAT OTHER GUY!
He is setting you up to be robbed so bad. Germany has ATMs which in many cases (if not all) will access US bank accounts. Sure you might pay a fee but it's sure alot better then being robbed of a hundred bucks or more

NaturalBornKieler

As a German, I don't think there are particular "taboos" in our country, but of course I could be biased ... In fact, the worst thing you could do is ask people what they think about Hitler. You can start a discussion like that with people you know well, but it's not the thing you should ask the next guy on the street. We are a little worn out to this issue.
In any other respect, you can wear and act the same as home, I think. Be nice and people will be nice to you, it's not so difficult. Most people can speak English, but when you try a little German you'll earn an extra point :)
Have fun and enjoy your trip. And always bring clothes for bad weather ...

sixxtwo42

Not to wear tennis shoes is definitely a WRONG statement. Of course you can wear tennis shoes.
In terms of clothing you don't have to worry about anything. Just wear whatever you would wear in the states. You won't offend anyone with it.

I would say the only way you can offend a German citizen is by not knowing anything about the history (especially Hitler), but still talking about it and making jokes.

Other than that anything that might offend someone in the states, would most likely offend someone in Germany also......(i.e. flipping someone off, spitting on them, etc...)

Ladytron

Just don't wear a Nazi style uniform bearing a swastika, and going round screaming 'Hitler lives! Hitler lives! Heil Hilter!' and I'm sure you'll be fine!

Nurse stat

You can were just about anything ,except with Nazi Logos or other offending Logos on.
Tennis shoes, more for little Kids,other than that dress like you would at home.
Enjoy your stay have fun.
Greetings
Native from Hamburg,Germany

Lisa S

no flippin off and no logos on tshirts

Just another blonde.

My parents went to Germany back in October. They dress pretty much as we do. Jean are ok. Don't wear tennis shoes. Germans do not wear tennis shoes. Take new money. New $100 bills. They will not take the older American money in Germany. So i suggest you go to your bank & tell them. They will exchange bills with you.

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