What is it like to live in Germany as an American?

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Sam C

I'm a member of a web community for native english-speaking people living in Germany. Check out www.toytowngermany.com. There're all kinds of topics discussed in the chat forums. You don't need to be a member to read it. And if you're headed over here, Willkommen!

rosiesbridge

I absolutely loved living in Germany. Lived there for almost four years and had a fantastic time. Key to any situation is making the most of it, keeping an open mind, and learning the language and customs. Don't plan on standing in line...no such thing -- You'll need to learn the phrase: "Ich bin nexte" (I am next). Germans' idea of "personal space" is far smaller than Americans', and they will stand very close to you while waiting for their turns. Also, they are very curious and are not bashful about aking a real close look at ANYHTHING! Bluntly putting it: They stare at whatever interests them -- including other people, so PLEASE don't take it as rude behavior...might as well get into the habit yourself (just remember to dump it when you come back to the U.S.). They also pass gas with a very nonchalnt attitude -- They don't laugh like Americans do, nor do they purposefully try to stink up a place with their flatulence --discretion is the operative word. You'll learn a lot!
Plan on walking, riding your bike (they are very respectful and have strict laws protecting bicyclists), taking the bus or train. You very seldom need a car.
If possible, try purchasing your clothes there, to avoid looking like a typical American. It gives you a chance to be known as a person rather than a nationality.
Be diligent about learning the language (carry a dictionary with you, and use it), it will open up so many more doors, allowing you to really be part of the society.
If you're a guy, be aware that doing topless at lakes is quite normal, but ogling IS NOT acceptable under any circumstance!
The food is great and serving size is quite substantial--- the farther north you go, the blander the diet...the pastries are fantastic no matter where you are, and there are always fresh bread and rolls, and fantastic cheese. Night clubbing is great, allowing you to return home on foot without an issue of crime.
Have a ball, and learn about yourself, your country through the eyes of others. A chance of a lifetime!

shovelkicker

Depends if you will be here under the blanket of the US Government (ie military) or totally civilian. I have lived in Germany both as a soldier and as a civilian for almost 22 years now. All of that under the blanket of the US Government so exempt from most German taxes. If you will be working under the German tax laws expect to see around 45% of your income go out in taxes. Cost of living is high and the poor exchange rate makes it harder. Off time is great as you can see so much in such a short period of time. My 3 best recommendations are travel, travel, travel. Great deals on train tickets can be had at http://www.bahn.de and fantastic airplane fares can be found at http://www.ryanair.com

HeatherMarie

Hi, I lived in Germany the past 2 years. It is a very safe, clean place to live and its great location wise. You can drive to Paris, Spain, Italy. You will go kinda crazy with the lack of malls..... hey, we all like convinences. Stores are closed on Sundays there. Much of the country is rural.. little patches of towns here and there. The people are super nice, lots of castles to explore. There are many Americans living in Germany because of all the military bases there (thats why we were there) Get some good maps, cuz the Autobahns don't have North, South, East and West on them.. so you gotta know which city you are heading too to get on the right direction on the freeways.
Its a quiet life, many Germans like to walk. The VETS ARE GREAT! If you have animals. Much less expensive then American Vets, and seem to care more about the animals in general.
:) Any questions, feel free e-mail me.

Lizzy

Depends on how and where you live. IÂ´ve really had a problem with Germans donÂ´t even know their national anthem and so on but thatÂ´s no wonder after their hitler history. But since the soccer world cup took place here I see Germany with completely different eyes and start to like it somehow.
( IÂ´m a student here, IÂ´ve been raced in the states but my parents are German.) If you have any questions feel free to contact me! :-)
Merry Christmas!

edline e

Well we been living in Germany since 2002 , it is a beautiful and very clean country ,perfect for kids very quiet where everyone respect each other ,I love it that's the reason we extend to stay with ours kids ,it's safer for kids for everyone.I am very scared to go back to united state with my kids.
But at first it's kind of hard the driving ,the test 100 questions and if you don't know the language , i encourage everyone to come here,lovely place .

fliege52000

VERY Good. I know many Americans (Army, Navy, Air Force), we are too, like Germany so much and don't want to go back to US.

john b

I live in Berlin where there are quite a lot of U.S. citizens. Most are very well educated (e.g, speak German) and work for universities and so on. They get on well and appreciate this city's great facilities. From my experience, many U.S. citizens do not have the breadth of mind to do the same.

DeSaxe

Just like anytjing you do, one gets what one puts into it. Do not be afraid or shy, open up to other ideas, take the initiave and meet people. I have lived in for Germany for a number of years, travelling is easy, the trains, busses and taxi's will take you almost anywhere. There are only a few places that one should avoid. Germans are very clean so if one is in a unclean area then find another. I pefer Bayern, Munich (Munchen) and southern german to northern. The food, beer, and wine are great, it can be a real culinary experience. Take part and enjoy.

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