13 things you NEED TO KNOW before going to Germany! | Feli from Germany

  Рет қаралды 1,603,955

Feli from Germany

Feli from Germany

Күн бұрын

++Reason for blurs/muted audio: This channel was renamed in Oct 2021. All references to the old name have been removed.++
The first 1000 people to use this link will get a free trial of Skillshare Premium Membership: skl.sh/felifromgermany01211
As a German native, I hate seeing people visiting or moving to Germany and having a bad experience because of a few German-specific things that they weren't aware of. That's why in this video, I'm sharing all the things that I think you should know about German rules, customs, and people to make your stay in Germany as much fun as possible. :) If you have more tips and things to know before coming to Germany, please feel free to share them in the comments below!
-------------------------
0:00 Intro
0:46 Currency & units
2:16 Store hours
2:48 Cash culture
5:05 Driving
06:39 Drinking in public
7:06 Restaurants
8:40 Customer service
9:17 Paying to pee
09:46 German rules
10:33 Dubbing
11:10 Small talk/friendliness
11:49 Speaking English/German
12:42 Housing differences
-------------------------
Check out my SHOP! Get your Bavarian beer mug or Servus t-shirt ▸felifromgermany.com/
Check out my PODCAST (with Josh)▸ / understandingtrainstation or linktr.ee/Understandingtrains...
FOLLOW ME ON SOCIAL MEDIA:
Facebook▸ / felifromgermany (Feli from Germany) Support me on Patreon▸ / felifromgermany Instagram▸@felifromgermany▸ / felifromgermany
Buy me a coffee▸www.buymeacoffee.com/felifrom...
▸Mailing address:
PO Box 19521
Cincinnati, OH 45219
USA
-------------------------
ABOUT ME: Hallo, Servus, and welcome to my channel! My name is Felicia (Feli), I'm 26, and I'm a German living in the USA! I was born and raised in Munich, Germany but have been living in Cincinnati, Ohio off and on since 2016. I first came here for an exchange semester during my undergrad at LMU Munich, then I returned for an internship, and then I got my master's degree in Cincinnati. I was lucky enough to win the Green Card lottery and have been a permanent resident since 2019! In my videos, I talk about cultural differences between America and Germany, things I like and dislike about living here, and other experiences that I have made during my time in the States. Let me know what YOU would like to hear about in the comments below. DANKE :)
-------------------------
MY FILMING EQUIPMENT
Camera: amzn.to/2LYJ0JV*
MAIN LENS (Sigma 18-35mm F1.8): amzn.to/31IjdgU*
Canon EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 Lens: amzn.to/2AT9R3J*
Tripod: amzn.to/2LXpb5t*
Remote: amzn.to/2oe3Hsd*
Lighting: amzn.to/2oZWg82*
Back Light: amzn.to/3gJD8QL
H1 Zoom Recorder (audio): amzn.to/33gKWDf*
Lav Microphone: amzn.to/2VobCPP*
GoPro Vlogging Setup:
GoPro: amzn.to/2OycAav*
Case: amzn.to/2IzIzmY*
Tripod: amzn.to/2os3DoB*
Microphone: amzn.to/31ZR6Y5*
Mic Adapter: amzn.to/2AUq1K3*
Mount: amzn.to/33oDciL*
*These links are Affiliate links. If you buy the product through that link, I'll receive a small provision while the price for you stays the same! Thanks for your support! :)
-------------------------
Music by ARTMAN MUSIC www.artman-music.de/ based on a theme by www.twinmusicom.org/ (CC BY 4.0)

Пікірлер: 4 100
@FelifromGermany
@FelifromGermany 3 жыл бұрын
Which of these points surprised you the most and which ones did you already know about? Let me know in the comments below! 👇 Also, if you have more tips that you wanna share with people who plan on visiting Germany in the future, please feel free to share those as well! 😊 Let's help everyone have an amazing time in Germany once it's possible to travel again! 🇩🇪❤️
@typxxilps
@typxxilps 3 жыл бұрын
The sunday is free die to a contract between government from 19th century and chzrches. WHO needs 7 x 24 grocery Shopping ? In the 90s you could do grocery only from 9 to 19 and in Saturdays from 9 to 13 ... and then they added thursday evening Till 21. Guess what. did work till 1995 or so and No one started
@SYCHR0N
@SYCHR0N 3 жыл бұрын
Important addon: Even if electronic payment is possible, many locations accept only bank cards, not credit cards, as they are not that widespread in germany. Especially when visiting restaurants, either bring cash or check in advance whether credit cards are accepted.
@RalfD_R
@RalfD_R 3 жыл бұрын
@@SYCHR0N There was a change. Covid pushed electronic payment. Apple Pay works at many super markets (I know only one without credit card payment), restaurants, bakery... If you can pay contactless, apple pay will work.
@victoryiswithinus
@victoryiswithinus 3 жыл бұрын
None, they are all very good. Are Germans afraid of getting their credit or debit card hacked. Is cash the norm because its not as traceable as cards and Germans think that people might go through their transactions.
@SYCHR0N
@SYCHR0N 3 жыл бұрын
@@RalfD_R Apple pay might work, as well as contactless credit cards, but normal credit cards are still not widespread.
@MrPaddyF
@MrPaddyF 3 жыл бұрын
about jaywalking. I (german) was in colombia and in the middle of the night I stopped at a pedestrian light. then a stranger stopped beside me and we waited for the light turning green. no cars in 2 minutes. then we realised that we are both germans :D
@brickonblock5183
@brickonblock5183 3 жыл бұрын
Yeahhhhhhh typisch deutsch
@anongrealistic5462
@anongrealistic5462 2 жыл бұрын
sounds typical
@ridinwithjake
@ridinwithjake 2 жыл бұрын
Funny lol.
@wimgoorman449
@wimgoorman449 2 жыл бұрын
That's funny! 😂😂🤣
@peterfromgw4615
@peterfromgw4615 2 жыл бұрын
Not only Germans do that but us Aussies as well...... Tschuess aus Australien
@animesuchti2476
@animesuchti2476 3 жыл бұрын
Uno reverse card: You're watching this as a German to get to know what's different in America
@Markle2k
@Markle2k 3 жыл бұрын
I'll play. Don't worry about ice in your soft drink unless you have sensitive teeth. You can usually get a free refill if it doesn't come from a bottle or a can. And you can always ask for no ice or just a little if that is your preference. Even after it has been delivered. They'll take the glass away and bring you a new one as you request it to be served. Most fast food restaurants will have a machine where you can refill your cup yourself. In a restaurant where you are seated by the staff, and if you drink the house coffee, your wait person will often come by to refill your cup to keep it hot and fresh. This costs you nothing and all you need to do is gesture to cover your cup if you have had enough. If they are busy and you are getting low, just get their attention and point to your cup (and gently smile) and they will get to you as soon as they are free. This is also true for tea in asian restaurants and sushi bars, but they usually bring an insulated carafe so large, I've never been able to finish it.
@brickonblock5183
@brickonblock5183 3 жыл бұрын
Thats me lol. Immer diese Deutschen unter den Videos xD
@Edzhjus
@Edzhjus 3 жыл бұрын
Other youtubers also do same or similar..for example Nellifornication. 🙄
@I_Have_The_Most_Japanese_Music
@I_Have_The_Most_Japanese_Music 2 жыл бұрын
You're supposed to be watching the Hot American Chick in Germany channel.
@animesuchti2476
@animesuchti2476 2 жыл бұрын
@@I_Have_The_Most_Japanese_Music excuse you? I don't need anyone telling me what to watch also if the suggested channel's name isn't "the Hot American Chick in Germany" then your description of it is pretty disrespectful
@herrunsinn774
@herrunsinn774 10 ай бұрын
Some years ago while visiting Germay, I decided to take a walk through the city after dinner. I got a little disoriented on the way back to my hotel, so stopped in front of a large hotel that I was sure my German speaking friend would know... I phoned her so she could come and pick me up. She asked me which hotel I was standing in front of, so I looked up and read her the name of the hotel printed on the archway over my head. I told her I was in front of the "Hotel Eingang". ... Which made her laugh because the sign meant, "Hotel Entrance". 😅🤣😂
@tweek7284
@tweek7284 8 ай бұрын
😂
@sleepy743
@sleepy743 7 ай бұрын
I love that story 😂😂
@40NoNameFound-100-years-ago
@40NoNameFound-100-years-ago 7 ай бұрын
Lol......to me it sounded like the name of the Hotel 😂😂😂😂
@aceballeza3804
@aceballeza3804 6 ай бұрын
😂😂😂
@agneskizire9907
@agneskizire9907 5 ай бұрын
So interesting
@nibzee
@nibzee 9 ай бұрын
As a frequent traveller to Germany I would agree with everything you have said. I would also add learning basic German words like please, thank you, hello etc. Yes Germans are very good with their English, but greeting in German, they'll pick you arent and will help in English. When you are at a busy place like a train station and you want to buy food, for example, stand back from the crowd, work out what you want so you dont delay others, then once you know what you want, i simply greet them with "allo" (hello) point at the item and say "Ein Stück bitte" (one piece please) and place the cash on the plate in front of the server, take your change and item and leave with the item and change and a wave and "danke" (thanks). To Americans out there reading this, dont complain that things in Germany are not like they do things in the US. Most hotels do not have ice machines, AC is not as common as it is in the US, sodas are not bottomless and are often more expensive than beer. The reason to travel is to experience new things and the different ways that people live. So embrace it.
@kreativer_brotmensch5800
@kreativer_brotmensch5800 26 күн бұрын
its hallo not allo. also you could just say "guten Tag" which means "Good day" and is also a common greeting in all parts of germany
@billythehut
@billythehut 2 жыл бұрын
About 30 years ago my parents visited Germany for a vacation. I'm unsure of what city they were in, but after arriving at their hotel, they went out to see the town. They were careful to note down the name of the street their hotel was on, copying it off a street sign. Anyway, when ready to find their way back to the hotel they realized several of the streets had the same name as they'd marked down. Later they learned they'd copied down a German sign that said "one way".
@bengosling4606
@bengosling4606 2 жыл бұрын
😂
@annaw9487
@annaw9487 2 жыл бұрын
Die Einbahnstraße 😂
@benhatcher2603
@benhatcher2603 2 жыл бұрын
One great travel tip is to get the business card of the hotel from the desk when you check in. That has saved me several times.
@edgardjung
@edgardjung 2 жыл бұрын
This is too good :D
@travelandliveingermany7295
@travelandliveingermany7295 Жыл бұрын
Okay
@justme_gb
@justme_gb 3 жыл бұрын
One lesson I learned in Frankfort, when they make a long announcement in German and EVERYONE gets off the U-bahn, get off the train!
@justme_gb
@justme_gb 3 жыл бұрын
@Hik :\ Thank you for the correction!
@doenermitallem
@doenermitallem 3 жыл бұрын
*Frankfart
@jayna_4snowboard831
@jayna_4snowboard831 3 жыл бұрын
What happend? 😳😅
@justme_gb
@justme_gb 3 жыл бұрын
@@jayna_4snowboard831 After everyone got off the train (except me), it reversed direction. I got off the train the next time it happened.
@tomgan5783
@tomgan5783 3 жыл бұрын
@@justme_gb so basically you are too polite like me to want to disrupt anyone by asking what’s going on and pay the consequences 😂😂 🤦‍♂️
@Locomotivebreath5
@Locomotivebreath5 Жыл бұрын
Definitely learned about cash culture in Germany the hard way. I ordered a coffee and they only accepted cash. The guy gave me the coffee. So nice! I felt so bad I took a train a half hour to the ATM and back and gave him a big tip for me being a doofus.
@frankuvlkan
@frankuvlkan 9 ай бұрын
Hi Locomotives, I hope my comment didn't sound like some kind of invasion of privacy. Your comment tells of a wonderful woman with a beautiful heart, which prompted me to comment. I don't usually write in the comments section, but I think you deserve this compliment. If you don't mind, can we be friends? Thank you, God bless you....🌹🌹
@utrinqueparatus4617
@utrinqueparatus4617 11 ай бұрын
I visited the Schwartzwald with my family, some years ago, armed with my school German language learning. Every time I spoke German in the shops and restaurants, I could make myself understood. Then we met another English family at a swimming pool and I remarked on how few Germans spoke English. The husband said he spoke no German but had no problem being understood in English. Puzzled by this, I asked a young waitress who spoke faultless English and she told me it was a matter of courtesy in Germany to reply in whatever language a visitor used. Lesson learned!
@RandyStalding
@RandyStalding 7 ай бұрын
That courtesy makes it difficult to learn German.
@sykerin1
@sykerin1 3 жыл бұрын
When Feli said: Don't be thrown off if you speak to someone in German and they reply in English. I immediately thought of one of my upstairs neighbors. He's from the UK and is learning German and I'm from Germany and trying to brush up on my English (especially when talking). When we talk with each other, he talks in German and I in English, which is quite funny when other people hear us with our accents 😂
@kathom67
@kathom67 3 жыл бұрын
Actually for both of you learning the languages better, it would make sense to agree on special days for each language, e.g. Monday is English day, Tuesday is German day, and so on.
@sykerin1
@sykerin1 3 жыл бұрын
@@kathom67 That is not a bad idea... THX
@tamiam484
@tamiam484 3 жыл бұрын
I would love this! Excellent learning situation.
@I_Have_The_Most_Japanese_Music
@I_Have_The_Most_Japanese_Music 2 жыл бұрын
I feel that you must have a more intimate relationship with the poster than the rest of us since you refer to her as "Feli".
@alexejfrohlich5869
@alexejfrohlich5869 2 жыл бұрын
@@kathom67 damn, we should've used this when a guy from kansas was living here... he speaks german decently but we mid-aged cosmopolitial were all like "yeah, don't worry, we all speak english just fine..." and so we mostly just chilled out speaking english all the time while actually wanted to teach him more german :D
@pierrotm4450
@pierrotm4450 3 жыл бұрын
I don't understand why, as french who lives in France, I like watching a german girl talking about differences between USA and Germany. 😁😁 It makes me feel I am traveling during the lockdown. Moreover as many french I love Germany. Vive l'amitié entre la France et l'Allemagne !! 🇨🇵🇩🇪❤
@xml571
@xml571 3 жыл бұрын
If I can't have a confederated EU I still would love to have a French/German confederation!
@MartinSagel
@MartinSagel 3 жыл бұрын
As a German I had many bad times in France and Paris. When I was there with a pupils exchange, when I was there two or three times with my family and when I was there with my girlfriend. Now my girlfriend is my wife and we have two sons, which where 12 and 14 in 2019. We drove around with a camper 14 days. And I don't know why, but everything was positive. Even if there are still many older people who don't speak any English, but they tried to help. We had a very good time. Maybe it was because of the European Union - we feel as one now. Maybe it is because we are now far away from the big wars, instead of 1988 or 1990 or 1994. But I am sure we will come back more often... Thanks. Merci beaucoup et aurevoir!
@konstcranky
@konstcranky 3 жыл бұрын
I’m from Ukraine and I’m watching too) It’s very interesting for me))
@pierrotm4450
@pierrotm4450 3 жыл бұрын
@@MartinSagel I think I know what you mean. I was born in 1988 and fortunately I grew up in peaceful Europe. In school I learnt the construction of the EU based on the German/France friendship. I had to learn all the couples : De Gaulles/Adenauer, Brandt/Pompidou, Shmidt/Giscard d Estaing, khol/Mitterand and Chirac/Schroder. So basically it is natural for my generation to consider Germany as our closest friend and partner. In the other hand when I talk to my grandmother, (she is 96 today), who has known WW2 and grew up in total period even she likes EU because it brings Peace, she explains me she is still quite suspicious with german people. Depends on generation, the feelings are completely. Of course what I say it is really general and every one is different. Anyway maybe you had a bad experience with french late of the 80s because German national team beat France in semi final of the world cup both in 82 and 86. 🤣🤣
@kleckerklotz9620
@kleckerklotz9620 3 жыл бұрын
@@pierrotm4450 I am glad to hear that, dude. I've been to Paris too a few times and also in some other parts of France, especially the south. I love your country. What I've noticed the people in Paris are more hasty and rude. I guess it's a stressful city. But everywhere else even in Marseille, people are very nice and helpful. Well OK depends on who you meet, right? The German activist against racism and former captain Jürgen Schwandt said that very precisely: "In my travels, I've met good people all over the world. And also a few assholes. It has nothing to do with skin color, passport or religion."
@girlsrnotwimps
@girlsrnotwimps Жыл бұрын
I lived in Munich for 3 years, from 1986 to the end of 1989. I miss it terribly. I recall how overwhelmed I was when I returned home, even having a panic attack in a store because the experience was too much. Things are done so well in Germany, with respect of others and quality of life being primary, that it felt chaotic to me to be surrounded by so much over the top *everything* that is here. I had my first child in a German Women’s Klinik and even the maternity care was so superior to the U.S. that my mother (a maternity and NICU nurse) was impressed and stunned by the difference. She said if she spoke German she’d move there in a heartbeat. The country is stunningly beautiful-so much so that it takes your breath away. I remember the first spring there as if it was yesterday. Every window had a flower box, every street filled with beauty. Even the cemeteries are cared for and treated as gardens by loved ones. Bicycle paths everywhere, everyone seemed to hike, people of all ages enjoyed the outdoors. Public transportation is amazing, clean, and plentiful. There was always something to do, somewhere to go. I never wanted to leave. I want to go back more than anything. We were there during the Cold War and our 3 years were up shortly after the wall came down. What a time that was! I would so love to see the entire county now that it is whole. I’d love to know how it feels to be there now. Oh, how I want to explore it fully! Though I remember very little of the language since I hadn’t used it for so long, when I hear someone speaking German I get a little closer, close my eyes and smile. I’m always surprised by realizing I have a lump in my throat and I feel a bit homesick. Germany is part of me. ❤❤❤
@haggihug3162
@haggihug3162 Жыл бұрын
When you travel in east Germany today, you will find whole areas looking like brand new. We (westgermans) spend so much money to bring everything there on a new standard, that many places are nowadays nicer than the (old) west ones.If you love Germany, just do it an learn german. We really need people that can work in jobs like healthcare and it technology. We losse about 400.000 specialists every year they say …
@billgracey6369
@billgracey6369 Жыл бұрын
You know the German word for cemetery is: "Friedhof"? (Peace Garden).
@haggihug3162
@haggihug3162 Жыл бұрын
@@billgracey6369 Naja, wohl eher Peace Yard, oder?😉
@billgracey6369
@billgracey6369 Жыл бұрын
At least, Europeans get something for all the taxes they pay...
@Lusinganda
@Lusinganda Жыл бұрын
@@haggihug3162 That is not true that the West Germans paid for everything. All Germans (West and East) paid the solidarity surcharge for the reconstruction of the East for a certain period of time after reunification. Please do not forget the historical context: the East paid the largest part of the war debt to the Russians (reperations, deindustrialization), while the West had the American Marshall Plan for reconstruction. It is true, however, that many West German cities urgently needed the money from the social tax to modernize their infrastructure and restore their buildings after reunification. They should have made one plan for the whole country.
@wilkbor
@wilkbor Жыл бұрын
I have traveled a couple of times in Germany and found all of this to be true, or at least consistent with my experience there. Germans are not overly talkative, but are happy to help if you ask respectfully. This happened several times when I got confused at the train stations. It's a great place and I'd love to go back.
@dogtor95
@dogtor95 9 ай бұрын
I lived in Germany from 1986-89. I found that the most rude people that I met there were Americans. I always found the German people kind and very helpful when needed. They may not have been big on starting conversations, but, for the most part, were more than happy to spend time talking with you. . . . .as long as you were respectful.
@onnieduvall2565
@onnieduvall2565 3 жыл бұрын
The first time I went to Germany, 1973, I was in München and looking for with the post office. I saw a couple of Polizei and asked them for directions auf deutsch. They answered me in perfect English. The experience made such a favorable impression on a then 16 year old American boy.
@Esablaka
@Esablaka 3 жыл бұрын
Honestly then you probably had a LOT of luck with that one. Not many people, especially in 1973 spoke *good*, let alone perfect english back then.
@christianostermeier
@christianostermeier 3 жыл бұрын
Don't forget there were the Olympic games in 1972 in Munich. So most of the officals were trained on English.
@newageman10
@newageman10 3 жыл бұрын
Similar experience when I first went in 1985 as an exchange student. We would make a game of going into a store to buy something and speaking with the cashier, with the objective of trying to get the cashier not to respond in English.
@Bumi-90
@Bumi-90 3 жыл бұрын
I often hear non native speakers kind of annoyed about that, because they travel to germany try to learn better german and everyone answers in english.
@michamarkowski2204
@michamarkowski2204 3 жыл бұрын
Nowadays it's the opposite imo. If you start the conversation in German, the whole conversation will be in German even when your accent or bad grammar tells you're a foreigner.
@Brett.McMillin
@Brett.McMillin 3 жыл бұрын
I loved the customer service in Europe. I’m from Canada which has basically the same customer service style as the USA and I hate the constant annoying fake-friendly conversations and they never leave you alone. Germany was great because they did what I needed and left me alone and when I needed them again you just wave them over
@tychobra1
@tychobra1 3 жыл бұрын
Hehe and I might add, that in the US I also often had to flag the waiters down. I had my worst service experience in Las Vegas in a Hooters restaurant (what else would you expect?). The waitress really managed to bring me the check belonging to another table - twice. I mean how inattentive could one be? And between these two wrong checks I had to wait for about 10 minutes in a not crowded restaurant. I've never experienced such a nerve wrecking waitress in Germany.
@user-sm3xq5ob5d
@user-sm3xq5ob5d 3 жыл бұрын
@@tychobra1 Hooters' waitresses have other features for which they were selected.
@tychobra1
@tychobra1 3 жыл бұрын
@@user-sm3xq5ob5d obviously 😂😂
@Pidalin
@Pidalin 3 жыл бұрын
I prefer something in middle, like here in Czechia. Waiter ask you what you want and then time to time come to you and ask again and that's all. When I was in Croatia or in Portugal, we were sitting there 1 hour and nobody cared about us so I realized I have to wave to waiter, but that's very rude in my country, you have to always wait before waiter comes to you here.
@h.h7299
@h.h7299 2 жыл бұрын
in Germany customer : hello am searching for ( anything) ? seller : we dont have it any more or you can find there . and you go for your own . if he/ she came with to show it where you can find it , this maybe can happen once in a life time . customer : thanks Seller : no word
@timheavrin2253
@timheavrin2253 10 ай бұрын
As an American soldier who has been to 5 different nations (including Germany) thanks to military service NEVER forget that YOU are the foreigner in the host nation. Show the same respect for the hosts that you expect of others visiting the States and you'll get along fine. It'll even be a fun adventure.
@jimcook8852
@jimcook8852 9 ай бұрын
Including Mexico.
@tweek7284
@tweek7284 8 ай бұрын
@@jimcook8852thanks Mr. Obvious
@GabeDrumBeats
@GabeDrumBeats 7 ай бұрын
@@tweek7284flew over your head
@WarHawk-
@WarHawk- 4 ай бұрын
@@tweek7284 - You would be surprised, or you may not be, at the number of Americans that travel in Germany and act in the most rude and obnoxious ways towards those around them. Many Americans carry an attitude that they are far superior to everyone else and expect to be treated as such.
@janamuller8711
@janamuller8711 7 ай бұрын
As a German I can say: Very good tips, nothing to complain about. While watching your videos I learn more and more how much German I really am 😂
@bilal-keynotes
@bilal-keynotes 2 жыл бұрын
Germans can't small talk 🤣TRUE.
@slygem899
@slygem899 2 жыл бұрын
We always do BIG talk 🤣
@i_can_c_u_2295
@i_can_c_u_2295 2 жыл бұрын
@@slygem899 or NO talk, we are pretty good in that too
@slygem899
@slygem899 2 жыл бұрын
@@i_can_c_u_2295 klar bei nem Bier sitzen und einfach mal Nix sagen geht auch immer gut 😆
@i_can_c_u_2295
@i_can_c_u_2295 2 жыл бұрын
@@slygem899 Leichtes Kopfnicken in eine Richtung reicht meistens
@BlackCat-uk2ti
@BlackCat-uk2ti 2 жыл бұрын
@@i_can_c_u_2295 Ein Kommentar oder kurzer Ausstausch geht manchmal auch - habe ich mir sagen lassen.
@voaks
@voaks 3 жыл бұрын
One experience I'll never forget was when I was in Germany for work. We went to a Chinese restaurant for lunch. Hearing a Chinese person speak english with a german accent is something to wrap your head around. Tschüß!
@milantrcka121
@milantrcka121 2 жыл бұрын
Same here. Even back in the 80's
@murselmas7826
@murselmas7826 2 жыл бұрын
🤣
@konigink
@konigink 2 жыл бұрын
I had a similar experience when I was in Ireland! As an American English speaker, it was sometimes difficult for me to understand Irish accents and my comprehension was compounded when I encountered ethnic Asians with Irish accents. 😎
@Zamigirl
@Zamigirl Жыл бұрын
Try asking for food at a Chinese restaurant in New York and getting the waiter to answer you in Spanish. It was hilarious! I went back many times and tipped this chinese dude handsomely. He had me pegged as a Puerto Rican. Slick dude!
@timmason2488
@timmason2488 10 ай бұрын
Thank you for sharing. I lived in various locations in Germany for over 12 years while serving in the U.S. Army (All of my 20s). It was difficult coming back to the U.S., because I had become so acustomed to living in Germany for so long. Everything you stated is exactly as I remember. It doesn't sound like much has changed. Germany was a great place to live. There is so much to do and experience.
@pclayton5063
@pclayton5063 9 ай бұрын
My favorite thing about houses in Germany is the Rolladen (window blinds). The windows in general are awesome as most windows open two different ways. Probably the thing I remember most about shopping is having to have your own shopping bags with you as they don't provide them in most stores. Also, in the area we lived the stores were all closed a couple of hours in the afternoon which took a while to get used to. Love Germany.
@not-a-theist8251
@not-a-theist8251 3 жыл бұрын
Am already in Germany. Just feeding the algorithm
@3.k
@3.k 3 жыл бұрын
I’m reading this in comment sections here and there, and I wonder if the almighty algorithm will some day start ignoring postings with the word algorithm in it. ^^
@bbranett2188
@bbranett2188 3 жыл бұрын
I like how since I watch "some" metal (rock) videos, the algorithm thinks i would like a guy pretending to be a UPS driver jumping on a pee-ann-ohh at a mall ... see how i didn't feed the machine there.
@3.k
@3.k 3 жыл бұрын
@@bbranett2188 Maybe the algorithm thought, “yeah, that UPS truck was rocking.” ;)
@bbranett2188
@bbranett2188 3 жыл бұрын
@@3.k vielleicht
@I_Have_The_Most_Japanese_Music
@I_Have_The_Most_Japanese_Music 2 жыл бұрын
dude you're messing with the universe
@thehoneybadger8089
@thehoneybadger8089 3 жыл бұрын
When you use a restroom, remember to put some change in the plate. The person, usually a lady, who is sitting by the door is responsible for keeping the restrooms clean and the change you place in the plate is a large part of their pay. Be nice and generous because it's a shitty job, literally!
@kaldo8907
@kaldo8907 3 жыл бұрын
That's actually hilarious. So our waiters rely on tips while German bathroom attendants rely on tips. Inversely the US bathroom attendants get paid properly.
@tempest411
@tempest411 3 жыл бұрын
I wonder if the people using public restrooms there are worse than those using them here in the States? People here in the U.S. are DISGUSTING.
@onkeltom8539
@onkeltom8539 3 жыл бұрын
@@tempest411 I guess public restrooms are nasty all around the world
@Anvilshock
@Anvilshock 2 жыл бұрын
When you use a restroom, remember that the lady who is sitting by the door and who is responsible for keeping the restrooms clean is fully employed and paid and work-insured by the place and doesn't need to depend on alms to complement an otherwise exploitative pay.
@Anvilshock
@Anvilshock 2 жыл бұрын
@@kaldo8907 Nah, that's that guy talking out of his arse. Cleaning staff is fully paid and work-insured by either the place or a contractor unless self-employed, so, tips are literally gratuity and, if anything, a remnant of older times.
@doloresfuertes6677
@doloresfuertes6677 Жыл бұрын
You have such a lovely narration manner; clear pronunciation, cheerful attitude, politeness towards cultural differences. It was very pleasant to listen to you. Thank you!
@frankuvlkan
@frankuvlkan 9 ай бұрын
Hi Dolores, I hope my comment didn't sound like some kind of invasion of privacy. Your comment tells of a wonderful woman with a beautiful heart, which prompted me to comment. I don't usually write in the comments section, but I think you deserve this compliment. If you don't mind, can we be friends? Thank you, God bless you....🌹🌹
@user-yj9qr1ki8s
@user-yj9qr1ki8s 7 ай бұрын
Thank You for the informative video. I found it refreshing remembering the 6 years, that i lived in Germany. It brought back wonderful experiences. I wish the states would consider going to some of these. Munich is a wonderful city I have been their and loved it. my German friends helped explain their way of life to me so that helped. Thank you.
@celticht32
@celticht32 3 жыл бұрын
Also... as I tell people traveling to Germany... if you atleast try to speak German most Germans love that you are trying and will be alot more responsive and nice... will then switch to english because they realize you may be struggling... I may be biased but Germans are some of the nicest people I know... Yes there are exceptions but for the most part they are wonderfully warm people...
@Oldischrauber
@Oldischrauber 3 жыл бұрын
We like to help. Most of the times ;-) . The main difference is, that we Germans are not your best buddy at the first few Meetings. But later on, when you reached the "friend zone", we are normally friends for the rest of the live. Exceptions are a given.
@jw4277
@jw4277 3 жыл бұрын
I hate to be this guy, but *there. (Just kidding I love to be this guy)
@celticht32
@celticht32 3 жыл бұрын
@@jw4277 lol thx... fixed it
@I_Have_The_Most_Japanese_Music
@I_Have_The_Most_Japanese_Music 2 жыл бұрын
This is true; I travel to Germany every year to attend Neo-Nazi rallies and have noticed it as well.
@mary.w.
@mary.w. 2 жыл бұрын
As someone that lived in Germany for over a decade, this is absolutely true. Just try to speak the language. They will be happy you cared to try then they will speak English to make the conversation more efficient.
@robertoskeetrech3206
@robertoskeetrech3206 3 жыл бұрын
I don't speak any German. I have spent considerable time there and enjoyed every minute. I generally have found people helpful and friendly. I have also learned some lessons the hard way. You can't get all the cultural differences from a book or video. Just stay relaxed and friendly and everything will work out. At least they did for me!
@I_Have_The_Most_Japanese_Music
@I_Have_The_Most_Japanese_Music 2 жыл бұрын
You sound like you've had positive experiences with German women.
@RioMuc
@RioMuc 2 жыл бұрын
The recipe for Germany and any other country in the world is: be prepared to be surprised, enjoy the differences to your home country, whether they're positive or negative and be friendly! Cordiality makes everything easier and better.
@thomasmountcastle5671
@thomasmountcastle5671 Жыл бұрын
@@RioMuc Correct, cordiality is the key.
@God_Trustet_you
@God_Trustet_you Жыл бұрын
Just the old people here in Germany are friendly all the other’s are Karen’s or boomers
@stephenlarson523
@stephenlarson523 Жыл бұрын
I travel extensively, and speak six languages, and often people have no awareness of the differences that I might encounter in their country. This video is fascinating to me, because it is simply so filled with useful information!
@dogtor95
@dogtor95 9 ай бұрын
I loved the "Tschüß" at the end. I got so used to saying it, rather than "Auf Wiedersehen", that I STILL catch myself saying it 30 years later. The problem is that not many people seem to be familiar with the word here in the States. Hearing you say that felt like I was listening to an old friend.
@garyh7949
@garyh7949 3 жыл бұрын
My first time in Germany, I noticed the price of gasoline/benzine was about the same as in the US. Until, that is, when I refueled my rental vehicle, I found out that price was for a litre, not a gallon.
@3.k
@3.k 3 жыл бұрын
One reason why Feli talks about different prices AND UNITS. ;)
@nunyabidniz2868
@nunyabidniz2868 3 жыл бұрын
So, yeah, ~ 4x higher. Meanwhile, back in the US that senile idiot Biden is canceling the US' attempts at energy independence. F#ckwit...
@Ork20111
@Ork20111 3 жыл бұрын
Thanks. I'm actually laughing out loud in metric system!
@Nostrum84
@Nostrum84 3 жыл бұрын
@@Ork20111 what?
@gringoviejo1935
@gringoviejo1935 3 жыл бұрын
LOL! that's hilarious, @@Ork20111!
@jackstorme3575
@jackstorme3575 3 жыл бұрын
5:32 "We have a pretty good Trainsystem in Germany" That's true but in Germany you need to have a littlebit of Geduld for that.
@mikestone6078
@mikestone6078 3 жыл бұрын
Not as much as in the US. So it's a comparative improvement.
@str.77
@str.77 2 жыл бұрын
And a little bit of Geld
@mcm111able
@mcm111able 2 жыл бұрын
100 Millionen Reisende jedes Jahr muss man erstmal bewältigen. Da brauchts a bissel Geduld.
@jackstorme3575
@jackstorme3575 2 жыл бұрын
@@mcm111able wär ja kein Problem wenn man nicht Privatisiert hätte. Hat ja auch super funktioniert
@Rauschgenerator
@Rauschgenerator 2 жыл бұрын
The transportation system in the USA is a mess. No, it's a catastrophe. Almost like not existing at all. I was there in 2004, in a village about 10 kilometres away from Philadelphia Airport. I had 5 (FIVE!) hours to get my flight. And I almost missed it. No taxi driver was available in all this time, there was no tram, then I searched the next bus station and found out that I had to wait two hours for the next bus (without any hint where that bus would go), and when it arrived I was told that, yes, the bus will go to the airport, too, but will only arrive there in about two hours...which was simply too risky for me. I only got my flight by driving with my fathers car to the airport and informing him that I had to take it and hopefully a colleague could drive him there to get his car back. Since that day, I completely disagree with the term "Servicewüste Deutschland". If Germany is a service-desert, the USA are a black hole in terms of service.
@Makeupdelicious1984
@Makeupdelicious1984 5 ай бұрын
Going to Berlin on Friday and I couldn’t be more excited than this. I’ve recently started studying German and can’t wait to practice those few things I know 😊 Thanks for this video ❤
@lalalalalala8147
@lalalalalala8147 2 ай бұрын
My partner and I have given up on the Divided Kingdom and are moving to Bamberg, Bavaria in a few months. We can't wait! This video helps us understand some of the differences, so vielen dank! We are looking forward to finally spending Euros anywhere in Europe; no more rip off currency exchange charges.
@danielc5205
@danielc5205 3 жыл бұрын
My brother who use to be in the Air Force, always told us how beautiful Germany is. Going to Germany is on my bucket list.
@marenkliefoth914
@marenkliefoth914 2 жыл бұрын
You should definitely come someday. But then, don’t forget to visit the north!! Germany is not bavaria and Oktoberfest ist not all over the country. Hamburg e.g. is a beautiful city and the north or the Baltic Sea are beautiful areas to be! :-)
@hodjatebrahimajdari4755
@hodjatebrahimajdari4755 2 жыл бұрын
@@grgr8238 what??
@grgr8238
@grgr8238 2 жыл бұрын
@@hodjatebrahimajdari4755 usa has been created to defeat te nazi
@blumchen7445
@blumchen7445 2 жыл бұрын
@@grgr8238 what please
@maja__5047
@maja__5047 2 жыл бұрын
@@grgr8238 You're such a history pro... the US were founded in the 18th century while the Third Reich was created in the 1930s😂
@pmchamlee
@pmchamlee 3 жыл бұрын
I spent 5+ years in Germany in the early '80s and I have only fond memories of the people and country. I achieved a Jagdschein [after a lengthy course and much experience in the field] I was able to [with my new BMW] travel all over Deutchland and the rest of Europe. Wonderful memories!
@alexejfrohlich5869
@alexejfrohlich5869 2 жыл бұрын
ok now seriously, getting a Jagdschein -- this is like PURE germanification there! :D
@captainnathan1651
@captainnathan1651 Жыл бұрын
This is a great video! We are hoping to visit Germany next Spring (starting in Hanover then making our way to Munich). My great grandfather was born there and came to America in 1860’s. I’m still having trouble finding his parents’ names so hoping German records may help. I can’t wait to see what I’m told is an incredibly beautiful country. I’ll keep this vid handy to rewatch before we go. Vielen Dank!
@oldsergeant9999
@oldsergeant9999 Жыл бұрын
Great video! Everything mentioned in the video is 100% true. I visit Germany a few times a year. Great country!
@TimothyOBrien1958
@TimothyOBrien1958 3 жыл бұрын
I still am amazed at how good your English is. I used to teach accents to actors and I'm usually very good at picking up something in people's accents that will tip me off as to from where they come. I'd be hard-pressed to figure you out if I didn't know you were German. Kudos.
@frankbr5991
@frankbr5991 2 жыл бұрын
Hi Timothy, different between Feli and US Citizien.... She speaks clearly and distingushly without any accent. OK, her pronounciation became more and more US Style
@TimothyOBrien1958
@TimothyOBrien1958 2 жыл бұрын
@@frankbr5991 So, you think every American does not speak clearly? That's a bit silly. I'm from Ireland originally.
@LG-bs1rs
@LG-bs1rs 2 жыл бұрын
@@TimothyOBrien1958 no in fact Americans, and in fact all English speakers get a little lazy on their speech and change things up. Her accent is spot on usually just like my grandmother. Who emigrated from Germany and learned English so well she has 0 foreign accent. Even when she was young
@LG-bs1rs
@LG-bs1rs 2 жыл бұрын
@@TimothyOBrien1958 But sometime the pronunciation is a little too precise that Americans would not say all the time. Like certain “big words” for example
@TimothyOBrien1958
@TimothyOBrien1958 2 жыл бұрын
@@LG-bs1rs I'm from Ireland originally. My grammar was spot on until I went to school here. I went from reading on a 3rd grade level in 1st but was forced to write right-handed. I became dyslexic, with ADHD, and I began to stutter. I've overcome all and I pride myself on my diction. I also became a professional writer. Don't lump all of us together. I take great offense.
@JoshuaTanzer
@JoshuaTanzer 3 жыл бұрын
I think you're right about "the rules" in Germany. I was traveling with a friend in either Germany or Switzerland and we were talking to each other while riding on the train, maybe a little loudly. After a while, a man got our attention and said, "This is the quiet car." I saw that he was right - there was a sign that said "Quiet Car." I felt sorry for having done the wrong thing and for being the stereotypical rude American.
@jonathanjordahl5345
@jonathanjordahl5345 2 жыл бұрын
Something similar happened to me in Korea, except there it was apparently just a cultural rule for the whole train (KTX high-speed) that I hadn’t been aware of, where carrying on a conversation at a normal volume with a fellow passenger I’d just met was considered rude and we were ‘shushed’ by the person in the next row. The train glided on in serene silence, the color TV monitors on the ceiling muted, displaying only subtitles in four languages, Korean, English, Chinese & Japanese as it showed Metropolitan promotional videos for each region we were passing through. The silence was only broken be clearly enunciated announcements over the speaker system for the next approaching stop in the same languages, matched by scrolling light-bar displays at the front of the car. Any other conversations were hushed and brief, cellphones were well contained, though a couple of brief conversations did occur.
@Vivi_9
@Vivi_9 Жыл бұрын
@@jonathanjordahl5345 God that sounds so dystopian
@jonathanjordahl5345
@jonathanjordahl5345 Жыл бұрын
@@Vivi_9 KTX is the bullet train system, which is significantly more expensive and both a great deal faster and more comfortable than the Mugunghwa system, where I don’t believe you’d be shushed. Your choice of the word dystopian is important. Korea is the same country that produced both Snowpiercer and Parasites, each of which powerfully addresses the issue of class stratification, and the first of which specifically does so with the physical allegory of a horribly stratified, even cannibalistic, if I remember correctly, endless train journey through a post-apocalyptic frozen hellscape.
@Vivi_9
@Vivi_9 Жыл бұрын
@@jonathanjordahl5345 indeed, I find it interesting when comparing Eastern and Western cultures.. my knowledge is only surface level, but I thought it was interesting that in the west where people are more free to behave without consideration for others people are becoming increasingly narcissistic and downright unpleasant to deal with, whereas in a country where people are much more used to the idea of being under the thumb of authority their inherently collectivist nature shines through in basic community-based ideas like not being a loud tit on the train.
@ludastout2852
@ludastout2852 Жыл бұрын
Years ago it was a report in Daily Mail. One Scottish Pub put a sign on the door "Loud American Tourists are not Welcomed!" 😳 That's weird as they have their own loud customers. Maybe it's too much for the owner of that pub. 😀
@edgardrodriguez4945
@edgardrodriguez4945 Жыл бұрын
I liked your video. We visited Munich for 5 days in May 2022 and enjoyed it very much! At least in 3 occasions in train stations, germans figured out we lost and volunteered to help. Very important your comment on following the rules and the bike lane!
@MinitendoFS
@MinitendoFS Жыл бұрын
*München
@MitasCuisine
@MitasCuisine Жыл бұрын
Mita’s Cuisine here! Thank you so much for posting this video! Really helpful! 🤩
@johnalden5821
@johnalden5821 3 жыл бұрын
These are all excellent tips. My biggest recommendation for Americans going to Germany is to do sufficient advance research on where you are going. Learn in advance how the S-Bahn and U-Bahn systems work (how to pay for and validate tickets for various time periods and zones, etc.). Public transportation in Berlin and other cities is extensive and prompt -- you do NOT need a car. Book tickets through the Internet for museums and other places you want to go. You can print out the tickets at home, saving you time and hassle when you get there. This is Germany -- you get no points for "winging it." And seriously, do NOT stand in the bike lanes, unless you want to bring home a tire-track tattoo.
@TheRaon
@TheRaon Жыл бұрын
This is so right! I‘m german and if I visit another city around Germany, the first thing I do, is to check how the ÖPNV (German for public transport) works because it‘s different everywhere (and not everywhere of the same quality). Also, always check out what you want to visit because of Ruhetage (basically means „days off“) for museums and other attractions, that are open on sundays. Bike lanes! Very important!
@andrear.berndt9504
@andrear.berndt9504 3 жыл бұрын
I like your second personality in the Commercial!
@dwaynejohnson6042
@dwaynejohnson6042 2 жыл бұрын
hello Mrs how are you doing, I'm Dwayne, what's your name
@garyh7949
@garyh7949 Жыл бұрын
Feli, there is something melodious and comforting about your voice. I noticed it too in many other women when I was in Germany.
@zabooog
@zabooog Жыл бұрын
This might be the most helpful video on the Internet with regards to Germany. Thank you so much!
@evanhaberlin1337
@evanhaberlin1337 3 жыл бұрын
So people from New Jersey and NYC will get along great in Germany, brilliant!
@nickcox1408
@nickcox1408 2 жыл бұрын
I was stationed in Germany from 05 -10. I never had an issue with customer service. I appreciated that they left you alone and didnt bug you constantly. They are reserved and do keep to themselves. Which is another thing that I appreciated. Bars weren't loud unless there were alot of Americans there.
@dianerandazzo1766
@dianerandazzo1766 Жыл бұрын
I'm first generation from Austrian parents. Now I know why American service is so irritating and intrusive and annoying. I found that in Italy also; a waiter takes the order, does what is needed and leaves one alone. But; somehow when I needed something, there he was without interrupting. Love that.
@TravelingisFREEDOM
@TravelingisFREEDOM Жыл бұрын
This seems to be a very interesting place, I hope I can visit sometime in the future. Seeing and sharing places like this is why I love traveling and make videos so much! And please keep up the great job! Subscribed!!
@Terrell2119
@Terrell2119 Жыл бұрын
I lived there for 5 years. You nailed it. I had forgotten about paying for using the bathroom in some places and about restaurant customer service.
@fred5784
@fred5784 3 жыл бұрын
The first time I was in Germany I was surprised at how cheap the gas prices were. Eventually I realize that was the price per liter, not per gallon.
@Psi-Storm
@Psi-Storm 3 жыл бұрын
2/3 of the price is tax. But most European Countries have comparable taxes on fuel.
@CurtisCT
@CurtisCT 3 жыл бұрын
Hahaha...I made exactly the same mistake my first time as well!
@maxmadmordock
@maxmadmordock 2 жыл бұрын
metric system
@michaelrandall2070
@michaelrandall2070 2 жыл бұрын
Thanks for saying - subscribe for free. For a year or so I did not press - subscribe as I did not wish to enter into any card or bank payments. The word seems to have drifted as the dictionary implies 'payment'.
@ianwallis6473
@ianwallis6473 3 жыл бұрын
This was interesting to watch from Wales as an English - occasionally we’re more similar to us, but much more similar to Germany. Interesting differences though - gut Video, danke schön
@user-id5fc2du3z
@user-id5fc2du3z 13 күн бұрын
Thank You or Danke Schön for your video. It was really informative and good. My family and I are planning a trip back to Germany, Switzerland and Austria in May. We lived there for 5 years and our son was born there. So thank you for the refresher.😊
@aarnasaigal5859
@aarnasaigal5859 Жыл бұрын
Hello! I was doing a essay on Germany,this really really helped.Thanks a lot!!
@harrybgoode
@harrybgoode 3 жыл бұрын
A small correction about the cash culture: the current pandemic changed a lot. By now you can almost anywhere pay by card.
@marsupix3554
@marsupix3554 3 жыл бұрын
True. One good thing about Covid.
@MRetoastet
@MRetoastet 3 жыл бұрын
I hope this actually stays. It's so much better. I don't like and want to carry cash (especially coins) around.
@e.458
@e.458 3 жыл бұрын
Careful, often they only accept debit cards and not credit cards.
@Operaatoors
@Operaatoors 3 жыл бұрын
@@e.458 Yeah, that what I tought. Sorry, but German EC sucks. Many places does not accept Visa/Mastercard etc.
@str.77
@str.77 2 жыл бұрын
Well, it might have changed in a few places but most places that only took cash before still only take cash. What has changed is that discounters or supermarkets have become a bit more aggressive in their attempt to push paying without cash on customers.
@ChrisSherbak
@ChrisSherbak 3 жыл бұрын
re: Small talk: This happened in Chicago, in the states that really struck me about small talk. My late partner, who had gone to school and then lived in Germany for a number of years as a translator, were riding the subway and came across 2 German travellers looking at a transit map. (I swear, we could never go anywhere without running into some Germans. He loved it.) I don't speak German but know the sound of it and he went right over as they were having trouble figuring out where they needed to go. He launched into German to help out and they continued. He got them straightened out, but it was all very direct and 'do this, do that' sounding. I asked him after they were on their way: "they didn't sound surprised you knew German or even how you got your accent (it was Hanoverian which I guess is the "purest" German) and spoke so well." He told me Germans just get right to it and don't "do" small talk. Very odd for this American... Great channel!!
@Rauschgenerator
@Rauschgenerator 2 жыл бұрын
Yes, indeed, even in business relations, it's very different from the USA; I know that when there are meetings, let's say to sign an important contract, American firms start with lunch and smalltalk and then after some time they do the work. In Germany, the work is done first and afterwards, when (for example) the treaty is signed, dinner and wine or beer and smalltalk is like the reward for the good cooperation or the good work. Even for me, I would feel uncomfortable getting too private too soon, with people I don't know at all.
@hodjatebrahimajdari4755
@hodjatebrahimajdari4755 2 жыл бұрын
yes tru germans are very straight in conversations and are not good/dont like small talk. But thats as she said just a cultural differents they are not trying to be rude or so.
@EK-gr9gd
@EK-gr9gd 2 жыл бұрын
@@Rauschgenerator Well, you don't make you partners drunk before signing a contract, that would be a bit of a risk.
@robcampbell3235
@robcampbell3235 2 жыл бұрын
@@EK-gr9gd actually in America pre-1980 or so we used to have the "three-martini lunch". Martinis are quite strong alcoholic drinks & the lunch with alcohol was thought of as the way to "lubricate" business - get deals done. Worked pretty well. Did Americans realize that getting sloshed while taking a 2 1/2 hour lunch mid-workday was bad for health or productivity & stop the practice? Not really. In the end, changes in tax codes "mostly" killed off the practice. Food & entertainment ceased being fully deductible during business lunches & dropped to 50%.
@EK-gr9gd
@EK-gr9gd 2 жыл бұрын
@@robcampbell3235 I know what Martinis are. Hell, I can roll every 007, from "Dr. No to "Casino Royal" in my head.
@alextaylor29
@alextaylor29 Жыл бұрын
Very helpful thank you. I’ve never been to Germany but plan to.
@gloriald444
@gloriald444 Жыл бұрын
I love that y'all close on Sundays 👏🏽 Hey from Tx🌵
@carolynruppersberg1000
@carolynruppersberg1000 3 жыл бұрын
"Culture shock" is universal! (As you well know.) I haven't been to Germany in many years, but your points applied then, as now. Keep up the good (interesting) work!
@eddieengland470
@eddieengland470 3 жыл бұрын
Most travel only channels don’t cover these types of subjects. You cover them as a genuine way to help people. Doin a great job
@sebastianbirch2187
@sebastianbirch2187 5 ай бұрын
Great video! Very informative. Same rules, 100% applies to neighbored Poland, if you happen to wander there in your travels. I let several of my friends watch this video before they travel to Germany, Poland or most of European countries for that matter. Prost!
@gillianross6212
@gillianross6212 Жыл бұрын
Very helpful as I will be making a trip to Germany in 2023
@kenf3539
@kenf3539 2 жыл бұрын
I would like to return to Germany sometime, I do miss it. Story: I grew up in the U.S. speaking English and took French in school. I was going to be working in Central America, so I took a full time (45 hours per week) Spanish language class, and was in Panama, Honduras and El Salvador for five months. Then, I found out that I was going to be going to Germany. I ended up taking a full time (45 hours per week) German course and learned German. I remember as an American, being in France trying to buy a souvenir to send home, talking to the vendor in German. I was an American in France speaking German to a French woman... Once I realized what I was doing, I stopped and realized that I had forgotten French. It took a few moments to come back to me, but I was able to speak French and get the item. It is amazing how your brain operates when fully immersed in another culture and language. I was in Germany for only 19 months, and loved every minute of it.
@DieJumper1000
@DieJumper1000 3 жыл бұрын
Mich würde es echt mal interessieren, wie deine Zuschauerschaft aufgeteilt ist. Wie viel Prozent davon deutsch, amerikanisch sind oder von wo anders herkommen...
@SoSa3qL
@SoSa3qL 3 жыл бұрын
Ich schätze mal so 70% Deutsche und 20% Amis und 10% andere! Gibt glaub programme mit denen man das checken kann, der uploader kann das auch so alles einsehen.
@dontcareimacat7821
@dontcareimacat7821 3 жыл бұрын
@@SoSa3qL I think just recently she said it was 50/50
@Treinbouwer
@Treinbouwer 3 жыл бұрын
Sie hat Zuschauer aus die Niederlände :) Es würde mich übrigens auch interessieren.
@SoSa3qL
@SoSa3qL 3 жыл бұрын
@@dontcareimacat7821 bei dem video hier könnte das hinkommen
@kris856
@kris856 3 жыл бұрын
Also - darf man doch nach Deustchalnd kommen? Die Grenzen sind ja zu wegen einem komischen Grippevirus, oder bin ich hier falsch?
@abhinavbharati5095
@abhinavbharati5095 8 ай бұрын
Wow! Thanks for making this video
@gilgilbert5866
@gilgilbert5866 Жыл бұрын
Great video! You have a new subscriber now as this video brought so many great memories that I have of Germany when I lived there when the wall fell down for good and history was made!
@nickschultz1244
@nickschultz1244 3 жыл бұрын
As a midwesterner who has been to Germany a number of times, I can tell you all of this is true. Its good to know these things before going, otherwise the service differences and lack of small talk can affect your perception. I was fortunate to have known beforehand and I just accepted it when I got there. I totally love it there though and everyone should go, its a great experience and there are many wonderful people and incredible sights. I can't wait to be able to go back, I miss it there a lot!
@gridlockjoe
@gridlockjoe 3 жыл бұрын
Regarding ATM fees: Bank of America and Deutsche Bank are both part of the Global ATM Alliance, so you can get cash from each other’s machines with no fees (except the currency conversion fee).
@colinp2238
@colinp2238 3 жыл бұрын
It is still cheaper to take some currency with you. I live in the Uk and if I travel into Europe I always take 500 euros with me in various note denominations, if I'm there for a week or more. You can usually get local currency at major bank outlets for a reasonable exchange rate but it is always better to arrive with some in case you want a drink, food or take a cab from the airport.
@Esablaka
@Esablaka 3 жыл бұрын
I generally recommend germans who go to the US (or in general to non EU countries) to get a credit card with 0 fees for abroad. There are loads of them and usually they cost nothing in the first or 2nd year. Also credit cards are often a lot better abroad than the german "debit cards" so that is often a surprise to germans as a lot of germans almost never use credit cards or may not even own one at all.
@pjschmid2251
@pjschmid2251 3 жыл бұрын
@@colinp2238 many people in the US don’t live in major cities so they’re probably not going to have access to foreign currencies from their local bank. I live in a smaller town so when I travel to Europe I’ll just get money from the cash station. In order to decrease the amount of fees I recommend that you get higher amounts each time you go to the cash station because many of the fees are per transaction.
@Esablaka
@Esablaka 3 жыл бұрын
@@pjschmid2251 Can't you request it and maybe collect it a couple days later? Atleast banks here in Germany usually offer that service. They may not always have certain foreign currencies in storage but you can request it (be it USD or Tanzanian shilling or anything in between) and you can usually collect it the next day or a couple days later.
@colinp2238
@colinp2238 3 жыл бұрын
@@pjschmid2251 I guess that you would be going to an international airport, so you could arrange to collect money from a branch in that city, if you could be bothered to that is.
@arturoarche4113
@arturoarche4113 Жыл бұрын
Thank you for such interesting video. I believe it does relate somehow to other European countries as well. I lived in Europe (Spain) and well some things are very similar and others are different. In general people in Southern Europe are more open than in the north. I was raised there and I spoke the language and understood the culture, so it was not a problem and did not feel like an outsider. Definitely customer service in America is outstanding, as are many other things. It was really fun to see your video it brought back good memories. Thank you.
@billsemmendinger2592
@billsemmendinger2592 7 ай бұрын
Hi Feli, I just found your channel and I'm enjoying the comparison you make between the two countries. One point I would disagree with you on is people not being as friendly. I sent 20 years in the navy and made quite a few cruises over to the Med . After retiring I worked with a programing software frame work from Germany. In all my experiences with the different German people I met everyone was a memorable experience the I fondly look back on.
@KiKiQuiQuiKiKi
@KiKiQuiQuiKiKi 3 жыл бұрын
You’re a great ambassador! 🥇
@bb412m
@bb412m 2 жыл бұрын
By my comments, you can tell I just discovered your channel, and as a foreign national living in Germany, I find many things useful. My perception of Germans has changed severally over the last 7 years of living here. The “cold” attitude was shocking at first, but now I have met many nice people who sometimes just come up to me. I once talked for an hour with a stranger in a shop. I was just fascinated with the person’s friendliness.😊
@Jace28142
@Jace28142 Ай бұрын
I love everything about Germany. I found the people kind, funny and very direct. I love how they know how to truly relax. Bike riding along the River and enjoying life.
@arseneousmanemethods
@arseneousmanemethods 11 ай бұрын
Appreciate your energy! Thanks for the sharing
@blackstone7574
@blackstone7574 3 жыл бұрын
i found your channel. love your videos. wow, you speak great english. you don't even have an accent. you're giving me reasons to go to germany after this pandemic passes.
@flowergirl2090
@flowergirl2090 3 жыл бұрын
I lived in Germany for a few years and I loved it. Can’t wait to go back and visit one day. Although back then you didn’t have the euro yet, it was still the Deutsche Mark.
@maryarnsdorff7996
@maryarnsdorff7996 Жыл бұрын
Your videos are amazing thank you so much for sharing 🎉
@user-Aurkotheswiftie
@user-Aurkotheswiftie 3 ай бұрын
Thank you thank you for sharing these things. It means a lot.
@kristingallaty8301
@kristingallaty8301 3 жыл бұрын
I definitely appreciate German waiters. There are certain rules and signals (such as the particular placement of your knife and fork), and as long as you know them, everything goes quite smoothly. In many American restaurants (the affordable chain restaurants especially) the waiter tells you their name and checks on you every 5 minutes like some sort of intensive care nurse. I find it awkward, pointless, and intrusive. Not to be too judgemental though, it's just a different culture. With fewer rules and less training, we definitely need more friendly customer service just to make things work.
@ludastout2852
@ludastout2852 Жыл бұрын
My German sister wants to come and visit my family in the US. I hope she will change her mind as I cannot afford to feed her with all that delicious food they have in Germany(not here). She lives in historical town and knows the best cafe and restaurants. Since CovidLockdown it's been very bad here - food and service. Shortage. No one wants to work for 10$ per/h anymore. The best times are gone. 😢
@pyrmontbridge4737
@pyrmontbridge4737 Жыл бұрын
@@ludastout2852 $10 per hour is practically slavery. Is that legal in the U.S.?
@hitmewiththedigits
@hitmewiththedigits Жыл бұрын
I need to hear more about the special placement of knife and fork in Germany when you finish. Crossed? Point-to-point? Teepee?
@billgracey6369
@billgracey6369 Жыл бұрын
Believe it or not, some people like to feel like they are pampered when they go out to eat!
@princeprinz9029
@princeprinz9029 Жыл бұрын
@@pyrmontbridge4737 25 to 30 US Dollars would be more fair and kind.
@a_peter_johnson
@a_peter_johnson 3 жыл бұрын
Where was this video 2 years ago when I needed it? 🙃
@FelifromGermany
@FelifromGermany 3 жыл бұрын
Oh no did you have a bad experience in Germany? 🙈 Maybe you can go again in the future with this newly gained knowledge?
@a_peter_johnson
@a_peter_johnson 3 жыл бұрын
No, I had traveled to Europe a few times previously, so I was fairly prepared. The one thing that caught me off guard was that national holidays follow the same closure rules as Sundays. My stay in Munich included Labor Day...fortunately, I stayed next to the main train station, but the grocery store there was PACKED! 😅
@maxmustermann9793
@maxmustermann9793 Жыл бұрын
probably it was born in Felis brain....and growing
@florcorvalan2572
@florcorvalan2572 4 ай бұрын
This year I started learning German, my dream is to be able to visit the country someday. Your tips really helped me to understand the culture a lot more ❤
@Weezy-zy9qy
@Weezy-zy9qy 5 ай бұрын
Been living in Germany for a while. Once I got all the paperwork and bank details done, I wanted to buy a membership for the gym so I can work out and stay in shape. I saw this place near my Uni and it had a big board that says ‘Gymnasium’. I thought to myself, how convenient, I can workout right after the lectures are done for the day😅 Only thing that put me off about that place was that I never saw anyone coming out of it who looked like they work out. They all looked like school-age kids and there were lots and lots of them. And I was like ‘that’s odd’ 🧐 Now that my German has drastically improved, I’ve come to realize that ‘Gymnasium’ in Germany means High School 😂😂😂 Viele Grüße aus Schweinfurt ❤☺️🇩🇪
@caddis0300
@caddis0300 2 жыл бұрын
I've made three trips to Germany. The first many years ago on a business incentive program where I was a host for other Americans coming into in multiple groups on multiple days. Naturally we dealt almost exclusively through people who were multi-lingual. And, since our groups were bringing substantial economic value with them, we all treated very well. The other two trips were with my significant other who is a German native. Being with a native eliminated many of the problems you discussed. But I did find myself alone, often in stores, and had little trouble especially in the larger cities. On my first trip, I took a drive from Munich into Austria with a couple of friends and did have some the problems you mentioned, but nothing severe. I like Germany a lot and look forward to returning.
@SB-ft4mr
@SB-ft4mr 3 жыл бұрын
We spent 50% of our time in Germany for work until COVID. These tips would have been so helpful five years ago!! :) Parking is always a challenge and putting the time you parked on the flat clock on your dashboard was new for us. Also, bringing your own bags to all stores to carry your purchases was a must. We love watching your videos...we can’t wait until travel opens up again!
@christopherscorner
@christopherscorner Жыл бұрын
I was an exchange student in Germany in 1986, 87 and it was the most beautiful experience of my life. The people were fantastic and the food was crazy delicious and the natural scenery is unbelievably stunning. I want to live in Germany again. I lived in Grunberg… Not far from Frankfurt and Giessen, popular as Elvis Presley spent his time at this American army base.
@aytradeco
@aytradeco Жыл бұрын
Getting yelled at by an old day in german for standing in the left side of an escalator IS what best describes a visit to Germany ! :) ... these are the cultural differences that helps us understand different cultures and shouldn't be taken personally !
@inyobill
@inyobill Жыл бұрын
Interesting, I often see people blocking escalators/moving walks, and never see anyone get called on it. At most, I have heard an "Entschuldigung".
@maximilian672
@maximilian672 5 ай бұрын
😂 when I still commuted regularly in Munich, I observed similar things almost daily. Someone would stand on the left side and another person who's in a hurry would say one thing or the other in an annoyed or sometimes even angry voice ^^
@jonny9961
@jonny9961 3 жыл бұрын
I have been to Germany a few times and I have never noticed people or customer service people being "unfriendly". Maybe I have just been lucky. Regarding speaking German, I had a funny experience at a Subway in Germany. I tried to order in German and the guy couldn't quite understand what I was asking for. He said in perfect English "why don't you just order in English" . Turns out he was from Canada. 😁
@DanielRMueller
@DanielRMueller 2 жыл бұрын
I think it's always a matter of expectations. And then it can obviously change somewhat from person to person. But some people at least believe that the people in the North of Germany - while generally seen more tight-lipped or taciturn perhaps - can still come off as having a more friendly or warm attitude. I know some people that grew up in East-Frisia that didn't really enjoy living in Bavaria for that reason.
@alexejfrohlich5869
@alexejfrohlich5869 2 жыл бұрын
they were friendly to you because you're canadian :D
@jadasilly
@jadasilly 2 жыл бұрын
Maybe it's a Munich thing a friend moved from Cologne to Munich and told me she hates ro go to bakery there because they are so unfriendly for example
@lumina9995
@lumina9995 2 жыл бұрын
@@jadasilly She should have gone to a different bakery then!
@NinaKatharinaWeber
@NinaKatharinaWeber Жыл бұрын
@@jadasilly I had the same thing, moving from NRW to Munich. I don‘t know what itis about bavarian bakeries. Plus they didn‘t have any milk read rolls. Main reason to move back 😉
@clusterbwithkevindirmann4503
@clusterbwithkevindirmann4503 2 жыл бұрын
I lived in Würzburg/Kitzingen for 3 years while in the Army. I loved everything about Germany. Every time I watch one of your videos, it makes me want to go back.
@manjavanopdorp8818
@manjavanopdorp8818 3 ай бұрын
I understand since it's my favorite country I want to go there one day and I get where you wanna go back totally
@baerlauchstal
@baerlauchstal 10 ай бұрын
I always think it's fun the way people's behaviour at pedestrian lights changes completely the moment you cross the border into Holland. There, you cross the road whenever you like. Within reason, like.
@dwightbrown7777
@dwightbrown7777 Жыл бұрын
I love your videos! They are so informative and fun. And you have a very nice voice. I really love your accent and your smile. :)
@eautobahn2993
@eautobahn2993 3 жыл бұрын
I spent a wonderful summer in Heidelberg...loved it! So beautiful, the culture, the people, and I didn’t feel that they were “cold or impolite’. Just different. As an American, I tried to always speak German, even if I didn’t know any, but I felt it made a difference. I did get yelled at when I tried to cross the street!! Ha Ha!
@shelldonsilva561
@shelldonsilva561 2 жыл бұрын
I was in the military stationed in Germany in the early 80's. I absolutely LOVED Germany in many, many ways. I was aware of the "ugly" American stories and DID NOT want to be included in that stereo type. So, on my own, I ventured out to the local pubs and restaurants outside the Kaserns I was stationed at being mindful not to go to the places nearest the Kaserns. I found that once Germans knew that I was willing to speak their language, no matter how bad, they responded with kindness and consideration; and would practice their broken English! I also found that the eldest Germans were the most friendliest, and most interested in American politics. I was compelled to answer tons of American political questions, esp about Ronald Reagan then about the Kennedy's! As an American 20 something at the time, I had infantile knowledge of our political systems or of Reagan or Kennedy's other than what I remembered from our media. So I did my best to field questions and I totally faked many of the conversations in that regard. But Never did any one German call me out. Only when I mingled with the younger generations, Germans in their 20's, 30's, that I became a "target" of their angst. I was never assaulted but I was absolutely made uncomfortable. I will always have fond memories of Germany and I will return to visit some day. Fun fact my eldest son was born in Weisbaden, an American born abroad. I still, although fading, remember many German words and sentences. Being stationed, rather living in Germany was the best 3 yrs of my life! Keep up the great vids chatzi.
@billd.8336
@billd.8336 Жыл бұрын
Here in the US I learned during a business trip that anyone more than 75 miles from home is an expert!
@Zamigirl
@Zamigirl Жыл бұрын
You and I are on the same page. Too bad that not all soldiers were respectful and caused problems with the Polizei. I had a great time in Germany. Respect is everything when you travel outside your country. I have traveled all over the USA, Europe and the Caribbean where I live. People are the same all over the world. Just don't act like you are superior or try to impose your values when you travel. If you can't do that. stay the hell home!
@Marie-qb1jh
@Marie-qb1jh Жыл бұрын
I can relate to your experience! Everything you described it’s still how it is even now in 2022. I was suprised how much they like American politics. I had to know how to respond to their questions/ expressions.
@donofon101
@donofon101 Жыл бұрын
You have to HAVE TO .. hunt down and view the limited series from Germany... "Deutschland 1983". No one I could imagine will have an experience in the arts that is so relevant to YOU. There were two follow ups .. the 3rd is an essay on the fall of East Berlin. DEUTSCHLAND 1983 just amazing kismet. Do not fail in this quest.
@billgracey6369
@billgracey6369 Жыл бұрын
It's "Wiesbaden", FYI.
@MrMoto1te
@MrMoto1te Жыл бұрын
Good job, Feli !!
@lennybuttz2162
@lennybuttz2162 Жыл бұрын
A very friendly helpful video. Your English is so good, hardly any accent but I grew up with German/Americans.
@donnakaye6919
@donnakaye6919 2 жыл бұрын
Thank you so much for your information. You did great! I’ve been to Germany a few times, I loved it. You are very correct in what you said, it’s very nice to listen to how an actual person from Germany views these things. ❤️
@frankuvlkan
@frankuvlkan 9 ай бұрын
Hallo Donna, ich hoffe, mein Kommentar klang nicht wie eine Art Verletzung der Privatsphäre. Ihr Kommentar erzählt von einer wundervollen Frau mit einem wunderschönen Herzen, was mich zu einem Kommentar veranlasst hat. Normalerweise schreibe ich nicht in den Kommentarbereich, aber ich denke, Sie haben dieses Kompliment verdient. Wenn es Ihnen nichts ausmacht, können wir dann Freunde sein? Danke, Gott segne dich....🌹🌹
@singemfrc
@singemfrc 3 жыл бұрын
Between the customer service style, the focus on following rules, and the apathy towards small talk, Germany is looking more and more like a place in which I would be happy to live. I'm all about efficiency in all aspects of life and it seems many Germans are too.
@manjavanopdorp8818
@manjavanopdorp8818 3 ай бұрын
Probably I also want things to be efficient you know
@gelshman1858
@gelshman1858 Жыл бұрын
Not sure you will see this comment Feli but I went to Germany finally twice last year and this video amongst others helped so much and cannot thank you enough and will be going back to Germany many more times in the future
@robina3699
@robina3699 Жыл бұрын
This is so helpful thank you a lot!!
@ana_lynn_w2959
@ana_lynn_w2959 3 жыл бұрын
I went to Germany back in 2001, when I was 16 years old. Everything you talked about I noticed. Like every single thing LOL. I went during Christmas so it was lots of fun. The only thing you didn't mention that was quite a shock to me was nudity in media that was meant to family friendly!
@ana_lynn_w2959
@ana_lynn_w2959 3 жыл бұрын
oh and sizing difference in clothing and shoes
@FelifromGermany
@FelifromGermany 3 жыл бұрын
True! The nudity thing really is something that's common in many European countries, not just Germany. Same goes for the sizing.
@Esablaka
@Esablaka 3 жыл бұрын
Nudity doesn't impact family friendliness by german standards. Maybe "full nudity" but definitely not naked boobs. Violence on the other hand is a MAJOR factor in that regard. For all kinds of media: TV, movies, video games etc..
@lane0mator
@lane0mator 3 жыл бұрын
While in the US you censor someone´s mouth when he is saying things like "bullshit" or swear-words. Thats funny to Germans ;)
@Esablaka
@Esablaka 3 жыл бұрын
@@lane0mator Also allowing all kinds of violence on TV. Btw one thing that particularly shocked me about quite a few US news channels I have seen is that they show accident victims if they got crushed in a car etc. . This is especially a problem if they arrive at the scene while there are still ambulances etc. around. They just zoom in onto corpses etc.. That is honestly so crazy to me (here they wouldn't even show that image blurred, let alone raw. It's just disrespectful to the victims but also imo just morally wrong, let alone the impact it can have on kids or mentally unstable adults etc.).
@kylekovac31
@kylekovac31 3 жыл бұрын
It’s been my goal to have a semester abroad in Germany for the last 4 years. Should have gone this fall but it got Covid-ed. Thank you for the tips hopefully I can use these if I go this upcoming fall 😁.
@user-sm3xq5ob5d
@user-sm3xq5ob5d 3 жыл бұрын
I always wonder why people are so astonished about foreign cultures. In the end you travel abroad like you go to university: to learn something new. If I had wanted everything like at home I would have stayed there.
@dorderre
@dorderre 3 жыл бұрын
"getting covided" really should make it into the dictionary :D
@user-annxyz
@user-annxyz 3 жыл бұрын
I hope that you can go this year 🙏
@Ltrippie
@Ltrippie 2 жыл бұрын
Me too
@dwaynejohnson6042
@dwaynejohnson6042 2 жыл бұрын
@@Ltrippie hello Mrs how are you doing, I'm Dwayne, what's your name
@515aleon
@515aleon 9 ай бұрын
So helpful, I knew a few of these, but others I didn't. I will be there in a few days.
13 Things About the USA I Just Can't Get Used To | Feli from Germany
23:43
Feli from Germany
Рет қаралды 626 М.
MICHIEL VS JUVENTUS WOMEN 🙈📏
00:26
Celine Dept
Рет қаралды 51 МЛН
Sangat Memuaskan 😻 ASMR Dudukan Toilet dengan Popit!
00:30
Cool Tool Shorts Indonesia
Рет қаралды 15 МЛН
Өнер Қырандары - Мешіт 2024
34:59
ONER KYRANDARY
Рет қаралды 703 М.
Что будет с моей рукой?😨
01:00
Аришнев
Рет қаралды 3 МЛН
cost of living in GERMANY | housing, food, transport & more
12:14
hello erika
Рет қаралды 243 М.
The BEST German Food - What to Eat in Germany
13:23
Wolters World Eats
Рет қаралды 791 М.
Why Germans Don’t Buy Houses | Feli from Germany
17:39
Feli from Germany
Рет қаралды 1,2 МЛН
German Reacts to "Top 10 Reasons not to live in Germany” | Feli from Germany
32:44
15 German brands YOU pronounce WRONG! | Feli from Germany
16:32
Feli from Germany
Рет қаралды 7 МЛН
GERMAN CULTURE SHOCKS AS AN AMERICAN 🇩🇪🇺🇸
12:30
Zoie-Marie
Рет қаралды 641 М.
16 Things I HATE about Living in GERMANY
18:01
Radical Living
Рет қаралды 145 М.
Visit Berlin - The Don'ts of Visiting Berlin, Germany
14:26
Wolters World
Рет қаралды 935 М.
The Dark Side of Living in Germany
9:29
Learning Canteen
Рет қаралды 371 М.
MICHIEL VS JUVENTUS WOMEN 🙈📏
00:26
Celine Dept
Рет қаралды 51 МЛН