Germany: Start Discovering

Posted by StephanieKopf on February 23rd, 2012

Germany is a beautiful country that yields a lot of surprises for people visiting it and may turn out to be different from what you expect. Like with most places, it may start to make a more definite impression on you once you start discovering it for yourself, or stumbling on things other people largely don’t know about.

Statistics about Germany will open your eyes to all sorts of facts. After all, we are talking about the largest economy in Europe, a country that is known all over the world for its industries and thorough approach to anything it takes up.

What I like most are the people, I guess, just the way they are. I like the sincere effort to be polite without being cloying or overbearing. I like established formulas for certain social situations, everything from greetings to saying goodbye. I like that at first they might seem a little reserved, but it shouldn’t be mistaken for coldness – some people are careful, some just need time to see what kind of a person you are. Wouldn’t you need the same? It’s only normal. But once you get to know each other, you might end up finding friends for life, and the times you spend together will become some of the most memorable of your life. I like the general calmness and attentiveness they give to the things they are doing, and to each other. I like the ability to work  hard, to really concentrate, but also how they really let loose during the weekends after a long week. I like the respect and effort that people make to treat each other well.

The famous German punctuality does indeed exist. But don’t worry. Germans can be late too. And if you are, don’t break in to a sweat, but do let your party know that you will be late. A short and simple text message will do, but be sure to make it clear that you are on your way. And that this doesn’t happen every time you meet someone!

The country has all sorts of beautiful corners waiting to be discovered. In fact, vacation “at home” is booming among Germans themselves.

Random impressive statistical fact: the top export market for medical technology from Germany is the U.S.