Practical Knowledge for Daily Life in Germany
Beyond leisure activities, here are some useful insights to navigate daily life in Germany.
HealthCare System
Germany has an excellent healthcare system. Residents are required to have health insurance, either public (gesetzliche Krankenversicherung) or private (private Krankenversicherung), depending on income and status. If you're employed, health insurance contributions are usually deducted directly from your salary. As an employee, you're also covered by pension, unemployment, and disability insurance.
Public Transportation
Germany boasts an efficient public transportation system, including trains, trams, subways, buses, and more. Depending on your city, you'll need to purchase monthly passes or individual tickets for travel. If you're planning to travel across the country, trains are a convenient option, with a dense rail network. Public transport is reliable and punctual.
Banking and Payments
Opening a bank account in Germany is essential for managing your finances and receiving your salary. The German banking system is well-developed, and many banks offer low-cost or free accounts. Moreover, cashless payments (via debit or credit cards) are widely used in Germany, so a bank card is necessary for daily life.
Punctuality and Time Management
Punctuality is highly valued in Germany. Whether it's for a business appointment, an interview, or even a dinner with friends, being on time is seen as a sign of respect. Germans appreciate fixed schedules, and activities are often well-structured in terms of time. This might be different from countries where punctuality is more flexible.
Waste Management
Germany is a leader in recycling and waste management. Sorting waste is mandatory and strictly regulated. You will need to separate your trash into different categories: paper, plastic, glass, organic waste, and residual waste. Although this system may seem complicated at first, it is part of the country’s ecological framework and an important way to contribute to environmental protection.
Food and Culinary Habits
German cuisine varies by region, but dishes such as sausages (Wurst), sauerkraut (Sauerkraut), and beer are essential elements of the culinary culture. You'll find plenty of supermarkets offering fresh, local, and organic products. Germans typically have a hearty lunch around noon and a lighter dinner in the evening. Christmas markets are also part of the culinary experience, where you can sample local specialties.
