Before you go to Germany, check out the following:

• Books: Here are some good ones to read while traveling, OR, before you even depart!
• Here’s Ranker’s list of “The 40 Best Movies Set in Germany.”
• It’s always good to know some local words and phrases…
  • Here are some specific ones to use in a restaurant.
• For the music-lovers: pop playlist; Top 50; traditional songs…
• Brush up on the local etiquette before you land.
• Conan O’Brien visits Berlin…a must-watch. Even if you’re not going strictly to Berlin, this is incredibly entertaining.
• Know your history!
• Germany is home to the World’s Largest Pumpkin Festival, Wine Festival AND Beer Festival (aka Oktoberfest)!

Did You Know?

• Punctuality is KEY. Always arrive BEFORE your tour start time(s) and for public transportation. 
• Germans take recycling very seriously, so be prepared to sort items accordingly!
• Most supermarkets and retail stores will be closed on Sundays. Save your shopping for another day and spend time relaxing in the park, perusing the flea markets and relaxing in a cafe.
• Meal times are similar to those in the US. The difference is that lunch is typically the biggest meal of the day, with dinner being a lighter fare.
  • Wondering what some of the most popular dishes are here? Try brot (bread), Käsespätzle, Currywurst, Kartoffelpuffer, Bratkartoffeln, Rouladen, Schnitzel, Eintopf, Sauerbraten, Brezel (pretzel) and Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte (Black Forest cake).
• Cities have dedicated bike lanes throughout, so if you have some extra time and want to see things from a different perspective, hop on two wheels!
• Make sure you always have some Euros on hand – they still prefer cash in boutique shops and/or when transactions are in small amounts.
  • Public bathrooms are a rarity, so be sure to have some change on hand to use them if needed – even in food shops!
• Be prepared – though not overly friendly (welcoming smiles and small talk might be few and far between), the majority of German people are kind and helpful.