Germany is no stranger to English loan words, they’re everywhere. However, the recent surge in the use of the term ‘Culture-War’ suggests that not all borrowed language is as benign as ‘Beamer’ or ‘Handy’. What has sparked the increase in use of the term and why might it be so damaging in a German election year?
Germany is seen as a land of punctuality and organisation. Although broadly accurate, there are areas where chaos is allowed to reign. Queuing is one such area. Why are German queues a contact sport and what does that tell us about the importance of timekeeping over organisation?
German beer is rightly lauded for its quality and variety, but often what is considered a “good beer” differs considerably from region to region, city to city. With so many options, how do Germans choose their favourite and why might the popularity of German beer around the world be an example of Germany’s soft power?
From outside, Germany appears to be a hub of technology and innovation. However, the everyday experience of life here suggests that may be wishful thinking. Is Germany as modern as it seems and what might the pandemic change about how technology is used?
This week, new contributor Simon Maddox, of the Decades From Home podcast, ponders why it’s common for people in Germany to eat kebabs sober, while in the UK it takes hours of drinking. Are Germans missing out or is sober kebab consumption the new dawn of personal growth?
Dating in Germany is full of pitfalls, even more so when you’re trying to find a match online. Our new contributor, Shariya Dilini Algama takes us through her own experiences of what to expect and why so many of her matches seem more interested in her nationality than in their comparability.
Formality in any culture is a minefield. In Germany they have rules that make things easier, but only if you can deprogram your own native culture. What’s different about formality in Germany and why might British humour create more trouble than laughs?
Finding day care in Germany is no mean feat. Around the country there are thousands of children who will not get the chance to join a Kita or Kinderkrippe before they start primary school. Why does Germany still have a child day care blind spot?
With many sports clubs and a passion for organic food, #Germany is assumed to be a healthy country, at least compared to the UK. However, Germans are facing an ‘obesity epidemic’ now and in the future. What’s changing the healthy German lifestyle?
Receiving feedback in Germany is an extreme sport, especially if you’re not prepared for the unvarnished truth. Are Germans refreshingly honest or simply lacking in tact?
The economic influence of the US on Europe is well known, but often the Germans I speak to dismiss the cultural importance of the US. How much impact does US culture have on Germany and why might some choose to ignore it?
German education often sees itself as one of the best systems in the world, but how fair is education in Germany and why might it lead to social stigma of children and adults?
Most people in Germany know about the British class system, but few would discuss German society in terms of class. Does Germany have a class system and how is it different from the UK?
Random strangers correcting each other is just a part of the everyday in Germany. Unsolicited advice on all manner of topics can be surprising, especially for more indirect cultures, like the British. What drives the German society of auto-correction?
With a highly praised healthcare system and massive pharmaceutical industry, Germany is at the centre of modern healthcare. Yet, traditional medicine is increasingly popular here. Are Germans joining the anti-expert trend or is the reason deep culture?
After so long living in Germany, the differences seem totally normal. However, I can still find examples of things you only find in Germany all around the house. Why are German coffee filters different and why are windows a serious topic of conversation?
It may seem like weddings in Germany are the same as the UK & the US but there are many small differences worth knowing should you be invited to one. Why are German weddings like a marathon and why should you bring some plates just in case?
Last weekend, Berlin and London saw lockdown protests. Germany had more on the streets, but both events had a lot in common. Has lockdown increased conspiracy theorists and why are German and British protesters so comfortable with links to the far-right?
The English speaking world may be familiar with Kraftwerk and Nena, but they probably have never heard of one of the most successful performers in Germany. How did Helene Fischer become so successful and what on earth is Schlager Music?
Most of the time in Germany, people don’t consider me a migrant. Some will even complain about migrants in front of me. Is there a hierarchy of “good migrants”and why would some rather label me an expat?
