Things not to do as a Foreigner in Germany?

We decided to ask as many foreigner's in Germany, on what you should not do when living in Germany. Yes us foreigner's make a lot of mistakes but now know what you shouldn't do when living here.
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[@itszepp2492]

For me as a German, it really pisses me off when people are too noisy on public transport or block the sidewalk because they are walking way too slow + need the entire space.

[@yourtruebrit]

I have to admit when they block the stairs to the tram OMG haha!

[@RecklawTheAmazing]

I'm American, and I don't really care if people are loud on public transportation, but people walking slow on a sidewalk is one of my pet peeves

[@claudiakarl2702]

Especially the noise angers me. The other thing can be fixed with a loud „Entschuldigung - ich muss vorbei“

[@slowfood9607]

Just move to the right side of the sidewalk, stairs or escalator if you need to go slow or stop, so that others can pass you on the left

[@Cz-De-Lifestyle]

Well you may have to move to another country. Try taking the Bahn at any Hautbanhoff on any weekends.....

[@mucknog]

I've heard the 'don't ever jaywalk' on several videos about Germany. I am German, and trust me, almost all of us jaywalk. There is only one unwritten rule about jaywalking. Don't jaywalk when children are present.

[@whohan779]

Also I know some avenues (Alleen) where you can literally see the one-way (car only) traffic from a 300 Meter distance. You'd be insane not to jaywalk there if it's clear, unless you're in no hurry at all.

[@Blanko1998]

On daytime its rare to see jaywalking because no one wants to be the first to jaywalk but in the night most people do it.. Maybe people in Bayern are more strict ... who ele would wait at 1 am haha

[@fgregerfeaxcwfeffece]

Because they ask people in busy citys. My road crossing behavior is entirely dependent on visibility. I just don't wanna get run over.

[@Smaragdschloss]

I do not jaywalk, and I don't like when foreigners break German rules, because it's respectless. And yes, never jaywalk in front of children, because you bring them in danger. You have to be an idol. Yes, there are German idiots who try to be 'cool' when they copy stupid, irresponsible foreigners (especialls blacks and macho muslims) behaviour and also take drugs. Most foreigners have a very bad influence on Germans.

[@hah-vj7hc]

Or police officers

[@TheOzelot11]

I feel like the biggest rules that I see a lot of foreigners breaking is being noisy in public. A lot of Germans hate it, when people talk loudly on the train, bus, but also in restaurants, malls etc. The second one would be standing in the way, or failing to make space for people that want to pass by. One thing about these rules tho: The video was filmed in Munich. In Berlin you would get totally different answers to these questions from people I feel like. Different parts of Germany can be very different when it come to which rules they follow and which they don't. I think Bavaria is generally one of the most law abiding states in Germany, with Berlin and parts of NRW probably being the least.

[@featherstone5838]

Indeed. To the Bavaria league, I would also add Schwaben (inventors of the Kehrwoche).

[@toatatoa]

Yes, Munich and the South are quite stuffy in comparision to the more liberal West. South Germans definitely love to live by odd rules. I personaly think it is toxic, if it is overexajurated like in Bavaria. It explains why the Nazis found such a fertile breeding ground for the Nazi Party in Munich.

[@dharmachile999]

@@toatatoa it’s always the South, isn’t it? In the southern US, things can get extreme, leading to quite a few states in the area with a high number of Trump supporters and neo-Nazis.

[@bogdankovalenko5096]

Not only to Germans. It is super annoying

[@James-ip8xs]

​​@@toatatoa that makes no sense, Protestant areas in Germany overwhelmingly were more popular with Nazism. Catholic areas such as Bavaria had the lowest support. As an Englishman Bavaria seems much more desirable to visit anyway.

[@tycdeutscher3702]

For anyone who may have missed it: the the window display depicted Queen Elizabeth II rolling in her "grave" in between England's two latest prime Ministers

[@freakishuproar1168]

As a deeply unpatriotic Englishman, this is amazing xD

[@agn855]

@@freakishuproar1168 - the problem here - who tf are currently those two prime ministers ???

[@kratzikatz1]

​@@agn855😂😂😂😂😂

[@utterfailure6335]

Disposing your garbage properly is really important. Don't throw it on the street and/ or leave it just anywhere. The rules for correct recycling will vary from city or "Landkreis". Another issue is loitering and noise level especially in public spaces (parks, lakes, in front of supermarkets, etc). People appreciate and demand their "Ruhe und Ordnung". They won't shy away from contacting police and/ or "Ordnungsamt".

[@jonteg9078]

When Germans brag about their "garbage disposal" and "clean cities" this is a joke to me as a Swede. Look at every "Hauptbahnhof" and you will find a little bit of everything. I'm sorry to say it but Germany in general isn't clean (in my opinion).

[@Sir-Complains-a-Lot]

Anzeige ist raus!

[@Babyice011]

@@utterfailure6335 most black people and Indians just lack class. They always have to throw things everywhere without a care. I find that behavior very disgusting and disturbing especially from an adult. People should go back and live like animals in their own countries but when in Rome, they should do what Romans do. It really isn’t even hard to be civilized 🙄

[@TheEnginator]

In Germany, it's cool that most people watch out that no children are nearby when crossing the red light to not be a bad example, because children cannot assess the distance and speed of an approaching car. I also heard that crossing the street on red light has no fine or punishment for pedestrians, except if it causes an accident. Well, a police officer once saw me cross the red light and just stared into my face, shaking his head. 😅

[@RahulSharma-oc2qd]

In Aachen, you could be fined even if it your first time if police catches you. I paid but then I pled and said something they said remember it for next time. I think it more depends on police as well, how strict they are and how busy that particular place is.

[@carlosmarx2380]

there definately is a fine. i think around 15 Euros. But tbh most of the time police won't stop you, except if you're not white. Then police will do everything to make your life worse...

[@BarthiArgento]

Haha there was a funny incident where I watched people crossed the street on the red while there was a police car standing. Suddenly the police lady inside the car turned on the loudspeaker, and she made a command to those guys, to not do that again, but also in a funny and sympathetic way 😄

[@pufforg]

Somehow I would find that more humiliating than getting a ticket lol

[@whyohwhy3407]

@@RahulSharma-oc2qdThe Germans do like to be authoritarian! And let’s face it, not for the first time! 😂😂😂😂

[@juliushauck3981]

Boy, that's a good point. Being touchy might indeed be considered as flirting, as being touchy isn't something usual in Germany. So if people here are getting touchy, it might be indeed have an intention. I didn't think about that until now. But I like those pragmatic answers 😀 But I guess if you are polite, not too intrusive and if you try to follow the rules you're good. We tend to be reserved, so some people tend to get overwhelmed quickly, but if you consider that you shouldn't have issues.

[@anastaciarabelomelo]

beeing touchy in brazil is not ok as well.

[@neboyshanicolich761]

@@anastaciarabelomelo But it's different when a Boy You find attractive does it. It's kind of Cool. Girls told Me.😊

[@anastaciarabelomelo]

@@neboyshanicolich761 no, it is not.

[@deepak8586]

@@anastaciarabelomelo it depends on person either you are alien or human !hahah aa

[@annalina-we]

I think another one is that we've been taught that it's respectful to be quiet on public transport so I get annoyed really easily when people start facetiming their friends and family loudly while sitting next to me on a train - please just use headphones!

[@manub.3847]

Funny incident: a passenger on the S-Bahn had a fresh pair of extra headphones and handed them to a loud hearing/speaking passenger with the words: "Take these, you're disturbing everyone else! You can even get them for less than 2€."

[@kn7892]

Yes, oh my god!

[@karlmurkswundersam1154]

Maybe earphones and headsets are to modern to be known in other countries.

[@Babyice011]

@@karlmurkswundersam1154 not even. It’s just people being selfish bullies and trying to demonstrate dominance in a place that’s not theirs by disrespecting everyone else. In Dubai, it’s always super quiet on the trains and even on the bus. Not because people are respectful but because they will get fined. Only the occasional mentally disturbed people will want to cause a scene on the train. German authorities should make rules against it and fine people who do. I’m Zimbabwean and I hate noise too in public or just people being rowdy and taking up too much space.

[@compostboomtron9001]

As a Brit looking to move to Germany, this video has got me so hyped about adapting to the many rules I must follow 👊

[@yourtruebrit]

yeah us brits do end up breaking a load haha!

[@compostboomtron9001]

@@yourtruebrit haha, I'm really bad with jaywalking myself

[@caspar_van_walde]

You just gotta know the context, when it's ok. Also it just might be, that Bavarians are more strict. Here in NRW it seems more chilled out, to me (I haven't lived in Bavaria, just spend a good amount of holidays there). When you are living from Tourism, you just might have things in order. Also I have the impression, south Germany is in tendency more conservative, but that might be my bias. And let's not forget overall difference between countryside and Cities.

[@nadine8742]

​@@compostboomtron9001 if you know the reason why, it's easier to not jaywalk. Nr 1: children are always watching, and a lot of Times, even at the age of 6 they walk to school by themselves. So you want to be a good example from the beginning. So they learn the importance of the red light. Nr 2: if Police sees you jaywalking, they will stop and sometimes fine you. And who wants that?

[@alihorda]

​@@nadine8742also safer, some drivers just go like crazy and you don't necessarily see it coming (personal experience) . Ofc when there is a long road and literally nothing is coming, safe to jaywalk. Otherwise I keep it safe and don't rush. I value my life more

[@kingj7013]

“You can’t argue on the street and hit someone” Bruh come on 💀

[@inotoni6148]

Yes, that was stupid. He thinks it's normal to hit people on the street. It's bad enough that knife attacks have increased in recent years.

[@charlesdarwin3124]

Actually in my opinion, many Germans are thrilled about and revere the physical aggressiveness in case of conflict in former Eastern Block countries.

[@blubb1212]

​@@charlesdarwin3124 dunno in which bubble you live, but I do not know any adult person who is somewhat nearly thrilled about physical aggressiveness. Also I cannot imagine that there is some kind of worship. Most of the germans i know can't even name many eastern block countries correctly on the map. I mean, crazy people are in every country but I do not think that this is a common thing (at least from my region).

[@charlesdarwin3124]

@@60iger29 Truth hurts. Cope. Plenty of aggressive Germans out there(not the majority - but there are quite a few).

[@VJ-tn4yr]

It might be that guy trying to be cool in front of the camera if you consider his age, follow the line and intend of what he said. There are obviously no police everywhere, maybe if its evening at the main train station. And if that guy would be in a brawl with somebody obviously the police would take a look on whats going on there.

[@PeterPups0815]

Well, I wouldn't say that NOBODY waits in the middle of the night at a deserted street just because the traffic-lights are red BUT I'd consider it quite uncommon in Germany. We teach it to our children though, because we want them to live.

[@joew2842]

In Germany there is Something called "Rotlichtüberwachungsanlage" 😅 we wait

[@dulamaya]

Haha this is hilarious. You take your babies stripped in a torture seat no other baby in the world would accept, on the Autobahn speeding like crazy. Why are you always in SUCH a hurry? And why does it always have to be so freaking QUIET like you are living in an eternal sorrow? Isnt the weather grey enough to lower the energies....? Coming from a German who loves her country but just does not get the people and is very happy in Latin America! ;)

[@felicious6384]

@@dulamaya You consider a "Kindersitz" as a torture seat? Why?

[@dulamaya]

@@felicious6384 because that is how usually babies who are taken to Germany feel about it...especially my own babies :)) they just hated to be strapped to that thing and protested the whole ride- everytime. I always wondered how they get German babies to be so disciplined and accept the seat...? (Well all my comments here are to be taken with some humor so don't take the "torture seat" too seriously)

[@Evaristo_YT]

In Brazil too, but Brazilians sometimes don't follow the rules.

[@moodindigos1]

What most people get wrong is thinking that we just blindly follow rules just for the sake of it or because we love rules per se. In reality we see it as a sign of respect - yeah I could for example cut in line to get on a bus quicker or listen to loud music late at night - most Germans don't though because others have been waiting for the bus,too or might have had a hard day and really need that quiet time. Not fillowing the rules is usually seen as selfish and inconsiderate of others.

[@wallerwolf6930]

Exactly!

[@Jasonslittlesister1]

Definitiv!

[@SteuerM]

Once I was in a hurry to catch the train, so I jaywalked right in front of a mother and her little child. When I was close to her, the mother said loudly: "Look darling, that´s how one of these people look like who are killed in traffic."

[@christianebrown9213]

Haha!! That is typisch Deutsch!!

[@allforyou6288]

😂😂

[@annypenny8621]

@@christianebrown9213… aber lustig 😂

[@Ostfriese93]

The rules in Germany can get out of hand, to be honest, but they hold society together and make sure things go in (mostly) predictable lanes. This is quite an achievement if you ask me.

[@XCrovaX]

Just have been to Japan. Our rules are non existent 😀

[@hammad3759]

it also feels more like robotic n less human

[@TheHolladiewaldfeee]

Its allways a matter of persepctive. When I, as a german, visited Japan and China I felt like our system is ruleless compared to that 😂

[@Ostfriese93]

@@TheHolladiewaldfeee That's for sure. Many factors play into how you perceive things.

[@Pfeilspalter-LA]

❤👍

[@KairaisnotaLiopleurodon]

Lol bro you are such a good interviewer. You bring such a fun and humble energy, I can see even the most shy of person enjoy having a quick chat with you. Love watching these!

[@urli89]

I think the first turkish guy made a really true observation about us germans: we follow the rules but sometimes we want to breake them, we just need somebody who breaks them first and then we follow. Very smart guy.

[@maximkretsch7134]

It the minefield strategy. Wait until some stranger starts to walk across it, then follow him a couple of steps behind.

[@juliailyukhina4901]

This was sad to hear I am from Ukraine 🇺🇦 And I thought foreigners should look up to best qualities of another country like Germany 🇩🇪 in this case and not to drag them down ..

[@Yatagarasu-b9w]

I dunno about that. My observation was more that people are absent minded, thinking about stuff while waiting for a green light and if somebody starts moving they naturally start as well becsuse they think it turned green. Also german people don't wait for a green light because of rules, rather we wait because we want to keep children save. I know no german that doesn't jaywalk at night when children are asleep.

[@helgaioannidis9365]

Living abroad for many years and watching Germany from outside I've found us Germans love finding "holes" in the rules. They really try to find ways to not obey the rules without breaking them.

[@TheHolladiewaldfeee]

​@@Yatagarasu-b9wYeah, tbh if someone would Start walking at Red Light, its his thing. I wouldnt be impacted by this at all. My only Problem with this is, when he does it while Kids are around.

[@user-di5xq2ly2v]

Whenever you go and live in a new country you will notice rules that you are not used to and they will stand out in your mind. You are less likely to notice if rules from your home country do not apply.

[@dominoplay3712]

1.people loudly talking, screaming on the phone 2. People watching videos, youtube online in public transportation without headphones 3.walking in thr middle of the sidewalk, not right, not left, so everybody has to squize or pardon thrmselves to get by 4. Crossing the red light 5. Entering U bahn without letting passengers first get out, and actually give them space to do so 6. Getting into a bus and going all the way in so the rest of us can fit 7. Throwing trash or cigarettes on the floor 8. Public toilets, is there really a need to acting like you are in a barn?! 9. Cutting lines anywhere 10. Loud music, gathering with people in buildings without prior notice .... And Im a Balkan girl, born and raised, but today living in Germany. The only place I was at peace was Tokyo, Japan. There is something to be learned from Japanese, and that applies to everyone

[@alexpetrovsky291]

"9. Cutting lines anywhere". I heard that germans don't respect queues as well.

[@dominoplay3712]

@@alexpetrovsky291 in my experience, foreigners and teen Germans tend to be “misbehaving” with the whole queue thing

[@mof5490]

I will do all those things, next time in Hamburg 😂

[@MrOrmanley]

6:12 The Rundfunkgebühren (Broadcasting fee) is really annoying, yes. The guy in question had to pay it because a pc/notebook can also be used to listen to the radio online. The broadcasting fee is paid for the upkeep of the national owned TV channels ARD+ZDF. I haven't watched either in a decade and still have to pay. They have no way of verifying their use I guess, so you have to pay because you cant proof not watching it, some way or another.

[@claudiakarl2702]

So which sources do you use for news?

[@MrOrmanley]

@@claudiakarl2702 The internet, of course :p

[@Matti_us_Alpe]

Yeah true and you dont have a say on the content.

[@Blaukriton]

As a german i can say, it doesnt matter if u have a PC or Tv u only need to have a registered apartment. Sometimes you have to pay twice if have a apartment in munich and Berlin or so. Ten years ago, it was still relevant to have a device that was ready to receive. Broadcasting fees employees disguised as vacuum cleaner representatives went around and presented a vacuum cleaner to see if they had a TV. That was very tedious, so they said that now everyone who has an apartment has to pay for it. When it comes to money, this "follow the rules" thing also stops with the Germans. 🤣

[@eminbugrasaral]

Thank you for not putting everything I said during the interview. 😂 And, thank for this lovely video. I like it. ❤🎉

[@cekic9098]

Why, What did you say to the poor guy?

[@Wickerrman]

Very suspicious there lol

[@tadmarshall2739]

I like that you talk to a variety of nationalities and identify them. I learn as much about other countries' thinking as I do about German thinking.

[@hah-vj7hc]

Yes, and also no. I've met so many foreigners and while they always have some things in common, every one is an individual

[@ЧерноризецьХрабър]

Dont be sure about that. Bulgarian guy do not represent us 😂

[@FrogeniusW.G.]

The strict standing at the red lights is for/bc. of the children. To be a good role model. Grownups can estimate whether a car might be coming and it is dangerous, but not the kids! So if _they_ just walk at red lights it might quickly lead to a problem. That's all to it.

[@thatguy8869]

As a US child decades ago we were taught a little song: "Stop, look and listen, before you cross the street. Use your eyes, use your ears, THEN use your feet." I didn't always follow this rule and was almost run over by a motorcyclist. He was pretty upset and luckily nobody was hurt.

[@FrogeniusW.G.]

@@thatguy8869 Yes, such teachings exist here aswell of course. But until the children have really deeply learned it, it's on the grownups.

[@craigchristian344]

What about at 1AM like the Brazilian lady said? There's no kids around at that time and the roads are going to be clear.

[@tj2375]

​@@craigchristian344they cross with red when streets are empty of course.

[@craigchristian344]

@@tj2375 in the situation I described no chance, utterly pointless, I'm European btw.

[@tombeton9300]

Do not stay on the cycle path, cyclists are very aggressive.

[@yourtruebrit]

oh god yeah

[@teckyify]

I got murdered a least ten million times by that 😂

[@tombeton9300]

@@LeonardoGuilherme92 Darkness is the sense of your speech

[@gulliverthegullible6667]

Try walking on the road and see how aggressive the car drivers get.

[@tombeton9300]

@@gulliverthegullible6667 Rubbish, your answer shows that you have never stood in the way of a cyclist (called a bicycle Nazi) in Berlin. But you also wanted to say something.

[@uncappedguitarist8933]

Nice video Lad 👍🏼. That was some quick editing 😃. It was a pleasure meeting you guys.

[@yourtruebrit]

I was up till 2am everyday since, Sorry I couldn't put everything it was so much content :D but it was so cool meeting you lot!

[@uncappedguitarist8933]

@@yourtruebrit No worries bro. Your efforts are reflecting through the video Keep going 🙌🏽 .

[@debora9101]

I am Brazilian and I would get in trouble because I’m a touchy person . And I mean that serious , it’s automatic for us to do that . I would say sorry often after see the people reaction

[@nadine8742]

You wouldn't exactly be in trouble, but most people might find it uncomfortable, or really think you're flirting😄

[@debora9101]

@@nadine8742 😅😅😅😅😅😅 and in my country people around me think that I’m little shy and in German I would be the bold flirty woman lol it’s funny

[@Yatagarasu-b9w]

Oh I wouldn't mind at all. Touching and being touched is a very important need for us human beings. I am german but often have to forbid myself touching people when I talk to them because... well Germany. I hear you :)

[@Yatagarasu-b9w]

What I usually do is while talking I extend my hand when I make a point as if to touch their forearm or something but I stop 1 centimeter away from really touching them. Then based on their reaction I can tell if they would appreciate platonic touching or not. I am a bartender by the way and often other germans touch my shoulder or arm while talking.. but it definitely takes a bit longer than in other countries for us to warm up ;)

[@debora9101]

@@Yatagarasu-b9w own then I wouldn’t bother you 🙃

[@1anonymousb]

Chile is actually a very German country. They follow rules to a degree not seen in other LatAm countries. I was there with a Mexican friend of mine when he was getting scolded by a cop for jaywalking. He said to my friend something along the lines of, "that isn't something you'd do in your own country, would you?" My buddy was thinking, "yes!"

[@alvarotorres9057]

I am Mexican and people in Mexico love breaking the rules.

[@philipm06]

They supported the UK in the Falklands war - so not a very German country.

[@johannes6362]

​@@philipm06 wow germany also supported the uk in the falkland war. What a dumb point you have there

[@wallerwolf6930]

What I, as a German, have had to realize over the past few decades is that many foreigners bring their bad habits with them, for example when it comes to cleanliness in public. They leave their rubbish everywhere, just like they usually do in their homeland. This is not a prejudice, but rather facts that can be expressed without being pigeonholed into a certain category. Of course, this doesn't apply to all people of other origins. For example, some beautiful corners in my region were closed to cars because rubbish was always left behind from forbidden barbecue parties and the culprits were usually of foreign origin. This can also serve as an example that some Germans are no longer so particular about cleanliness.

[@wallerwolf6930]

@@elizabethzaragoza6120 Yes, that's how it has unfortunately become and it makes people sad and some locals angry. And right-wing and left-wing people are exploiting this politically to win votes, because unfortunately many of those seeking protection here are abusing our hospitality and are also being very ungrateful!

[@stuartwalker8755]

@wallerwolf6930, Meh that is nonsense, Germans litter more than anyone: they smoke so much and they throw the butts on the floor. Disgusting.

[@There3]

Oh thats so sad to hear that

[@alicarikcioglu8619]

I'm Turkish and I travelled most of Europe and every time I visit Germany I am amazed how Germany is so clean compared to other countries! Yes, Germany is an exceptional country in protecting the environment and it must be a model to others not vice versa!

[@inotoni6148]

Don't throw rubbish on the street. I live in a small town in East Westphalia and in recent years the level of street pollution has increased dramatically. The number of foreigners has also increased significantly

[@Sketchupdave]

Do I see racism in your statement, even if there is a corelation🤔

[@davemariano72]

@@Sketchupdave there is a correlation, simple as that

[@shivinunitholi2493]

@@Sketchupdave Where is racism in that comment?

[@grabetuba8610]

Correlation is not causation, and it's not racism you see in the comment, it's xenophobia. From what I observed here in Stuttgart, it's mostly kids (teens) leaving trash everywhere and playing their music loudly in public. Most Germans are scared of telling them off because of the extremely protective rules for "children" (anyone under 18). The kid can just claim you abused them or tried to attack them.

[@jbhann]

Being a realist and noticing things, is being labeled as racism, in order to prevent people from acknowledging the problem.

[@dharmachile999]

It’s really simple, just follow the rules.

[@yourtruebrit]

woah you have been subscribed since i started this channel :O

[@teckyify]

Yep, the beauty is its simplicity. There is only one rule. Follow the rules 😎😂

[@maxbarko8717]

@@teckyify If you know the rules.

[@Sketchupdave]

🤷‍♀

[@dharmachile999]

@@doppiorizzonte It leads to a life with some highs and a few lows. I have no need for melodrama.

[@ShaolinZX]

6:36 : Radio and TV tax is also for the online on demand offerings of the same radio and tv stations. Its basically a public broadcast tax, which finances public and independent media, news and other productions. Same in UK I think but waaaayyyy cheaper there (and with better productions as well).

[@tsurutom]

My take on why we follow the rules so much. Warning: tough subject matter. Everyone, no matter which culture they come from, has a huge set of internalized rules that they follow and expect others to follow as well; if others flagrantly break them, reactions from shock to aggression may follow. The real question is then, why are Germans so eager to internalize the law, however inconsequential? IMHO, part of it has to do with the aftermath of WWII and the resulting 'culture of remembrance', like so many things for us. It's paradoxical of course, since blindly following rules was the worst thing one could do back then (morally)-but still, the excruciating, ubiquitous desire to virtue signal, inwardly as well as outwardly, that "I'm a good person" can indeed be satisfied to some degree by never, ever making one step out of line. You have to understand the amount of shame many Germans are still made to feel, even today, about who they are and their legacy. And I can't even *begin* to imagine how my grandparents felt in that regard, the men forced to fight at the front, while the women at home had to witness neighbors and friends vanishing, powerless to do anything. And these people were deeply religious. If you weren't a true Nazi (most weren't), all you could do was rot inside, in your infinitely magnified original sin. Trust me, at least until a generation ago, this point was really brought home in schools and education, that we are not a good people, that we're somehow flawed. It was brought home in my education. Capitalism and economic success have painted a pretty facade over all this, but the trauma reaches fucking deep. We just want to be told we're a good boy, and a good boy does what he's told.

[@feliciacoffey6832]

What a great analysis, and really interesting!

[@sandymiller870]

Very perceptive analysis. You are probably correct.

[@pedroewert143]

rules were already big before that: they may come from prussias influence and militarisation in the 18th century, as well as the education system and bureaucracy. Prussia was aswell heavily influenced by calvinism and protestant ways. Add on top some years of napoleons french bureaucracy and some influence of Austrias/Metternichs. (as Austrians like rules aswell). So i say that the 3rd Reich was a symptom of that rule following and not a precursor.

[@pamphletier]

Yeah, when you look closely you can see that German society is still recovering from the Nazi disease. Not following the rules had very real and drastic consequences at that time, and it also had in East Germany during the GDR regime. To some extent, this fear of the consequences of disobeying rules gets passed on from one generation to the next. However, there's also quite some progress visible when comparing the different generations. I don't think the educational system ever systematically told Germans that they are flawed, but it didn't provide answers to the unbearable atrocities in German history that it (rightfully) covers in great detail. It's this lack of answers that creates a feeling of being flawed in some or many.

[@8bitnitwit]

You're a good boy. I give you permission to break a few minor rules occasionally.

[@birgerhansen1532]

I like it. - Make interviews at a german Recylinghof on a saturday.

[@kraahk1928]

You asked why. I believe it trickled down into our society due to our history. It's less about rules, and more about a general mindset to reduce the probability of catastrophy. Rules are just a generalized practical side effect of that. Individualized example: when i smell smoke, i always search for the source, sniffing around until i find it. Looks funny. Actually prevented a house burning down a few weeks ago due to it. So, the "beware" rules may look funny. But when the shit hits the fan, as it did in Germany, it may be your only silver lining. I believe that's the underlying answer to the why. Btw. awesome videos. 👍

[@homo_esperans]

Nice observation. I respect that.

[@anthill1510]

I think one of the reasons for the strict rules is because Germany is so densly populated. There is literally little room to just do what you want without bothering somebody.

[@kieferngruen]

As a German I disagree with the third person. You definitely SHOULD as questions about the war. If you do it in a respectful way, I'm sure nobody is offended.

[@squeaky.orangee3481]

I'm German and I would say the same. I don't mind when someone ask something general about war but it's a bit weird when you don't really know a person and they came to you and ask you if your grandparents are Nazis, if you support Hitler or stuff like that. I wouldn't ask a British or a French if their family were colonizers when I don't know them as well

[@Yatagarasu-b9w]

Why would I be offended, I wasn't even alive back then.

[@c0d3_m0nk3y]

As a German living in the US, I do find it annoying when this is the first topic that comes up when you say where you are from. Same with asking how it is like living in a socialist country (in the sense of communist) or asking about a huge refugee crisis in Germany. I think, it's probably the right wing media in the US that is painting a skewed picture of Germany to support their doctrine. However, if somebody is truly interested in the history and can distinguish between the past and the present, I wouldn't mind talking about it.

[@rhalfcorrea2684]

Fantastic my brother😂👏🏻, success✨ greetings from brasil😎🇧🇷

[@yourtruebrit]

Thank you! Cheers!

[@samojede6776]

In Germany you have to pay a punishment fee if you cross the lights (Ampel!) and the police catches you. Other than that ppl in Germany are taught to be a good example for kids in order to prevent kids from crossing the lights. It is just a way of trying to avoid accidents (especially because kids often do not pay enough attention)

[@shifatshama8026]

How are you supposed to cross the street then?

[@akita_inu-il6em]

@@shifatshama8026 you have to wait for the Green lights

[@Swedroxx]

@@shifatshama8026 If there is a traffic light or crosswalk nearby, you can use it, otherwise you can cross the road without it.

[@melindabraun6060]

6:46 very wise man with excellent life advice! I am German, reside in Spain and before that in Ireland. Integration is everything everywhere, even if you only go on vacation. 😊👍

[@beageler]

Not making way for people getting off trains or busses or the like. Not letting everybody off before getting on. Not being able to use escalators, standing on both sides instead of letting people walk by on the left. In general, standing in the way without need. Being delicate when people criticise anything.

[@codg808]

In Germany, i dislike sitting with strangers. So when someone asks to sit, or when someone sits next to me, i just stand up and walk away. I know it seems rude, but i value my privacy a lot.

[@Keepcalm-lovesports]

In general just be aware of your surroundings. Foreigners are often too loud in confined spaces where nobody can leave (train, café, dentist lobby, etc.) and stand around blocking designated pathways, bycicle lanes, shopping mall entries, etc. Bureaucracy here pisses off everybody btw, even Germans and the digitalisation is happening way too slow in almost every institution.

[@placidity13]

The last one hit me hard 😂. If you have problem with post then u r F* up 😂

[@riptide_w]

about the stoplight and jaywalking, i just dont feel pressure to get over the road quickly, so i wait ¯\_(ツ)_/¯

[@i86ij99]

In the area south of Munich Hbf, drivers don't even stop when it is time for pedestrian crossing. It feels like a different continent in that area and I always have to watch for cars.

[@helgaioannidis9365]

My aunt from Hamburg when visiting us in Munich used to say that Munich isn't a German city, it's like being in Italy (she didn't mean it as a compliment 😂).

[@martinprochazka3714]

I don't know about Germany but here in Czech Republic crossing street on red light is illegal, you can actually get a fine for it. That being said people still do it.

[@Yatagarasu-b9w]

Same here. If you walk one meter next to the crossing police can't do anything though because technically you are crossing the street, not jaywalking.

[@martinprochazka3714]

@@Yatagarasu-b9w Haha, that's actually genius, I wonder if that'd work here.

[@ikawolf4503]

As a german: i hate it so much that so many foreigners are so noisy in public traffic and that the use their cellphones and videocalls in public transport in such a loud way. Because of this i stopped using the metro and go to office by bike. 40 km each day. A friend of mine is sure: two hours with this noisy people in public traffic and two peoples more are friends of AFD.

[@PeterBuwen]

The reason why we Germans don't cross the street when it is red is not because we are so obedient. But because we are efficient. Pedestrian lights cost money and if we don't use them, the money was thrown out the window. So we use these pedestrian lights according to their purpose, so that the output had any meaning. 😋

[@elemef2801]

Dont be noisy on train or bus

[@Kartoffelsuppe_m_Wursteinlage]

An important rule is not to ask foreign looking people where they are from. Some families live here in third generation. They are sometimes even more "kartoffel" than bio germans. So sometimes third generation (with turkish anchestry) people complain about migrants who do not follow the rules. So "Where do you (originally) come from? is an annoying question.

[@christianebrown9213]

One thing is respecting "quiet times"....as in not being really loud in the evenings, especially during the week. I think it's understood to be after 10 pm. (Maybe earlier, I could be wrong) . Like, no house repairs, vacuuming, loud parties, loud music. The authorities will be called by your neighbors and you will not be liked very well at all.

[@yesindeed5637]

Crossing the street with a red light is pretty normal here in Berlin 😂😅( except when there are little kids people SOMETIMES try to not cross the street )

[@alicarikcioglu8619]

Berlin is like Somalia of Germany

[@TheSatoriShow]

Regarding e-mail one more thing! In Germany, a signature is currently only valid by mail or fax. An e-mail is not valid.

[@claudiaweber4564]

Even not by email or fax, only sent by mail.

[@bookishtugi6461]

If you have a train card and you forgot it, you can send a copy of it to the DB and you either don’t have to pay anything or a smaller amount 🤷🏻‍♀️

[@earlybirddreamful]

7:48 i can tell you actually! i once drove home with my bike at night, and i didnt see any cars. so i crossed. got stopped by the police, they said i broke four rules i wasnt allowed to have the headphones in, i was crossing to the wrong side of the road (cause i was planning to turn to another road), there was a redlight, and my light wasnt working i think. fifth was they were convinced i HAVE TO be drunk asf doing that, so i told them i'll do the test but no i'm not, did the test, they were shocked to find out i was sober. funfact though: i was kind the whole time and showed with my reaction that its a lot of money for me, and i told them that i understand theyre just doing their job and didnt annoy them.. and they actually ended up never sending me the letter. do not just assume germans must be cold!

[@hansschmidt3144]

03:21 i guess this needs a little explanation... there is the german saying "sich im Grabe umdrehen"... roughly translated as "somebody turning around in his/her grave". so basically, the queen is even after death so embarrassed and disappointed in the prime minister, she starts turning around in her grave. the look of her face gave me some lols :)

[@benthebull]

A short comment for crossing the street on red: There is the unwritten rule to not cross the street on red if a young child is next to you. If there is no child.... Feel free ^^

[@robbypolter6689]

That's why I stopped showing consideration for those people who cross the street as pedestrians when the light is "red". 14 cyclists have lost their lives, among other things, because they drove on "red".

[@Yatagarasu-b9w]

Yeah the thing during daylight is tho that there could always be a kid somewhere watching you, even if you don't realize it. I break a lotta laws but only jaywalk late at night ;)

[@Splidtter]

Oh damn... i totaly get the one about the E-Mail. Im german and once had an appointment in court and i did not recieve the letter since at that time some shady guy stole mail from the mailboxes in our Street. i had to pay a 300€ fine for not appearing in court even tho i didnt know i had to go. Treid to communicate the situation... no chance!!!

[@cinemart5281]

I would say be reliable so If you cant make it to a meeting say that early enough and just dont let the people wait. But I cant think of much more. Just be friendly and like the finnish woman said dont assume that you know how things Go 🤷‍♂️💚

[@nightingalesingon]

The problem with jaywalking is not so much disobeying rules. Instead you really practice ignoring the traffic light, thus desensitizing yourself to a red light, which can become dangerous in certain situations (esp. if there are multiple lanes and traffic goes with different speeds... This should not be underestimated. I have saved several tourists from being hit by a car by yanking them back on the kerb in the very last moment here in Cologne, who were totally shocked and grateful afterwards.) Plus, you are setting a terrible example for kids (who might be watching even if you aren't aware of them). If I am in a true hurry I prefer crossing the street where there is no traffic light in sight. ;)

[@theflash329]

it was fun meeting you :)

[@MrOrmanley]

3:30 Considering she doesn't have a good reputation in england, I don't question her precense in a window with the upset queen rotating in her coffin.

[@tiio6883]

I still remember when I visited Monaco with the middle school, a lady eating a pizza slice crossed the road at a red light. She was clearly in an hurry. A police officer in disguise ran to catch her and fined her. It happened nearly 10 years ago but I still remember it so vividly 😂

[@teckyify]

People do jaywalk at night, that part I don't agree with. But, I've been recently in London again and every single person jaywalks in that crazy traffic and it fucks up the traffic even more. Many rules make reaaaaaally sense. 😂 Also, in Germany you would get murdered crossing traffic. Drivers have no mercy 😂

[@enjoyslearningandtravel7957]

Drivers in United States, drive way over the speed limit and have no mercy also unfortunately. I was almost hit by a driver turning right and I had the right of way as a walker in the crosswalk with a green signal.

[@CamaroMann]

1:12 - Zuerst hatte das Matriarchat das Sagen, dann das Patriarchat - und jetzt das Sekretariat. _First the matriarchy was in charge, then the patriarchy - and now the secretariat._

[@usmanazam4662]

How come nobody mentioned not being Punctual...? The biggest issue many foreigners face in my humble opinion...

[@TheHolladiewaldfeee]

Yeah. Im surprised by that too. As a german I wouldnt mind if someone like crosses the street at Red light. Its his/her thing ( if the Person doesnt Do it around Kids). But what really pissed me off is people who are always late. If u are late constantly, the ppl here have the impression they and their time isnt important enough for you. Also a lot of ppl hate waiting here. That being said, thats not only a foreign "Problem". I also have german friends who come late every time man. And not only like 5 minutes. You are lucky if they come 15 minutes after the time you agreed with them. So I guess you can say not every german is german at These topics 😅

[@animalfriend6413]

@@TheHolladiewaldfeee And sometimes it becomes even worse, when they ask "Have you been waiting a long time?", knowing that you are always on time.

[@valiantlydefault]

in germany you can drink beer and wine at the age of 14 under supervision of ur parents, at 16 you are allowed to buy/drink it by urself and at 18 theres nothing you cant buy :D

[@claudiaweber4564]

True. With alcohol and cars Germany is very loose.

[@enjoyslearningandtravel7957]

@@claudiaweber4564 I think with cars Germany is very strict as in if you drink the least amount of alcohol and they catch it in your blood you have really strict consequences such as points on your drivers license, etc. I’m for that though I know several people in United States that they were hit by drunk driver’s.

[@claudiaweber4564]

@@enjoyslearningandtravel7957 Very true.You misunderstood my answer.With cars and alcohol seen as seperate topics,Germany is very lose. Not in combination.

[@aavgeen]

It's in human nature to find ways to complain in every situation. It's soo nice here in Germany. These small eccentricities are just part of the experience.

[@Tage-in-Weimar]

Stopping as a pedestrian at a red pedestrian light even though there is no car in sight is simply a matter of setting an example for children who might be watching you.

[@YasaswiGomes]

I'm not sure but one universal thing we all know 'respect others & others will respect you'

[@yourservice6868]

Concerning the "waiting at red traffic light" thing: As I understand, these interviews are done in Munich. In Munich is a large police academy. Therefore the streets of Munich are used a lot for training of police trainees, so you can easily be charged there with fines, even for minor traffic offenses. In general people are crossing red lights in Germany as well. But you shouldn't be surprised if you get a fine. Most of all you have a big chance of getting angry reactions if you get in the way of road users that have priority. Following rules in Germany not only means that people accept the restrictions they impose, it also means that they don't like to give up the rights they have through these rules.

[@TheHolladiewaldfeee]

I didnt know the police academy part, interesting. And Yeah, while not everyone is doing it, crossing the street at Red Light when no car is around is a thing. In depends in where you live I guess. When I visited Berlin a lot of ppl did it. And even in my rural area in West germany there are a lot of ppl who do this, espacially at night.

[@Jasonslittlesister1]

Following rules is showing your respect for our rules, our laws and the effort our people themselves keep to make the system work for the profit of all. Respect will lead to acceptance and tolerance.

[@memories511]

Rules are rules and there for a reason. Why are people so shocked with rules. That is the problem, no one wants to have rules. The big problem in the US no one follows rules and laws.

[@JakeTheo-sf5sj]

The tip thing confuses me. I've been living in Hamburg for almost 3 years. I tried once to give tip after a meal in a restaurant. The Kellner stopped me and said it was included in the bill so literally I didn't have to tip at all. This applies generally everywhere. So I'm very confused. I don't think in Germany it's normal to give tips.

[@leximatic]

You are giving tips in Germany to show appreciation to the meal and the service. It's not expected though, but very common. On the other hand no waiter will frown if you don't tip, because service is included, so even a small tip will count as friendly gesture. 5% is fine, 10% will already count as generous.

[@DailyDamage]

Hi, another Brit in Germany (well… born Brit with German folks who’s lived 50/50 between blighty and sausage land) who’s stumbled across ur channel. Good job doing ur interviews and insights as a newcomer here. I must say that S much as I love and miss England and many of its aspects… that Germany kinda trumps poor ole blighty in many other ways. Overall quality of life just seems better in Germany and is why I’m probably here to stay. Looking forward to more of ur content 🎉

[@rainerm.8168]

Best answer is "Don't rely on the Deutsche Bahn". Never, never do that. An extreme valid rule.

[@oliviakrause3336]

A lot of those things are quite Munich specific. Münchener are extra spießig and less warm.

[@nvengatt]

the quality of the video is clearer than my eyesight

[@nebelland8355]

Radio and television tax are actually a fee that everyone has to pay, because it also includes computers and smartphones and the possibility to watch television or hear radio online.

[@fgregerfeaxcwfeffece]

Depends on the road, if visibility is good enough I will absolutely cross without waiting. But in complicated situations I will wait, because way too many drivers are way too insane and should not have a license.

[@sandrales98]

to the train ticket part... its kind of a skill many germans have... we often drive without a ticket but you only get controlled on the train so if you got a keen eye you often can see the guy checking and then you just get in mid way and get a ticket in the train and if the machine is broken you always have an excuse just be near it and on the controll mention you nealry missed the train and the machine doesnt work and you get a tickent of the person that controlls... without a fine unless you they have a bad day

[@suspunk.germany]

Come to Cologne. Everybody crosses through the red lights in this city. But... Unfortunately we have quite a few deaths because of this habit. 😕

[@lazrseagull54]

I saw many people waiting for the invisible cars last time I was in Cologne. I did too, because I felt like people would judge me if I didn't. In the UK, there's no fine for crossing at a red light. Red just means cars have vorfahrt. Police and parents with kids will cross at red if there's nothing coming and will wait if there's moving traffic. People treat moving traffic as the "red light".

[@suspunk.germany]

@@lazrseagull54 we had just recently another elderly person killed because he crossed a red light at night. Mostly children and elderly are the victims at collogne trafficlights. The problem: some of th git killed even though they were walking while it was green for them. Depending on where you live, cars often cross their red lights with high speed, so you have to teach especially your children not to cross at green without reassuring that there is no car coming. Maybe everybody would be more careful if the laws would be as they are in the UK? On the other hand, especially children an elderly often have got a limited sight which leaves them more vulnerable than others, crossing a road. I don't know... If you'd ask me, I would get rid of all the cars in the center of cities. Problem solved.

[@harshanaidu5445]

The brazilian woman's so cute! Saw the thumbline, had to watch the video for her :)

[@MausTheGerman]

Don’t forget to say „Mahlzeit“ to EVERYONE you meet while going to canteen for lunch break! No matter if you work in a company with 5 or 5000 employees 😉😉

[@johnnya2855]

Dazu empfehle ich: kzbin.info/www/bejne/rHSXpWaEhblpncU

[@MausTheGerman]

@@johnnya2855 😂😂 100% accurate 👌😅

[@epistemophile3021]

mahlzeit what does it mean

[@Yatagarasu-b9w]

​@Epistemophile 🤍 Literally: "meal" We say it as a break time greeting to wish people a good meal. Because germans are lazy "Have a good meal buddy" get's butchered to a mumbled "Mahlzeit" :)

[@felicious6384]

I think it's more a thing in the South. Here in the North people say "Mahlzeit" not that often but rather "Moin", "Guten Hunger", "Guten Appetit" or sometimes just "Guten".

[@Dino_aka_Arknos]

For the algorithm 👊 😉

[@yourtruebrit]

Haha! :D

[@NovelAudiobookk]

hahahaha

[@Dino_aka_Arknos]

@@yourtruebrit well, if u haven't smtg smart to say, u can still support the algo 😉 Well, there would be some things to say about the topic, but since usualy this is no problem of regular foreigners ,itz fine how it is. Personally I never met one who wasn't nice. Same as I try to respect the art of living of people ,if I visit another country, they do it too. I guess that this is normal for ppl with common sense and some basic respect, to notice and respect regional "habits". And it should not matter what region u visit at all. Don't try to tell ppl , how they have to live. If u don't like it, don't go there. Damn , now I wrote way more as I wanted to 🙈😂

[@anirbellahcen5551]

A German friend of mine got so upset when I tried to break the officialities between us. She is very serious all the time, and since that day she rarely takes to me now lol.

[@nazifyildiz45]

7:48 because you dont wanna get caught from the police, and when you get caught you it can even go that far you can loose your driving license now imagine all these trouble come down, you cant go to work for example no money everything comes on top so you better wait 1am infront of a red light

[@skurreal8532]

„Why is this?“ it isn’t! Like someone else already said, its oftenly about kids. I always cross reds, but not if I see a child waiting. It actually doesn’t need to be children with parents, so its not about the judgement of the older ones, its like an automatic good behavior. there are some people who would stand at 1:00 am without any sense but they are definitely not in majority!

[@ManachanJapan]

For the television tax guy. As a uni student you can be exempted by sending a proof that you're studying

[@beageler]

Nope, you have to be on Bafög for that. Not every student is exempted.

[@cl7max]

They should come to Frankfurt green and red light here is just a recommendation like in India walk as soon as you can look left and right without cars

[@pedroathaydemendoza3903]

I loved your outfit and the production of the video

[@RavneetChahal-z4i]

There are many things one can talk about this topic. First thing I learnt here in Germany through an unpleasant experience is, 3-4 Days being in Germany, walked on the side walk meant for bicyclists. The guy came behind me on a bicycle said something to me in an unpleasant tone that I didn't,t understand at that time cause of my poor German skills. It kinda made me sad/ affected me. You can communicate something in a friendlier tone as well. Don't walk on the bicyclists zone/Pavement.

[@philandrosmusa2643]

My experience is, that in Bavaria and Baden Württemberg, people are hyper concrete rule followers. Especially in more rural areas it comes close to big brother like surveillance^^. The more north You get, the more chilled it is. But it’s only my personal view on things.

[@lumina9995]

Are you saying that anglosaxon men don't think you're flirting when a beautiful woman like you touches them? What I generally hear is that many men believe you're in love with them (and act on it) when you're just being kind. Not even touching.

[@seankoolkat2881]

Another thing, do not bring in outside footwear while you are training at the gym, if you are going for training at the gym bring another pair of footwear for your workout or they will send you out…. And lastly do not play loud music l, and especially past a certain time in the day or police will be called .

[@Wickerrman]

We have a similar drink to radler in the UK, it's called shandy...I'd be very surprised if you've never had it, especially as a kid when you wanna pretend you're an adult drinking alcohol but aren't allowed lol

[@s.l.c.543]

My best friend is german so I vacation there a lot ,word of advice for English speaking tourists "who can speak some german" if you're in a shop,café, restaurant etc if you speak to someone in german and they immediately switch to English. Continue in English, knowing some german is often met with appreciating the effort, however what you just said in german was too broken or unintelligible to understand/Continue the interaction in , it will make it easier on both .

[@emell7025]

"even if you cut in the line" -- the dividing line in the world is people who can manage this (10%) and those who can't (90%)

[@Chocwise]

Another inofficial custom is not to jaywalk closer than 50 m from the next traffic light. If the distance is >50m its more or less fine. Also that distance varies depending on the width on the road you want to cross. Less on the actual traffic on it. Sounds silly? Welcome to Germany. 😂

[@asifmuniruniverse7732]

Not just this that or here and there. these problem will see in days everywhere in the world

[@danielpotrykus5942]

That thing with the tip is not true. It's seen as a sign of acknowledging a good service, but usually we are not assuming that you must do it and then we are dissapointed. That's simply not true.

[@kessas.489]

Very important: Do not flirt, if she is wearing a ring on her right ring finger! Because that means, she is married!

[@claudiaweber4564]

Nobody cares,.... don't believe it!

[@kessas.489]

@@claudiaweber4564 Aslo mir ist das schon oft passiert! Keine Ahnung, warum sie es machen! 🤷‍♀️