Welcome back lovelies! These are just 5 things/ICKS that I have from living in Germany for 9+ years. These are things that you may find everywhere in the world but wanted to specifically share my experiences as an expat in Germany. I still like living in Germany by the way and do not plan on leaving anytime soon! DISCLAIMER: I am in no way trying to offend anyone but again trying to share my experiences.
I lived in Germany for 8 years and you are correct. The water is very hard, you can feel them breathing on your neck because they are so close to you, and a lot of them do stink.
I totally follow this thing about personal space. I thought it was something from my mind... and yes, the lessons from COVID... Maybe I am too self-aware because I had my day-to-day with Japanese people who wore masks before COVID-19 and are so conscious of personal space in a place that is packed with people. Grumpiness is THE thing :) LOL I loved your videos! I am so happy to find your channel :)
I was just living in Germany this past summer for 2 months and I have to say the water really irritated my skin. Ive never had breakout and as soon as I got there my face was not happy with the water. Also I agree I got a lot of unfriendliness in the grocery store but in restaurants I feel like the most and I felt like they didn’t want to be nice to me or my friends because they knew we were American now I could be wrong but that’s what it felt like. While I enjoyed my time there I wouldn’t want to live there having gone and experienced the people and the environment. When I went to Spain, Austria, and France I will say I had a better experience with nicer people in those countries. Thank you for sharing! ❤
The water is very very hard. But a solution for me on that end is getting a water filter. Yes, the people are unfriendly. And I think on a whole more than NYers but I’ve also encountered foul people in NY. For me right now this is something I can tolerate because America has its own different set of issues which made me want to leave in the first place.
Zoie, girl!!! Lol...lol.I am laughing because i can so relate. All things that you mentioned are very true. Spatial awareness is a big thing for me. I really hate when they bounce or bump into you with absolutely no apology!!! I hate it. Regarding the hard water, it is due to the geological properties of the rocks. They have a high proportion of limestone, the minerals seep into the water resulting in the hardness of water. BTW, patrick,s shop (the jamaican food spot near Stuttgart) has unfortunately closed down:( I enjoyed the video. Thanks for the upload.
So fascinating about the spatial awareness! I visited Germany several times when I was younger and I remember people being not super-friendly and were generally stern and matter of fact. Not very many smiles. Would love see a video on the things you love about living in Germany!
I'm born in germany and I can understand some of your points. they also annoy me a lot of times and trust me not every german is like that. I do sneeze in my elbow, mind personal space and love to smile at strangers and love when a smile comes back :). I guess germans are just much harder to get in contact with then brits or americans, but normally if you crack them, the friendships are long lasting. If you allow me to give an advice: try to search for a club/ activity you like, where you can meet like minded people, who you can meet on a regular basis. this always helped me to get to know people quicker, when moving to a new place. all the best :)
Thanks for the video Zoe-spatial awareness, poor social hygiene and talking loudly on the phone is my Biggest pet peeve. I cannot do the extreme cold weather with all of that attitude....
Don’t get me started on the lack of spatial awareness, I’ve had colleagues come up to my face and try to talk to me mouth to mouth, it’s really icky. Also I tend to be cold and complain a lot and those are the nasty habits I’ve picked up from living here 😢. As always nice video 🎉
I’ve learned at this point to always ask for space/abstand when people are invading my bubble 🤷🏾♀️ the request is always taken well(ish) lol but yeah it’s something I’ve found that Germans are not very aware of.
@ I hear you, I work with older people and they think me rude when I ask for space. Why do they think it’s normal to breathe the same air with me while talking? 😭😭
I feel like this is really different depending on which Bundesland you live in. Franken in Bayern and Schleswig-Holstein in general are a little bit more reserved :)
@@fenjamllr girl I’ve lived in Schleswig Holstein, NRW and now Lower Saxony, they want to talk in my mouth 🤣. I have always experienced this lack of spatial awareness with all Germans I’ve met.
The hardness of the water actually does not say anything about the quality of it! It just gives information about the quantity of minerals in it - which in itself can be a good thing to drink as you can cover most of your daily need in calcium and magnesium with tap water here. :) The composition of it depends on the soil of the ground (Sandstone/limestone). we mostly „hate“ it because the minerals obviously attack our appliances and fixtures need more clean up. It also really depends on where in Germany you live! In my city for example you have super hard water on one half of the city and soft water on the other half. Just because they use different springs! Interesting to know: hard water is better at removing soap and foam than soft water. If you buy detergent made for hard water you can actually use less surfactants to wash your clothes! :) I feel like a lot of the things you mentioned are applicable to large cities in general and you definitely notice them more if you‘re somewhere else than what you call „home“. I’ve definitely went to Italy for example and felt cashiers were really unfriendly and people were in your face there as well. Caught my first covid in that holiday as well because people were coughing everywhere in the metro. 😂 I will still visit the country because I overall really liked it!
@@fenjamllr thanks for your comment and explanation on the hard water! For me I don’t know why but I equate ‘not drinkable’ with the hardness as the way it leaves our appliances just turn me off. As yes these things definitely also happen across the globe!
@@ZoieMarie I guess because I’ve grown up with different water hardness-levels it never felt like an issue for me. I actually like the taste of hard water a lot more! What I did not like while traveling so far was really chlorinated water because I‘m not used to it. Australia especially was so hard for me to adjust. My whole body dried up from it, I got pimple, broken hair and nearly vomited from the taste of it. 😂 definitely bought bottled water after that experience haha
Yes to the spacial awareness point. Living in Germany too with a German husband and I've tried to make him more aware of this. But honestly at this point the lack of it has just become the norm. Great video!
Dear Zoe, that is absolutely true., spacial awareness is terrible, first I am German, and I hate people who stand too close behind me, horror. In times of corona that was different and I thought, may be it would change , but no , all the same as before. Horror.....Yes the unfriendly cashiers, could you imagine when I was in London first time, the cashiers say like £ 4 please...thank you dear or even thank you darling with a big smile...I was so surprised....😮😊... Yes Berlin is very special... I could write books about the Berliner😊😅. Liebe Grüße von Karin ❤
I guess Germans are similar to Chinese. It was yesterday I watched a Jamaican couple living in China complaining about the lack of spatial awareness there. Germany wouldn’t be for me as I think I’m a very sociable person. Love to converse and smile😂🤣
Spot on my sister! Over 25 years here and Berlin is the worst. 😱🙌 Remember your Vitamin D. Yes, educate me about the water. I never drink the tap water. I am a big fan of yours, so proud of you!
Berlin is such an amazing city and I love so many things but also see so many things I don’t like lol. You get this with every big city. Vitamin D is a must in this city!!
Hard water is closer to natural water. Soft water requires an additive, which is why water in Europe tastes better but it is worse for your skin, while in USA water tastes weird but protects your skin better. Also hard water leads to more kidney stones for Europeans, because eventually all those minerals will accumulate to form a stone.
Thank you so much for this video. I work in a retail store in Hamburg and I was shocked (and still being shocked quite often), how unfriendly gloomy and grumpy are almost all the clients. Adult Germans actually. Migrants and young Germans are quite polite and smile a lot. And every second 60+ years old german Frau behaves like Karen, no kidding, I literally try to avoid them. It influences on my well being so I search for another job now, with better atmosphere at a workplace
Hi. I am german. The first three: embarrassing, but true. And I hate it. People crawl up in the supermarkets or waiting rooms, they breathe in my space, I could 🤮. They cough and spit and have loud screaming coughing children with them instead of staying at home when sick or at least teach them how to behave. It completely destroys me and I can’t stand it because I have social anxiety. Young parents nowadays like „needs-oriented education“ where kids can do whatever they want. It is awful. I always ask myself, what is about the needs of other people. And people are unfriendly very often. You greet, you smile. But they just stare at you stupidly instead of gifting a little smile. Much is underclass behavior. And I am sorry to say there is more and more underclass in this country. It is regardless of nationality. And it is not only trend in Germany. The whole world is getting more rude. Look at your president… My mom told me as a kid: As one calls into the forest, it echoes back. But I have to say: no. Simple example: I always look if someone behind me has only a few things to buy and if so i‘ll let him in. If I have only a few things I was never ever asked to go first to checkout. The weather, well, it is what it is. It is better in the south, where I live. More blue sky and sun in Bavaria. My sons live in Hamburg and so I can tell the difference. The water depends where you live. In some areas it is very hard, we have hard water, too, it makes your hair looking dull and your skin itching. But sure you can drink it. It is healthy and tastes good. No need to buy water (except sparkling water or if you live in a house with very very old pipes which can contain lead. The german water comes from deep layers of soil, it is thousands of years old and one of the best you can get world wide. Prost!
Yeah the hygiene thing would really gross me out. I used to work with preschoolers and I even taught them to sneeze/cough into their elbow. lol if 3 year olds can do it anyone can. I do wonder why it’s a common thing in Germany though?? 🧐
Personal spatial awareness is an American (U.S.) thing.... it's a form of trauma... but I too like my personal space being from NYC (obviously my pet peeve).... however, traveling around the World over the past 20 + years from continent to continent (Germany included), I've realized it's an US issue, not them. hahahaha
A minor point but… I am probably old enough to be your grandfather, and using your elbow to block a sneeze is a relatively recent phenomenon. Of course, it has always been bad form to sneeze into space. I live in the USA, but I have been to France a number of times, and have always felt that spatial awareness there was lacking.
The lack of hygiene please, it shocked me, coughing, blowing the nose even when they are eating, picking nose it’s uncomfortable! The unfriendliness is everywhere especially the young ones at work too . I ask every day who angered them 😮
well, have to say no to this lack of hygiene thing. its a common thing to sneeze in your elbow and not to pick ur nose in public or touch inappropriate body parts. coughing just wildly around is disgusting and I know no one who does that
also the unfriendliness... seems like you're really living in the wrong area.... I live near Darmstadt and except the lack of personal space, that one I have to give you, I have to say is a hard no. well and the hard water, but what can u do against the geological circumstances....
It’s all bearable lol as I mentioned you can find this everywhere in the world. It’s about what you can tolerate and why. Germany still has so many benefits for living here. I am wearing a mask sometimes when I take public transport to help combat the sneezing folks 😷
Hi, ich antworte mal auf Deutsch, so kann ich es besser erklären. Ich denke deine beiden ersten Punkte sieht der "typische Durchschnittsdeutsche" ganz genauso. Ich dachte eher sogar immer, dass die "persönliche Distanzzone" ein sehr ausgeprägtes typisch deutsches Phänomen ist. Man kann das sehr gut in öffentlichen Verkehrsmitteln beobachten, dass die Leute dort meist alleine sitzen. Auch bei Punkt 2 bin ich ganz bei dir. Ich finde es auch absolut widerlich und asozial wenn Leute nicht einmal ein Mindestmaß an hygienischen Grundregeln beherrschen. Zur Unfreundlichkeit: Speziell zum Thema Kassierer/Verkäufe muss ich jedoch sagen, dass hier die allgemeine Unfreundlichkeit nicht von den Kassierern/Verkäufern selbst ausgeht. Dies ist in Deutschland ein Job, wo die Mitarbeiter von den Unternehmen extrem unter Druck gesetzt werden. Man kann im Prinzip sagen, dass die Verkäufer von den Unternehmen keine Zeit für Freundlichkeit bekommen. Sie haben ein gewisses Arbeitspensum zu schaffen, bekommen jedoch seitens der Unternehmen nicht ausreichend die dafür benötigten Stunden und Mitarbeiter, müssen die Arbeiten jedoch trotzdem schaffen. Deutschland hat weltweit mit die billigsten Preise für Lebensmittel und einen enormen Konkurrenzdruck. Diese Preise können die Händler nur halten, indem sie an derer Stelle sparen - und zwar an den Mitarbeitern. Deshalb zählt dort jede Minute. Somit reagieren Verkäufer oft auch entsprechend wenn ein Kunde unnötig Zeit kostet. Hinzu kommen noch teils sehr schlechte Arbeitsbedingungen, schlechte Arbeitszeiten und eine schlechte Bezahlung. Mal ganz davon abgesehen, dass sie auch viel Alltagsfrust anderer Kunden Tag für Tag abbekommen. PS: Ich lebe auch in Berlin.
@caro.... Das stimmt so nicht. Oft wird auch einfach nur die "Berliner Schnauze" mit Unfreundlichkeit verwechselt. Der Berliner ist halt auch ziemlich direkt und damit kommt auch nicht jeder klar.
The spitting (here only young foreigners do it) is the most disgusting. But I do not understand the cashier thing. I step to the cashier (her/his workspace) so I say hello. It is like entering a room with people inside, you greet them. The other way around is also reasonable but that is not how it is done in Germany. Try it and you'll see you even get into small talk with the cashier from time to time. If you keep your US expectations up you'll be permanently disappointed, so try a different approach. 🤗
Okay, wait, this video is weird because of some reason. First point is subjective perception. It is indeed the case that we do not have the concept of personal space as strong as in the USA, but on the feet of others we are not. It's more of a cultural thing, a culture shock and not a "ick." Point No. two is also seen strongly in the United States. This is more about the level of education of people who are dependent on trains and co. On average, people with a low educational qualification usually travel on trains, so such observations are more common. Just like on the subway in New York, London, Berlin and so on. Because normally you learn in Germany as a child to sneeze in just two weeks too. To the third point: also not a "ick" more a culture shock. We germans can be friendly. But the cashier does her/his job. He/she is focused. On the other hand, when I visit my family in Houston, I could say: it's an "ick" for me to see this fake happiness or this fake politeness. But it's just cultural differences. I don't want to deny you your "icks" or say that this is not right, but that you are trying to see it from a different perspective, just as I do with American culture. There are many things that differ and sometimes often require a challenge and a change of course. For example we germans are very directly, if u need personal space then say it und people will hear u. When u want a friendly time with germans then take ur courage and speak to them. Talk with them about god and the world. We Germans always seem so unfriendly, but are usually often very open and always happy about conversations. I hardly had the problem with unfriendly Germans because I usually look for the conversation and it works. Really!
I agree, I feel like the first point is often true for elder people, but not the general population, and the second (like you said) is true for people who are less educated, who don't care about how they act in public. In general, Germans are definitely thaught the things that she mentioned and I think most people will act accordingly.
Hi! Thanks for taking the time to share your perspective. I totally agree that cultural differences play a huge role in how we perceive things, and yes, this is absolutely subjective. These are just my personal experiences and what I’ve come to see as “icks” for me. Of course, it may not apply to everyone, but I have heard similar sentiments from other expats as well, so I think some shared experiences are there. To your first point about personal space, I understand that it’s a cultural difference, and you’re right that it’s not about being inconsiderate but more about differing norms. For me, it’s definitely a bit of a cultural shock when you come from a place where personal space is strongly emphasized. On your second point, I hadn’t considered the educational factor in public transport behavior, but I think similar patterns are seen in other cities globally That said, the cultural norms for behavior in public spaces do vary a lot between countries, and for me, this just happens to be something I’ve personally noticed more than in NYC or Long Island where I’m from and felt was an “ick”. As for friendliness, I completely understand what you mean about cultural differences in politeness. What might feel warm and friendly in one culture can seem fake or excessive in another. I do try to remind myself of these when adjusting to Germany, and I appreciate your advice about engaging more with Germans. I’ve tried this, of course, but do find it generally challenging to break through the tough wall. Again, thanks for your comment. It’s always great to hear a different perspective!
Exactly.....the spatial awareness thing I find is not an ick especially for someone who is from an immigrant background with jamaicans who know no spatial awareness too. Girl, I prefer the german unfriendliness you mentioned than your fake american friendliness. With the germans you know if they like you or not but you americans are so FAKE with your fake niceness and friendliness. If you HATE these things about Germany, why did you decide to settle here then? How could you exchange your friendly and great New York lifestyle for boring and unfriendly Berlin.🤔🤔🤔🤔
depression.. weather.. people are supper cold and unfriendly... it takes ages to do simple thing and no one ready to help... things still paper mail thing and that is so old fashion
Wow, things have changed since I lived in Germany. But I can only assume things changed after the Berlin Wall came down as well as the influx of migrants entering. In fact, I believe the Germans were more aware of spatial awareness than I was.😁 I remember being invited to all the activities - Volksmarches, Festival, Markets, Tours, Everything... too many, to be honest. I believe, knowing I was a foreigner, they felt obligated to help me...I was so grateful for that. From shopping to understanding menus at restaurants, the locals were always helpful. I had so much fun. We had 4 seasons, but I remember, there were times we had 4 Seasons in one day. No Lie, it literally would go from very warm temps(birds & butterflies) & clear skies to overcast with rain, to dropping temps sleet/snow flurries within hours. Winters were Brutal then but it was there I learn to adapt to the frigid temps - I mean, casual walks in the snow with no place to go - like the locals. Even the babies were out & about. I'm beginning to believe that immigration has caused this shift. Generational change as well. TFS and I wish you well. 🌬🤍 p/s No hacking, coughing, sneezing nor sninky fingers near me please, OK? NO!!! Not HERE, THERE or ANYWHERE.😖🫣😬
Welcome back lovelies! These are just 5 things/ICKS that I have from living in Germany for 9+ years. These are things that you may find everywhere in the world but wanted to specifically share my experiences as an expat in Germany. I still like living in Germany by the way and do not plan on leaving anytime soon! DISCLAIMER: I am in no way trying to offend anyone but again trying to share my experiences.
Hi Zoe, I love your videos/vlogs. Only wished they were longer. I'm in the United States and your videos are good for me.
I have been in Germany almost 40 years, and all of the topics you covered are spot on.
I lived in Germany for 8 years and you are correct. The water is very hard, you can feel them breathing on your neck because they are so close to you, and a lot of them do stink.
I totally follow this thing about personal space. I thought it was something from my mind... and yes, the lessons from COVID... Maybe I am too self-aware because I had my day-to-day with Japanese people who wore masks before COVID-19 and are so conscious of personal space in a place that is packed with people. Grumpiness is THE thing :) LOL
I loved your videos! I am so happy to find your channel :)
I was just living in Germany this past summer for 2 months and I have to say the water really irritated my skin. Ive never had breakout and as soon as I got there my face was not happy with the water. Also I agree I got a lot of unfriendliness in the grocery store but in restaurants I feel like the most and I felt like they didn’t want to be nice to me or my friends because they knew we were American now I could be wrong but that’s what it felt like. While I enjoyed my time there I wouldn’t want to live there having gone and experienced the people and the environment. When I went to Spain, Austria, and France I will say I had a better experience with nicer people in those countries. Thank you for sharing! ❤
The water is very very hard. But a solution for me on that end is getting a water filter. Yes, the people are unfriendly. And I think on a whole more than NYers but I’ve also encountered foul people in NY. For me right now this is something I can tolerate because America has its own different set of issues which made me want to leave in the first place.
Zoie, girl!!! Lol...lol.I am laughing because i can so relate. All things that you mentioned are very true. Spatial awareness is a big thing for me. I really hate when they bounce or bump into you with absolutely no apology!!! I hate it.
Regarding the hard water, it is due to the geological properties of the rocks. They have a high proportion of limestone, the minerals seep into the water resulting in the hardness of water. BTW, patrick,s shop (the jamaican food spot near Stuttgart) has unfortunately closed down:( I enjoyed the video. Thanks for the upload.
So fascinating about the spatial awareness! I visited Germany several times when I was younger and I remember people being not super-friendly and were generally stern and matter of fact. Not very many smiles. Would love see a video on the things you love about living in Germany!
I’ve tagged another video I made of why I will not leave Germany. Check it out!
I'm born in germany and I can understand some of your points. they also annoy me a lot of times and trust me not every german is like that. I do sneeze in my elbow, mind personal space and love to smile at strangers and love when a smile comes back :). I guess germans are just much harder to get in contact with then brits or americans, but normally if you crack them, the friendships are long lasting. If you allow me to give an advice: try to search for a club/ activity you like, where you can meet like minded people, who you can meet on a regular basis. this always helped me to get to know people quicker, when moving to a new place. all the best :)
Thanks for your comment! 🫂
To your last point I’ve actually joined a volleyball club and met some very cool people there ;)
Thanks for the video Zoe-spatial awareness, poor social hygiene and talking loudly on the phone is my Biggest pet peeve. I cannot do the extreme cold weather with all of that attitude....
The weather here is very sad but I’ll admit spring and summer in Berlin specifically are AMAZING. People seem to warm up when the weather does lol
@@ZoieMarie The weather today in London has been cold, overcast with blue skies and sunlight!!! May be try London....
I also still have my christmas tree in the living room too 🎉😅
Don’t get me started on the lack of spatial awareness, I’ve had colleagues come up to my face and try to talk to me mouth to mouth, it’s really icky.
Also I tend to be cold and complain a lot and those are the nasty habits I’ve picked up from living here 😢.
As always nice video 🎉
I’ve learned at this point to always ask for space/abstand when people are invading my bubble 🤷🏾♀️ the request is always taken well(ish) lol but yeah it’s something I’ve found that Germans are not very aware of.
@ I hear you, I work with older people and they think me rude when I ask for space. Why do they think it’s normal to breathe the same air with me while talking? 😭😭
I feel like this is really different depending on which Bundesland you live in. Franken in Bayern and Schleswig-Holstein in general are a little bit more reserved :)
@ that could be! I’ve never been to those Bundeslands. I’ve only lived in Stuttgart / Berlin
@@fenjamllr girl I’ve lived in Schleswig Holstein, NRW and now Lower Saxony, they want to talk in my mouth 🤣. I have always experienced this lack of spatial awareness with all Germans I’ve met.
The hardness of the water actually does not say anything about the quality of it! It just gives information about the quantity of minerals in it - which in itself can be a good thing to drink as you can cover most of your daily need in calcium and magnesium with tap water here. :) The composition of it depends on the soil of the ground (Sandstone/limestone).
we mostly „hate“ it because the minerals obviously attack our appliances and fixtures need more clean up. It also really depends on where in Germany you live! In my city for example you have super hard water on one half of the city and soft water on the other half. Just because they use different springs!
Interesting to know: hard water is better at removing soap and foam than soft water. If you buy detergent made for hard water you can actually use less surfactants to wash your clothes! :)
I feel like a lot of the things you mentioned are applicable to large cities in general and you definitely notice them more if you‘re somewhere else than what you call „home“. I’ve definitely went to Italy for example and felt cashiers were really unfriendly and people were in your face there as well. Caught my first covid in that holiday as well because people were coughing everywhere in the metro. 😂 I will still visit the country because I overall really liked it!
@@fenjamllr thanks for your comment and explanation on the hard water! For me I don’t know why but I equate ‘not drinkable’ with the hardness as the way it leaves our appliances just turn me off.
As yes these things definitely also happen across the globe!
@@ZoieMarie I guess because I’ve grown up with different water hardness-levels it never felt like an issue for me. I actually like the taste of hard water a lot more! What I did not like while traveling so far was really chlorinated water because I‘m not used to it. Australia especially was so hard for me to adjust. My whole body dried up from it, I got pimple, broken hair and nearly vomited from the taste of it. 😂 definitely bought bottled water after that experience haha
Cloudy, cold weather affects people’s mood. I lived in Hamburg, I know exactly what you are talking about .
Yes to the spacial awareness point. Living in Germany too with a German husband and I've tried to make him more aware of this. But honestly at this point the lack of it has just become the norm. Great video!
Thanks for sharing!! I’ve had to kind of teach my husband the same thing as well. He confirmed this is something he wasn’t even aware of before me
Dear Zoe, that is absolutely true., spacial awareness is terrible, first I am German, and I hate people who stand too close behind me, horror. In times of corona that was different and I thought, may be it would change , but no , all the same as before. Horror.....Yes the unfriendly cashiers, could you imagine when I was in London first time, the cashiers say like £ 4 please...thank you dear or even thank you darling with a big smile...I was so surprised....😮😊... Yes Berlin is very special... I could write books about the Berliner😊😅. Liebe Grüße von Karin ❤
I guess Germans are similar to Chinese. It was yesterday I watched a Jamaican couple living in China complaining about the lack of spatial awareness there.
Germany wouldn’t be for me as I think I’m a very sociable person. Love to converse and smile😂🤣
Hate folks standing close to and not covering when sneezing and coughing Thanks for sharing ❤❤😊😊
Such a pet peeve of mine too!
Spot on my sister! Over 25 years here and Berlin is the worst. 😱🙌 Remember your Vitamin D. Yes, educate me about the water. I never drink the tap water. I am a big fan of yours, so proud of you!
Berlin is such an amazing city and I love so many things but also see so many things I don’t like lol. You get this with every big city. Vitamin D is a must in this city!!
Hard water is closer to natural water. Soft water requires an additive, which is why water in Europe tastes better but it is worse for your skin, while in USA water tastes weird but protects your skin better. Also hard water leads to more kidney stones for Europeans, because eventually all those minerals will accumulate to form a stone.
Thank you so much for this video. I work in a retail store in Hamburg and I was shocked (and still being shocked quite often), how unfriendly gloomy and grumpy are almost all the clients. Adult Germans actually. Migrants and young Germans are quite polite and smile a lot. And every second 60+ years old german Frau behaves like Karen, no kidding, I literally try to avoid them. It influences on my well being so I search for another job now, with better atmosphere at a workplace
Hi. I am german. The first three: embarrassing, but true. And I hate it. People crawl up in the supermarkets or waiting rooms, they breathe in my space, I could 🤮. They cough and spit and have loud screaming coughing children with them instead of staying at home when sick or at least teach them how to behave. It completely destroys me and I can’t stand it because I have social anxiety. Young parents nowadays like „needs-oriented education“ where kids can do whatever they want. It is awful. I always ask myself, what is about the needs of other people.
And people are unfriendly very often. You greet, you smile. But they just stare at you stupidly instead of gifting a little smile.
Much is underclass behavior. And I am sorry to say there is more and more underclass in this country. It is regardless of nationality. And it is not only trend in Germany. The whole world is getting more rude. Look at your president…
My mom told me as a kid: As one calls into the forest, it echoes back. But I have to say: no. Simple example: I always look if someone behind me has only a few things to buy and if so i‘ll let him in. If I have only a few things I was never ever asked to go first to checkout.
The weather, well, it is what it is. It is better in the south, where I live. More blue sky and sun in Bavaria. My sons live in Hamburg and so I can tell the difference.
The water depends where you live. In some areas it is very hard, we have hard water, too, it makes your hair looking dull and your skin itching. But sure you can drink it. It is healthy and tastes good. No need to buy water (except sparkling water or if you live in a house with very very old pipes which can contain lead. The german water comes from deep layers of soil, it is thousands of years old and one of the best you can get world wide. Prost!
Yeah the hygiene thing would really gross me out. I used to work with preschoolers and I even taught them to sneeze/cough into their elbow. lol if 3 year olds can do it anyone can.
I do wonder why it’s a common thing in Germany though?? 🧐
Personal spatial awareness is an American (U.S.) thing.... it's a form of trauma... but I too like my personal space being from NYC (obviously my pet peeve).... however, traveling around the World over the past 20 + years from continent to continent (Germany included), I've realized it's an US issue, not them. hahahaha
A minor point but…
I am probably old enough to be your grandfather, and using your elbow to block a sneeze is a relatively recent phenomenon. Of course, it has always been bad form to sneeze into space.
I live in the USA, but I have been to France a number of times, and have always felt that spatial awareness there was lacking.
The lack of hygiene please, it shocked me, coughing, blowing the nose even when they are eating, picking nose it’s uncomfortable! The unfriendliness is everywhere especially the young ones at work too . I ask every day who angered them 😮
The first two are 100% the same in Spain as well 😅 I love it here but 😔
well, have to say no to this lack of hygiene thing. its a common thing to sneeze in your elbow and not to pick ur nose in public or touch inappropriate body parts. coughing just wildly around is disgusting and I know no one who does that
also the unfriendliness... seems like you're really living in the wrong area.... I live near Darmstadt and except the lack of personal space, that one I have to give you, I have to say is a hard no. well and the hard water, but what can u do against the geological circumstances....
and well, we are pretty close to London if we're talking americanish distances.... how to expect better weather?
All can be bearable with a little patience except bad hygiene generally that’s disgusting especially sneezing and nose picking.
It’s all bearable lol as I mentioned you can find this everywhere in the world. It’s about what you can tolerate and why. Germany still has so many benefits for living here. I am wearing a mask sometimes when I take public transport to help combat the sneezing folks 😷
100% at the spatial awareness for Europeans!!!
😭
Hi, ich antworte mal auf Deutsch, so kann ich es besser erklären.
Ich denke deine beiden ersten Punkte sieht der "typische Durchschnittsdeutsche" ganz genauso. Ich dachte eher sogar immer, dass die "persönliche Distanzzone" ein sehr ausgeprägtes typisch deutsches Phänomen ist. Man kann das sehr gut in öffentlichen Verkehrsmitteln beobachten, dass die Leute dort meist alleine sitzen.
Auch bei Punkt 2 bin ich ganz bei dir. Ich finde es auch absolut widerlich und asozial wenn Leute nicht einmal ein Mindestmaß an hygienischen Grundregeln beherrschen.
Zur Unfreundlichkeit: Speziell zum Thema Kassierer/Verkäufe muss ich jedoch sagen, dass hier die allgemeine Unfreundlichkeit nicht von den Kassierern/Verkäufern selbst ausgeht. Dies ist in Deutschland ein Job, wo die Mitarbeiter von den Unternehmen extrem unter Druck gesetzt werden. Man kann im Prinzip sagen, dass die Verkäufer von den Unternehmen keine Zeit für Freundlichkeit bekommen. Sie haben ein gewisses Arbeitspensum zu schaffen, bekommen jedoch seitens der Unternehmen nicht ausreichend die dafür benötigten Stunden und Mitarbeiter, müssen die Arbeiten jedoch trotzdem schaffen. Deutschland hat weltweit mit die billigsten Preise für Lebensmittel und einen enormen Konkurrenzdruck. Diese Preise können die Händler nur halten, indem sie an derer Stelle sparen - und zwar an den Mitarbeitern.
Deshalb zählt dort jede Minute. Somit reagieren Verkäufer oft auch entsprechend wenn ein Kunde unnötig Zeit kostet. Hinzu kommen noch teils sehr schlechte Arbeitsbedingungen, schlechte Arbeitszeiten und eine schlechte Bezahlung. Mal ganz davon abgesehen, dass sie auch viel Alltagsfrust anderer Kunden Tag für Tag abbekommen.
PS: Ich lebe auch in Berlin.
In Berlin sind alle unfreundlich... die Lösung: einfach nicht hin 😜
@caro.... Das stimmt so nicht. Oft wird auch einfach nur die "Berliner Schnauze" mit Unfreundlichkeit verwechselt. Der Berliner ist halt auch ziemlich direkt und damit kommt auch nicht jeder klar.
I remember watching your videos since when you were in Switzerland, now I also live in Germany and I can relate to the things you are saying.
The spitting (here only young foreigners do it) is the most disgusting.
But I do not understand the cashier thing. I step to the cashier (her/his workspace) so I say hello. It is like entering a room with people inside, you greet them. The other way around is also reasonable but that is not how it is done in Germany. Try it and you'll see you even get into small talk with the cashier from time to time.
If you keep your US expectations up you'll be permanently disappointed, so try a different approach. 🤗
Okay, wait, this video is weird because of some reason. First point is subjective perception. It is indeed the case that we do not have the concept of personal space as strong as in the USA, but on the feet of others we are not. It's more of a cultural thing, a culture shock and not a "ick." Point No. two is also seen strongly in the United States. This is more about the level of education of people who are dependent on trains and co. On average, people with a low educational qualification usually travel on trains, so such observations are more common. Just like on the subway in New York, London, Berlin and so on. Because normally you learn in Germany as a child to sneeze in just two weeks too. To the third point: also not a "ick" more a culture shock. We germans can be friendly. But the cashier does her/his job. He/she is focused. On the other hand, when I visit my family in Houston, I could say: it's an "ick" for me to see this fake happiness or this fake politeness. But it's just cultural differences. I don't want to deny you your "icks" or say that this is not right, but that you are trying to see it from a different perspective, just as I do with American culture. There are many things that differ and sometimes often require a challenge and a change of course. For example we germans are very directly, if u need personal space then say it und people will hear u. When u want a friendly time with germans then take ur courage and speak to them. Talk with them about god and the world. We Germans always seem so unfriendly, but are usually often very open and always happy about conversations. I hardly had the problem with unfriendly Germans because I usually look for the conversation and it works. Really!
I agree, I feel like the first point is often true for elder people, but not the general population, and the second (like you said) is true for people who are less educated, who don't care about how they act in public. In general, Germans are definitely thaught the things that she mentioned and I think most people will act accordingly.
Hi! Thanks for taking the time to share your perspective. I totally agree that cultural differences play a huge role in how we perceive things, and yes, this is absolutely subjective. These are just my personal experiences and what I’ve come to see as “icks” for me. Of course, it may not apply to everyone, but I have heard similar sentiments from other expats as well, so I think some shared experiences are there.
To your first point about personal space, I understand that it’s a cultural difference, and you’re right that it’s not about being inconsiderate but more about differing norms. For me, it’s definitely a bit of a cultural shock when you come from a place where personal space is strongly emphasized.
On your second point, I hadn’t considered the educational factor in public transport behavior, but I think similar patterns are seen in other cities globally That said, the cultural norms for behavior in public spaces do vary a lot between countries, and for me, this just happens to be something I’ve personally noticed more than in NYC or Long Island where I’m from and felt was an “ick”.
As for friendliness, I completely understand what you mean about cultural differences in politeness. What might feel warm and friendly in one culture can seem fake or excessive in another. I do try to remind myself of these when adjusting to Germany, and I appreciate your advice about engaging more with Germans. I’ve tried this, of course, but do find it generally challenging to break through the tough wall.
Again, thanks for your comment. It’s always great to hear a different perspective!
Exactly.....the spatial awareness thing I find is not an ick especially for someone who is from an immigrant background with jamaicans who know no spatial awareness too.
Girl, I prefer the german unfriendliness you mentioned than your fake american friendliness. With the germans you know if they like you or not but you americans are so FAKE with your fake niceness and friendliness. If you HATE these things about Germany, why did you decide to settle here then? How could you exchange your friendly and great New York lifestyle for boring and unfriendly Berlin.🤔🤔🤔🤔
But married to a German?
Exactly, what an irony 😂😂😂😂😂😂😂
Yes, the love of my life actually 😉
@ZoieMarie Viel Spaß.
Visited Berlin in September and I was so depressed there. I’m American and it was the vibe of the city. I found it to be very dreary and unfriendly.
No to living in Germany
Why do you feel this way?
depression.. weather.. people are supper cold and unfriendly... it takes ages to do simple thing and no one ready to help... things still paper mail thing and that is so old fashion
Wow, things have changed since I lived in Germany. But I can only assume things changed after the Berlin Wall came down as well as the influx of migrants entering. In fact, I believe the Germans were more aware of spatial awareness than I was.😁
I remember being invited to all the activities - Volksmarches, Festival, Markets, Tours, Everything... too many, to be honest. I believe, knowing I was a foreigner, they felt obligated to help me...I was so grateful for that. From shopping to understanding menus at restaurants, the locals were always helpful.
I had so much fun.
We had 4 seasons, but I remember, there were times we had 4 Seasons in one day. No Lie, it literally would go from very warm temps(birds & butterflies) & clear skies to overcast with rain, to dropping temps sleet/snow flurries within hours. Winters were Brutal then but it was there I learn to adapt to the frigid temps - I mean, casual walks in the snow with no place to go - like the locals. Even the babies were out & about.
I'm beginning to believe that immigration has caused this shift. Generational change as well. TFS and I wish you well. 🌬🤍
p/s No hacking, coughing, sneezing nor sninky fingers near me please, OK? NO!!! Not HERE, THERE or ANYWHERE.😖🫣😬
Germany still mad they lost two WWs. 😂😂😂