Treating customer-facing employees unkindly and thinking it won't have consequences will soon bring you to understand the meaning of "Hausverbot."
Not recycling Pfand bottles and not sorting your trash will make people dislike you.
But when you are picking up the phone, you don't need to say your last name.
Wish someone a happy birthday early, before the day arrives. If you're late, don't worry; just say "belated happy birthday"!
Arriving late, engaging in excessive small talk, and discussing World War Two events without proper solemnity all come to mind.
In Germany, crossing the road when the red man is showing is a must. It's also not okay to show up unannounced to a friend's house and expect them to be ready to hang out or go for a drink. Walking in the bike lane and cycling in the walking lane are both not allowed. People also need to sort their recycling and trash and take plastic and glass bottles back to the store. Additionally, bringing your own bags to the supermarket is essential, and at the checkout you must be ready to pack quickly as the staff won't wait. It's common for strangers to tell you off if you break the rules, and it's normal to drink beer in public places. Lastly, when you answer the phone, you must use your last name immediately.
Arriving late, even with a heads-up; making jokes about World War Two unless everyone is familiar with the speaker's sense of humor; speaking with everyone you encounter; and insulting someone are all not allowed.
In Germany, it's important to stay in your lane while driving on the highway. It's especially important to not switch to the left lane unless you are driving over 200 kph. People who are not careful about switching lanes or don't check before switching to the left lane can be dangerous, especially when someone is driving at high speeds. Outside of Germany, it's usually not as important which lane you're in, since the speed limit is usually around 120 kph.
Failing to stop your car when a pedestrian is at a zebra crossing.
Talking about money socially, especially one's income, and the illegal use of the Hitler salute or denying the Holocaust.
Recording people on a train or in public with your cell phone.
In many Asian countries, eating with sound is okay, but in Germany it is considered rude. Therefore, I try to follow my grandfather's words and maintain good table manners.
Using guns for recreation.
People usually don't like it if you display the German flag, except during the World Cup or on a national holiday.
I was surprised to read all these comments. My culture is not as clear as German culture.
In Germany, it's considered bad luck to congratulate someone before their birthday.
or having their permission can be seen as disrespectful
Not having someone's permission or being offered to use their first name can be seen as disrespectful.
My cousin, who was born in Germany, advised me when I moved here 4.5 years ago that questions about religion, sexuality and salary should not be asked.
I never recycled while living in the US. It seemed like you had to pay for the blue plastic bin if you wanted to, but none of my neighbors did, so I didn't either. Nobody I know recycles there. In Germany, recycling is part of the culture.
So I've decided to start doing it, and it's been really fun.
In London, it may feel strange to greet people as you pass by. However, many people do it and it can be a lot of fun. I recently decided to start saying hello to those I encounter on my walks and it has been enjoyable.