Thursday, January 5, 2012

German vs. American

German culture is different in many ways from America. In America it is most likely that a typical American family will go out to eat up to 3 times a week, but over in Germany family time is important to them so they are more likely to cook everynight. In Germany the housing is completely different than American's housing. Americans count every room, but over in Germany the kitchen and bathroom are not counted as rooms. For the students over in Germany they most likely will move out of their parents house into an apartment or into a school housing set up which is what we call in America dorm rooms. As for Americans most of them commute and stay home while in school. Germans keep their houses tidy and clean all the time.


Greetings in Germany are always formal as in America we usually use slang. German language is usually formal no matter what, unless you are talking to a friend or family member. Make sure when talking to an elder you call them Herr or Frau, never call them just by their name. After you attend a persons house, you are to send them a thank you later the next day in regards to them having you for company. Stores over in Germany usually have about 4 floors, the bottom being a grocery and as you go up you are able to shop for beauty products, clothes, shoes, furniture, etc.


Clothing in America is totally different from Germany also. In America you see different types of clothing males and females are either in dress clothes, jeans/skirts and a nice shirt or if your a younger male you can find most wearing baggy clothing as well as for females they wear revealing clothing with short shorts or skirts. Scarfs are needed as well because the Germans feel if they are not wearing one they can get sick.


Puntuality is important in German culture. Never be late especially if you are invited to someones house, but if you are to be late make sure you call to let the host know. Gifts are expected such as chocolates or flowers and if you bring wine it should be imported not just the German wine.

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