Germany

Germans are generally straight talkers, valuing honesty and openness. In German culture, direct and honest communication is common and appreciated, and stating your own opinion is important. Germany is a country where punctuality is very important, so make sure you are always on time – not too early and not too late! And you know those fairy tales you grew up with? Think Hansel and Gretel, Snow White and Rapunzel, for example – they are German!

German is the official language in Germany, of course, but depending on where you are, there are different dialects. Behind Russian, German is the second most spoken language in Europe; you will find native German speakers in Switzerland, Belgium, Luxembourg, Liechtenstein and Austria. So, if you were thinking that learningGerman is not worth it be cause you can only speak it in Germany, you are wrong – this can help you to go to many countries in Europe!

You’re most likely to be hosted in a small town or rural area. Family life and social order are important in Germany, but so is independence. You can count on the support of your host parents while also getting the chance to explore on your own. Like anywhere in the world, all families in Germany are different. Most are industrious, thrifty and organized. Many Germans like to discuss politics, sports, culture, philosophy or the environment, so you should be prepared to share your opinion. Deep and wide ranging intellectual conversations are generally preferred over small talk. And again, direct and honest communication is common and appreciated. Be open with your host family and you should learn a lot and find a respectful mutual understanding.

You’ll most likely attend a college prep school called a Gymnasium, but you could also be enrolled in a Realschule (which only goes up to grade 10), Gesamtschule (a comprehensive public school), or Stadtteilschulen. In Germany, students usually go to school Monday through Friday, though in some areas they also go to school on Saturdays. High school in Germany usually begins around 7:30 or 8:30 am and ends by 2 pm. The relationship between students and their teachers is usually both friendly and respectful in Germany. Even if the teachers are casual they will expect you to be there on time, to do your homework and to participate in class.

German cuisine is often rich and differs depending on the region. Red meat, poultry or fish served with potatoes, dumplings, noodles or rice, and vegetables are popular. Germany is famous for its many types of bread and cakes like the Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte (Black Forest Cake) and coffee. They also have around 1000 varieties of sausage! Before a meal, your host family might say, “Guten Appetit,” which invites you to enjoy your meal. A hot meal is usually served once a day. Meals are served at specific hours, and all family members are expected to dine together and be on time.