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Daily Life > Cultural guidance

What are typical german manners and traditions?

Germans are polite and restrained people in generally. Should you need help, do not hesitate to ask. It is usual to welcome strangers with a handshake, whether they are men or women. During the conversation, you should keep an arm's length distance from your partner and look into their eyes. It is not only rude but also prohibited by law to enter the house of another person or to use their property without being asked. So you should not enter rooms without request or take yourself something to eat or drink without asking or if it is not offered to you. Much emphasis is placed on punctuality in Germany, both in the private and in the professional environment. Please cancel appointments in advance if you do not have time to attend.

Many Germans like to visit cultural events. In Germany there are many museums, theaters, orchestras and libraries. Take advantage of the diverse and partly free offers. It will improve your language skills and give you a good idea of the cultural life in Germany.

Phrases

I wish you a good morning/good evening.

Ich wünsche Ihnen/ Dir eine guten Tag/ guten Morgen/ guten Abend.

How are you?

Wie geht es Ihnen/ Dir?

Have a good day/morning/evening.

Ich wünsche Ihnen/ Dir noch einen guten Tag/ guten Morgen/ guten Abend.

Good bye/bye/see you.

Auf Wiedersehen/ Tschüss/ Bis bald.

Thank you.

Vielen Dank.

Please. You are welcome.

Bitte. Gern geschehen.

I can't be on time for this appointment.

Ich kann den Termin nicht pünktlich wahrnehmen.

I would like to cancel our appointment.

Ich möchte unseren vereinbarten Termin absagen.

Please excuse me for being late.

Bitte entschuldigen Sie meine Verspätung.

Where can I find…

Wo finde ich

… the library?

...die Bibliothek?

… the theater?

...das Theater?

… the museum?

...das Museum?

What cultural events can you recommend to me?

Welche kulturellen Veranstaltungen können Sie mir empfehlen?

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