Germany🇩🇪
Germany sits at the heart of Europe, bordered by nine countries: Denmark to the north, Poland and the Czech Republic to the east, Austria to the southeast, Switzerland to the south-southwest, France to the west, Luxembourg to the northwest, and Belgium and the Netherlands to the north. Known for its rich history, Germany is home to numerous iconic landmarks like the Berlin Wall, Brandenburg Gate, and Neuschwanstein Castle. It also hosts Oktoberfest, the world's largest beer festival. Its diverse landscapes range from the Alpine peaks in Bavaria, the Rhine Valley's vineyards to the rugged cliffs of the Baltic Sea. Thriving cities like Berlin, Munich, and Hamburg offer thriving arts scenes, historic sites, and vibrant nightlife.
⚠️Things you should avoid⚠️
- Avoid jaywalking or violating traffic laws as the fines can be hefty.
- Avoid discussing sensitive topics like Nazism and the East-West divide without tact.
- Avoid leaving your belongings unattended in public places as pickpocketing can occur.
- Avoid smoking in public places where it's prohibited, including train stations and restaurants.
- Avoid being loud or rowdy in residential areas at night as Germans value their quiet times.
- Avoid disrespectful behavior at Holocaust memorials and sites.
- Avoid not validating your ticket when using public transportation as this can result in high fines.
- Avoid large gatherings and demonstrations as these could turn violent.
- Avoid not carrying identification as it's required by law.
- Avoid unauthorized camping or lighting fires in forests to prevent wildfires.
Overall
9
Crime 🔫
7
Germany has a medium level of crime, but violent crime is rare and is generally limited to certain urban areas. Noteworthy to the traveler is pickpocketing and bicycle theft, which are common in larger cities, particularly in areas frequented by tourists, around central railway stations, and on public transportation. However, Germany has efficient law enforcement, and proactive measures can drastically mitigate risks.
Terrorism 💣
7
Germany has experienced terrorist attacks, but the risk is comparatively lower than other European countries. The last significant incident was the 2016 Berlin terrorist attack where a truck was driven into a Christmas market, resulting in 12 deaths. Since then, the government has increased counter-terrorism measures significantly.
War ⚔️
9
Germany is not involved in any wars and is generally stable with good diplomatic relations with neighboring countries. However, the country has a history marked by the two World Wars, particularly the Second where major cities were severely damaged.
Natural Disasters 🌊
8
Natural disasters are relatively rare in Germany. The main risk comes from flooding, particularly along the Danube and Elbe Rivers. In July 2021, Germany experienced severe flooding, the worst in many decades causing significant damage and loss of life.
Medical Care 🏥
9
Germany boasts a high standard of health care. It is well equipped with highly trained professionals and technologically advanced medical facilities. Both public and private hospitals provide high-quality care. However, costs without insurance can be high.
Tap Water Quality 💧
10
Tap water in Germany is of the highest quality and is subject to stringent regulations, making it safe to drink. It is regularly inspected for pollutants and bacteria. In some areas, the water has high mineral content.
Disease Burden 🤒
9
Germany has a low disease burden. The prevalence of infectious diseases is low and the health system is well-equipped to manage them. However, Germany was heavily impacted by the Covid-19 pandemic.
Corruption 💸
9
Corruption is relatively low in Germany. It ranks high on the Transparency International's Corruption Perceptions Index. Cases of corruption do exist but are generally investigated and prosecuted.
Safety for Women ♀️
8
Germany is generally safe for women, and cases of harassment are uncommon. However, precautions are recommended, especially at night and in larger cities. In recent years, the government has strengthened legislation and campaigns against gender-based violence.
Safety for Queer People 👬
9
Germany is generally very safe and friendly for LGBT+ individuals. Same-sex marriage is legal, and there are comprehensive anti-discrimination laws. Berlin, in particular, is known for its vibrant LGBT+ scene.
Censorship 📺
9
Germany enjoys freedom of speech and of the press, with an independent media landscape. There are laws against hate speech, Holocaust denial, and Nazi symbolism. Internet access is unrestricted.
Public Transportation 🚌
9
Germany boasts an excellent public transportation system, including high-speed trains, subways, trams, and buses. Accidents are rare but happen occasionally, most recently the fatal train accident in Aichach in 2018.
Other useful information
🔒 How safe is it?
Germany is generally safe with a moderate level of crime. It's important to remain vigilant, especially in large cities or at crowded events where pickpocketing is more common. Natural disasters such as floods do occur, so be aware of this when traveling in certain areas during rainier seasons.
🏰 Embassies in this Country
There are many foreign embassies and consulates situated mostly in the German capital, Berlin. These include the United States Embassy, the United Kingdom Embassy, the Canadian Embassy, and the Australian Embassy amongst others.
💉 Recommended Vaccinations
Before traveling to Germany, it's recommended to be up-to-date on routine vaccines. These vaccines include Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, MMR, diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis, varicella, polio and a yearly flu shot. Recently, Covid-19 vaccination has become increasingly important.
🐍 Dangerous Animals
Germany is home to some dangerous animals such as ticks that can transmit Lyme disease and Tick-borne encephalitis, especially in wooded areas. There are also some venomous snakes like the European Adder in certain regions. Wild boars are common and can be aggressive if provoked or encountered with young.
🛂 Visa Requirements
Germany is a part of the Schengen Agreement. So, nationals from the Schengen Area countries can enter without a visa. Others, such as Americans, Canadians, and Australians, can stay in Germany for up to 90 days without a visa. For longer stays or purposes like work or study, a visa is required.
💲 Currency
The official currency of Germany is the Euro (€). Money can be exchanged at banks, airports, and exchange offices. ATMs are widespread.
💳 Credit Card Acceptance
Credit cards are widely accepted in Germany, especially in hotels, restaurants, and stores. However, it's not uncommon for smaller establishments or in rural areas to accept only cash. Debit cards (EC-Karte) are more commonly used.
🧑🏭 Is it possible to work and travel in this country?
Germany is a great place for work and travel. There are good job opportunities, particularly in sectors such as IT, engineering, and healthcare. Proficiency in German can be a requirement. Germany offers a Working Holiday Visa for young people from certain countries.
💵 Cost of Travel and Living
The cost of living in Germany is reasonably affordable compared to other Western European countries. Rent can vary significantly between cities. Daily expenses like food and public transportation are reasonable. As for travel, costs can vary depending on the season, region, and personal spending habits.