Category: Uncategorized

German culture, history and traditions have had a profound impact not only on the country itself, but also on the rest of the world, shaping everything from philosophy and music to science and technology. From its delicious food and world-famous beer to its colourful festivals and celebrations, Germany offers a unique and exciting experience to everyone who visits or lives there. For expats living in Germany, or for those considering moving to this vibrant country, getting to know the local culture can be a great way to immerse yourself in the local community and feel more at home. In this blog, we will explore some of the most exciting aspects of German culture, including its famous beer, delicious food and vibrant festivals, to help you discover what makes this country such a special and fascinating place.

German Culture: Food!

When it comes to German cuisine, you might first think of sauerkraut and bratwurst, but there is much more to discover! From the delicious Black Forest Cherry Cake to the almost endless variety of breads, every region of Germany has its own culinary specialities. Germans are known for their love of hearty dishes such as pork, meat and poultry.

Did you know that the average German consumes a whopping 72 pounds of meat per year?

But don’t worry, if you’re watching your waistline, you can still enjoy German cuisine! These days, traditional dishes have been updated with healthier versions, and Germany has some of the best continental cuisine restaurants serving delicious pasta, noodles and cheesy bread with sausages. Get ready to fall in love with the diverse and delicious world of German food!

What do Germans eat throughout their day?

One of the best ways to immerse yourself in the local culture is through food! Germans have a daily routine consisting of three meals, starting with a mouth-watering breakfast of various bread rolls, toast, Brötchen, Semmeln, Schrippen, Wecken, or Rundstücke served with delicious fruit jams. But the real culinary treat for Germans is lunch (Mittagessen), which is considered the main meal of the day. Expect to see pork, egg dishes, bread with various spreads, and meat on the menu, while vegetables are usually eaten as a side dish or in a stew. Interestingly, potatoes are so widely used that they are not even considered a vegetable in Germany! So why not try some local cuisine and indulge in the flavours of Germany?

Enjoy eating?? Celebrate it with German food festivals

If you are visiting Germany, then you will never have enough German food and beer. Five primary food and beer festivals are being celebrated every year. Germany celebrates the world’s largest wine festival hosted by the southwestern spa town of Bad Dürkheim in September, where more than 300 types of wine are served in 9 days.
Not only this, Oktoberfest is the daddy of all beverage festivals. This grand fest is held in Munich for 16 days in September and October. They tap the first barrel of beer on the first day, and a procession of people with flowers and beer barrels walk through the city. Thousands of people participate in parades with bands and props. People wear different Bavarian attire, and more than 30 tents are placed to give you the best experience. It’s best to book your favourite tent in advance.

If you are not fond of drinks but want to eat something new and delicious, you can attend long live potatoes and Kale. As the name sounds, Potato is included in almost every Germans’ recipe, and they do have their ways to thank their favourite food. This festival is celebrated on the Usedom Island in September, where all dishes of Potato are served. After a few days, you will see Kale in the environment.
If you plan to visit Germany, then pack your bags and do not forget to keep antacids with you because this place will give you primary food goals.

German Culture: Festivals!

German culture is famous for its many colourful festivals and celebrations that take place throughout the year. From the world-famous Oktoberfest to the colourful carnival celebrations, there is always something exciting going on in Germany. Attending these festivals is a great way to immerse yourself in the local culture, meet new people and have a lot of fun. Here are three of the most famous festivals that you definitely don’t want to miss:
Oktoberfest: This is perhaps the most famous festival in Germany and is held annually in Munich. The festival celebrates Bavarian culture, with lots of traditional food, music and of course beer. Visitors can also enjoy rides and games, as well as parades and other cultural events.
Carnival: Carnival is a festive season that takes place in the run-up to Lent and is particularly popular in the Rhineland. Celebrations usually include parades with elaborate floats, costumes and masks, as well as plenty of food and drink. Each city has its own traditions, so it’s worth visiting different places to experience carnival in all its diversity.
Christmas markets: During the Christmas season, Germany is famous for its traditional Christmas markets, which can be found in towns and cities all over the country. These markets are full of food, drink and handmade crafts and offer a festive atmosphere that is hard to beat. Among the most popular markets are those in Nuremberg, Dresden and Cologne.

German Culture: Beer!

It’s fascinating that Germany is the only country in the world that has a law specifically for the beer industry! But let’s take a step back in time. Did you know that Germans weren’t the original inventors of beer? Amazing, isn’t it? The art of brewing beer can be traced back to the Middle East 13,000 years ago, where roasted grains were steeped in water to make a delicious, slightly alcoholic drink. A recent discovery in Haifa, Israel, uncovered the remains of a historic brewery. From there, beer evolved into a staple food in almost every culture in the world, earning it the nickname “liquid bread.”

For centuries, German cloisters have been known for producing some of the best beer in the world for the masses. These beer-producing monasteries date back to the first millennium, 1000 to be exact, and were mostly located in southern Germany. Many of these historic institutions still exist today, including the monasteries of Andechs, St. Gallen, Weihenstephan and Weltenburg, to name but a few. Interestingly, beer was once considered safer than water and was even considered nutritious and a great source of energy. Parents even gave it to their children to keep them happy and calm. Thanks to the introduction of the Beer Purity Law, beer has become one of the most popular drinks in the world.

Let’s delve into the fascinating story of the Beer Purity Law!

Did you know that beer was once cheaper than water in Germany? Pubs were so thirsty for profit that they signed exclusive contracts with breweries, which led to a deterioration in the quality of the beer. To cut costs and maximise profits, brewers filled the beer barrels with whatever they could find, including dangerous ingredients that endangered people’s lives. It wasn’t until 1516 that Bavaria passed the Purity Law, which ensured that beer was made from only three ingredients: Barley, hops and water. Later, yeast was also added to the list of permitted ingredients. This law revolutionised the beer industry and led to over 7,000 different types and flavours of beer.

Thanks to this law, beer became the safe and nutritious drink we know today and is even suitable for children! Germans take their beer very seriously and you can taste the difference in their famous beers, such as the crisp and refreshing Pilsner, the smooth and malty Bock and the light and tangy Kölsch. So the next time you treat yourself to a cold beer, remember the history of the Reinheitsgebot and raise your glass to a safe and delicious beer!

Some of the famous beers being produced by Germans are:

• Pilsner
• Larger
• Witbier
• Kölsch
• Dunkel
• Bock
• Helles
• Märzen
• Altbier

Germany is a country with a rich and fascinating culture that has something to offer everyone. Whether you want to sample world-famous beers and delicious cuisine or immerse yourself in vibrant festivals and celebrations, Germany has it all. As an expat living in Germany or considering a move there, exploring the local culture is a great way to feel at home and connect with the local community. By attending festivals such as Oktoberfest or exploring the delicious local cuisine, you can become more familiar with the unique cultural heritage of this incredible country. So why not pack your bags and experience the wonders of German culture for yourself with a glass of chilled beer? You won’t be disappointed!



Find English-speaking Services in Germany

Having children in Germany can be a cause for concern for many people considering a move to this foreign nation. However, the good news is that the standard of German healthcare is very high, especially when it comes to having a child. The healthcare system in Germany provides an amazing level of medical care to ensure the best for the newborn and their parents. If you are pregnant and want to know more about the rules and benefits for giving birth in Germany, read this blog.

Things to know about having children in Germany

1. Be Prepared to Go Natural

   Germans believe in the natural childbirth process. In Germany, doctors step into the hospital only if there is an issue. For childbirth in Germany, Hebammen(mid-wife) are the norm. However, it doesn’t mean that the staff members don’t opt for modern tactics. They use all the latest in Medical sciences.

2. German Insurance Is Great

   The German insurance system is very effective and comprehensive. It incorporates care for childbirth and pregnancy.

3. Germans Are an Open Book While Talking about Their Health

   Germans love to talk about their health. It will make you feel more comfortable and interested in talking about kids.

4. You Can Get a Series of 3D USG Pictures

   Having a black and white image of your baby at doctor’s visits is wonderful. So, you will get a series of 3D images and a video as well.

5. Your Mutterpass is Very Important

   After you are declared pregnant officially, you will get issued this passport to motherhood at the clinic of your doctor. This tracks all doctor visits, weigh-in and blood tests.

Rights of New Mothers

Expats in Germany can experience many obstacles for navigating when it comes to becoming parents. You need to decide several things like childcare expenses, maternity leave, and other factors about family life. You may often feel stressed while working out all of these things. Thereby, you should know precisely what rights you have as a mother while making your house ready for your new-born.

• Maternity Leave in Germany

  In Germany, maternity leave is compulsory and federally protected. Hence, your contract won’t be terminated amid your maternity leave. In comparison with many other nations, the German parental leave system is more generous.
  New moms in Germany automatically get 6 weeks of mandatory full paid leaves before childbirth and 8 weeks afterwards. Sometimes this is maximized to 12 weeks following multiple or premature births. After this time, mothers can decide when they want to return to work.

• Maternity Pay in Germany

  During the first 6 weeks and the 8-week period after childbirth, you will get full payment. After that, you will get a partial payment for the remaining period. The mothers are usually entitled to about 65% of their income. A small amount of sibling bonus around €75 can be also applied for in case the mother has one more kid.

Financial Benefits Enjoyed by Parents and Children

In Germany, every parent is entitled to financial benefits for covering the expenses of raising kids. The German social security system offers different advances like child allowances and parent allowances that both parents and kids can take benefit from.

• Child Allowance

  3 possible situations about the eligibility for child allowance:
  Foreign residents staying in Germany may claim public funds for their families in the form of child allowance.
  Rules are different for Swiss nationals and EU citizens. They merely need to have obtain permanent residence or become subject to limitless income tax liability in Germany to get the eligibility for child allowance.
  States’ citizens accorded equal status may also be eligible for child allowance in case they are hired contractually or getting ailment or unemployment advantages in Germany.
  Child allowance is paid up to a minimum of 18 years old. Otherwise, it can be up to 25 years old in case the dependent is undergoing training, schooling, or higher education. Allowance for disabled child is also till 25 years of age. From January 2021, the child allowance is declared 219 Euros per month for the first and second kid. It is 225 Euros for the third child and for the fourth or other kids, it is 250 Euros.

• Parental Allowance

  Parental allowance compensates for the income loss following childbirth. After tax deduction, tax allowance, and social security payments, it counts to 65 to 67% of the monthly average income available before birth, or a minimum of 300 Euros or a maximum of 1800 Euros.
  As of 1st January 2015, a child’s parents may claim this allowance for a period of up to 14 months. They can distribute this eligibility period between them in case they want. A single parent may claim this allowance for a maximum of 1 year. This period can be maximized by 2 more months in case the partner parent is also engaged in caring for their child.

Registering a Birth in Germany and Birth Certificate

You can either register the childbirth yourself or do it by one of your family members, your doctor, the midwife, or a friend. Childbirth should be registered at the local registry office (Standesamt) in the town where you gave birth in Germany. The process must be completed within a week of the childbirth.

• How to Register a Birth in Germany

  You should attend a short appointment for registering your child. At this appointment, an official will check your documents and issue the birth certificate if everything is in order.

• Documents Needed for Registering a Birth in Germany

  Bring the following documents for registering childbirth:

  • Birth certificates of both parents (in case unmarried)
  • Paternity acknowledgement (in case unmarried)
  • Marriage certificate (in case married)
  • Valid identity proofs like passports for both parents
  • The birth record, signed by the doctor or midwife

  After registering your child’s birth, the registry office will inform both the local citizens’ office automatically (to register the child as a resident) and the tax office (to help parents issue a tax ID and update their details for income tax).
  It takes roughly fourteen days for preparing birth certificates. While getting your child’s birth certificates, you will automatically get these free of cost:

  • Kindergeld
  • Elterngeld
  • Mutterschaftshilfe

  Rules around Naming Your Child in Germany
  When it comes to naming your child, there are three rules in Germany:

  1. The name of your child can’t be an object, product, or surname.
  2. Earlier, the first name of a baby required indicating its gender and in case it did not, then either gender-specific name required being added or the name needed to be changed. Nevertheless, this rule has been changed and names now can be gender-neutral.
  3. You can’t give your child any name that might badly impact him/her when he/she is older.In Germany, the name of every baby needs to be approved by the German Civil Registration Office (Standesamt). In case the name you opt for gets disapproved by the Standesamt, you can either choose a new name or appeal this decision.

German School System – a Broad Overview

At the age of 6, children need to go to school as school attendance is mandatory in Germany. The state runs maximum German schools and no child need to pay fees for attendance. Moreover, there are some international and private schools that charge fees.
Every state is responsible for education policy. Thereby, the school system will rely on the region where families are living. Kids always don’t have a similar curriculum in all states and their textbooks may be different also. Moreover, every state has various kinds of schools. The prime structure of the German school system is as follows:

1. Grundschule (Primary School)

   Usually, kids start their school career at the age of 6 at a primary school, which covers their first 4 grades. At the end of Grundschule, parents and teachers of the child will decide, based on the performance of the kid, which secondary school the kid is going to attend.

2. Weiterfuhrende Schulen (Secondary Schools)

   The secondary school system is divided into the following:

   • Realschule – For intermediary students
   • Hauptschule – For less-academic students
   • Gesamtschule – A comprehensive school that combines all types of education
   • Gymnasium – For academic students

Closing Thoughts

So, this is everything you should know in case you are moving to German and are about to deliver a child to this nation. You will feel like you have done your job adding to the German population by spreading your newly gained knowledge.
Have you already given childbirth in Germany? What guidelines have you followed? Did you get helped by the expat insurance system in Germany? Feel free to share in the comment section below!

Welcome to this blog about the Black Forest in Germany. If you are an expat in Germany, you may have noticed that Germans love spending time outdoors and hiking in nature. The Black Forest is a beautiful region in southwest Germany that offers many opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking and walking. In this blog we will explore some of the best hiking and walking trails in the Black Forest. Stepping out into nature provide ample space, fresh air and vitamin D; a great way to get out of the confines of the cities and our houses.

Depending on your level of experience and confidence, there are many outdoor activities that will appeal to all, beginner to expert. The broad differences in landscapes found throughout Germany are astonishing, from the Baltic coastline in the North, the enchanting Black Forest, to the base of the Allgäu Alps. Each region offers its own unique topography, and with that comes a wide range of possibilities to keep you entertained. With Germany offering over 7000 trails to choose from – hiking, walking and trail running are great ways to indulge in nature all year round.

Exploring the vast Black Forest

The Black Forest is a region that has captured the imagination of many people over the years, especially through the famous fairy tales of the Brothers Grimm. This vast forest area stretches over 6000 square kilometres and offers a wealth of hiking opportunities. As you hike through the Black Forest, you will come across charming and historic villages that date back to the Gothic tribes who sought refuge here to escape the rule of the Roman Empire. These villages are full of character and charm and offer a glimpse into the rich history of the region. The forest is a combination of rolling grassy hills, dense woodland and meandering streams, all providing an idyllic setting for walks and hikes.

Whether you are an experienced hiker or a beginner, there is something for everyone in the Black Forest. The beauty of the forest is truly awe-inspiring and there are few better places to explore Germany’s natural beauty than in this stunning region.

1. Seeblick – Mummelsee Loop from Achert

For novice hikers or those looking for a leisurely adventure in the stunning Black Forest, Seeblick is the perfect hiking trail. With a round-trip distance of 5.3 kilometers, this hike is ideal for a half-day excursion, providing hikers plenty of time to enjoy the stunning vistas along the way. The trail, which begins as a short single-track path and is well-marked, takes walkers through a deep forest while occasionally allowing shafts of sunlight to shine through the trees.

Hikers will come upon ancient rock slabs carrying historical marks about 1.5 kilometers into their journey. These markings provide a window into the earlier residents who once called this area home. Additionally, the trail’s height gradually rises in this area, creating a moderate climb that is doable for most hikers.

Hikers will eventually arrive at the Hornisgrindeturm und Aussichtsplateau, a 360-degree observation tower located at Hornisgrinde’s (1,164 m) peak. Hikers can enjoy the sweeping views of the Black Forest and the nearby peaks from the tower’s summit. The breath-taking view is the ideal place to stop, take a deep breath, and take in the surrounding natural beauty.

The Mummelsee, a tiny but charming lake tucked between the hills, is where the hike’s last descent takes place. Hikers can stop here for a well-earned rest and pick up a quick bite at one of the stores close by. We suggest stopping by the neighbourhood baker, who sells a variety of delectable sweets in the parking lot, to refuel for the remainder of the journey. The peaceful forest setting of the return leg, which takes hikers back to their starting location, is the ideal way to cap off the excursion. Overall, Seeblick is a fantastic starting point for exploring the Black Forest and a wonderful place to unwind after a long day of exploring.

2. Schluchseer Jägersteig – Bildstein Loop from Schluchsee

The Schluchsee Trail is the ideal option if you’re searching for a hike that is both pleasant and long enough to feel like an adventure. A big amount of the 13.8 km trail is on a broad gravel road, so you won’t have to worry about tripping over tree roots or crossing rugged terrain. It’s a wonderful length for a day hike. Before arriving at the trailhead, you must first stroll along the picturesque Schluchsee Lake for about a kilometer from the Schluchsee Train Station. For around 7 kilometers, the footpath meanders peacefully through a pine forest with towering trees on either side and the aroma of pine permeating the air.

You’ll abruptly come out of the trees and arrive at a vantage point with a stunning view over the Schluchsee. The beauty will leave you speechless regardless of whether the lake is perfectly clear or shrouded in mist due to the weather. As you continue along the hiking trail, you’ll reach the lake’s side, where you’ll discover inviting beaches and rocks to sit on, ideal for a picnic or a cool dip on a hot day. As you walk back to the train station along the final section of the trail, you will be accompanied by the peaceful sound of waves lapping at the shore.

Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just starting out, the Schluchsee Trail is an unforgettable experience that showcases the natural beauty of the Black Forest.

3. Edelfrauengrab-Wasserfälle – Deglerbad (Noble Woman’s Grave waterfalls)

The trek to Nobel Woman’s Grave is a wonderful choice if you’re an experienced hiker seeking for a challenge. The first waterfall on this difficult trip is the trail’s high point. The hike features several more stunning waterfalls as well. You’ll come upon a white signboard explaining the meaning of the waterfall’s name, Nobel Woman’s Grave, after hiking for around 3.8 kilometers.

This is the ideal place to stop and take in the breath-taking view because it is next to an elevated footbridge. After a few hundred meters, make sure to pause and take in the Roman-era stone bridge before moving on to the next waterfall. This one offers a pleasant place to cool off on a hot summer day thanks to a tiny pool that is located halfway down the cliff.

There are two Schnappsbrunnen, or liquor fountains, on the route, and you’ll come across one as you continue on. It’s the perfect place to stop, stretch your legs, and indulge in a well-earned schnapps, beer, or soft drink. The abundance of benches and seating spots provides the ideal location for a peaceful picnic with a view. Just keep in mind to stock up on refreshments at the Ottenhöfen grocery store and bakery before beginning the hike. Don’t forget to bring change; you must put your cash in a box at the fountain to pay for the drinks.

The trail leads to the beautiful viewing point at Herrenschrofen, where you can enjoy a panoramic view of the surroundings once you’ve rested and refueled. The next 4 kilometers of the track are spent in the forest before it emerges onto rolling fields with views of the settlement. After a reasonably long section, hikers are rewarded with the second Schnappsbrunnen, which is the ideal place to rest up before the last part of the journey. The final two kilometers of the route, which takes you back to Ottenhöfen along farm roads, give you one more opportunity to take in the surroundings.

It is advised with these hikes to consider the weather conditions (some trails could have snow or ice hazards), transportation, and the level of difficulty. Hiking with at least one other person is safest and advised. Overnighting in one of the small villages is always a tranquil getaway, but day trips are very easy. Public and private transport are both available to reach the destinations.

There are still tons of these exciting trails to be discovered. Even if you haven’t always been enthusiastic about getting active outside, it is always a good time to find ways you can enjoy it and increase your general health while doing so!

In conclusion, the Black Forest in Germany is a beautiful region that offers a plethora of hiking and walking trails for all levels of experience. The trails take you through lush forests, past majestic waterfalls, and offer panoramic views of the stunning landscape. In addition, hiking in the Black Forest provides a fantastic opportunity to connect with the locals and their love for nature and the outdoors. So, grab your hiking boots and explore the beauty of the Black Forest on foot.

We are always available to speak about any of your questions regarding finances, health- and general insurance in Germany.