How can I become German & what’s it like to be one?
The Urban Dictionary defines us as “a nation of people who are fanatical about David Hasselhoff, and when they go to beaches–either in their own or in other countries; they’re always digging holes!” Very well but there is actually more to us than our fascination with David’s chest hair and washed-out jeans.
Honesty & Rudeness
First of all, I’d say one of the key things about “us” Germans is “our” honesty & straightforwardness which is often mistaken with rudeness. We don’t want to insult but small talk is often considered unnecessary. So if you don’t have anything to say, just keep silent – or cut to the chase.
Recyling
Secondly, I’d suggest you start recycling and by that I mean to do a bit more than just throwing selected items into the blue bin because they look as if they could be used again – and no! that excludes old, broken heaters and smelly shoes!
The green man
Thirdly, please stop at the traffic lights if they’re on red. Seriously. The Brits are all about their speed limits but no one cares about crossing the road safely. Green means “walk” and red “walk faster and try to escape the front of a bus by 6 inches.”
A must-read: Adam Fletcher from The Hipstery put together a 10-step guide on how you can become German.
Have fun & viel Spaß!
Image c/o venturevillage.eu & designcouncil.org.uk
