From the mistletoe plague to the shrunken salt shakers, there are so many new and interesting things to discover when moving to Germany. As a Canadian expat, I’ve experienced a lot of culture shocks and surprising differences that I never saw before living in Germany. In this blog, I’ll share 10 of the most unique things I’ve encountered since making the move to Germany.

Here are 10 things I first discovered in Germany once I moved here! ⬇️

1. The Mistletoe Plague 🌿

One interesting thing I discovered after moving to Germany is the mistletoe plague. Did you know that mistletoe is a parasite? In the winter, many trees in Germany are infested with mistletoe, sucking out nutrients and water from the host plant. It’s quite a common sight here, and it’s something that always surprises visitors. The trees, barren of leaves, are adorned with massive bunches of mistletoe, a unique phenomenon I never saw before in Canada.

2. The Shrunken Salt Shaker 🧂

Another adorable discovery in Germany is the use of individual salt shakers. Unlike in Canada where salt and pepper are often in packets or placed in the center of the table, in Germany, it’s common to have your tiny salt shaker at home or when dining out. It’s a small but delightful detail that adds to the charm of experiencing new things in Germany.

3. Alcohol and Picnics in Public 🍷

One of the delightful things I discovered after moving to Germany was the freedom to enjoy alcohol in public spaces. Whether it’s sipping a glass of wine by the Rhine or simply relishing a drink outdoors, the ability to do so without the constraints of a restaurant setting was a pleasant surprise. It’s a luxury that I truly appreciate, and it adds to the overall experience of leisure and relaxation. Witnessing this cultural norm in Germany was not only a relief but also a refreshing change from the restrictions I was accustomed to. It’s a small but significant aspect of daily life that enhances the overall ambiance and social experience.

4. The Bottle Deposit System 🍾

One of the interesting new things I experienced in Germany is the bottle deposit system. When purchasing beverages, a small deposit (Pfand) is added to the cost of the bottle, typically 25 cents for a plastic bottle. Instead of throwing the bottle in the garbage, it’s common to leave it outside for someone else to collect and return for the deposit. This creates an opportunity for individuals to earn extra pocket cash by collecting discarded bottles. It’s a unique system that promotes recycling and benefits those looking for a little extra income.

5. Illegal BBQs in Public Parks 🔥

While it’s not always legal, I’ve witnessed and participated in illegal barbecues in public parks in Germany. Though there are restrictions, such as not being allowed to barbecue in certain areas, it’s a common occurrence, especially during the summer. Enjoying picnics with wine and snacks in parks is a beloved pastime, but grilling meat in public spaces can result in reprimands, especially during dry seasons. Despite the potential consequences, the communal experience of gathering in parks, engaging in outdoor activities, and enjoying leisure time is a cherished part of the German culture.

6. Condiments in Tubes 🍔

One of the new things in Germany that caught my attention is the concept of condiments in tubes. From mustard to mayo, these condiments are packaged in tubes, which may sound unusual at first. However, I’ve come to appreciate the practicality of this packaging. Not only does it save space in the fridge, but it also offers convenience and portability. The first time I encountered these tube condiments in a German grocery store, I was genuinely surprised. It’s a unique concept that I had never seen before moving to Germany, and it has certainly made a positive impression on me.

7. Unrefrigerated Eggs and Milk 🥚

Another surprising observation I made during my time in Germany is the practice of keeping eggs and milk outside of the fridge. While I had encountered this in a few other countries, it was still a novelty for me. The first time I saw eggs and milk on the shelves rather than in the refrigerated section of a grocery store, it was quite unexpected. This approach to storing perishable items differs from what I was accustomed to, but it’s fascinating to see the variations in food storage practices across different cultures.

 8. Bike Delivery Services 🚴

One thing I found fascinating after moving to Germany is the widespread use of bikes for delivery services. While in North America, bikes are primarily used for recreational purposes, here in Germany, they serve a practical function in delivering mail, food, and medication. Witnessing this efficient and eco-friendly mode of transportation in action was truly a unique experience for me. It’s a testament to the innovative and sustainable approach to logistics that is ingrained in the German culture.

9. Young and Good-Looking Emergency Personnel 🚑

One aspect of the German emergency services that caught my attention is the notably young and good-looking personnel. From ambulance paramedics to police officers, I couldn’t help but notice how young the personnel looked. Initially, this made me uneasy, as I questioned their level of experience and readiness to handle emergencies. I later learned that they undergo extensive training and are equipped to handle critical situations. Additionally, in cases of severe medical emergencies, a doctor accompanies the ambulance, providing an added layer of expertise and reassurance. The presence of these young and capable professionals in emergency services reflects the emphasis on competency and efficiency within the German healthcare system.

10. Bonus: Slipper Packing 🥿

Something is intriguing about the way slippers are handled in Germany. It’s a bit of a recurring theme for me, but here’s something new I’ve observed: people here actually take their slippers from home, pack them in their bags, and bring them to other people’s houses. While some may debate this practice, I’ve personally witnessed it, and it’s something I had never seen before moving to Germany. Perhaps it’s a regional custom, but it’s an interesting aspect of daily life that caught my attention.

Have you encountered anything similar for the first time in Germany, or have you, as a German, discovered something unique that surprised you? Share your experiences!

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