Germany

Hi there,

We are going to Germany in August because my husband's unit is relocating there. Specifically, we'll be in Vilseck (Bavaria).

Is there anyone else going to Germany or is there anyone else who is already there?

I am originally from Germany but life with the military and on/off-base will be totally different!

Stefanie

[Sophie*]

I wont be in Germany but I'm moving back to the UK in April - it's close-ish!!

Originally Posted by zelda780 I wont be in Germany but I'm moving back to the UK in April - it's close-ish!!

That's true!!! Why are you moving back to the UK?

[Sophie*]

I'm being deported! They're closing down the research facilities here and sending everyone home (I came to Japan before I knew my df) so I'll be back in Blighty for the next yr or so.

ive been in germany for about 6 months...its definatly different than the states...i just wish it was a little easier to meet people lol

Originally Posted by Lanitra ive been in germany for about 6 months...its definatly different than the states...i just wish it was a little easier to meet people lol

I know that's the hardest part. Germans just don't have a lot of people skills. I am German and I experienced this every day. But the USA made me a much more open-minded personl.

[Donna]

I miss Germany! I graduated from high school at Ramstein.

[ILVMYMR]

I LOVED Germany(not stationed there but we visited) and we are going back in June...can't wait

I am currently in Germany myself..heres some tips sorry if any repeats.

Get your german drivers licence ASAP. It makes it so much easier on yah because most americans are not use to walking or taking the train or bussing all over to their destinations. Its not that hard really to get it. You take a class, then come in and take the test. If you fail the first time most have a repeat class and test the next day. After the test, if you fail the first time, then try to remember which ones you thought you got wrong, and find the answers in the book. This way its still fresh in your mind when you retake the next day.

Get some German Launguage books or audio tapes and try your best to learn some before you come. Its helpful to know some german. Heres a link to a good site to look over and review:
http://www.bbc.co.uk/languages/german/

The German people I have met are very patient with me when I try to speak it and sometimes I get it wrong but they are very friendly if you treat them with respect and atleast try to speak to them in thier language.

Try not to wear t-shirts with American stuff on them off base on the economy. Some germans find it disrespectful. Remember Germany is your host country and you must respect them and they will respect you. When going out and around Germany to see the awesome sites, dress approperatly and in a style matching your surroundings. Of course most of us know this due to the terrorist attacks and hightened security. But just a reminder

Recycle..Yes here we must recycle. We have to have seperate trash cans for glass, paper, metal, plastic, and Garbage. Recycling centers can usually be found in the housing areas. The one on Schweinfurt is located in the housing area that I am in.

Base..Get a map of the base, and the surrounding town area. One that you can make sence of. The one I got was so jumbled lol. But that was for a doctors appt for off base.

Driving...Driving here is diffrent but its not as diffrent as to where we drive on the other side of the road (atleast not here) But you will have to be cautious. Some of the minor streets are SMALL. and I do mean SMALL. The parking spaces are smaller then ours in america too.

Classes..Yes there are some classes. My advice, take all you can get. SNAPs is one of them. It will help you get to know your surroundings a lot better. Also they will teach you some common German phrases and let you know where to go for what.

Off base doctors...Most doctors you will be refered to speak english. I love my doctor personally and hate to leave her care since im going back to the states soon. If you get pregnant, they do unltrasounds every visit and look into every aspect to make sure your pregnancy is comfortable and going good.

Friends...Personally im to busy to make many friends lol. But im a mommy of three soon to be four. Best bet though is to make friends and try your best to get along with your neighbors. Just like anywhere else, your neighbors are going to be your biggest support group. If you are lucky enough to get a good FRGroup, then they will be extra supportive and let you know the info you need. But NEVER be afraid to ask questions.

And last thing..because I cant think of any more. The Autobahn. It can be dangerious but no need to stress. Some go fast, some go a little slower, but there are rules and regs you will learn in drivers class and from the book. First chance you get, get out there and atleast try it. When traveling, follow the basic rules, 2 hours and rest, No talking on cell phones while driving (major fine for it here.) and just keep your eyes pilled for those drivers who like to swerve in and out of traffic. There are plenty of rest stops on the side of the road. The ones marked WC are wash closets (bathrooms). And it is illegal to park on the shoulder to answer a phone call, its for emergancy purposes only.

If there is anything else you would like to know, let me know and Ill try my best to answer your questions. Hope this helps you out.

[Alexandra]

I'm moving to Germany to be with my fiance next month. He's stationed in Hanau but our apartment is in Darmstadt.