From Bavarian to Hamburger, from Rhinelander to Saxon: Despite the many regional differences in this multicultural country, there are even more things that unite us Germans: Customs and even cultural clichés that are normal for us, but not for the rest of the world. We asked our readers and all members of our team to name all the things they think are “normal” in our country … but nowhere else. Here are the best answers:
1. On vacation in sandals with socks
Those who make fun of them haven’t tried them yet.
2. “This video is not available in your country”
3. Paper is the pinnacle of technology
This is the only explanation for why EVERYTHING is printed in one of the leading technology countries.
4. And currywurst, the pinnacle of gastronomy.
Together with ice spaghetti, of course!
5. Speeding on the highway without a twinge of conscience
6. It takes a lifetime to choose your favorite type of bread.
And you still enjoy every attempt.
7. Children who make a fortune collecting empty bottles.
And adults who leave them for the homeless to get the deposit.
8. Fighting through bureaucracy for every little thing.
9. Celebrating a fire-hazardous Christmas.
What else do you call lighting real candles on a tree at home?
10. Blow your nose as loudly as possible – in every situation.
11. Nudism – even in any situation.
12. As many berry varieties as there are German citizens.
13. Formally announcing the visit to grandma next door…
14. Living in a rented apartment your whole life.
And when you move out, completely repaint the apartment.
15. Make the pilgrimage to Malle at least once in your life
It doesn’t even have to be to the Ballermann.
16. Sunday is a day off, but coffee and cake are a must.
17. … as well as Tatort at 8 pm.
18. Recognizing the end of summer through hundreds of school bags.
19. There is no winter without a Christmas market
And there is no Christmas market without mulled wine.
20. Beer is a staple food
Legally perhaps only in Bavaria, but in fact in every other federal state.