An American exchange student once told me about her first week in a German shared apartment. Her new … (More)
Featured Stories
Small Talk in Germany: What Works and What Doesn’t
If you’ve ever tried to chat up a stranger in Germany the way you might in the United States or the United Kingdom, you’ve probably noticed something: it doesn’t quite land the same way. Germans aren’t unfriendly – but small talk, as a cultural practice, works very differently here. Understanding these differences can save you […]
Coburger Bratwurst – Traditional German Recipe
Few traditional German recipes embody the heart of Franconian cuisine quite like the Coburger Bratwurst. This coarse, flavorful sausage hails from the historic town of Coburg in northern Bavaria – a region celebrated for its devotion to culinary authenticity. Unlike its smoother southern cousins, the Coburger Bratwurst stands out for its rustic texture, smoky aroma, […]
Mahlzeit!- German Food
Thinking of German food and cuisine as of a mix of Bier+Wurst+Kraut+Knoedel would be an unforgivable simplification of this very fine cultural tradition. What would you say to Forellenmousse, Preiselbeertorte, Bayerischer Wurstsalat, or even Tiramisu! Germans appreciate healthy, well-prepared foods served with care. Everyone who loves to have a good substantial meal will be impressed […]
Structure of German Society
Most of the workforce is employed in the services sector. West Germany completed the transition from an industrial economy to one dominated by the services sector in the 1970s, and by the late 1980s this sector employed two-thirds of the workforce. In contrast, when the Berlin Wall fell, East Germany still had not made this […]
German Pacifism After 1945: Values and Reality
German pacifism is one of the most distinctive features of modern German identity. Born from the wreckage of war and the moral reckoning that followed, it has shaped law, education, public debate, and foreign policy for three generations. Yet it is not static. From NATO peacekeeping in the 1990s to the Zeitenwende announced in response […]
Bavarian Cuisine: Pretzels, Pork, and Beer Culture
When you picture German food, chances are you’re imagining Bavarian cuisine. Giant pretzels twisted to perfection, beer served in hefty steins, and pork dishes so tender they practically melt off the bone. Bavaria, Germany’s largest state, is the beating heart of the country’s culinary identity. Rooted in rustic tradition, seasonal produce, and community dining, the […]
Everything About Apfelwein: A Comprehensive Guide
Apfelwein, a traditional German apple wine, has long been a staple in the beverage culture of regions like Hesse, particularly around Frankfurt. This refreshing drink, known for its tart and crisp flavor, is not only a symbol of German heritage but also an ever-evolving part of contemporary culinary experiences. In this comprehensive guide, we will […]
July 20 in German History
July 20, 1839 Birth of the pathologist, Julius Cohnheim, in Demmin, Prussia. He worked with the effects of tuberculosis on tissue. July 20, 1847 Birth of the artist, Max Liebermann, in Berlin, Germany. He was a leader in the German impressionist period. July 20, 1850 Birth of Georg Müller in Grimma, Germany. Müller was a […]
Spritzkuchen – German Crullers
Spritzkuchen are fried pastries topped with powdered sugar or cinnamon or lemon icing. They are made of dense dough similar to that of doughnuts, but they are piped from a pastry bag. Ingredients: Dough: 250 ml milk a pinch of salt 1 tablespoon sugar 50 g butter 200 g flour 4 eggs 1 packet of […]
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December 14 in German History
December 14, 1788 Death of Carl Philipp Emanuel Bach in Hamburg. He was the son of Johann Sebastian and Maria Bach. His first position was that of harpsichordist to Friedrich II of Prussia. In … [Read More...]
Berlinale – Berlin International Film Festival
Berlinale is one of the largest film festival, a mega cultural event, one of the most important dates in the international film's industry. More than 19,000 film professionals from 120 countries, … [Read More...]
Bienenstich – German Bee Sting Cake
Bienenstich or Bee sting cake is a German dessert made of sweet yeast dough with a baked-on topping of caramelized almonds and filled with a vanilla custard, Buttercream or cream. The cake may have … [Read More...]
The Legislature in German Politics
The heart of any parliamentary system of government is the legislature. Germany has a bicameral parliament. The two chambers are the Bundestag (Federal Diet or lower house) and the Bundesrat (Federal … [Read More...]
April 3 in German History
April 3, 1841 Birth of Hermann Carl Vogel (1841-1907) in Leipzig, Germany. Vogel was a German astrophysicist who pioneered the use of the spectroscope in astronomy. He applied this instrument … [Read More...]
Seasonal German Traditions You Should Experience At Least Once
Germany moves to the rhythm of the year in a way that still shapes everyday life. Markets open and close with the seasons, recipes change with what the land gives, and villages plan their calendars … [Read More...]
How to Pack for a Trip to Germany
Avoid disappointment upon your arrival in Germany by knowing the important things in advance. Difficulty Level: Average Time Required: varies Here's How: Take a Foreign-German dictionary … [Read More...]
Westfälische Potthucke – Traditional German Potato Cake with Sausages
This is a traditional recipe from a region called Sauerland in Westphalia. In earlier times, this potato dish was actually a meal for the poor because it’s made mostly with potatoes, and they wouldn’t … [Read More...]
July 10 in German History
July 10, 1839 Birth of Adolphus Busch near Mainz, Germany. He immigrated to the United States and co-founded a brewery, Anheuser-Busch (makers of Budweiser today). July 10, 1846 Birth of … [Read More...]
Look Here – We’re in Germany! Christmas Vacation in Germany
Christmas is a family holiday which people use to spend at home waiting for Santa Claus near the friendly crackling fireplace, the smartly decorated tree, and a festive table. You have already … [Read More...]