An internship guide to Germany- the land of surprises!
Being the biggest country of Central Europe, Germany is one of the most influential European nations culturally and one of the main economic powers. Known around the globe for its engineering universities and high-tech products, it is equally known for its old-world charm and simplicity. If you have perceptions of Germany as simply homogeneous, it will surprise you with its rich history, architecture and diversity.
Get In Requirements: You can get either of the two- the Schengen Visa or the European Union Visa. A visa granted for any Schengen member or European Union is valid in all other countries that have signed and implemented the treaty. But be careful: not all EU members have signed the Schengen treaty, and not all Schengen members are part of the European Union. Yes! You can visit many neighboring countries with a single visa.
Important Airports: Frankfurt, Munich and Düsseldorf. Berlin, being the capital of the country, also serves some international flights.
Weather: Germany has four seasons; Spring, summer, fall and winter. And interestingly all the four seasons have their own charm for visitors. The average temperature in Germany between May and June is around 55°F to 75°F
People: Most Germans speak English, so you probably won’t have any difficulties getting around. Still, a little German can go a long way and will always be appreciated.
German Cuisine: Germany has a wide variety of dishes to offer. The ingredients and recipes vary from region to region. Switzerland and Austria influence German cuisine to a large extent. As all Europeans, Germans love bread and there are over 300 kinds of bread in Germany. Germans have sweet-tooth just as we Indians do. For vegetarians, it can be an issue as Germans love meat, poultry and all sort of non- veggie food.
Things you will regret missing in Germany: Being the birth place of some of the biggest personalities this world saw, Albert Einstein, Hitler, Germany has a lot to offer to its visitors. From rich cultural diversity to its ancient Roman history, from the world class car manufacturing companies’ headquarters like BMW, Germany will keep amazing you with its surprises
1. Castles and Palaces: Did you know there are more than 25000 of them in Germany? You cannot afford missing them.
2. Museums and Historical Places: What can be the best way of learning about the culture and history of a new place other than visiting the museums and places of historical heritage? There are the best museums in Germany, from art and history, to culinary and culture and historical places like the ancient city gates of Roman times and the Berlin Wall.
3. Shop ’til you drop in Germany: Germany is known for its street shopping; just remember that shops close around 6 or 7 p.m. and are usually not open on Sundays. Happy shopping!
4. Last but the best part, you will have the Schengen or EU Visa; you can visit other countries in Europe.
Facts to be known before you enter Germany:
1. Never shout the Nazi salute or raise your hand to the Hitler greeting. This is considered a grave offense in Germany and can even get you arrested, with a 5-year prison sentence. Moreover, it is said better not to mention Hitler at all and even if the subject pops up, do it with dignity.
2. Don’t Walk: Not In India but well that’s an issue in Germany as its illegal for pedestrians to use the crossings when the red pedestrian light is on. And if you’re caught crossing on a red, you run the risk of a fine and the cops of Germany do not accept bribe!
3. If you ask a German the time and are told “halb drei” (literally “half three”) the time is in fact half past two (half two in English). Germans count the minutes to the next hour rather than after.
4. Germans are the second largest beer consumers in the world.
This country of ‘Brave hearts’ as it known, has an unforgettable internship to offer to you with lot of cultural exchange opportunities. Have you interned in Germany ever? Do you have anything else to add in? Comment in your views and information about Germany and help other interns gain a better knowledge of this great country.
Information Sources:en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Germany and gogermany.about.com,
Image Sources: en.wikipedia.org and http://www.germany.travel/
