Culture Shock
Here is a quick heads-up if you live in Munich, Bavaria, Germany:
Shopping (Regular Open Hours with Sunday exception)
Make sure to grab your groceries before Sunday. Supermarkets and shops are usually closed on Sundays. During the week, shops are usually open only until 20:00 or 8 p.m. However, for an urgent situation on Sunday, there are few shops at Mainstation and Ostbahnhof.
Ruhezeiten (Party Time Limit)
You should be mindful of specific chilly periods. Between 10 p.m. and 7 a.m. and 12 p.m. and 3 p.m. is a quiet zone. Nothing should be disturbed during those hours! If you are hosting a party till midnight, be careful to let your neighbors know. If it gets too loud, they have the right to contact the police.
The Green Concept (Reusable Bag, Bikes, Bottle Deposit)
Bring your own plastic or paper bags when shopping! Germany’s supermarkets are planning to be more eco-friendly, so they charge extra for those who use plastic or paper bags from supermarkets. Thus, bring your own reusable bag everywhere you go!
Keep an eye out for distinct bike lanes and remain to the side of any pedestrians. When you obstruct their path, many bikers will ring the bell aggressively. Thus, observe bikers' space by keeping to the pedestrian line.
Also, there is an additional price for plastic bottles. This is a deposit, and it will be refunded when you return the bottle to the store.
Punctuality
Time is gold in everything in Germany. If you're running late, write a text message or make a call. Being punctual is a big deal; Germans plan everything meticulously. It's a sign of commitment, and they appreciate the little things. So, keep those appointments and be on time!
Polite Gesture (Priority Seat, Opening the door, getting in and Out in Public Transport)
Every public transport here has special spots for pregnant women, elders, and people with disabilities; be sure to give up your seat when you see them inside the local public transport.
While boarding a train, subway, bus, or tram, the rules apply that others should get off first before you board.
Additionally, it's a nice and quite courteous gesture to open the door wide if someone is close behind you.
Air your room
Even in the winter, you must always open your window for fresh air every ten to fifteen minutes in Germany from time to time. It is also mentioned in some housing contracts in order to keep a structure in good condition.
Find Your Doctors:
It's not easy to find a doctor or schedule an appointment. Don't give up; You are not the only one standing on the waiting list. In an emergency, however, German paramedics are reliable and will transport you to the hospital. Keep emergency contacts available on your phone. 112 for an ambulance, 110 for the police department.
Cash
Cash is king in Germany. It is because not all places can accept card or online payments. Make sure to bring cash everywhere you go.
No mercy for a fare dodgers
An illegal public transport passenger in Munich, Bavaria, will be charged 60 euros with no excuses. You will be fined around 8 euros if you forget your ticket, but you need to show proof that your ticket is still valid. Please refer to our mobility text for further information on public transit. Also see Mobility.