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Resources & References

Resources & References

North Rhine Westphalia, Germany

Digital Resources

Useful Apps for the Destination

  • Google Maps / Apple Maps:

    Navigation, walking directions, and public transport routing. Download offline maps.

  • DB Navigator:

    Official Deutsche Bahn app for train schedules, real-time updates, and ticket purchases.

  • Moovit:

    Real-time public transport information for local buses in Aachen (ASEAG).

  • MovA (ASEAG app):

    Official app for Aachen's local bus operator. Includes mobile ticket options.

  • Google Translate:

    Language translation. Offline language packs are available.

Helpful Websites for Additional Planning

  • Aachen Tourist Service (aachen-tourist.de / aachen.de):

    Official tourism website. Comprehensive information on attractions, events, accommodation, tours.

  • Deutsche Bahn (bahn.com):

    For all train travel within Germany and international connections.

  • ASEAG (aseag.de):

    Official website for Aachen's local bus operator. Find timetables and network maps here.

  • FlixBus (flixbus.com):

    For long-distance bus travel.

  • Carolus Thermen (carolus-thermen.de):

    Official website for the thermal baths.

Print Resources

Guidebooks

A general Germany guidebook from reputable travel publishers often covers Aachen within its North Rhine-Westphalia section.

City Maps

Detailed city maps of Aachen are obtainable from the Aachen Tourist Service office. These maps are useful for walking tours.

Local Publications

Free city magazines or event listings are often available at tourist offices or cafes. These provide information on current events, exhibitions, and local recommendations.

Books & Content

History & Culture

  • Books on Charlemagne and the Carolingian Empire, like "Charlemagne: Father of a Continent" by Alessandro Barbero, offer historical depth.
  • Books about the history of Germany or the Rhineland region offer broader context.
  • Fiction set in Aachen, though less common for major international authors, may exist by local authors. Look for these at local bookstores.
  • Documentaries and films on Charlemagne or UNESCO World Heritage Sites frequently feature Aachen Cathedral.

Arts & Language

  • Listen to classical music from German composers like Beethoven, Bach, or Mozart.
  • Explore German folk music or modern German pop or rock.
  • Familiarize yourself with German art movements.
  • Language learning apps like Duolingo, Babbel, or Pimsleur aid German language basics.

Online Communities

Reddit Communities

  • R/Germany
  • R/travel
  • R/aachen
  • Travel forums

Social Media

  • Official Aachen tourism accounts on Instagram or Facebook
  • Local news outlets for current events.
  • Podcasts or YouTube channels on German history or travel
  • Online German dictionaries and phrasebooks

Additional Online Resources

  • Check city event calendars on official websites.
  • Explore travel blogs specific to North Rhine-Westphalia.
  • Review online reviews for attractions and restaurants.
  • Utilize public transport planners for route optimization.

Emergency & Medical Information

Critical Information

Emergency Numbers

  • Police: 110
  • Ambulance / Fire Brigade: 112 (European emergency number)
  • Lost or stolen documents: Report to local police (110).
  • Embassy/Consulate: Contact for emergency travel documents.

Hospitals & Pharmacies

  • Universitätsklinikum Aachen (UKA): Major university hospital.
  • Luisenhospital Aachen: Another significant hospital.
  • Apotheke (pharmacy): For minor issues, pharmacists provide advice.
  • Emergency pharmacies (Notdienst-Apotheken) operate after hours.

Safety Protocols

  • Natural Disaster Protocols: Germany has alert systems (sirens, apps like NINA).
  • Follow local official instructions if an alert is issued.
  • General safety: Be aware of surroundings, especially at night.
  • Secure your belongings in public.

Beyond Your Visit

Documentaries & Films

  • Look for documentaries on Charlemagne, the Holy Roman Empire, or UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
  • Aachen Cathedral often features.
  • Films depicting German history or culture deliver context.

Music & Art

  • Listen to classical music from German composers.
  • Explore German folk music or modern German genres.
  • Familiarize yourself with German art movements.

Connect & Learn More

Online Communities & Forums

  • Reddit communities (r/Germany, r/travel, r/aachen) host traveler discussions.
  • Travel forums offer spaces for specific questions.
  • Join online groups for ex-pats or German language learners.

Language Learning

  • Apps like Duolingo, Babbel, or Pimsleur assist with German basics.
  • Consult online German dictionaries and phrasebooks.
  • Practice listening skills with German podcasts or music.

Pre-Trip Planning

Offline Maps

  1. Download offline maps of Aachen before your trip.
  2. Include relevant public transport apps.
  3. This saves data during your travel.
  4. It also offers navigation without an internet connection.
  5. Ensure your phone's battery remains charged for navigation.

Digital Documents

  1. Create a digital folder on your phone or in cloud storage.
  2. Store flight confirmations and hotel bookings there.
  3. Include passport copies and travel insurance details.
  4. This provides backup access to critical information.
  5. Share access with a trusted contact for emergencies.

Local & Cultural Information

Cultural Insights

Acquire insights into German culture: directness, efficiency, and appreciation for history. Respect local norms.

Border Region hints

The border location gives an unique view on European integration, with subtle Dutch and Belgian influences in culture and cuisine.

Historical Context

Aachen, Charlemagne's city, offers a direct connection to a pivotal period in European history and the Holy Roman Empire.

Helpful Tip

Before your trip, download offline maps of Aachen and relevant public transport apps. This saves data and offers navigation without an internet connection.

Local & Cultural Information

Cultural Perspectives

Cultural Insights

  • German Directness:

    Germans often communicate directly and pragmatically. This cultural trait is not rudeness.

  • Punctuality:

    Be on time for appointments and reservations.

  • Recycling:

    Participate in the local recycling system.

Border Region hints

  • European Integration:

    Aachen's border location offers insight into European integration, with Dutch and Belgian influences.

  • Cuisine Blends:

    Subtle Dutch and Belgian influences appear in local culture and cuisine.

  • Multilingualism:

    While German remains main, some English, Dutch, and French are spoken.

Practical Tips

Cash Use

Some smaller shops, bakeries, or street vendors may be cash-only. Always carry some Euros.

Bus Tickets

Validate bus tickets using the stamp machine on the bus upon boarding. Unvalidated tickets result in fines.

Sunday Closures

Most shops remain closed on Sundays. Plan your shopping accordingly.

Planning Advice

Advance Bookings

  • Book accommodation, especially during high season or major events (CHIO Aachen).
  • Pre-book popular tours or special events to secure spots.
  • Book train tickets in advance for long-distance ICE journeys for better fares.
  • Consider travel insurance for peace of mind.

Arrival Preparation

  • Clear immigration and customs at your first Schengen Area entry point.
  • Withdraw Euros from an ATM upon arrival for immediate needs.
  • Activate your local SIM card or confirm international roaming.
  • Locate transportation options to your accommodation.

Responsible Travel

Local Support

  • Choose locally owned restaurants, cafes, and artisan shops to support the community.
  • Engage with local culture by attending events and markets.
  • For longer stays, explore volunteer opportunities with local groups.
  • Minimize waste by utilizing Aachen's recycling system and Pfand returns.

Environmental Care

  • Reduce single-use plastics with a reusable water bottle and shopping bag.
  • Conserve energy and water in your accommodation.
  • Use public transport, walk, or cycle to lower your carbon footprint.
  • Stick to marked trails in natural areas and "leave no trace."

Commit to Preservation

Your actions as a traveler influence the destination. Commit to sustainable and respectful practices for Aachen's preservation.