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Communication

Communication

Schleswig Holstein, Germany

Local SIM Cards

Germany's main mobile providers are Telekom, Vodafone, and O2. Prepaid SIM cards are easily obtainable.

Acquisition

  • Purchase at provider shops or electronics stores.
  • Passport verification required for activation.
  • Consider an ESIM from Airalo for convenience.

Internet Access

Consistent internet access options are present, especially in accommodations and public areas.

Connectivity Options

Language Barriers

German is the official language. English is widely spoken in tourist zones, hotels, and among younger populations.

Translation Resources

Postal Services

Germany's national postal service, Deutsche Post, makes sending mail simple.

Sending Mail

  • Yellow "Postfiliale" (post offices) are common.
  • Yellow "Briefkasten" (post boxes) are widely available.
  • Stamps can be purchased at post offices and some newsagents.

Essential German Phrases

Common Greetings & Politeness

  • Hello: Hallo (HAH-loh)
  • Goodbye: Auf Wiedersehen (OWF VEE-der-zane) / Tschüss (CHYUES)
  • Please: Bitte (BIT-tuh)
  • Thank you: Danke (DANK-uh)

Basic Inquiries & Responses

  • Yes: Ja (YAH)
  • No: Nein (NYNE)
  • Do you speak English?: Sprechen Sie Englisch?
  • How much is it?: Was kostet das?

Communication Advice

A few German phrases are appreciated. When interacting with strangers, begin with formal address ("Sie").

Business Hours & Schedules

German business hours vary by type of establishment, notably with Sunday closures.

Retail Shops

Typically open Mon-Fri 9/10 AM to 6/7 PM. Sat until 4/6 PM. Generally closed Sunday.

Supermarkets

Often open Mon-Sat 7/8 AM to 8/9 PM. Closed Sunday.

Restaurants

Lunch generally 12-3 PM. Dinner 6-11 PM. Some close between services.

Museums & Attractions

Opening hours typically 10 AM to 5/6 PM. Many museums are closed on Mondays. Seasonal variations are present.

Visiting Tips

  • Check individual websites for current schedules.
  • Hours may reduce during off-season.
  • Pre-booking tickets may be an option.

Banking & ATMs

Banks operate on typical weekday schedules. ATMs (Geldautomaten) are widely available 24/7.

Accessing Funds

  • Bank branches open Mon-Fri, 9 AM to 4/5 PM.
  • ATMs are found at banks, stations, shopping centers.
  • Credit/debit cards are widely accepted.

Public Holidays & Closures

Common Public Holidays Feiertage

  • New Year's Day (Jan 1st)
  • Good Friday, Easter Monday
  • Labour Day (May 1st)

Additional Holidays & Seasonal Notes

  • Ascension Day, Whit Monday
  • Day of German Unity (Oct 3rd)
  • Christmas (Dec 25th & 26th)

Planning Around Holidays

Most shops, banks, and public services close on public holidays. Restaurants and tourist sites may operate with reduced hours.

Etiquette & Cultural Norms

Embracing local customs can enrich your experience and foster positive interactions.

Greeting Customs

When meeting people, a handshake is standard. Use formal address ("Sie") with strangers or in formal situations.

Formal vs. Informal

  • Use "Herr" (Mr.) or "Frau" (Ms./Mrs.) with surnames.
  • "Du" (informal 'you') is for friends and family.
  • Wait for an invitation to use "Du."

Appropriate Attire

Germany generally has a casual dress code, though neatness is appreciated in public settings.

Dress Code Considerations

  • Modest dress (shoulders, knees covered) in churches.
  • Smart casual for fine dining or theater visits.
  • Comfortable walking shoes are practical.

Dining and Tipping

Tipping is customary but at lower percentages than in some other countries. Service charges are usually included in prices.

Tipping Guidelines

  • Round up the bill or add 5-10% for good service.
  • State the total amount when paying.
  • Leave a small tip for exceptional service.

Photography Permissions

Photography is generally permitted in public spaces. Be mindful of privacy when taking pictures of people.

Ethical Photography

  • Ask for permission before photographing individuals.
  • Flash photography is often not allowed in museums.
  • Check signs inside museums and churches for restrictions.

Taboos & Sensitive Topics

Topics to Approach with Caution

  • Nazi era history: Speak respectfully, avoid lighthearted remarks.
  • Politics and religion: Generally avoid deep discussions with new acquaintances.
  • Loud behavior: Avoid shouting in public areas, especially at night.

Behaviors to Remember

  • Punctuality: Arrive on time for any appointments.
  • Rules: Adherence to rules (e.g., pedestrian crossing lights) is common.
  • Personal space: Respect others' personal boundaries.

Gender & LGBTQ+ Information

General Acceptance

  • Germany generally welcomes diverse genders.
  • No specific rules regarding gender expression.
  • Public displays of affection are generally fine.

LGBTQ+ Community

  • Germany is a progressive country regarding LGBTQ+ rights.
  • Same-sex marriage is legal.
  • Lübeck presents a welcoming environment.

Interacting with Locals

Politeness and observing local behaviors go a long way in ensuring pleasant interactions. Germans value directness.

Accessibility Information

Lübeck makes efforts toward accessibility, though its historic areas present unique challenges.

Mobility Infrastructure

The city's public transport aims for accessibility. Sidewalks in the Old Town have uneven sections.

Transport & Pathways

  • Modern buses are largely low-floor.
  • Train stations typically feature ramps or elevators.
  • Cobblestones and narrow alleys in the Old Town can pose difficulties.

Accessible Attractions

Many public buildings and major museums are equipped for wheelchair access. Some historic sites might have limits.

Site Access

  • Major museums like European Hansemuseum are accessible.
  • Older towers or churches may have narrow stairs.
  • Some boat tour operators offer accessible vessels.

Visual & Hearing Impairments

Public transport typically provides both visual and auditory announcements. Museum resources vary.

Support Features

  • Audible announcements on trains and buses.
  • Visual displays for transport information.
  • Some museums have audio guides or tactile exhibits.

Resources & Organizations

Lübeck Tourist Information may offer specific brochures or advice. User-generated reviews are also a source.

Information Channels

  • Consult Lübeck Tourist Information for details.
  • Websites and disability travel forums for reviews.
  • Research specific venue accessibility prior to arrival.

Accessibility Preparation

Contacting venues directly or checking their websites for the latest accessibility information before your visit is a good step.