Oddities and Ends

Stories from my life and travels as an American immigrant in Germany!

Author: Jessie

More Cultural Differences Between Germany and America

Germans and Americans: surprisingly similar in many ways…and completely different in others. I’ve already covered several of the major cultural differences on this blog; from pay toilets and post-apocalyptic Sundays, to Christmas markets and produce-themed races. Here are a few more in no particular order. You Can’t Do that on (American) Television Germans (and Europeans in general) are much more…Continue Reading

Nuremberg, Germany: A Long Weekend in Bavaria

nuremberg germany

Nuremberg, like many German cities, was destroyed by bombs towards the end of WWII. Instead of being completely modernized, many of the medieval buildings were restored or recreated, including parts of the old city wall. While these meticulously-restored buildings are spread throughout the city, the area with the highest concentration surrounds the Imperial Castle. This was our first stop after…Continue Reading

A Long Weekend in The Hague and Rotterdam

the hague

Over the holiday weekend last May, I went back to The Netherlands; this time, to The Hague and Rotterdam. While Americans were busy celebrating Memorial Day (if they’re lucky enough to even have it off), Germans celebrated Father’s Day. OK, technically the official holiday is Ascension Day, but everyone here knows the real holiday is Vatertag. Father’s Day in Germany is…interesting. If you’d like…Continue Reading

Pay-to-Pee: Public Toilets in Germany

public toilets germany

Pay toilets: like pay-to-play, but worse. Although peeing for free is a God-given right in ‘Muricah, you’ll find that’s not (usually) the case in Germany. Indeed, it’s not the case in most of Europe. You can expect to pay at least 50 cents every time nature calls while you’re out in public. Sometimes, even if you’re a paying customer in…Continue Reading