Here you will find a list of links to sites that have information regarding daily life in Germany.
Seasons and Events
We created pages for each month of the year. Giving information about what is in season, what public holidays and festivals to look forward to and information about the weather.
What we love about Germany
We did a poll on our Facebook page to ask people what they loved about Germany. You can find the results here
Finding a place to live
If you are looking for a place to rent, have a look at the information on our page relating to Schufa, types of housing and where to look for accommodation.
Local Town Offices
Once you are settled in, you will have to take a trip to your local town office to register.
Schools and Studies
We listed some links to sites that have information regarding studying in Germany as well as the school system
Medical Aid
We added some links about medical aid
Pension Funds
Information about State, company and private pensions
German Rules and regulations
Need to know how to behave and what is not allowed? We have some links to pages that are updated on a regular basis.
Driving and Driver’s licences
Find out how to convert your SA driver’s licence to a German one. There are also links to road rules and traffic signs.
Mini jobs
The garden getting to much for you or you need someone to look after the kids on date night?
Television Licence (der Rundfunkbeitrag/GEZ-Gebühr)
The first thing you are likely to get in your new mailbox is a reminder to pay your TV & radio broadcasting fees.
The fee is mandatory.Â
Every household in Germany has to pay the fee even if you do not own a TV or radio.
You can apply for exemption or a reduction.
When you rent a place where it is included in the price (always ask!!!) , or your flatmate is already paying, you have to let them know that someone else is paying on your behalf.Â
You can find the form on this site
You can find more information on the official website, it is only available in German.
Please also read about broadcasting rules and copyrights governed by GEMA.
Police Clearance / Führungszeugnis
All the information you need for applying for a police clearance certificate in SA or a Führungszeugnis in Germany
Shopping
Everything you need to know about shopping in Germany as well as a list of similar shops than those we know in South Africa.
Other sources on the web
- Meet the Germans YouTube channel
- I am an Expat
- Book: Germany for Beginners on Kindle
- Book: When in Germany, Do as the Germans do on Kindle
- Just landed website