Adjusting to life in Germany comes with a few surprises.
Explore our essential guides on everything from renting to home upkeep, and even choosing the perfect German bed and mattress.
Finding a place to live in Germany can feel like stepping into a whole new system — because it is. From understanding rental contracts and paperwork to knowing what “cold rent” really means, this section guides you through the essentials so you can secure a home with confidence, not confusion.
Finding a place to rent Finding a place to rent in Germany is a lot like going for a job interview — you need to sell yourself, make a great impression, and show that you’re reliable.The key? Go in prepared, paperwork in hand, and confidence on your face. Documents needed
Housing in Germany Finding a home in Germany means learning a new kind of language — one spoken in bricks, beams, and balcony railings. A charming Altbauwohnung with vintage flair, a bright Penthouse floating above the city, or a snug Einliegerwohnung tucked into a family home — each space tells
Sleep in Germany comes with a few surprises — separate duvets, different mattress styles, and setups that may feel unfamiliar at first. Here’s what to expect, what’s normal, and how to create a comfortable space that still feels like home.
Beds, Mattresses and Duvets The sleeping arrangements in Germany are a bit different from what we are used to in South Africa. The average German couple sleeps on a bed base with two single mattresses, and each with their own duvet.Some would argue for this, but I would at least
Homes here are well-built, but they expect a bit of know-how from you. Whether it’s dealing with mould, understanding ventilation, or figuring out when to DIY and when to call in help, this section helps you stay on top of things before small issues turn into big headaches.
Learn how to prevent mould in German homes with proper ventilation, heating, and humidity control. Includes Stoßlüften tips and seasonal guidance.
Minijobs and hired help Are you looking for services like cleaning, someone to look after the kids or help out with the gardening?The sites we list here are currently only available in German. You have the option to hire someone on a more permanent basis (minijob) or use a company
A tidy garden and proper recycling aren’t just nice-to-haves in Germany — they’re part of the culture. From pruning rules to navigating the recycling system without losing your sanity, this section breaks it down into simple, practical steps.
Garden Laws in Germany: A Quick Guide If you’re a proud plant parent or weekend weed warrior here in Germany, you might be surprised to find that your garden is subject to some pretty specific rules. This isn’t just about making things look neat — it’s about noise, nature, and
Waste disposal and recycling This is a general guide to waste disposal and recycling. Recycling and waste disposal rules can vary by town, so it’s essential to check the specific regulations in your area, like how bulky waste is collected. To make things easier, try searching for “Abfallkalender” or “Müllkalender”
A move in Germany is a little dance between logistics and paperwork. Alongside packing up your life, you’ll need to register your new address, update services, and make sure nothing falls through the cracks. It may feel like a lot — but with the right steps, it becomes manageable and even a little satisfying.
Moving from One Town to Another in Germany Moving within Germany, whether it’s to a neighbouring town or a different state, is a process that involves more than just packing up your belongings and setting up in a new home. German bureaucracy is known for its thoroughness, and to ensure
Pets Bringing your fur babies to a new country is both exciting and emotional Moving pets from South Africa to Germany comes with its own set of rules, and they often change. That’s why we’ve gathered up-to-date links to official guidelines so you can be sure you’re working with the latest information. We’ve also included trusted pet immigration services recommended by fellow South Africans, plus a section where people share their do-it-yourself success stories—perfect if
Internet, Television and mobile Most providers in Germany offer bundled packages that combine internet, mobile, and television services. Fibre optic (Glasfaser) internet is Germany’s fastest and most modern option, available in many cities and larger towns. It offers blazing speeds for streaming, video calls, and remote work. In some areas, cable internet is more prevalent and offers decent speeds, especially when combined with TV. For those living outside urban centres, DSL remains the most widely
If you plan to stay in Germany for longer than 3 months, you will need to register at your local Bürgeramt (Town office).This is called a Meldepflicht and is compulsory. More about the law can be found in BMG (in German) or in EnglishIt must be done within two weeks after moving into your residence. ” Anyone who moves into a residence shall register with the registration authorities within two weeks of moving in. (2) Anyone who moves out of a residence
You must be logged in to post a comment.