An American taking a trip to Germany, what faux pas do I need to avoid?

[OhioStateBuckeye]

I am going on a trip in June to visit one of my friends who has recently moved to Stuttgart, Germany. I was reading some travel boards and came across a thread that I wanted to ask about. Seeing as how I don't really personally know many people from Europe, I thought I might try asking here and see if anyone is so kind as to answer my questions.

Is it really true that most European women don't wear shorts?? It just seemed like such an out there thing, I am 28 and lots of people my age still wear shorts in the summertime in the US. If this is true, are there any other little fashion or etiquette no nos that I don't know about?

 

[ariel_]

I've been to Germany in the summer and I don't remember that being the case!
I can't speak for the whole of Europe but I live in Scotland and on the few sunny days we get a year people go out wearing as little as possible to make the most of it

 

[Netty]

I am going on a trip in June to visit one of my friends who has recently moved to Stuttgart, Germany. I was reading some travel boards and came across a thread that I wanted to ask about. Seeing as how I don't really personally know many people from Europe, I thought I might try asking here and see if anyone is so kind as to answer my questions.

Is it really true that most European women don't wear shorts?? It just seemed like such an out there thing, I am 28 and lots of people my age still wear shorts in the summertime in the US. If this is true, are there any other little fashion or etiquette no nos that I don't know about?

I have lived in germany and my brother still lives there.
yes they do wear shorts! you will be fine with what ever you usually wear in the US

 

[Pegasus928]

Shorts are fine throughout all of Europe - and as I remember it when I lived in Germany they are quite liberal about most things.

Just don't mention the war (I did it once but I think I got away with it )

 

[dolphingirl47]

I am German, but have lived in the UK for the past 15 years. Women most certainly do wear shorts in Germany. The only place where you have to be a bit careful is if you want to visit any of the big cathedrals, when knees and shoulders should be covered. Apart from this, Germany is very liberal.

Other than that, Germany is a very liberal country. Large parts of Germany had an American military presence up to the 1990 so is well used to Americans and as a rule, Americans are well liked. Most people in my generation (30s and 40s) and younger speak at least some English. In my parents generation, it is a little bit more difficult, but you should find somebody who speaks at least a little English almost everywhere.

Corinna

 

[SettinSail]

Hi! I just happened to stumble across this thread...I am an American currently living in Stuttgart, Germany. There is a HUGE American community here, both with the military and private industry. There are actually people from all over the world living in Stuttgart. You do see Germans and Europeans wearing shorts as well as capri pants. Germans almost always look very smartly dressed. Even if it's not the latest fashion, it will be a well put together outfit. The clothes here are worn a little tighter than what we see in the US too. You won't see any short-shorts or sloppy clothes or things like T-shirts. You know how in the US, you can throw on sweats and go to the store if you have to? You would NEVER see that here. The biggest no-no I think is wearing tennis shoes in public - generally nobody in Germany and much of Europe wears tennis shoes unless they are exercising.
Sometimes I do get lazy and just feel like wearing my tennis shoes and I do!
I know that a few people will stare at me and give me weird looks but I've gotten used to it. Ballet flats or small heels are the most popular shoes here but I can't walk around all day in those. You might consider bringing a lightweight jacket as it can sometimes get cool even in June. Tuck some scarves into your luggage too, they are very popular here. Honestly, you will be fine with whatever you wear. I would get a German phrase book and try to learn a few common phrases, esp for ordering in restaurants. Most Germans, esp the younger ones can speak atleast some English but they do appreciate it so much if you try a little German too. Go to Cafe Schlossblick for a great view of downtown. Amadeus is also a great restaurant near the main train station downtown. Be aware that there are weekly protests downtown every Monday against the building of a new train station!

Have a great visit!
Shawn