A travel to Germany is not like any other destination that you may have visited. Germany is among the most attractive countries for visitors in the world. Germany is famous for its rich nature and interesting landscapes. You can discover partly unique flora and fauna in the many natural parks, biosphere reserves, and national parks. Whether on foot, on horseback, or by other means, explore protected nature and enjoy biodiversity and deep relaxation.

1. When to travel to Germany?

The variable climate holds many surprises throughout the year. The period between May and October is the most reliable and logically corresponds to the tourist season. Autumn and spring can turn out to be less frequented by tourists and sometimes provide very pleasant weather. Skiing enthusiasts will prefer February when snow falls most frequently. Certain festivals and cultural events can provide the pretext for a getaway to Germany, whether it's an Oktoberfest or a big exhibition in Berlin or Munich.

2. Travel to Germany, accommodation

You have the choice when it comes to accommodation in Germany. From hostels and campsites to family-run hotel chains, luxury hotels, and apartment rentals. It is necessary to book between June and September, around the periods of festivals, and cultural events.

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2.1 Hotels

There are several categories of hotels, from family chains located on the outskirts to design hotels in the city center. You can expect a clean room, even in the cheapest places. In very low-cost hotels, sometimes expect shared bathrooms. If you are the romantic type, try booking a Schlosshotel, a room in a castle.

2.2 Campsites

Pitches often well located, on the edge of a lake or forest, or even the two. They include showers generally free. Wifi nevertheless random. Disadvantage: sometimes far from interesting towns.Obtain the map of campsites in Germany (there are more than 2,000) from information centers in major cities.The reception of the campsites is generally closed from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.

2.3 Hostels

Germany has 600 hostels, open to people of all ages, although more popular with school and sports groups. Many have been recently renovated but retain a somewhat conventional appearance. Most hostels can accommodate people with reduced mobility. The dormitory prices range from 10 to 25 $ per night, bed linen, and breakfast included.

2.4 Homestay rooms

A solution that will save more than one. First, it's cheaper than the hotel; and above all, it is found everywhere, both in town and in the countryside where the formula is quite widespread. Look out for the signs "Zimmer Frei" or "Fremdenzimmer" on the roads or ask the local tourist offices for the addresses of the inhabitants ready to welcome tourists. Note that the price is cheaper in the countryside, comparing to cities.

3. Travel to Germany; food

German food usually consists of meat with some form of potato and sauce, accompanied by salad. Modern German cuisine has been influenced by other neighboring European countries such as Italy and France. The dishes show a great local diversity that it is interesting to discover.As most large employers have a canteen for their employees, you will find the Gasthaus / Gasthof and restaurants dominate relatively few sandwich shops and takeaways and Germany.

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4. Travel to Germany; drinking

In Germany, “water” is almost always understood as carbonated. If you can't stand bubbles, insist on having Wasser stilles (still water) or ask for tap water (Leitungswasser).And note that in Germany, beer is cheaper than water! You will have half a liter of beer, while you will need 5 to have the same amount of water! In the restaurant, you can easily recognize the local people. Whether they are having a business dinner, a romantic dinner, or a 4-7 with girls, they don't go for fancy cocktails or a glass of wine: it's beer always, all the time. Moreover, "Biergarten" are very popular in the country.

5. Travel to Germany; transportation

Getting around in Germany will certainly be part of your daily life when you travel to Germany. The country has a large public transport network. You can choose according to your needs and budget; most German cities are well served and have their own public transport network (trains, subways, trams, buses, taxis, etc.). More clearly, the car is not necessary in some cities, thanks to the development of carpooling and simply car rental. Cycling is also popular across the country, not only for getting around quickly but also for saving money.

5.1 The bus

The bus is one of the cheapest means of transport in Germany. Some companies not only connect different German cities and suburbs but also offer longer trips to neighboring countries.Note that most German buses are quite regular and comfortable. You can buy tickets online or from the vending machines, which you will find at the station.

5.2 Taxis

The taximeter is compulsory. Prices vary from city to city and consist of a pick-up, and a price per kilometer traveled.In most big cities, there are taxis for women who are afraid of driving at night. You can call them after 9 p.m. specifying that you want a Frauen-Taxi. The prices are equivalent to those of the bus journeys.

5.3 Train

For long journeys in Germany, prefer the train, day or night. The country has different types of trains, and Deutsche Bahn operates the rail network. Among the regional and intercity trains, you will find the Regional-Express, S-Bahn, InterCity, etc., which connect the main German cities and regions. The InterCity also operates international connections. Besides, high-speed trains such as Railjet, Thalys, ICE trains, etc. connect major German cities with neighboring countries such as France, Belgium, Austria, and Hungary.

5.4 Carpooling

Like everywhere in Europe, hitchhiking has fallen into disuse. On the other hand, carpooling is well developed and remains very economical.

5.5 Bicycle

Cycling is another environmentally friendly and convenient form of transport in Germany, as in many major European cities. Cyclists are legion in some towns, thanks to the installation of cycle paths.You can easily buy a bicycle while saving money if you buy second-hand, for example, from major websites like eBay Kleineinzeigen.If you don't want to buy a bike, turn to the major cities' bike rental agencies. You will also find inexpensive and efficient local bicycle-sharing networks. Bicycle.

6. Language

While communication in English is not a problem in large cities, it can be more difficult in smaller towns or less touristy places. More curious, some tourism professionals understand nothing other than German.

7. Safety

Germany is considered a safe European country, but like any country in the world, you must take all necessary precautions to ensure safety, do not wear jewelry, and what draws attention in public places. It is also necessary to stay away from remote and dark places during the night, and if you encounter a problem, you can contact a police help on the number 110, and the ambulance and fire service on the number 112.

Originally published on Live Positively.