German TV — Entertainment & Information In High Fidelity

February 6th, 2009

German TV has come into its own in the recent past. There are three options to receive the kind of rich programming you desire, with the ability to tailor your reception to your specific needs.

With German television, you can find broadcasts that stimulate the senses, broaden the outlook on life, and heighten your feeling of being a real part of the world scene. From your favorite shows to interesting takes on our society from those in the know, you can experience whatever cross-section of the world that you like.

National Public Television Broadcaster

ARD (Das Erste) produces popular programs such as the Tagesschau, a news broadcast. This is so popular, especially at 8, that a consensus among Germans is to never call someone at home between 8 and 8:15 in the evening, since it would interrupt their watching of this program.

ZDF (Zweites Deutsches Fernsehen) is the second largest broadcaster providing a program similar to that of the ARD.

Die Dritten (or The Third Networks) produce a number of programs that are popular with the German population. On these stations you can view documentaries, regional news and old movies. NDR (Norddeutscher Rundfunk), RBB (Rundfunk Berlin-Brandenburg), MDR (Mitteldeutscher Rundfunk), SWR (Südwestrundfunk), and WDR (Westdeutscher Rundfunk) are some of the German Third Television Networks.

Each serves its own region. For example, NDR serves northern Germany, MDR serves central Germany, WDR serves western Germany, and SWR covers south Germany.

Private (Commercial) Television Broadcaster

RTL Television, Germany’s largest private broadcaster, provides programming via antenna in larger population areas, and cable and satellite. Many US series are shown as well as news magazines, entertainment, comedy and sports (Formula 1, anyone? ;-).

Sat.1 is the second largest privately held, commercial broadcaster airing magazine programs, entertainment shows, talk shows and sport. They also have comedies shown regularly.

Some other stations include Pro 7 (a good movie channel, love it!), RTL II (movies, chit-chat, Big Brother), Kabel 1 (good ‘ol movies :-) and VOX (entertainment, movies).

EuroSport is the station for sports viewing, although they usually do not broadcast live events. For this you’ll need to switch to one of the larger TV channels mentioned above.

Two news stations are vital if you want to keep up-to-date on what’s going on in the world — n-tv and N24.

How To Receive German TV

Receipt of German television waves comes in three ways. Reception is via an antenna, through cable or by satellite. This is, of course, standard in virtually all parts of the world. But your concern could be in what language you can receive broadcasts.

In Germany, you won’t find many programs provided in the English language unless you are receiving via cable or satellite. If traveling and staying at the better hotels, you won’t have a problem getting one or the other.

If you do only have antenna reception where you are staying, you will still get anywhere from five to twenty-five channels but exclusively in the German language. If watching German TV is important to you on your vacation, you may have to select where you stay with care.

On cable television, you’ll find over 300+ channels. Of course, it does depend on exactly where you are located. You will be able to receive programs such as NBC Super Channel, CNN, BBC World and MTV in English, as well as several European channels.

With digital pay TV, on cable and satellite, you can find Premiere World which provides a large number of channels and packages that provide up to fourteen English language broadcasts.

When traveling, you would do best with satellite TV. With this you’ll receive a large number of high-quality broadcasts and numerous in English. You’ll find the hotels catering to tourists most often have satellite.

By the way, DW-TV — also known as Deutsche Welle, especially in radio — is the infamous German Television Broadcaster which is very popular in foreign countries. DW-TV educates the world about everything related to Germany — in high fidelity — and this in three languages: German, English and Spanish (spoken by natives).

German TV is going to assist you in keeping up with what is going on in the world. Even if you are on an extended trip through Germany, you will want to stay connected with German television.

Enjoy your travels while you stay informed. Let me know how it worked out for you! :-)

German Facts You Will Want To Know

February 6th, 2009

Learning as many German facts as possible is a good thing to do whether you live in Germany or are coming for a short or long visit. It makes you so much more knowledgeable in the ways of the country. You’ll fit right in.

Germany is on Central European Time or CET. If flying in, you can set your watch to the time announced by the flight attendant so you can begin operating on the correct time. To ask “What time is it?” in German, you say “Wie viel Uhr ist es?” Even if you slaughter it badly, they will figure out what you mean.

It would be a great idea to learn German numbers, so you can understand when someone answers your question about the time. The other words it would be good to know would be nach which is “past,” and vor which means “before.” If someone then says, “Es ist zwanzig nach vier,” you’ll know they mean it’s twenty past four.

If you arrive in Germany for the first time on a holiday, you’ll know it because the shops will be closed. We Germans celebrate holidays that are known throughout the world, such as Easter and Christmas. We also celebrate a Day of German Unity and a few others that are only recognized in Germany.

Of course, one of the most important German facts is knowing about the German weather. Perhaps for a vacation that will be less crowded and fairly pleasant weather-wise, you could choose spring to tour the country. Spring lasts from March to May. But summer is a great time too!

The German climate varies from North to South. In the summer in the north, the daytime temperatures don’t get much above 90 degrees. In the central regions, you should always be prepared for rainy days, because they are inevitable. The same is true for the south, although the temperatures here are mild throughout the year.

Don’t forget to familiarize yourself with German currency. The Euro is now this country’s money. If you still have some older coins or bills from earlier visits, you can exchange them at a bank. The Euro is equal to about 1.3 American dollars (but this changes regularly — always check it at the bank.)

Another important German fact is that the population of Germany is growing. It’s a popular place to live and work. There are over 82 million now. The vast majority of Germany is Caucasian but there are many of Turkish descent. Many refugees came to this country from the former Yugoslavia.

Germany’s capital is Berlin. This is a wonderful city to visit when coming to the country. But there is a lot of space to travel and view the picturesque landscapes. The total area of Germany is 357,021 square kilometers.

It’s a German fact that German folk love to talk on the phone. There were over 54 million main telephone lines in use as of 2003, with over 64 million mobile phones. Because this has no doubt grown since that time, you can imagine the amount of chatting going on right now!

Another interesting German fact is that German people consume the most beer in the world second only to the Irish. It averages out to 119 liters per person each year.

Germany has almost 700 wildlife parks, bird parks, animal reserves and the like (called Zoo or Zoologischer Garten). This makes for some exciting vacation destinations. The Berlin zoo, for example, is the largest zoo in the world!

Germany also has the highest amount of half-timbered houses of any country throughout the world. There are over two million homes built in this fashion. They are quaint and fit right into the countryside views.

It’s a pleasure to travel through Germany with a knowledge of interesting German facts to keep you company. It makes it that much more fun to experience a tour of the country and take in the feel of Germany.

Camping In Germany Is An Experience Not To Be Missed

February 5th, 2009

By camping Germany, you’ll discover the beauty of this wonderful country, as well as find a wide array of activities. No matter the section of country you have as a destination, there will be some great campsites available.

German camping isn’t just laying out under the stars, gazing up at the wide spaces and twinkling lights. Many activities await you, such as sailing, motor boating, golf, hiking and horseback riding.

Divide up the country in sections and explore your options. There are areas to look into such as Bremen in the northwest, Baden-Württemberg and Hesse in the southwest, Bavaria in the south-east, and Lower Saxony and Thuringia in the central part of the country. In all regions you’ll find campsites to fit your every need.

Eurocamp has a number of sites throughout Germany that provide great views and comfortable camps when camping Germany. Three of their sites are in the Black Forest, a region which lies along the Swiss and French borders. The Black Forest is a place of fragrant pines and even incredible castles.

When you are in the Black Forest area, you should make it a point to check out some of its cities as well as villages. You can view a thirteenth century cathedral in Freiburg im Breisgau, or stop by Heidelberg to see some fairytale settings. The mountains will welcome you “home” after a long day of sightseeing, with your camp inviting and comfortable. :-)

The Moselle region of Germany is another famous place to visit. You won’t find a lack of campsites either. Enjoy the steep vineyards and riverside towns as you hike here and there.

Camping Germany wouldn’t be complete without heading north to Berger Lake. Water sport lovers will find they can pitch their tent right by the water, then take part in some surfing, boating and even archery.

One of the most famous sites to camp is the Mühlleiten campsite in the heart of the German Alps. Here in the Berchtesgadener Land you will experience the magnificent views, plenty of outdoor recreation of all kinds, and create a most wonderful holiday for you and your family.

Camping is inexpensive too. It’s much more economical than staying in a hotel or even a hostel. Most campsites in Germany average about €20 – €30 a day for one car or caravan with 3 persons, and about half that price when camping with a tent.

There are a number of tips to make your experience an enjoyable one, and leave your site fit for the next person. Try and use existing campsites and set up your tent on areas with no vegetation. Don’t dig any trenches and tear up the landscape.

When camping Germany, it’s expected you will follow all fire restrictions. Only use fallen timber for your campfire, and use existing fire rings that are specifically for this purpose. Remove all brush and grass and twigs within a ten-foot diameter.

To preserve our environment, don’t wash with soaps or detergents within 200 feet of streams and lakes. When you have “gray” or dirty water, scatter it about so it absorbs into the soil.

Camping can be a whole new experience for some. You should always use common sense and follow any safety measures to make your trip the best.

Camping in Germany makes for a wonderful getaway for anyone, young or old. You will spend some time appreciating nature and shedding those workaday worries from the daily routine.

Schorndorf — Great Mix Of History And Recreational Enjoyment

February 4th, 2009

While walking across Schorndorf’s market square, you’ll find a carefully balanced mixture of old and new elements. Old Town is a protected historical site, but there is a newly structured shopping center nearby.

This town is one of the most prominent on the Deutsche Fachwerkstraße (German Framework Route). The only timbered ancestry is some of the finest in Germany.

Among the historical sites is a pharmacy that has existed in the Palmsche Apotheke since 1644. There have been minor changes to the original structure over the years, and in 1976-1979 it was demolished an rebuilt, but the structure keeps its original integrity. They even used the original timbered structuring for the facade.

Schorndorf has also restored the home of Gottlieb Daimler, the famous inventor that was native to the town. The first floor of the home is a museum that demonstrates his automotive creativity. His wife, Frau Daimler, offers guide tours through the home while dressed in historic period costume.

The guide goes backwards in time to the end of the late nineteenth century and even takes you to Frau Daimler’s husband Alter (old man), as she used to call him. You can meet the man behind the inventions on this fascinating tour.

The historical former L&C Arnold iron furniture factory presently houses the galleries for the Art and Technology Museum, where you can see how art and technology contribute to one another. Paul Strahle, a civil aviation pioneer, Ernest Heinkel, aircraft constructor, and Gottlieb Daimler, are the focus of the technical section of the museum. Construction, modern technology, and new materials are just some of the other items in this uniquely fascinating gallery.

But Schorndorf isn’t just a large collection of history. For those looking for athletic activity, the town hosts a range of sports and outdoor recreation. You can enjoy skiing, snowboarding, hiking, biking, swimming, and gymnastics, just to mention a few.

The nearby Swabian forest offers a plethora of delights for any explorer. After a wonderful day of movement, why not eat delicious local food at one of the local restaurants, and then stay in an old-fashioned or an elegant Hotel. :-)

German Education — Opportunities For A Better Life

February 3rd, 2009

As you explore German education, you’ll find that the 13 years of compulsory education within the country provide incredible opportunities for your child. Germany allows for both the gifted and the challenged. The country intends to provide quality education to all children no matter their age.

Education in Germany comes under the regulation of the various German states. The federal government has only a very minor role in the education of German children. Within the 16 states in Germany, each state has its own school system, and the curriculum can vary greatly, although the organization varies little.

Home schooling isn’t permitted in Germany. However, if a child is suffering from some type of illness that prevents his or her attendance, an exemption may be granted. Also if foreign families want to school their child for a short time in their own language, the German state may grant permission.

The grading system in Germany doesn’t differ very much from others throughout the world. There’s a grading system from one to six, with one being high. Six is failing.

All children born in the same year enter the same grade. This remains the same up through secondary school. Sometimes classes are split when there are a choice of subjects, such as additional languages, etc.

Children of three to six can do kindergarten, which prepares them for elementary school. Kindergarten is voluntary in German education, however. It can last from four to six years, but this depends on the state.

Elementary school is for years 1 to 4 in the schooling years. There’s a choice of schools for parents, including the state school, the Waldorf School, Montessori and free alternative schools. There are also, of course, religious schools.

In years 5 to 6, a child can attend the German education orientation phase or the Orientierunsstufe. At this time, parents and teachers work out which track the child should pursue within his or her education. They may recommend math, science, languages or others.

Secondary school is divided into four options. A child may attend the Hauptschule, preparing for vocational studies; the Realschule, which has a broader emphasis; the Gymnasium, for gifted students or the Gesamtschule, which is a comprehensive school, including the other three approaches in one system.

With education in Germany, the kids can expect to have learning English mandatory. The amount of study of foreign languages differs from state to state, but it always starts young.

Studies for gifted students are available in every German state, but the forms are different in some. It’s good to know that each state does cater to those who are gifted in order to enhance their future knowledge.

So that high school students can enter the university, all are required to take examinations. The Abitur exam is one of these. There also is a special apprenticeship program which allows students to learn within a real working environment.

When starting your child in the German education system, it’s good to know the basics. But be aware that the systems change from state to state, sometimes so much that it’s best not to move around and give your child a disadvantage.

German education is of a quality that makes it wonderful for a child of any age. And quality education early on makes for a bright and prosperous future.

Health Care In Germany Equals High Quality Care

February 3rd, 2009

All of Germany residents have the opportunity to experience excellent health care in Germany. The universal access available makes healthy living readily yours. It is probably the best in all the world.

When working in Germany, and earning below €3,862 monthly, you will need to join a statutory sickness fund. This doesn’t include you if you are a permanent civil servant or are self-employed, however.

Those who make enough income invariably opt to get private insurance, but many like to stay in the state system. Only about 10% go with private insurance. The cost isn’t cheap no matter which way you go, yet private insurance is usually cheaper.

Sickness funds within the health care in Germany usually are based on a percentage of income. The average is 14% but vary somewhat from fund to fund.

Since this German system is considered one of the best in the world, it could be that it’s worth whatever you put into it. The extensive network of hospitals and numerous doctors makes it simple to get the care you need.

Hate waiting lines? You won’t find them here! You won’t go on waiting lists for the latest treatment, since the top medical facilities fall under the statutory health insurance coverage. And everyone has access to this system, no matter his or her income or status in society.

Health care costs are very expensive for doctors, hospital stays and medicines, though. If you are going to pay out of pocket, you’ll find it is the most expensive in the world. And all care must be paid for, by you personally or your insurance. Nothing is free.

Because health care in Germany is so expensive, if you are a traveler, you should most certainly make sure you come with a full health care insurance of some kind. If in an accident or getting ill, you may find yourself in a financial disaster.

When workers have such a large percentage taken from their income, they make demanding patients, as they expect fast treatment and much value for their hard-earned money. They can easily go elsewhere if they don’t like the service they get in one clinic or doctor’s office.

It’s easy to make a choice of a doctor right for you, because a German is free to go to any doctor they like. They can even just walk in off the street, or call up for a same-day appointment.

If you want to see a specialist for some reason, you don’t need to go to a general practitioner first. You would need to see a GP first if entering a hospital for a stay (unless you suffer from a heavy injury or accident, of course). You won’t find many out-patient services in German hospitals.

Compared to other countries, Germany perhaps has the most practicing specialists than anywhere else. In the UK, there are about 1.5 specialists to every one thousand people. In Germany it’s 2.3 to every thousand.

Although rich people pay more into the health care in Germany to subsidize the poor, this system is very successful. It is the oldest and most established of universal health care methods.

You will be assured when traveling or living in Germany that you will have the best of care. Health care in Germany is one of the best obtainable, and although you will hope you won’t need to take advantage of it for some emergency, it’s good to know it’s there.

German Banking — Manage Your Financial Security

February 2nd, 2009

German banking is the ideal way to stay in control of your finances. Just like anywhere in the world, banking is how you keep tabs on your money and keep it safe.

If you are going to stay in Germany for any length of time, and will need to pay your rent or other bills, opening a bank account is the way to go. It’s easy to maintain an account and doesn’t cost much either (sometimes for free).

You’ll need to call the bank where you intend to do business for an appointment. Then when you leave home to start your adventure in opening an account, you will need to be sure to take your passport with you. Of course, you’ll also have to have some cash for an initial deposit. You should also have proof of your address.

If you don’t have cash, that’s okay. Transferring money from another bank in another country may take a bit longer, but it will still be done.

When you enter the bank, watch for the signs so you know what window to go to. For a money exchange, look for Geldwechsel, for the cashier’s window or a teller, look for Kasse, and for the checking or savings account, the sign will read Girokonto or Sparkonto.

You may want to start your German banking experience with a checking account or Girokonto. With this type of account, you can make deposits or withdrawals anytime you like. It’s the best account to have if paying bills or when you need fast cash.

A Sparbuch or savings account is the way to go if you want to earn interest on your money and put it aside for a time. Depending on the amount you want to withdraw, you may need to give prior notice (possibly up to three months) beforehand without losing interest. The rule is usually that you may only withdraw up to €2000 in a month without notice.

Before beginning your German banking with one bank, shop around a bit. Sometimes banks will reduce their costs or lessen rules in order to attract more customers. Be wise in checking out a number of different options.

You often will have to transfer money from one account to another, and there are three ways to do this. You can fill out a form and do a regular transfer (called a Überweisung), you can set up a Dauerauftrag or a standing order when you have a set amount to transfer each month, or you can do a direct debit or Lastschrift when an amount needs to be paid each month of a varying sum.

The cost to maintain an account should be investigated with each individual bank, when you are setting up your German banking accounts. Most banks charge a monthly fee, but others are free. You’ll find a one-time fee for some transactions. If you are a student or are on a fixed income, you will often get a free account.

A great perk to almost any bank account is, of course, the bank card you get. Your bank will almost certainly issue you a card, called an EuroCheque card, also known commonly as an EC-Karte or simply EC card. This is where you can use a card at Automatic Teller Machines to withdraw money from your account.

The EC cards can also be used as a debit card. These are usually accepted in more locations than even normal credit cards. When you use these cards at your own bank, or in a bank within the society, it’s usually free of charge. If you use them at another bank within Germany or in other countries, it will carry a charge.

You’ll find that you will also be able to use credit cards in Automatic Tellers, which makes it simple to get some cash advances no matter where you are. If you like convenience, you got it! ;-)

There are many German banks you can do business with. The largest are Deutsche Bank, Commerzbank, Dresdner Bank, DZ Bank, Landesbank Baden-Württemberg (LBBW), KfW Bankengruppe, HVB Group, BayernLB, WestLB and Eurohypo.

Like anywhere in the world, German banking is a smart way to protect your money yet have access to funds when you need them. Open a bank account and be confident you have the control you need over your finances.

German Politics Are An Important Aspect Of Germany

February 2nd, 2009

German politics covers every aspect of German living. As you learn important facts about this most fascinating country, you can live better and smarter.

One aspect of German politics is how the country is divided. The Federal Republic of Germany is divided into sixteen states. Most frequently, the former area of East Germany is referred to as the new states (neue Länder) and the western part as the old states (alte Länder).

The Federal Chancellor is the head of government in Germany, which is equivalent to Prime Minister in parliamentary government systems. The first female German Chancellor (Angela Merkel) was elected in 2005.

The labor class in Germany is cared for by German employment law. This law maintains good relations between employers and their staff by providing contracts about salary, benefits and vacations, etc, as well as establishing other rates and rules.

The German government consists of a federal parliamentary representative democratic republic, with the German Chancellor the head. (We also have a President, but his or her role is more of representative nature.) Executive power is exercised by this government, while legislative power is exercised by the government and the parliament.

When you look into German politics, you’ll come upon the importance of import and export within the country. Imports don’t have the high totals of exports in Germany, but they still totaled as much as €452 billion in 2003. With the further growth over the next years, it still can’t outdo the export business.

Exports are big in Germany, accounting for billions upon billions of dollars. Some of the main exports include vehicles, chemicals, machinery and beer.

In reviewing German politics, it is often important to look into the education system. The federal government plays a minor role in relation to each individual state. The grading system is in numerical value, with a one being high. School attendance is required for 10 or 9 years (depending on the federal state).

A passport is an important part of life for the person who loves to travel. German nationals are issued one for international travel, and it is recognized by most EU authorities as identification. They are valid for ten years; although, with less formalities, one can get a temporary passport valid for one year, too.

If you are a resident outside of Europe, you will need to apply for a visa to Germany if you want to study or work here. If you are coming and planning a visit for more than 90 days, you will also need a visa.

Grab a German newspaper to study up on the current German politics and news of the day. The largest newsweekly in Germany is Spiegel. For official news out of the federal government, check out Bundesregierung Deutschland.

This country is a romantic place to tie the knot. If you want to be married in Germany, you will need to show ID, like your passport and a copy of your birth certificate. You’ll also need a Certificate of Free Status, or a confirmation from your embassy that says you are eligible. Get an appointment with the Embassy in your home country or in Germany to find out all the requirements.

The German military is not much different from that of other countries throughout the world. Germany has an army, air force and navy. The Luftwaffe or German Air Force is currently under a revision based on current and future needs.

German politics covers a wide gamut. Studying up on Germany simply requires a bit of research and reading. Once you are familiar with this most diversified country, you’ll find it enhances your enjoyment of Germany.

A German Visa Makes Visiting Germany Sound

February 2nd, 2009

Obtaining a German visa is important under certain circumstances and you’ll want to ensure you know the rules. There’s no sense in breaking any laws. If you do, your visit could be tragic.

It depends on the purpose of your stay within Germany that determines whether or not you need a visa. You can get student visas, business visas, tourist visas, and others.

Another factor in the necessity to obtain a visa is your citizenship. If you are from another EU country, coming for a visit or work, you won’t need one. If you are a US citizen, for example, you will. Most of the African and Asian countries do have the need to get a visa even for a short visit, however.

But the length of time of your stay is one of the most vital factors. If you are coming to Germany for a stay of less than 90 days, you won’t need a German visa but must, of course, have a valid passport.

When you want to come to work in Germany and are not an EU citizen, you will need a visa in order to apply for a job. There are a number of rules regarding work permits and applications that you should be aware of so you abide by all the laws and don’t have trouble and waste time.

Right now, you basically have a “one-stop shop” for your application process needs. When you go to the Aliens Office (German: Ausländeramt) this organization simultaneously regulates the whole procedure. You won’t be able to get your residence permit without first having a decision made on your work permit.

When you are in your home country and want to arrive in Germany to begin looking for work, the best thing to do is to go to the German consulate in your home country and get your German visa there. This makes it not only less complex and usually faster, it is strongly encouraged as you will likely not receive a visa when applying for it in Germany!

You’ll likely need to get a local person who will cover the costs in case you are expelled from Germany for some reason. This is only a formality. Certainly you won’t get yourself expelled! Or I would certainly hope not!

So whether a tourist or coming to Germany for business, without a visa you can stay up to three months. But these periods are only granted once in a six-month period. This is also called the 90-day/twice-a-year rule.

You can’t extend your visa unless there is a circumstance which would make it completely necessary. If you get into a situation where you are unable to travel, get hospitalized or are summoned for court, you might get an extension. But remember, Germany is very strict on these exceptions.

Documentation you’ll need is an important thing to know when applying for your German visa. Of course, there’s the passport. But you also must have a passport valid for three months beyond the end of the period you are applying for. There must also be a blank page for the visa.

You’ll also need application forms (one each for the number of travelers), 2 passport photos, proof of financial support and medical insurance, and proof of purpose of visit. Call the German consulate in your home country to find what other papers may be required.

Whatever your reason for going to Germany for a length of time, it’s always a good idea to do it right the first time. It’s not fun to use up time and energy trying to correct errors in paperwork. That’s time you could spend enjoying German hospitality. ;-)

A German visa is a necessity in some circumstances. Don’t be intimidated by the legalities. Get your visa and be off to one of the most beautiful countries in the world.

German Business Is The Perfect Option For Expansion

February 2nd, 2009

German business thrives, even when a downturn in the world market is happening. With so many companies and small businesses expanding each year, it’s no surprise many come to Germany to achieve greatness.

Joining as a partner with a business in Germany or starting your own company or small German business, you have a number of options in either category. You should research thoroughly, and of course would do so, before embarking on any investment of time or money.

The German economy is the largest economy in Europe and fourth in terms of US dollar exchange rate. And Germany is the leading exporter in the world of merchandise. When you are looking for stability, you’ve found it here.

German companies number in the hundreds, for the larger corporations. One example is Bertelsmann AG, based in Gütersloh and operating in 63 countries. They employ over 102,000 people. Of course you also have the big car manufacturers like BMW and Mercedes-Benz.

There are technologies abound in German business. Of course they have well-established environmental technology extending into the international markets. Mechanical engineering is competitive with the world’s industries and nano-technology, IT and other high-tech divisions are growing rapidly.

The perfect way to promote your business, no matter what it is, is to join in trade shows. These proliferate through Germany. Some examples are ICT trade shows in Hanover, a sporting goods trade show held in Munich, and the world’s largest travel trade show each year in Berlin. There are many various kinds held every year in different German cities.

If you love finance, you’ll want to explore the German stock exchange. One of the largest in the world is the Frankfurt Stock Exchange and is known as the most efficient. Always open to foreign investors and other participants, the German stock market is something to keep an eye on.

Besides looking for your own home, German real estate can hold your interest as far as making some good investments. It’s always somewhat of a risk when getting into the real estate arena, but can be quite profitable in the long term. The properties in Germany range from small single family homes to castles on a mountain.

All along the skylines of Frankfurt am Main you’ll see the towers of German banking. Frankfurt is truly the financial capital in this country, besides the fact that the European Central Bank is located here, too.

German engineering seems to be champion of the industry. The engineering industry here is the number one exporter the world over. It’s been reported that over 3,000 companies sold products to foreign customers in 2004, totaling over €97 billion.

What if you are an inventor at heart and want to get a German patent? It’s easy in Germany. You get a patent attorney who will assist you in obtaining one. In Germany, you must have this specially designated attorney in order to obtain a patent.

To work in Germany is a true pleasure, with the open arms of this conducive-to-business country. Jobs are easy to come by, companies are easy to work for, and you can even set up your own German business without too much hassle.

German business leads the world in many ways. It’s an area to look into when a resident and wanting to start your own business or if moving to Germany to live.

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