7 Tips for Living in Hannover

This is a must read if you're moving to Hannover or thinking about moving there.

1. Learn the Language

While many Germans speak English, learning the local language will make your life easier and more enjoyable. It will help you to connect with locals, understand the culture, and navigate daily life. Hannover is known for its 'Hochdeutsch' or 'High German', which is considered the purest form of the language. There are many language schools in the city where you can take classes, such as the Volkshochschule Hannover or the Goethe-Institut.

2. Explore the Neighborhoods

Hannover is a city of diverse neighborhoods, each with its own unique character. The city center, or 'Mitte', is the heart of Hannover, filled with shops, restaurants, and historic sites. List is a trendy neighborhood known for its boutiques and cafes, while Linden is a vibrant, multicultural area with a lively arts scene. Südstadt is a quiet, residential neighborhood with beautiful old buildings and parks. Spend time exploring each neighborhood to find the one that feels like home to you.

3. Enjoy the Local Cuisine

Germany is known for its hearty cuisine, and Hannover is no exception. Be sure to try local specialties like 'Currywurst', a type of sausage served with curry ketchup, or 'Grünkohl', a kale dish often served with sausage. There are many great restaurants in Hannover where you can sample these dishes and more. For a traditional German meal, try the Gasthaus Müller or the Brauhaus Ernst August. For something a bit more modern, check out 11A Küchen mit Garten, which offers a contemporary take on German cuisine.

4. Take Advantage of Public Transportation

Hannover has an excellent public transportation system, which includes trams, buses, and a subway. The system is efficient, reliable, and covers the entire city and surrounding areas. It's also quite affordable, especially if you purchase a monthly pass. This will not only save you money, but also the hassle of finding and paying for parking in the city.

5. Immerse Yourself in the Culture

One of the best ways to feel at home in a new city is to immerse yourself in the local culture. In Hannover, this could mean attending a performance at the Staatsoper Hannover, visiting the Sprengel Museum to see works by modern and contemporary artists, or taking a stroll through the Herrenhausen Gardens, one of the most important baroque gardens in Europe. You could also attend one of the many festivals that take place in the city throughout the year, such as the Maschsee Lake Festival or the Hannover Schützenfest, the largest marksmen's funfair in the world.

6. Connect with Other Expats

While it's important to integrate into the local culture, connecting with other expats can also be very helpful. They can provide advice, support, and a sense of community. There are many expat groups in Hannover, both online and offline, where you can meet people who are going through the same experiences as you. These groups often organize social events, language exchanges, and other activities.

7. Stay Active

Staying active is not only good for your health, but also a great way to meet people and explore the city. Hannover is a very bike-friendly city, with many dedicated bike lanes and paths. The Eilenriede, a large city forest, is a great place for biking, walking, or jogging. There are also many sports clubs in the city, offering everything from soccer and tennis to yoga and dance. Find an activity you enjoy and make it a part of your routine.

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With Cigna Global Health Options, you can create an international health insurance plan that's perfectly tailored for the needs of you and your family. We provide the reassurance of comprehensive core cover, and the flexibility of adding as many extra benefits as you want to ensure you have a plan perfectly suited to your needs.
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