What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Cologne?

We asked people in Cologne if they could share any humorous cultural blunders they commited. For new expats, keep in mind that these incidents are an inevitable part of expat life. Learning to laugh about them is the key!...

"Yes, but it is really a language mistake. My wife was 7mos pregnant and we went to a Spa region to find a hotel to relax and unwind for a couple of days. I went in to ask about availability and told the hotel clerk I wanted my wife to be 'Verdorben'. I thought I was saying that I wanted to spoil her with a luxurous experience, but apparently it literally means to spoil (ie. go rotten) and in the case of people it means to have them move into less respectable professions (ie. corrupt). The clerk was a little surprised especially after my wife came in to check on me. We then had a good laugh once she cleared up that I was still practicing new uses for my new found language skills," remarked another expat who made the move to Cologne, Germany.

"It is important to be aware of cultural norms when visiting Cologne. It is considered impolite to be late for appointments or social engagements, so it is important to arrive on time. It is also important to dress appropriately for the occasion, as dressing too casually or too formally can be seen as disrespectful. Additionally, it is important to be aware of the local customs when it comes to greeting people. In Germany, it is customary to shake hands when greeting someone, and it is considered rude to hug or kiss someone you have just met. Finally, it is important to be aware of the local language and to avoid speaking English unless it is absolutely necessary," explained one expat living in Cologne, Germany.

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