re: Germany for work and vacation

First off, Germans come across as not the most warm and inviting people. They aren't typically inviting, flirtatious, or overly friendly when you first meet them. However, after they warm up to you, it becomes more laxed.

Be punctual. Germans, unlike a lot of Europe and the US, are extremely punctual. They are also extremely efficient. There is no lolly-gagging or half-assing around.

Germans do not understand the idea of "small talk". It simply doesn't exist. If you come up and act warm and friendly, they will come off as rude. It is simply a cultural misunderstanding.

Address people by their title....Professor, Doctor, Attorney, etc.

Public transportation is one of the best. It's efficient, easy, and on-time.

No jaywalking. Basically, that discourteous shite we do in America doesn't fly there. Follow the rules! People will get really angry and think of you as an a-hole. Follow the rules. Everyone else does it.

Breakfast, as others mentioned, will be a variety of breads, cold meats, and cheeses. You'll probably find some cereal, nutella, and other jams/spreads as well. I've found lunch to be a bigger deal than the other meals. When the clock strikes 12:00, people take lunch. It's typically a hot meal. Supper could be more of a cold or hot meal. It just depends.

Drink great lagers. Eat the currywurst. Follow the rules. Be respectful, but not that annoying Southern loudmouth that we all know and hate. When meeting someone, act as if you're meeting your future father and mother in-law. Be on time - they will not wait around for stragglers. Be more neat and well-kept than you'd initially think.