Welcome to Germany is a practical tool for newcomers, providing them with the information they need to settle into German life quickly. It is far from exhaustive, but we hope it will answer the most recurrent questions concerning moving to Germany on a professional assignment.

Germany is divided into 16 States called Bundesländer. Being a decentralised country, every Bundesland has its own government and a lot of autonomy in taking decisions.

As is the case in most countries, Germany differs greatly from north to south and in the various areas.

Bavaria in the south is a beer paradise with its capital Munich, worldwide known for the annual "Oktoberfest" which takes place acutally in September. Good wines and lovely vineyards can be found throughout the country and charming areas especially along the rivers Moselle and Rhine. Northern Germany has interesting harbour-towns and marvelous coastal areas with picturesque islands; the area around Dusseldorf, in contrast, is much more urban, one big city flows into another and big fares are held in that area. It is also known for its colourful carnival.

Germany has a very efficient public transportation net, in and outside the cities.

Did you know that Germany borders with 9 different countries? So you can find wonderful getaways experiencing other cultures even for a weekend. Germans love traveling to their neighboring countries.

Likewise there are countless activities in Germany you can pursue in your free time: for example hiking and skiing in the mountainous regions of the south or sailing in the north. And there are plenty of lakes all over Germany for swimming and surfing. Last not least tennis is a very popular sport in the entire country. Fitness clubs and spas are very much in fashion and found in every town.

Also in terms of history and culture, Germany has a lot to offer. Visit the splendid castle of Neuschwanstein in Bavaria and enjoy wandering around the streets of Germany´ s capital Berlin with its eventful past and present. Just to name a few possibilities.

Germans are known to be quite puncutal and correct in business matters. Sometimes they are rather serious, but don´t be intimidated: it is not difficult to make them smile...