Sunday, September 1, 2013

Germany, France, Netherlands, Switzerland, Belgium and England.?

Germany, France, Netherlands, Switzerland, Belgium and England.?
Over the summer im going to Germany, France, Netherlands, Switzerland, Belgium, and England. Im going with a group of people (called People to People, we're exchange students) and we will be there for 22 days. Im not really sure what to expect. How do people act, are they nice, what do they eat, whats on tv, what are some things I should see while im there, things like that. Any help will be appreciated. Thanks.
Other - Europe - 6 Answers
Random Answers, Critics, Comments, Opinions :
1 :
Europeans generally do not act warm and friendly. They think Americans are weird because we act like we are friends with people we do not know. Several things to keep in mind: 1. Europeans prefer people who are peaceful and quiet. The more brash you are, the more they will think of you as an ugly American. 2. Do not ask them how they are when you meet them or see them. Just say "It is a pleasure to meet you." 3. To be welcomed, ask about them and their culture. Most Americans do not do that; Americans like to talk about how we are and compare everything to how it is in America. As for food, it is not unlike the USA, especially if you eat in nice places. They eat some things we do not, like quail eggs. I never got used to quail eggs. They also eat a lot of game animals like deer and elk. It's good. As for what to see, their churches are amazing; many of them have been around for 800 years or so. The museums are good, the architecture can be good, and there are lots of other good places that the locals can tell you about. Have fun!
2 :
Germany is nice. The people are okay. There's McDonalds everywhere! CNN is available on most TVs. There are American sitcoms, but they are in the language of the country. Your English will be enough in most places, but learning some German will help you in Germany, Switzerland, and some parts of the Netherlands. 22 days! Nothing to worry about! You're going through all of these countries in 22 days....you're going to be too tired to worry!!!! Grin! Have Fun! I know you will.
3 :
If you are an American expect to be treated horribly. Especially by the French or Germans.
4 :
mlmar625 your so ignorant!!! grow up and learn some culture. I'm from the uk and have always gone to Europe, (I have been to america as well) europes amazing and so is everyone there, just because youve had a few bad experiences doesnt mean you can judge everyone and everywhere. just learn a few phrases to be polite like thankyou, sorry, hello, goodbye. When I went to germany you had to have your hands on the table at all times (proboby only really posh places though) eat bratwurst :) I loved the food there. have an amaazing time im jelous :P
5 :
Europe is very diverse - language, religion, food, customs ... so it depends on the area u will visit. I recommend Hamburg, Germany.
6 :
There are some books out there called "Germany for dummies" or "the idiots guide to the Germans/Brits/French/etc", check those out. I really like the "Culture Shock!" and "Culture smart" series. Check out your local library for books or head over to amazon. (Read: Your question is too broad for a decent, in-depth answer here.) Wikipedia and wikitravel can also be very good sources. Just look up "German food" or "French food" or "Dutch customs" or similar. I personally would not worry too much about these things. It is nice that you are taking an interest, but: You'll be in a tour group and with 6 countries in 22 days you can expect plenty of interaction with your fellow exchange students, but not much more as you are on such a whirlwind trip. What else do you expect when you have 3 days per country?

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