Germany is home to many minority languages still spoken by different ethnic communities across the country. These languages are an important part of Germany’s cultural heritage and identity. While German is the official language, minority languages are still spoken by various communities. Low German or Plattdeutsch Low German, also known as Plattdeutsch, is a West […]
Category: Germany
Interesting facts about Germany that may be of interest when learning German. Why is Germany the way it is, and why are Germans the way they are?
German Inventions
Many world-changing innovations originated in Germany, some widely known but others less so. The printing press Most of us take books for granted, but in the mid-fifteenth century Johannes Gutenberg, a craftsman from Mainz, developed the movable type printing system and an oil-based ink enabling books to be produced in large quantities. The car Several […]
Increase in German Manufacturing
There have already been signs of growth in German manufacturing, which could now get a boost from a proposed EU – US trade agreement. This makes it a great time to increase trade with Germany, and learning German here in London would give you a definite advantage in this respect. The Transatlantic Trade and Investment […]
Germany’s most liveable cities
There are many reasons for visiting Germany. Taking German lessons here in London before you go can only enhance your experience. And there has never been a better time to go! In an annual survey about the quality of life in cities around the world conducted by Mercer, the global consultancy, seven German cities are […]
Levis Strauss – a famous German
The German founder of Levis Strauss learned English at a young age, which helped him transition to doing business in America. Similarly, we can provide German lessons here in London to help you trade in Germany without leaving your office. Read on about how Levis Strauss did it: Löeb Strauss, later known as Levi, was born […]
Cologne Carnival
The English often considers Germans relatively staid people; efficient, punctual, officious, meticulous, but devoid of humour and party spirit. However, if you attended one of the German festivals, you would soon realise that they certainly know how to party! One of the most significant events is the Kölner Karneval which ranks alongside Rio de Janeiro […]
Germany – most positively rated
An annual survey conducted by Globescan on behalf of the BBC World Service has shown that Germany is the most positively rated country globally. In 2014, in the 10th consecutive Country Ratings Poll, over 24,000 people in 25 countries were asked if they felt the sixteen countries included. The European Union had a “mainly positive” […]
Willkommen in Deutschland
More students are choosing to further their education in Germany, and they are welcomed with open arms. With low or, in some cases, no tuition fees and many universities located in attractive towns or vibrant cities, it is no surprise that Germany has become more popular among international students. This shows that the enormous effort […]
Muttivation
If you’re a World Cup fan, you’ll inevitably have seen, or at least heard of, Germany’s epic opening match where they walked away from Portugal with a 4-0 win. Hooray for Deutschland! To offer her congratulations in person, German Chancellor Angela Merkel travelled across the globe to Brazil to watch the match for herself and […]
British Expats in Germany
Over the years, Germany has had a large British expatriate community, mainly through military personnel stationed there since 1945. Then, there was an influx of British builders & workers in the seventies and eighties who came to work in Germany – immortalised in the television series Auf Wiedersehen Pet! However, they did not settle permanently but returned […]
Vocational training in Germany
One of the most effective ways of training for a trade in Germany is by completing a vocational training programme. Germany has developed a system which provides an excellent balance between theoretical and practical training and hands-on work experience. Known as dual vocational training, it is a course of study typically lasting between two and […]
Funding your studies in Germany
Last week we looked at some of the benefits and practicalities of studying in Germany. However, one of the most important considerations for many people is how they will support themselves financially while continuing their education. Though most German universities do not charge tuition fees, there are still living costs to be planned for, with […]
Study in Germany
Suppose you’re currently honing your German language skills with our Private German Lessons or undertaking another form of German study to take up one of the many excellent opportunities for higher education in Germany. In that case, you will undoubtedly have many questions regarding the level of teaching you can expect and the steps you […]
German Industries
As we mentioned in our previous blog, Germany has a thriving job market. However, it also has an ageing population, leading to shortages of workers in some key sectors. This ageing population is partly responsible for shortfalls in the healthcare sector. Current figures suggest that Germany needs 5,000 additional doctors; it also urgently requires nursing […]
New Year – New Job in Germany
Germany has one of the lowest levels of unemployment in Europe; the forecast for February 2014 is 4.9%. This is not only because of a booming economy but also due to labour market reforms conducted early in the last decade and the impact of demographic change, which means a dwindling supply of skilled workers to […]
Das Oktoberfest
One of the most famous gems of German culture known worldwide is the Oktoberfest, a 16-day festival celebrating beer annually in Munich, Bavaria. The name suggests that it takes place in October, although nowadays, this is only partly true. It begins in September, having been brought forward to benefit from better weather conditions. This year will see the 180th festival will start on […]