Chapter 6Every day life

This material is for foreign citizens who are going to Germany soon or are already there. Here you can find information about living and working in Germany and get answers to the most frequently asked questions. The topics are: leisure, telephone and internet, travelling around town and living with disabilities.

Leisure
There are many leisure activities. Whether culture, sports or nature, there are many offers. In most cities you can find museums, cinemas, theaters, zoos and concerts. In libraries you can read books, listen to music and watch movies for free or for a little fee. In associations and clubs you can meet like minded people with similar interests and goals, e.g. music clubs or computer clubs. Adult education centers also offer many different courses. More information here plus the PDF download.

Telephone and internet
There are several ways to make calls from a mobile phone in Germany. One possible option is a mobile phone contract. This, however, requires a German bank account and an identity document. Another option is to buy a prepaid SIM card. These cards are available for a small amount of money at most supermarkets, petrol stations or kiosks. This again requires signing a contract. In cafés, libraries or other public buildings you can often get free internet access. More information here plus the PDF download.

Travelling around town
Mobility has many faces. You can travel on foot, by bike or car, or by public transport such as bus and train. Rules apply to all road users, e.g. you are not allowed to cross the street when the light is red. If you are driving, you must always have your driver's license and vehicle registration document with you. More information here plus a PDF.

Living with disabilities
By law people with disabilities must be able to participate equally in society. Efforts are being made to ensure that wheelchair users can enter and go anywhere in all public buildings or even buses and trams without difficulty. Many traffic lights make certain sounds when they are green or red. This lets the blind know when they can cross the street. Braille is also present in many public buildings. More information here plus the PDF.