Challenges and Scary Moments of Traveling in Germany
Travelling in Germany can be a rewarding experience, filled with historical sites, beautiful cities, and rich cultural heritage. However, it also comes with its unique set of challenges and occasional scary moments. In this article, we will explore some of the worst experiences and details that travelers might encounter in Germany.
Sharing a Ride in the Autobahn
Imagine being offered a ride on a luxurious Mercedes in the Autobahn, only to find that the driver is operating the vehicle in an unconventional manner. During a particularly hot summer day, I received a ride after spending four rainy hours on the road. The driver, an older gentleman with a penchant for adventure, had a keen interest in pushing the speed limits, approaching 120-130 mph on the Autobahn. But the real scare came when he began driving with his knees, rolling a spliff, and taking his eyes off the road to gesture at a tailgating driver. The experience was so unsettling that another passenger shook so much that the driver even suggested turning on the heater to see if he was cold, unknown to the fact that it was high summer.
Lesson learned: Always ensure the driver is focused and safe, especially on such open roads.
The Culture of Self-Centeredness
While Germany is a country of remarkable engineering and innovation, some travelers might find the local culture somewhat insular. The self-centeredness of people, who tend to mind their own business rather than assist others, is sometimes challenging. For example, in bustling Italian or French cities, you might find locals readily offering directions or assistance. In Germany, many people are more reserved, which can make navigating or seeking help a bit daunting.
Driving on the Highways: A Mixed Bag
The German Autobahn is a wonder to behold, known for its high speeds and efficient road infrastructure. However, the driving experience can be both exhilarating and terrifying. Consider a three-lane highway where trucks haul heavy loads on the far right. Cars typically take up the middle lane, and some drivers tend to crawl at an inexcusable pace of 120 km/h, regardless of the conditions. Over-taking on the right lane is not allowed except in specific circumstances due to safety concerns.
On the other hand, if you dare to drive around 140-160 km/h on the fast lane, you need to be extremely cautious of drivers on the left who can exceed 200 km/h whenever they feel like it. These drivers often disregard the rules or the conditions and leave other road users in danger. It is a war on the highways, where those who break the rules can quickly cut you off, making the experience quite nerve-wracking for conscientious drivers.
Train Breakdowns and Delay Handling
Public transportation in Germany is renowned for its punctuality, but there are still occasions where delays can occur. One of the worst things that happened to another traveler was a train breakdown. The individual had missed every available connection to their destination due to the delay. The situation quickly escalated into a significant hassle as they were already late by hours. However, the Deutsche Bahn, the national train company, stepped in to accommodate them by financing a taxi to take the person to the final train station. In addition, the traveler received a rebate of half the travel price for the inconvenience caused by the delay.
Lesson learned: While the train service is generally reliable, always keep alternative transportation options handy.
Germany offers a lot to visitors, but also comes with its specific challenges and precautions. By understanding the local culture, highway driving etiquette, and how to handle train delays, visitors can have a smoother and more enjoyable experience in this remarkable country.