Any Questions?

A poster on a bulletin board where I am a member recently posted to ask the following questions about Germany. Here is how I responded. While my answers probably aren't new information to anyone reading this blog, it's a concise summary of my current thoughts. Is there any burning question about living in Germany that you would like to ask? Just leave them in the comments and I'll address it in a new post!

What do you like best about the country?
The overall feel of the country is much more relaxed than the US. It is less materialistic, although Germans complain about how much more materialistic it is getting. It's also beautiful here. There's not so much sprawl. My city (Heidelberg) is pretty much right next to an even bigger city (Mannheim), but there is actually empty country in between the two, and not housing developments as it would be in the US.

What do you like least about the country?
Everyone keeps their office doors closed. No one ever tells you anything you need to know - you are expected to ask - but if you are truly clueless, as I am, you don't even know what or who to ask. It's extremely frustrating.

What is the health care system like?
Thankfully I have not used it yet. You must have health insurance to get a Visa, which was a big thing for me, since you don't have to have it in the US. I have heard a lot of complaints from Germans who do know more about the system. Those within a certain income range must use statutory (public) insurance and those outside this range can get private insurance, which gets you better and faster care. However, the wait times they complain about don't sound as bad as what I experienced in the US.

What, in your opinion, would be the best and worst cities to live in/near?
I really don't know enough about this. The northeast section of Germany is said to be in the worst shape economically, per the other Germans I have talked to. I have seen many a disease map of Germany (I study epidemiology) and health is worse there too. I really enjoy living near the Pfalz. The weather here is very mild - fig and almond trees can grow here. Wine is cheap and plentiful, and it's so beautiful.

What is the cost of living like?
I live in the second-most expensive city in Germany (second to Munich). Rent for us is $730 for a one-bedroom. The surrounding cities cost half as much. Food is cheaper than the US. Salaries are lower in general.