Living in Germany

German Language Learning Apps

/ Iana / 1 Comment

Hi there, friends, today I would like to talk to you about learning German! Yes, exactly. For me learning German was and still is extremely complicated. I have tried many different methods of learning – from attending group classes, 1-on-1 lectures to having a tandem partner and learning via apps and websites. In this particular blog post, I have decided to do a review of some smartphone/tablet apps for learning German. We all know, that in past few decades the number of smartphone users grew significantly all over the world, people are inseparable with their phones using apps from grocery shopping to taxes and travel. And language learning apps are no exception. It is very convenient way to learn. Anywhere – you just need your phone, installed app and in some cases internet connection. First, I would like to start with the apps I use almost on daily bases.

Continue reading →

What is SCHUFA?

/ Iana / Leave a comment

Are you searching for apartment for rent and suddenly the landlord is asking you for SCHUFA? But you have literally no idea how to do it or even what it is? Don’t worry! I can help you here! So, let’s find out what SCHUFA is!

SCHUFA is abbreviation for “Schutzgemeinschaft für allgemeine Kreditsicherung” or to put it in English “General Credit Protection Agency”. The company basically holds credit scores for more than 67 million people as well as 5 million companies. “But what do I have to do with some General Credit Protection Agency” you might ask. Well, the thing is, that in Germany some landlords want to know if they can trust you and if you will be able to pay the rent on time or if you had some financial issues before. In order to do that, they will ask you for either proof of income or SCHUFA. Or both in some cases. And here is exactly when it comes to SCHUFA! They will provide you with your credit score report, which you will be able to give to your landlord. The report price is 29,95 Euros.

Continue reading →

Things to do During Coronavirus Lockdown

/ Iana / Leave a comment

Hi my friends, and welcome to my new post. As of yesterday, 16.12.2020, Germany entered new, even harder, lockdown. During previous “lockdown light” we had restaurants and cafes closed (except takeaway), as well as cinemas, theaters, fitness centers and swimming pools. However, those measures did not have much influence on the number of Coronavirus infections in Germany. Therefore, now, the new restrictions have to take place. And they include closing of most stores, schools and day care centers. Such things as walking outside and going to parks is still allowed, with social distancing in place of course.

In view of that, I have decided to create a list of things to do during lockdown. Myself, I have been home since March 2020 and many times I have struggled with boredom. So much boredom. I was bored as crazy, especially during first month of lockdown while I was still getting used to stay-at-home life. I have tried so many different things to keep myself busy and many of them were pretty exciting. Today I want to share those with you.

Continue reading →

Accommodation Search in Germany

/ Iana / 2 Comments

All of us have been in the situation when you need to find an apartment to live in. Whether you got a new job in another city, about to start university degree or simply moving in with your partner – one of the most important steps is finding a place you can call home for next moths or even years. I have moved a lot during my student life, from one city to another, sometimes 2 or 3 times within one city due to different circumstances. Therefore, in this blog post, I have compiled a guide for you on how to find an apartment with links on different websites.

Continue reading →

Advent in Germany

/ Iana / Leave a comment
Advent in Germany

Hi, there, my dear friends and happy 1st Advent to you. It is official! Countdown to Christmas has started – only 25 days till we can all enjoy Christmas celebration! As you understood, today I would like to tell you more about the Advent in Germany, what it actually is and traditions surrounding it. So, what is Advent?

Advent is a religious celebration, the special time of the year during which the  preparation for the arrival, or “advent”, of Christ take place, which is then celebrated on 25th December. Advent usually starts four weeks before Christmas, to be more precise, four Sundays till Christmas. And today, on 29th November we are celebrating the 1st Advent. So, what do people usually do during Advent time in Germany? Well, there are many traditions surrounding this period including Advent wreath, Advent calendar, setting up a Christmas tree and general preparations for Christmas. Ohhh, and let’s not forget that around this season the Christmas Markets usually start (well, except this year unfortunately). Continue reading →

Did you know? German Edition

/ Iana / Leave a comment
Interesting facts about Germany

Hey, guys! Today I would like to introduce you to Germany. I have already told you about how I first came to Germany, but now I will simply rewind back and actually tell you some interesting facts about this beautiful country of Germany. So, let’s start:

  • Germany is not only the member of European Union, in fact it is also one of the founding member of EU (well here I am talking about West Germany);
  • The population of Germany as of year 2020 is 83 million people, which makes Germany the most populous country of European Union after France and UK;
  • Germany borders with nine countries – Netherlands, Belgium, Denmark, Luxembourg, France, Czech Republic, Poland, Austria and Switzerland;
  • The border between Czech Republic and Germany is the same length as the border between Germany and Austria;

Continue reading →