Any info on Duisburg, Germany?

Question

I am applying to Duisburg-Essen university and if I get accepted, I would start my course in September 2007. All I need is a little bit of info. Anything would help.

I lived in England for several years and I am familiar with Europe and its weather, but I wonder about the German life-style. Do I need to know German (fluently) or can I get there and learn it? Do most people speak English? How is the health care? Is there anything especial I need to bring with me?

I would appreciate it if you give me any kind of information. Anything you think might be useful. It doesn't have to be necessarily about Duisburg either.

Thank you all.

Answer 1

Around the university a lot of people would speak English, but as far as I know the passing of a test in German is one of the prerequisites for starting a course. You are better off in any case if you have a basic knowledge of the language. The worst bit is to get your head around their mad syntax.

There are some things Germans don't talk about - most people dislike jokes about the Nazi-past, religion is not discussed in polite company, your income is your own affair, so is your love life.
This is, of course, a rough guide, and "exemptions confirm the rule", as the Germans say.

Health care is cheap for students, you pay your yearly contribution, and after that the normal, fairly low charges for seeing doctors and medicine. Hospital care was free when I was living there, but I heard they are doctoring about with their health system.

The thing about second helpings is certainly NOT true. Germans are not half as "weightist" as a lot of Americans are. Same as anywhere else, some are racist, and some aren't, but at least it's considered to be extremely bad manners to show it. At the moment you'll have to put up with jokes about "the evil empire" if you are from the US. Just laugh along, that will stop them in no time.

Public transport is still good and not too expensive, especially if you use the multiple tickets, in the Ruhr area you are actually better off without a car. Don't forget to take a boat-trip on the Rhine.

Most of the Ruhr area is still working class country, the posh shops can be found in Duesseldorf.

Nobody can tell you what you should bring, unless you provide us with a list of what you consider to be the essentials! ;-)

Answer 2

I lived in Germany for 4 years, most young people speak english especially in the bigger cities, store clerks, etc. you should learn some basic phrases. I love Germany! they have a healthier lifestyle than we do, good food and most are outdoor types.
travel is easy, by bus, or trains everyday, its normal to take a train to go anywhere i.e.great museums, and castles.. in another city, smaller stores and businesses are usually closed from 12:30 - 2:30.
trade your $ in for euros at any bank, med. care is great but I don't know how you'll qualify. People are friendly, when you make friends and if you are invited to their home for dinner, be sure to bring something, even if only fresh flowers, flowers are everywhere and inexpensive.
I know germans 'joke' how fat Americans are, so don't take seconds, it usually isn't done. It is safe to walk down the streets, [not like here] even late at night, but always best to have a pal with you. Don't be surprised if you see girls or women walking arm in arm, its just the european way, just means they are good friends. You'll probably see dogs in most public places, rests. and dept. stores. Unfortunately most young people don't care about church, and disagree with our politics,lol as usual the college crowd thinks they have all the right answers. have fun! btw; if you're a girl, the guys are the same everywhere. you know-

Answer 3

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Duisburg

Answer 4

Its twinned with Royston Vasey, alle ist klaar?