photo credit: Walt Hubis

Shaking Hands

Germans typically wait until introduced by a host to shake hands. Typically, older parties in a group or more senior persons reserve the right to extend their hand for a handshake first. Attendees of small parties will always take the time to shake hands with one another when greeting, as opposed to larger functions where hand shakes are very rarely performed. The act of shaking hands in passing is considered rude. If one takes the time to shake hands, it is considered a precursor to at least a brief chat. Additionally, it is considered to rude to shake hands while the other hand is in your pocket.

In formal settings, it is still considered custom to kiss a lady’s hand when introduced, though the lips should never actually touch the hand. When being introduced to adults, little German girls will occasionally courtesy in greeting. Furthermore, unlike in the United States, children will rarely thank someone for a compliment.

Addressing Others in Germany

The female term “Fraulein” is only used to address particularly young, unmarried girls. The shorter “Frau” is used to address older, unmarried young ladies and women since it is considered a more mature greeting. Also unlike in the United States, a married woman is not addressed by her husband’s first name (e.g. Mrs. John Smith), but by her own first name (e.g. Frau Jane Smith).

Common Business Etiquette in Germany

“Du” and “Sie”

The method of addressing others by saying “you” is divided into the formal and informal manners of “Du” and “Sie.” “Du” is considered informal and should be reserved only for close acquaintances, friends and family. To avoid seeming disrespectful when meeting new persons, especially in a formal or business environment, it is generally accepted that “Sie” is the proper form to use.

Attire

American standards of business dress have relaxed in certain niche industries in recent years, but that doesn’t mean that the same is true of Germans. It is typically customary for business attire to be worn in nearly every business setting. Jeans, T-shirts, and similar clothing will typically be frowned upon. When in doubt, always opt to possibly slightly overdress than to take the risk of under-dressing.

Meetings and Functions

Unlike many other cultures, Germans will typically send invitations that outline not only when a meeting or function will begin but also when it will end. It would be considered good manners to use this time as a queue to bid a proper farewell. Though no one will expect every one to jump up and run out the door at the exact time, it can be considered rude to ignore the outlines set up by the hosts.

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photo credit: paulohrodrigues

Frankfurt Accommodation

 Have you ever wondered what is so special about Frankfurt Germany? Have you ever wondered why more and more businessmen flock this city? This city is Germany’s and Europe’s financial center, which holds in its location all the major European banks and financial institutions. It is also the center of transportation, which has one of the world’s busiest international airports, and houses Europe’s largest terminal station. The city is the only city in Germany listed in the prestigious Alpha World Cities; a title of envy. Since the city is a bastion of business and commerce, it attracts businessmen worldwide, which is why a Frankfurt accommodation is in abundance.

Since the city attracts only the most accomplished businessmen, the levels of quality these Frankfurt hotels possess are among the highest in the world. These hotels constantly have in attendance the moguls and elite of the business world, which is why their attention to detail lives up to the standards of the most discerning. Their rooms are fit for kings and queens; their design and interiors live up to the taste of constantly scrutinizing eyes; their cuisine is prepared using only the rarest and finest ingredients, which are prepared only by seasoned and veteran chefs; the service they provide can only be rivaled by private butlers, and the facilities they have are fully capable or running businesses from the confines of their high class suites. This is the level of service given by hotels in this financial city, which makes a Frankfurt accommodation one of the best in the modern world.

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Germany – Cologne In Germany Tour

Cologne is the oldest city of Germany dating back to the times of the Romans and even got its name, Colonia, from them since it was a colony of Rome in 50 A.D. The Romans also brought christianity to Cologne and had been a residence to several bishops. Nowadays, you can still find some remains of Roman fortifications, churches and buildings all over the city like the Roman North Gate, the City Hall, the Roman tower and the City Gates. Though populated by several Roman churches like the Great St. Martin and St. Gereon churches, Cologne is more famous for its landmark, the Cathedral of Cologne, world heritage site since 1998. The gothic Cathedral was built in 1248 and finally completed in 1880. It houses the Relics of the Magi since the 13th century that made the city one of the famous pilgrim destinations.

Cologne’s old town, though destroyed during the war, is something worth to visit for its old and colorful houses, historical buildings and churches and narrow streets which give one the perfect nostalgia of the old Cologne. But not only that, most old houses or buildings have been used nowadays as restaurants, hotels and bars so you can roam around your way not getting hungry or thirsty. Especially, not thirsty because Cologne has its Koelsch – the Cologne beer. So for beer lovers, have fun!

There are so many things you can do in Cologne. Since it is the center of art in the country, you can visit several museums to your liking. A roundtrip boat tour on the Rhine is also something not to miss. Or a ride on the Rheinseilbahn, a hanging cable cars going across the river giving you an opportunity to see the beautiful panorama of Cologne from the top. There are also trolleys which are trying to look like trains bringing you to the Cologne Zoo or the Chocolate Museum. Though the zoo is not that far from the cathedral’s area, it’s a very nice experience especially for the children to have this ride. You can normally find these trolleys in front of the southern transept of the cathedral called Roncalliplatz.

Adjacent to the zoo are the Flora and the Botanical Garden. These beautifully landscaped gardens are homes to different species of plants, trees, flowers from different continents. Perfect time to visit is during spring, the color is just so beautiful. Another green area in Cologne is the Rheinpark. From the city center, you cross the river and walk to the left side of the bank. The park is well maintained, very clean and is perfect for family picnic. It even has a playground for kids so even the little ones won’t get bored. Close to the park is the Tanzbrunnen, it’s a fountain with a dancing area in the center thus the name Tanzbrunnen, fountain for dancing. This is used as an open-air stage and event hall for concerts.

Shopping in Cologne is something you don’t want to miss. The Hohe Strasse is the most famous street for shopping in the region and probably in the whole country. This is always full of shoppers no matter what the weather is. But there are also malls, shopping arcades and promenades if you don’t want to be outside all the time. Don’t forget to get yourself the famous souvenir, the Koelnischwasser – the original Eau-de-Cologne. Its formula has been produced in the place since 1709 and used by legendary people like Napoleon. Aside from the regular shopping, Cologne is also famous for the Christmas Markets. People tour here during cold season just for these markets. You’ll have an array of choices, from decorations to delicacies, plus a taste of gluehwein, a warm wine normally served in christmas mugs, to keep you warm.

Annual famous events in Cologne would include the Carnival – a very festive and colorful celebration which is normally held in February. Main highlight is the parade, people and even celebrities in colorful costumes and floats. Another famous event is the Koelner Lichter – Cologne Lights, a spectacular show of fireworks on the Rhine. This event is attracting up to more than 1 million visitors per year. Koelner Lichter is normally in summer, often in July.

So if you’re planning to visit Cologne, it’s ideal of course to visit in summer when you have more probability of having a nice weather. Have fun and enjoy your visit!

View all holiday rentals in Germany.

Further information available http://www.capturedplaces.com/cologne/index.php 

About the Author

Paul has travelled extensively for both business and pleasure. Paul has also designed and built a separate website for a holiday home.

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Finding a 5 Star Hotel

When you have made the decision to go on vacation, you might already know where you want to go. That may have been the easy decision. Deciding where to stay, whether a bed and breakfast, a resort, or a 5 star hotel, may not be quite as easy, though.

A 5 star hotel has an advantage over resorts in pricing, and sometimes in the options you will have of things to do and see. A 5 star hotel may also have an advantage over bed and breakfasts, with privacy and the amenities provided. The advantage of hotels increases greatly when you choose a 5 star hotel.

How do you find a great 5 star hotel? You do some research. There are some things you may want to keep in mind as you are looking at hotels to consider:

• What is the comfort level rating? The comfort level of your bed at a 5 star hotel can make or break your vacation. If you can’t get enough peaceful sleep because the bed is too hard or too lumpy, they you won’t be well enough rested to enjoy the rest of your time. Being tired during the day and knowing that you may not sleep well again at night will not make for a happy vacation experience. Look for a high comfort rating may be the number one thing that makes the difference between a good vacation and a poor experience. If the hotel is a 5 star hotel, the comfort rating will be 5 stars too.

• How is the service? 5 star hotel service is supposed to be among the best possible. Has the hotel received a high rating for friendly service? Does the staff go out of their way to be helpful? Are they well organized, having what you need ready when you need it? Do they do things in a timely manner? Does the staff at the 5 star hotel have the reputation of having positive attitudes and treating their guests well? Having the good, friendly service that is typically offered by a 5 star hotel is one thing that may make your stay more fun and more relaxing.

• What sets this 5 star hotel apart from others? Are there any special services or amenities that you haven’t found at any other 5 star hotel? Does this 5 star hotel offer anything that you have been looking for in a hotel stay, such as a spa, sauna, pool, gym, child care, or entertainment in a lounge area? Having extras that aren’t offered at other hotels available to you at a 5 star hotel may make the time you spend there more rewarding and relaxing.

• Is there climate control in the rooms at this 5 star hotel? When you stay a 5 star hotel, you will want to be able to control how warm or cool the room is. Your comfort and relaxation should be priority when you are on vacation, especially at a great 5 star hotel. Keeping the room at a temperature that offers you the best in sleeping, and comfort while awake, will help you be refreshed, relaxed, and ready for fun during your stay at your 5 star hotel.

If there is anything else that you want in a hotel, you should look for a 5 star hotel that offers it. You are likely to find a 5 star hotel that will meet all your vacation needs, and desires. When you choose a good 5 star hotel to stay at, you will have the vacation of a lifetime.

About the Author

Frank Demming is one of the countries top travel consultants. He has recently written a free report titled, “The Insiders Guide to Traveling Like and with the Rich and Famous For about the Price of a Stay at the Motel 6″, head on over to http://www.FastEasyTravelTips.com and grab a copy of his exclusive report so you can start saving money on your next vacation starting today.

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France, Belgium, and the Netherlands are NATO countries and therefore they’ve recognized your military ID card.
Switzerland is not a NATO member and will not recognize your military ID card.

Holders of a NATO ID card
• This document is not accepted for entry into Switzerland.
• Special provisions apply to holders of a NATO ID card who are in possession of a NATO Travel Order and are in transit at a Swiss airport.

Source(s):
http://www.bfm.admin.ch/bfm/en/home/themen/einreise/Ausweis-_und_Visumvorschriften/liste_2__besondere.html

Edit – based on the additional contribution:
Switzerland will become a Schengen agreement member by mid December of this year and passport checks at the borders will be abolished. This however does not constitute a right to enter the country without appropriate travel documentation. You’ll be in big trouble if doing so.

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Bed and Breakfasts, 1-2 Star Hotels, Holiday Homes: Budget Accommodations in Italy

Has the current economic crisis put a damper on you wallet but not your urge to travel? There are options out there, whether your tastes lean to Bed and Breakfasts or a reasonably priced 1-2 star hotel. The fact that Italy has catered to tourists so consistently and for so long means that, in addition to villa style holiday homes and decadently expensive luxury hotels, there are a wide range of budget accommodations in Italy. This is good news to the ever-increasing number of people that want to watch what they are spending while still caving into their sense of wanderlust.

Whether you want to attend Carnivale, pose as a statue and pigeon roost in St. Marks Square or glide through the canals driven by a striped-shirted gondolier, the marvels of Venice will leave you breathless, inspiring your romantic mood to live a perfect vacation with your soul mate. Cheap accommodations in Venice can be found and will allow you to spend more of your money in many of the fabulous restaurants that the city boosts or in one of the famous craftsman’s ateliers. You can also visit the beautiful island of Merano, with its typical coloured blown glasses. Vacationing in one of the most romantic cities in the world will be unforgettable and knowing that you have managed to find cheap accommodations in the “City of Bridges” known as Venice can only enhance that experience.

If you are more focused on fashion than on romance and are heading to vibrant, pulsing Milan you can make sure to save a few euro extra for all of the irresistible Italian fashion by finding a budget hotel in Milan. In a city with as much nightlife, as much fabulous design and as many beautiful people as you are going to find in Milan you will want to be in your hotel as little as possible. This makes it a great city in which to use a 1 or 2 star hotel and in a city as large as Milan you can find budget hotels in almost every quarter of the city. So if your interests are pure fashion and purses (borsa) are what you want to spend your money on the current stock market (Borsa) situation should not stop you from visiting the capital of fashion.

If your hedonism leans in the same way as Rossini’s and soaking up the Tuscan sun while savoring DOCG Chianti is a scene that inspires you to hop on a plane the tranquil town of Siena should be a Siren to you. Calling, calling and drawing you to partake in luscious wines and all the fantastic food that one of the most popular agritourism destinations has to offer. If you are not traveling during the twice annual festival of Palio then finding a hotel in Italy’s peaceful town of Siena should be as relaxing an experience as indulging in every manipulation of the Sangiovese grape that distinguishes the region. Whether you select a Bed and Breakfast or a hotel budget accommodations in Italy still reflect the hospitality that the country is known for.

About the Author

Roberta Leoni is a tourist guide and she is consultant for many travel agencies. She collaborates with
http://www.expertlodging.com
, which is a useful resource on
cheap accommodation in Venice
,
budget hotels in Milan
,
Siena Italy hotels
and other budget accommodation in Italy.

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Holiday Vacation Guide to Germany

One of the top destinations in Europe is Germany. Most families rent a holiday home instead of going to a hotel during their holiday vacation. Germany has a lot of beautiful and natural landscapes that most tourists go for. Its beautiful sandy beaches, stunning lake shores, magnificent lowland plains or its rolling hills and high peaks of the Alps, are just among the tourist attractions in Germany.

While some tourists are enamored to see the natural beauty of Germany, some tourists rent a holiday cottage or farmhouse and explore the castles and villages in the country. Some families also stay in a holiday chalet in the snow-capped mountains. For those who seek thrill in water sports, there are also holiday cottages on the shores of Germany’s crystal-clear lakes where they can stay. Aside from those, there are also holiday villas with swimming pool wherein families can go on hiking or explore the Black Forest.

For some who wants to experience the urban life in Germany in its elegant cities, there are affordable apartments that they can rent on. Among the cities in Germany, the Swish capital city of Berlin is one of the most popular holiday destinations for tourists who like to rent holiday homes. It is a bustling yet vibrant city where you can enjoy going into some bars and restaurants.

Whatever the season or the weather is, Germany can always cater to your needs. You can rent holiday villas with swimming pools during the summer season or you can go to the country’s main ski resorts during winter and enjoy some winter sports. There are available cheap holidays accommodations that you can avail of during your holiday vacations in Germany – be it during summer or winter.

Germany is called as the “green heart of Europe” for its natural attractions. There are fourteen National Parks in the country that preserve the natural heritage. You can combine your natural trip with a historical one. There are magnificent castles that you can visit. You can have a boat trip starting from the Saxon Switzerland National Park to see the beautiful historic places and castles. One notable castle you should check on your holiday is the Festung Königstein – this one has never been conquered by its enemies. One of Germany’s pride also is the Elbe valley of Dresden which is a World Heritage. So this is also a must-see if you plan to spend your holiday vacation at Germany.

So from the beautiful long beaches, to skiing, castle tour, and nature tripping, Germany can cater them all to you. You have various options on what kind of holiday you want to have in Germany. Surely you can try all these by coming back to the country and try a different experience in every visit you make.

Cheap holidays are always available if you just search thoroughly over the internet. There are a lot of websites that cater to cheap holiday packages. If you are going with your family or group, home, villa, cottage, or chalet rentals will be the best options.

About the Author

Learn how to travel big while paying less at
Cheap Holidays 24
. Visit us and read on our latest holiday guides like –
The Season Is Perfect For A Holiday To Amsterdam
for more great holiday ideas!

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Barcelona Hotels – Finding Good Accommodation in the Barri Gòtic

The Barri Gòtic is the area within the ancient walls of the old city of Barcelona. Many of the buildings in the area date back to medieval times, and it is also filled with many of Barcelona’s main attractions, thus it is a wonderful location in which to find accommodations. There are some magnificent churches to visit including some built in the 15th and 18th century, though some private homes in the area even date all the way back to 12th century. In examining some of the accommodations in the Barri Gòtic some of the hotels stand out as exciting and thus we will outline what their attraction is and why they are considered good accommodations.

A four-star hotel in the middle of the Barri Gòtic is the Hotel Rivoli Ramblas. It is located only one kilometer from the Picasso Museum. It features125 air-conditioned guestrooms and guest will enjoy Wi-Fi Internet, as well as having cable TV, minibars and even safes in their room. The hotel is considered a “moderniste” building. Their restaurant, Le Brut, features a superb Mediterranean menu, and the bar features cocktails and even live piano music in the evening. Atop the hotel is a very romantic rooftop terrace, which will let you admire views of old Barcelona.

Another four-star hotel in the Barri Gòtic is the very traditional Hotel Colon Barcelona. It is located immediately across the Barcelona Cathedral. The hotel was constructed in 1950 but features 141 guestrooms that have Hi-Def interactive TV, high-speed Internet connections for which there is a surcharge, minibars and safes. Their restaurant, the Restaurant Catedral serves a gastronomical delight of Mediterranean cuisine.

Four star Hotel Barcino Barcelona is situated in the heart of the Barri Gòtic. The hotel itself in situated in a historical building and its 53 rooms and suites feature soundproofing, full en-suite bathrooms, A/C and heat, TVs, and individual safes and mini-bars. It has a small cafeteria, and buffet room for breakfast

The four star Neri Hotel and Restaurant is located in a small XVIII Barri Gòtic palace which has been especially refurbished and restored while keeping the beauty and charm of a building from that historical period. It features 22 rooms with plasma TVs, Internet, CD’s and DVD’s. The restaurant features both Middle Ages as well as Arabian dishes.

With 200 rooms our next hotel is the three-star Hotel Rialto which was the birthplace of Joan Miró, the surrealist, and of course the hotel is decorated in the moderniste style. It features Wi-Fi Internet, and there is A/C in the rooms during the hot months.

Regardless of which hotel you desire to stay at, the Barri Gòtic of Barcelona will steal your heart with its quaint shops, intricate narrow streets and very intriguing passageways. Each of the recommended hotels above has their own mystique and charm. It all depends of course on what you are used to at home, and what special features you are seeking.

About the Author

For more information on
Barcelona hotels
, including
hotels in the Barri Gòtic
and other travel advice see http://www.barcelonatravelogue.com, providing comprehensive information on travelling to and staying in the city.

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Economical &comfortable Stay in Budget and Cheap Hotels in Germany

Schedule a trip to Germany and make your stay at one of the budget hotels in Germany in order to curtail your budget expenditure. By doing so, you can spend more on traveling and entertainment. To book such cheap hotels in Germany, you can take help of local travel agent or you can also book the hotels rooms through the hotel website or through official travel websites of Germany.

Whether you are a business traveler or a leisure traveler, these budget hotels in Germany are having all the qualities of business class hotels or resorts. The backpackers and budget travelers select to stay in cheap hotels in Germany. The hotels in Germany offer the world class facilities with the array to stay comfortably. The hotel staffs are always ready to provide excellent impeccable services to its guests.

Staying in Germany will be a memorable one if you do the things in a right way. So, before starting your trip towards Germany just make a small schedule program to avoid hurry and worry. Most of the cheap hotels in Germany provide the pick up and dropping facilities from the airport.

The well designed and beautifully decorated hotel rooms are truly clean and comfort. The well furnished rooms are filled with modern facilities and equipments. In fact, you can have peaceful and comfortable moments for relaxing. The hospitality and the services they provide will make you feel as the home away from home.

Booking budget hotels in Germany are not at all a difficult task. For the on line reservation process helps you to do the things in a fraction of time. Make sure about the hotel you are booking and the hotel room facilities. The locations of such hotels in Germany are mostly near attraction sights that may really suit your needs. Moreover, the rooms of budget and cheap hotels in Germany offer the facilities which include well-furnished rooms, separate bathrooms, air-conditioning system, television, internet, and many more.

It is advisable for the economical travelers to opt for budget hotels in Germany because by doing so the saving of unnecessary expenditure and the purpose to stay in a comfortable accommodation will be served.

About the Author

For cheap hotels in Germany you can choose from a comprehensive and exclusive lists providing by disrooms.com. It offers discount hotels ranging from 3 stars hotels to luxury 5 star hotels for online booking with instant confirmations facilities.

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Hostels in Dublin

Living in hostels is one of the most enchanting experiences of life. Hostels are made to accommodate people jointly. A hostel is usually considered to be a living place of school, college or university students who are away from their hometowns and families, but in Europe, hostels are low-priced residences for low-budget travellers.

Living in a hostel adds colour in your travel. You get to socialize. When people from different social back grounds and school of thoughts live together, they generate a great atmosphere. This is why hostels are far better than hotels for you if you are young and are travelling alone. Living in hostels can save almost 60 to 80% of your usual overnight expenditure. No doubt hostels are the most excellent lodging for a budget minded tourist

In the charming county of Dublin, hostels are the best option if you are on a tight budget. The youth hostels in Dublin offer their guests more than a cheap overnight shelter. Besides cosy old buildings, originally built for the hostel’s point of view, you may also find many houses in picturesque delightful countryside environments as well as in large cities.

Intelligent people prefer to stay in hostels and get many advantages which are not available in the isolated atmosphere of hotels and make their vacation more exciting and interesting. In hostels, a person rents a bed instead of the whole room, he shares the washroom with his roommates, living room and kitchen with other hostel mates and thus he learns to live together. Living in a hostel creates the beautiful sense of sharing in a person.

There are a large number of hostels in Dublin, located in both city centres and uptown areas. Welcoming, clean and budget accommodation provision is the main objective of all the hostels. If you are new in Ireland and looking for a safe but inexpensive place to stay then you only need to consult our Hostels Guide. Do not get confused because www.dublinevents.com presents you authentic information about economical, affordable and Cheap Hostel Accommodation for students, backpackers and travellers in Dublin and all over Ireland.

About the Author

Dublinevents.com is your online guide for booking cheap accommodations in Dublin. You can find a list of youth hostels all over Ireland.at http://ireland.dublinevents.com/hostels/

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