The first is, don't be surprised if there is a seat open at your table and someone comes to sit with you. It happens the stranger just goes about his/her normal business without bothering you. They see nothing wrong with this, nor do I.
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| This is in the Hofbrauhaus in München. You are bound to meet new people in here as it is very crowded. |
When they do come with the bill, however, you let them know how much you want to give tip included. I was caught off guard by this as I was wondering why our waitress stood at the table as I got my money out. They give you change on the spot which is nice.
The last thing I noticed and what really makes you stand out as an American is how you eat. At least in Germany, they don't switch there knife and fork like we do.
They keep the knife in there right hand and fork in there left the whole time. They think we are silly for always switching silverware back and forth.
These differences are really interesting! I like the getting change on the spot part!
ReplyDeleteI noticed this when I was in Germany as well. It takes some getting used to but eventually you feel less pressure to finish up your meal.
ReplyDeletei found this true when i went to London a few years ago
ReplyDeleteWow these are good to know! I'm going abroad next semester and I had no idea these things were like that.
ReplyDeleteI've never been to Europe but I plan on visiting in the near future. I remember taking an etiquette course where they pointed out how Americans switch their silverware... I never noticed how often I did it until I sat down to eat after learning it. I try not to do it anymore because I realize how silly it is!
ReplyDeleteI was in South Africa this past summer and they have many other dining habits as well. You have to ask for your check at the end of the meal too. It's nice though, they only expect about a 10% tip.
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