Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
PRACTICALITIES
»
Newspapers
The Monday edition of
Süddeutsche Zeitung
has a
New York Times
supplement; the
International Herald Tribune
is also available, mainly in cities.
»
Magazines
Der Spiegel
and
Focus
magazines are popular German news weeklies,
which, along with the
Economist, Time
and
Newsweek,
are sold at train stations and
major newsstands.
»
Radio
Stations are regional with most featuring a mix of news, talk and music.
»
Weights & Measures
Germany uses the metric system.
»
Smoking
As of 2010 a proper smoking ban in all public indoor spaces took effect
in Bavaria. Baden-Württemberg has had a ban since 2007.
Hotels
Hotels range from small family-run establishments to comfortable midsized properties to
luxurious international chains. Expect even budget establishments to be well run and
clean. In most older, privately run hotels rooms may vary dramatically in terms of size,
décor and amenities. The cheapest share bathroom facilities, while others may come with
a shower cubicle installed but no private toilet; only pricier ones have ensuite bathrooms.
If possible, ask to see several rooms before committing.
Top-end establishments offer deluxe amenities, perhaps a scenic location, special décor
or historical ambience. Many also have pools, saunas, business centres and other upmar-
ket facilities.
Standards of service across the board may be lower than those you are used to back
home.
Pensions, Inns & Private Rooms
»
Pensionen
(guesthouses) and
Gasthöfe
or
Gasthäuser
(inns) are smaller, less formal and
cheaper than hotels; the latter usually have a restaurant. Expect clean rooms but only min-
imal amenities - maybe a radio, sometimes a small TV, almost never a phone. Facilities
may be shared. What rooms lack in amenities, they often make up for in charm and au-
thenticity.
»
Privatzimmer
(essentially guest rooms in private homes) are ubiquitous and great for
catching a glimpse into how locals live, although privacy seekers may find these places a
bit too intimate. Tourist offices list rooms available, or look for
Zimmer Frei
(rooms avail-
able) signs in house or shop windows. Per person prices range from €20 to €40.