Being on time for appointments, even casual social ones, is very important. Germans address one another more formally than Americans do. Always address acquaintances as Herr (Mr.) or Frau (Mrs.) plus their last name; do not use first names unless you have been explicitly invited to do so. The German language makes a distinction between the informal and formal with a shifting pronoun for the singular second person "you": Formal is "Sie," informal is "du." Even if adults are on a first-name basis with one another, they may continue to use the
Sie form as a mark of respect. A handshake is expected upon meeting someone for the first time and is often customary even when simply greeting acquaintances.
Although it is a close neighbor of France, Germany has a vastly different notion of cuisine to the elaborately gustatory French. A platter of German sausages and sauerkraut is a hearty and unpretentious meal. Although most prices officially include service, tips are appreciated if you are happy with the service. Something like 10 to 15 percent will usually suffice. Most waiters prefer to do the bill and tipping right at the table so be ready to make some quick calculations when the bill comes.
In restaurants, shops, and department stores, you are unlikely to be offered help unless you ask for it. The presumption is that you would prefer to be alone unless you indicate otherwise. Germans are more liberal than Americans in the cultural attitude to nudity: signs that read "Freikörper" or "FKK" indicate that a park or beach allows nude sunbathing. In the sunnier months it not uncommon to see locals enjoying the sun, on all parts of their bodies, in public parks within city limits. This open, liberal way of living extends to other areas of German life and is reflected in a thriving nightlife and vigorous communities for alternative lifestyles.
