Sunday, February 8, 2009

German manners or lack of........

One thing that drives us crazy here in Germany is how people stare. It's not a normal stare, " like oh I like her shoes,let me check them out". No its a long cold stare the kind that leaves you saying, "WHAT"....or makes you look behind to see if its something behind you, or possibly something on your face. It's rude and after awhile, sorry you get so tired of it, and defensive, maybe a little angry. On Friday the three of us walk into a crowded restaurant and I swear the whole restaurant turned and stared at us. At first you think okay maybe we walk in on a private party.....no that's not the case, they are just rude! How do you think I should get Germans to stop staring, wave at them, smile big like a crazy person or just glare back?

14 comments:

kw said...

I'm a fan of glaring back! But thats just me! hehe =]

Anonymous said...

Does staring back help?

Maybe you can just assume they're starting because you are just THAT good looking?

Ina in Alaska said...

Very interesting. I will ask one of our attorneys, who is German, about this on Monday and get back to you..... xoxoxo

Anonymous said...

HI,
I would start doing the Miss America wave like you are someone important. I;m sure they are just staring because you guys are beautiful Americans!!! Love you and miss you guys!

Joyce said...

Hmmm... My grandparents were german. All I know they were really strict! LOL... My mom is too Americanized. I can also ask my neighbor who is from Germany, but she has been here for years. I'm sure this has to trying on the nerves. Have you asked your friend who is leaving Germany? If I found the right opportunity I would even ask your German teacher, why people stare and what is the proper way of handling this situation. Keep us posted. Hugs...

Leciawp said...

I would wave, or say "do I know you?"

Tami said...

They must be in awe of your terrific smile! Try to look angry like a german instead of a happy american. ha ha!

Kwana said...

Big smile and Howdy Partner! ugh.

preppyplayer said...

I'm sure it is because they are curious and I too wonder what the proper response should be.
Is it even considered rude by Germans to stare?

pve design said...

What is the translation for paparazzi...I would start wearing dark glasses, and pretend I was a famous celebrity.

pve design said...

My Aunt lived in Germany many years ago and I went to visit her and she told me never to smile in public. I think they have a very different public display. Americans are much more carefree with smiles and stares.

Formerly known as Frau said...

Thanks for all your helpful ideas. pve Design that makes sense why everyone frowns all the time.
I had a staring contest on S Bahn today and I lost! I couldnt hold my stare as long as the German man could!

Somer Love said...

SMILE A huge smile and wave!!!!!!! Kill them with kindness!

Barrett said...

I toured Germany a little while back and remember the same thing. They also don't like to stand in line and wait their turn. I had so many cut in front of me while waiting in lines. I love hearing about your adventures!