subject: How to enjoy a German hotel [print this page] Germany has a few modes of behaviour that are slightly different to their neighbours, so knowledge of a few of them will help you enjoy your stay in a german hotel all the more.
Firstly, and this is something I really like, Germans are environmentally friendly. This is not just in the English sense or recycling a few cans. They consider littering to be a really disgusting crime. To throw rubbish around is just not done and so please consider this carefully. One hotel I visited was on the verge of calling the police over a bit of rubbish left by an incosiderate guest. So, do not dare to throw litter, full stop.
Spitting is even worse, and if you are seen spitting on the pavement before entering the hotel they would most likely kick you out onto the street.
Politeness costs nothing. When addressing adults always use 'Sie'. (the polite german way of saying 'you'). The alternative informal 'du' should be used when addressing kids.
If you want to call a waiter to your table you shouldn't call out. The polite way is to raise your hand with the palm facing out and index finger pointing straight up.
It all sounds a bit stark so far, but there are huge benefits to the German way. For example you should expect a spotlessly clean room and are entitled to make one hell of a fuss if there is dirt. Your room really should be wonderfully clean. The bedsheets perfectly white and comfortable. A hotel that fails to meet this standard will be shamed and wouldn't survive long. However, never drop the politeness, even while complaining.
Another upside is that there is very little chance of you being ripped off. Dodgy hoteliers trying to make a quick profit from foreign guests have never been part of the German holidaymaker's experience. This is something we hope will stay this way for ever.
Alcohol is enjoyed freely almost everywhere, but drunkardness is dealt with harshly. Again, politeness and consideration of others are key to enjoying a stay in a german hotel.
Finally they don't expect to be tipped in a german hotel. All the staff are paid by the management so don't bother tipping unless you were partuicularly well looked after.
