There are some idiosyncrasies that are popular in the American culture, but not in European culture. Some things that we take for granted in America, are not welcomed in Germany. For instance, chit chat is not an acceptable practice in Germany.
When you pass by someone don’t ask, “How are you?” They may take you quite literally and proceed to tell you their woes for the next 20 minutes. Germans do not often give compliments. This is categorized as small talk, and they don’t like it. Germans are not modest. They have an appreciation for nudity. This doesn’t mean they have free sex. They are just very comfortable with the freedom nudity offers.
Skinny dipping is a common practice. Although Germans take their work seriously, they take more breaks than Americans do. For example, stores are closed on Sundays and in the evenings. Most Germans also get one full month off for vacations. Germans also tend to follow rules. A rule that is often broken in America is jaywalking. This practice is frowned on in Germany.
Rules are rules after all. There are some differences between Americans and Germans. It is good to know how they both vary before Americans travel to Europe. Otherwise, you may miss an opportunity to make a good first impression.