I am Sabrina from the USA. I came to Cologne in April 2010. The first year here I really made an effort to learn the language.
There are many things I enjoy in Germany. For example, I like their respect for the environment, Kaffe&Kuchen tradition, high standards of living and the fact that they are fair about work and life balance. Cologne feels safe and clean. Germans are also very considerate.
However, I also have a list of things I do not like here. I don’t like the lack of impression; I do not know whether Germans are upset or neutral. Initially there is no warmth; you just need to work harder… Americans are very positive, even when odds are against you, we are sure you are going to make it. I grew up that I could be the president. The sky was the limit!
English
"Americans are very positive, even when odds are against you, we are sure you are going to make it. I grew up knowing that I could be the president. The sky was the limit!"