Keeping in Touch in Germany

True to its high-tech reputation, Germany’s high-quality communication infrastructure features some of the most efficient technologies in the world. Expats shouldn't have any problems keeping in touch in Germany and staying in contact with family and friends back home. 

Telecommunications in Germany

Telecommunications in Germany are highly developed, so expats can expect excellent service from the many service providers that operate in the country. The largest mobile service providers are known for offering world-class service.

The mobile phone market in Germany is dominated by three main operators – T-Mobile, Vodafone, and O2. One advantage for expats who choose a prepaid package over a mobile contract, apart from being able to monitor their usage, is that many include international-call perks. 

Internet in Germany

Although most people prefer accessing the internet from home, expats who enjoy the novelty of ordering a double espresso while clicking away on their laptops will be happy to know that most coffee shops and restaurants in Germany offer free wireless access. 

Many apartments include a wireless connection with the cost worked into monthly rental fees. However, not all apartments offer this package and new tenants may need to look for a service provider. The most popular service providers include 1&1, Vodafone and O2. Choosing a host might seem difficult, but all of them offer similar services at competitive prices. Most of the larger mobile operators also offer internet packages.

Postal service in Germany

The national postal service in Germany is run by Deutsche Post. Although the company has now been privatised, there remains very little competition in this area.

Generally, the German postal service is reliable and fast, with most letters sent within the country arriving at their destination on the following day.  There are a variety of postal options available depending on the size of the item being sent and when delivery is required.

English language media and news in Germany

English language news sources are quite readily available in Germany. The Local is the main English-language news source in Germany and The Munich Times provides local daily news for the English-speaking expat community in Bavaria. Bild and Spiegel are useful online sources which offer national news stories in English. Daily international newspapers, as well as a range of magazines, are available from newsstands and newsagents throughout the country.

Certain English TV channels such as BBC World, Sky News and CNN are available via cable TV in Germany. Deutsche Welle is the main English-language radio station in Germany and provides up-to-date news stories. A full bouquet of streaming services are also available in Germany.