Experiencing nine unexpected differences returning home from Germany during the holiday season
In a fascinating tale of life abroad and returning home, a Scottish-German author recounts their experiences of reverse culture shock upon moving back to Scotland after residing in Berlin for several years.
The author, who relocated to Berlin in 2017, found themselves navigating a world that seemed surprisingly different from their native Scotland. From the bustling streets of Aberdeen, where conversations with strangers are commonplace, to the quieter, more reserved atmosphere of Berlin, the author experienced a sense of cultural disorientation.
One of the most striking differences the author noticed was the approach to New Year's Eve celebrations. In Berlin, the city can resemble a war zone, with fireworks filling the sky, while in Scotland, such displays are less common. The author found this contrast surprising and amusing, adding a unique twist to their festive season.
Another notable difference was in the pub culture. In the UK, ordering a drink involves asking for "a pint" or "a half pint," whereas in Germany, one might ask for "a big beer" or "a small beer." The author found themselves adapting to this difference, even incorporating it into their own life, much to the confusion of friends and family back in the UK.
The author also noticed that they had picked up habits from their Berlin life, such as waiting for the traffic light to turn green, a practice not commonly seen in Scotland. This habit, along with their newfound religiousness about opening windows to improve air circulation in their home, was met with bemusement by those around them.
The author's experiences mirror the challenges faced by many expatriates returning home. Common reverse culture shocks experienced by Germans returning from living in Scotland often stem from differences in social interactions, cultural expectations, and identity adjustments. These include feeling like an outsider in their "home" culture, adjusting to social norms, challenges related to identity and self-esteem, and expectations about lifestyle and work.
The author found the tap water in Scotland to be a refreshing contrast from the hard water in Berlin. The cold, fresh water in Scotland, they say, tastes a million times better. This is a small detail, but one that adds to the overall sense of returning home.
As for Christmas celebrations, the main event in Germany takes place on the 24th of December, while in the UK, it is on the 25th. The author found joy in mixing Christmas traditions from Germany and the UK, creating a unique blend that gives them the best of both worlds.
In the end, the author's journey serves as a reminder that living abroad can change us, making us adapt to new customs and habits. But it can also make us appreciate the small things we take for granted in our home culture. As the author adjusts to life back in Scotland, they continue to find joy in the familiar and the new, creating a unique blend of cultures that reflects their personal journey.
While adapting to the quieter atmosphere and different cultural norms in Scotland, the author was intrigued to discover a new lifestyle upon returning home, blending elements of home-and-garden practices they picked up in Berlin with their Scotish roots. Furthermore, the author's travel experiences in Berlin exposed them to different approaches in home-and-garden maintenance, travel customs, and festive celebrations, offering a fresh perspective on their own lifestyle.
