Germany vs. South Africa: 10 major culture shocks nobody warns you about

Curious about the REAL culture shocks of moving to Germany from South Africa? What happens when you’re technically German, German not German lol but grew up halfway across the world—and suddenly start over as an adult in Leipzig? If you're looking for honest stories about navigating life abroad, this conversation is for you.In this episode, I chat with my partner's sister and friend Michele. She was born in Germany, raised in South Africa—and just moved back to Germany as an adult. We compare day-to-day life in both countries, unpack 10 unexpected culture shocks (from healthcare to food, public transport, diversity, weather, languages, work/study balance, and especially safety for women!), and talk candidly about what it’s like to feel “in-between” cultures. Whether you’re considering a move abroad or are fascinated by international life, you should tune in!⏱ TIMESTAMPS00:00 – Intro & Meet Michelle: Born in Germany, raised in South Africa04:18 – The Big Move: First Impressions of Leipzig06:24 – Culture Shock #1: Social Interactions & Friendliness10:09 – Culture Shock #2: Food Culture & Meal Times15:30 – Culture Shock #3: Healthcare System Differences20:13 – Culture Shock #4: Study & Work Environments26:04 – Culture Shock #5: Public Transport & Getting Around30:18 – Culture Shock #6: Diversity & Changing Identity36:31 – Culture Shock #7: Weather & Nature44:16 – Culture Shock #8: Language, Dialects & Multilingual Life50:58 – Culture Shock #9: Rules, Flexibility, and Structure54:02 – Culture Shock #10: Feeling Safe—Especially as a Woman58:26 – Final Thoughts & Why Feeling Safe Truly Matters#CultureShock #MovingAbroad #LifeInGermany #InternationalLivingHowdy und Servus!! I'm Paulina :-) Welcome to The Pod Abroad, your go-to podcast for stories from international friends living around the globe! I'm originally from Texas and have been living in Munich, Germany for almost 9 years. I moved here for a master’s in sustainability and ended up building a home (and podcast!) abroad.🎧 This episode is for you if:

• You’re curious about day-to-day life in Germany or South Africa
• You want honest takes about identity, belonging & blended cultures
• You’re considering a move abroad or love cross-cultural journeys
• Like to hear an American yapping

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