The Kiwi foodie’s fairy tale
Pastries, burgers, sausage stew – Macy Sto Domingo finds paradise in Bremen.
What inspired your move, and how long have you been there?
I came to Germany in 2008 on a school exchange and fell in love with the place. I made the move just after graduation and have been in Germany for just over two years.
What do you do there?
I teach English and write for online publications such as Thought Catalog and Elite Daily.
What are the greatest advantages to living there?
It’s easy and cheap to get around, whether that’s within the city or travelling to neighbouring cities or countries.
Disadvantages?
Germans like their rules and paperwork, so you better get used to both if you want to live here. Oh, and supermarkets are closed on Sundays.
How expensive is it compared to New Zealand?
I’d say housing is about the same as New Zealand, but food, drink, travel, education – all of it is cheaper.
How much is beer?
If you’re out, it’ll cost you about €2.50 ($4), but at the supermarket it’s cheap as chips.
What do you do in your spare time?
In summer, it’s really nice to sit in the park or walk around because I always get the feeling there’s more to this city than I know. If I’m on my own, I blog about my adventures at ihatecoffeeee.blogspot.com.
What’s the local delicacy and would you recommend it?
‘‘Kohl und Pinkel’’ (kale stew with a particular kind of sausage on the side) is a Bremen delicacy that I ate when I was at a friend’s grandparent’s place. I’d definitely recommend trying it, though perhaps it’s better when cooked by an authentic Bremer grandmother.
Easiest way to get around?
The tram is quick and easy. Bremen is small enough that you could bike and walk everywhere.
What’s the shopping like?
Same price as New Zealand, but more boring. I believe it comes from the fact that German people tend to value practicality and functionality over most else.
Best after-dark activity?
In summer having some beers outdoors with friends is the best, especially before a night out. Summer nights in Germany are great, they almost make the long winters worth it. If it’s not summer, then any place that might have a heater.
Best time of year to visit?
Most definitely summer, though if you want to experience a Weihnachtsmarkt (Christmas market), then come in winter.
What are the top three things you recommend for visitors?
The statue of the Bremer Stadtmusikanten, in the city centre, is worth seeing as it pays homage to the Brothers Grimm fairy tale that makes Bremen so popular among tourists. The Schnoor, which is the medieval neighbourhood of the city, is also interesting and beautiful to walk through. If you’re hungry, then I highly recommend a burger joint named Rock&Wurst.
Besides family and friends, what do you miss most about home?
The friendliness and openness of the people back home. German people aren’t unfriendly, but they’re more reserved and it takes a while to get to know someone here.
How easy is it for you to get back to New Zealand?
It’s difficult. Time and money are two things I do not have and travelling to the other side of the world requires both.
For Kiwis looking to move there, which industries are seeking fresh talent?
If you have the right qualifications and speak German, it shouldn’t be too difficult finding a job in your chosen field. If you don’t speak German, teaching English is a way to go.
If you know an expat who wants to share inside knowledge of their home away from home, email travel@stuff.co.nz with Expat in the subject line.