Translation

Finding Flats in Berlin: Tips and Resources for International Renters

If you’re an international renter looking for a flat in Berlin, you may be wondering where
to start. Berlin’s booming real estate market can be intimidating, especially if you don’t
speak German. Luckily, there are resources and services available that can make the
process easier. In this article, we’ll discuss some tips and resources for finding flats in
Berlin, as well as the value of having a translator or interpreter during the apartment
search process.

Booka Local: Bridging the Language Gap for International Renters

Before we dive into the specifics of finding flats in Berlin, let’s first discuss the value of
having a translator or interpreter during the apartment search process. If you don’t
speak German, navigating the real estate market in Berlin can be challenging. You may
struggle to communicate with landlords, understand rental agreements, and negotiate
lease terms. That’s where Booka Local comes in.

Booka Local is a startup that provides bilingual German speakers as translators for
international people. Our vision is centered around cultural integration and making life
easier for the international community. We can offer interpreters to attend apartment
viewing appointments with you when you don’t speak German, and also help with
paperwork and negotiating with landlords. By having a translator or interpreter by your
side during the apartment search process, you can feel more confident and empowered
to find the perfect flat in Berlin.

Is it easy to find a flat in Berlin?

The short answer is no, it’s not easy to find a flat in Berlin. Berlin’s real estate market is
highly competitive, with a high demand for rental properties and a limited supply. This
can make finding the right flat a challenging and time-consuming process, especially if
you don’t know where to look.

However, that doesn’t mean it’s impossible to find a flat in Berlin. With the right
resources and strategies, you can increase your chances of finding the perfect rental
property.

How to search for an apartment in Berlin?

When searching for an apartment in Berlin, there are a few resources and strategies that
can be helpful:

  1. Online platforms: There are several online platforms that can be helpful for finding flats in Berlin. Immobilienscout24 is a popular online platform for searching for flats, while WG-gesucht is a great resource for finding flat shares.
  2. Facebook groups: There are several Facebook groups dedicated to apartment hunting in Berlin. These groups can be a great way to connect with other renters, share information, and find available rental properties.
  3. Real estate agents: If you’re willing to pay a commission, working with a real estate agent can be a great way to streamline the apartment search process. Real estate agents can help you find available properties that match your criteria, and can also help with negotiating lease terms.
  4. Booka Local: As we mentioned earlier, Booka Local can provide interpreters to attend apartment viewings with you when you don’t speak German. This can be a great way to communicate with landlords and get a better understanding of the rental property.

How to Find a Rent in Berlin?

Once you’ve found a rental property that you’re interested in, there are a few steps that
you’ll need to take in order to secure the apartment:

  1. Paperwork: In order to rent an apartment in Berlin, you’ll need to have all necessary paperwork in order. This might include proof of income, a Schufa report, and a deposit.
  2. Negotiation: When negotiating with landlords, it’s important to understand your rights as a renter. You may be able to negotiate the rental price or lease terms, but it’s important to do so within the confines of German rental law.
  3. Booka Local: Booka Local can provide interpreters to assist with the paperwork and negotiation process. Our translators can help you understand the rental agreement and communicate with the landlord to ensure that everything is clear and agreed upon.

Is it Worth Buying a Flat in Berlin?

If you’re considering staying in Berlin long-term, you may be wondering if it’s worth
buying a flat instead of renting. While buying a flat in Berlin can be a great investment,
it’s important to carefully consider the costs and potential risks involved.

The real estate market in Berlin is currently booming, with prices increasing rapidly.
However, buying a flat in Berlin can be expensive, and there are also additional costs
involved such as taxes, maintenance fees, and utilities. Additionally, if you’re not familiar
with the German real estate market, it can be challenging to navigate the buying
process.

Before making the decision to buy a flat in Berlin, it’s important to do your research and
consult with a real estate agent or lawyer who is familiar with the German market.

Conclusion

Finding flats in Berlin can be a daunting task, especially if you’re an international renter who doesn’t speak German. However, with the right resources and strategies, it’s possible to find the perfect rental property.

Working with a translator or interpreter, such as the ones provided by Booka Local, can be a valuable asset during the apartment search process. Additionally, using online platforms, Facebook groups, and real estate agents can help streamline the search process.

If you’re considering buying a flat in Berlin, it’s important to carefully consider the costs and potential risks involved. With the right research and guidance, buying a flat can be a great investment in your future.

Overall, by utilizing the resources and strategies discussed in this article, you can feel confident and empowered during your search for the perfect flat in Berlin.

Translation Booka Local

Dating in Germany: A Guide to Finding Love in a New Culture

If you’re interested in dating in Germany, it can be helpful to understand the country’s unique dating customs and traditions. When you are in a foreign country and trying to negotiate strange norms and traditions, dating may be a stressful and perplexing process.

The dating scene in Germany is briefly discussed in this blog, along with cultural norms and expectations, suggestions for meeting and attracting potential partners, and guidance on handling relationships and dating etiquette. This guide will assist you in understanding the local dating environment and navigating your way to a happy and rewarding relationship, whether you are a newbie to Germany or a seasoned expat looking for love.

Cultural Norms and Expectations

If you’re from another country, you might not be accustomed to German dating customs. Keep in mind the following important cultural norms and expectations:

  • It is typical for people to take some time to warm up to one another in Germany because both men and women tend to be more quiet and formal in their relationships.
  • It is typical for people to have their own personal space and to be more autonomous in their relationships in Germany because of the culture’s priority placed on independence and self-sufficiency.
  • People in Germany frequently express their sentiments and intentions honestly and directly because they have a tendency to be more straightforward and direct in their communication.
  • In general, German society is more conventional, and traditional gender norms are frequently observed in interpersonal interactions. Men, for instance, might be anticipated
  • It’s vital to be on time for dates and avoid last-minute cancellations because Germans have a tendency to be on time and value others’ punctuality.
  • In public shows of affection, Germans tend to be more restrained, and it is normal for people to act more formal and reservedly.

Are you interested in finding out what Germans think about dating? Check out our free “Ask The Locals” ebook where they replied to questions regarding dating.

Tips for Meeting and Attracting Partners

If you are interested in dating in Germany, here are some tips for meeting and attracting potential partners:

  • Join social groups or clubs: Getting involved in social groups or clubs that share your interests and hobbies is one of the finest methods to meet possible companions in Germany. Through online resources, community centers, or local meetings, you can locate groups and clubs.
  • Use dating apps and websites: Online dating is common in Germany, and there are lots of options available for the domestic market. You can set up a profile and begin texting or swiping through potential companions in your neighborhood.
  • Being open to new experiences may help you attract possible partners because Germans are often adventurous and open to new things. To meet new people, you can think about attempting new things to do or travelling somewhere new.
  • Germans take tremendous pride in their culture and customs, so demonstrating an interest in them can be a fantastic approach to draw in potential partners. You can think about getting to know the regional customs and traditions or going to cultural events and holidays with your companion.
  • Be assertive and self-assured. When dating in Germany, it’s crucial to be self-assured and clear about your objectives. Germans are drawn to people who are outspoken and confident.
Credits: Slapwank

Navigating Relationships and Dating Etiquette

Once you have found a possible partner in Germany, it is critical to behave respectfully and considerately throughout the relationship. Here are some pointers for handling German dating customs and relationships:

  • Be on time: As was already noted, Germans place a high emphasis on punctuality and expect guests to arrive on time for dates and meetings. Being on time is crucial, as is not changing plans at the last minute.
  • Be honest and up front: Due to the straightforward and direct communication style of Germans, it is crucial to be upfront about your intentions and feelings in a relationship.
  • Respect personal space: Respect your partner’s boundaries and offer them space when they need it. As was already noted, Germans have a tendency to appreciate independence and privacy.
  • Be open to compromise: In order to strike a balance that benefits both partners, it is crucial to be open to negotiation and compromise. Relationships call for compromise.
  • Communication is essential. Any relationship that wants to succeed needs to have open lines of communication. You should also be honest and courteous when speaking with your partner.

Dating in Germany may be a wonderful and enriching experience, but in order to successfully navigate the dating environment, it is essential to grasp the local culture and customs. You can discover love and establish a solid, satisfying relationship in Germany by heeding the advice in this article and being open to new experiences. So, these are some considerations you should make when dating in Germany.

Translation Booka Local

What can I do to build friendship with my German colleagues

It can be rewarding and pleasant to have a friendship with your German colleagues, but it can also be difficult, particularly if you are not familiar with the local way of life. Here are some ideas about how to become friends with your German colleagues:

Be punctual

Germans value punctuality and count on their colleagues to show up for meetings and work on time. Being dependable and on schedule will help you gain the respect and trust of your coworkers.

Get to know your colleagues

You can develop connections and feel more a part of your team by making an effort to get to know your colleagues. Consider asking them about their hobbies and interests or going out to lunch or coffee with them.

Participate in team-building activities

Participating in team-building activities or social gatherings offered by numerous German businesses might help you get to know your coworkers and foster relationships. You might also think about recommending some of your own interests, like hiking or participating in a team sport.

Show interest in their culture

Germans take great pride in their culture and customs, thus expressing an interest in them can promote connections and understanding. You can think about inquiring about regional customs and traditions or going to cultural events or holidays with your coworkers. Check out our free “Ask The Locals” ebook for some tips!

Credits: Boldomatic

Be respectful and polite

It is important to treat coworkers with respect and consideration because politeness and respect are values in Germany. Be conscious of local customs and standards and refrain from saying or making inappropriate jokes.

Don’t be afraid to ask for help

Ask for assistance if necessary if you are having trouble with a task or if you have concerns about your employment. Your coworkers will probably be pleased to help you and offer advice, and this can be an excellent chance to develop trust and relationships.

Be open to trying new things

Being open to these chances can help you make friends and broaden your horizons because Germans are frequently willing to try new things and experience different cultures. You might think about suggesting activities or events that are outside your comfort zone or going on cultural outings with your employees.

Show appreciation

Germans place a high emphasis on appreciation and acknowledgment, thus expressing your gratitude for the accomplishments of your coworkers can strengthen your bonds with them. You can think about sending them a small gift or note of appreciation in appreciation for their assistance.

Be a good listener

Building trust and respect with your coworkers while actively listening to them and demonstrating an interest in what they have to say can also help you understand more about their backgrounds and experiences.

Have a sense of humor

A dry, subtle sense of humor is common among Germans, and being able to laugh and appreciate a joke can help you make friends and foster a healthy work atmosphere. However, it’s crucial to be aware of cultural variations and to refrain from cracking insensitive or offensive jokes.

In general, building friendship with your German colleagues takes time, effort, and cultural sensitivity. You can create solid, lasting relationships and enhance your experience in Germany by using these suggestions and remaining open to fresh experiences and viewpoints.

Do you want to know more about the German culture to help you integrate? Check out our FREE “Ask The Locals” ebook!

German-English

Life In Germany – How to fight back expat blues?

Leaving your home country and your family behind to travel to Germany must have been really hard for all expats. Most of us must have experienced depression, anxiety, sadness and what not during our first months in Germany. And why not? Germany was a new place with a completely new culture, new people and not forgetting new language for almost all of us. And the depressive winters, TRAUMATIZING!

Well, if you think you are the only one experiencing these feelings, then trust me, you’re not alone!

Expat blues also known as expat depression is when people who move overseas feel what psychologists call the depression of new culture shock. When someone is going through an expat blues, one of the worst feelings that can happen is apathy. This is typically expressed as a lack of engagement and joy. Some common physical symptoms of expat blues are, among others, fatigue, insomnia, crying, loss of appetite or overeating. 

But do not worry! Expats usually get over it with time! 

Here are some ways to control your expat blues to make your stay in Germany more pleasant:

Gather information about Germany

One of the best ways to prevent a culture shock is to gather as much information about Germany as possible. Search about the culture, the people, the places. it is highly recommended you to also join Germany expats’ forums, communities and Facebook groups to see what the expats already here are talking about. You will get a clearer idea of the topics they talk about and also important information about life in Germany.

You can also check InterNations and MeetUp, two very popular expats forums in Germany!

Booka Local also has its own meetup forum for expats where we often have online meetups to chat about different topics! We also hope to plan meetups offline as summer approaches…so, make sure you check out this link of our forum to stay updated with our meetups!

Exploring Germany

Think about it! You are now in GERMANY!!! It is one of the most historical places in Europe. So, why waste such an opportunity? Go explore the country, organise weekend getaways to the castles, visit the spatis with your new friends and attend events which are always happening throughout Germany. These will help you to get more familiar with the country and also keep your mind away from homesickness thoughts…

Exploring Germany also means getting to know the locals! Yes, it is not always easy to befriend Germans, we’ve all been there! Oh, btw speaking of getting to know the Germans, Booka Local has recently launched its ebook “Ask the Locals” where we asked the locals questions that we expats have most certainly have had in our minds! You can now get your own FREE copy!

Create a home

You are now living on your own! Yay privacy!!! Think about it in this way – you can now decorate your new place as YOU want it. You can create your own comfortable little bubble that makes you feel safe and relaxed. Trust me, this makes a huge difference! Try it, buy frames, flowers, plants, lights, and whatever you like and create your personalized home! You will love it.

Keep up with old habits

Once you are in Germany, you do not have to change yourself or your habits. Keep up with your old habits! That is, if you used to exercise in your home country, continue in Germany too! Germany has splendid running and hiking tracks! Make sure you explore them! They’re so worth it! If you were always a person who loves connecting with nature, then Germany has a lot of it’s natural places to offer…You can also find friends online or offline who have the same hobbies as you and plan something together! 

Plan something with family and friends

Invite your friends or family from back home to Germany. Planning a trip with familiar people will give you something to look forward to and the opportunity to see more Germany. 

Many expats make Europe tour plans with their friends and families back home and create great memories. Get yourself motivated for these kinds of trips too. These will help you get more used to Europe as a whole and make you feel more a part of this new continent. 

Share your thoughts

A very important thing to do when you’re having the expat blues is to talk it out. As mentioned earlier, you are not the only one who has been experiencing such feelings, most of the expats have too! Talk to other expats, share your thoughts and feelings! It will make you feel much lighter and will help you to get through those hard days! 

If you are having communication problems due to the language barriers, it is recommended to search for other people from your home country in Germany. This can give you a sense of belonging and therefore make you feel like home. 

Talking to your friends and families back home can also help a lot. Video calling them or chatting with them can help ease your pain and sadness from being away from them. 

Finally, living far from your family and your home country can be really difficult. But remember, among millions of people who dreamt of travelling to Germany, you were in the lucky group who actually made it here! And it’s worth celebrating…expat blues is very natural and goes away with each day you spend in Germany! We hope you can find these few tips helpful to make your days better here!

German language

How to raise kids in a multilingual family?

As a parent, you want to raise your children in a multicultural environment. How can you do this without creating too much stress? In this blog post we talk about how to raise kids in a multilingual family!


The global population is growing rapidly. As a result, there has been a rise in the number of families who speak multiple languages at home. According to the United Nations, over half of the world’s population now lives in countries where two or more languages are spoken.


Multiculturalism is becoming the norm today. Parents from around the globe are bringing their children up speaking multiple languages. This means that they should also learn to communicate with each other. If you’re thinking of having children, then you should consider learning a language before they arrive.

Why do you want to raise your kids to be multilingual?

First of all, many believe that multilingual children are better prepared for school and work. They also learn how to communicate with people from different cultures.
However, in today’s world, a lot of parents do not raise their kids to be multilingual out of a choice – they could be immigrants in a new country themselves. It means that, the parents speak another language (or several different languages) at home which is not the native language in the country they live in. Their kids have no choice but to be exposed to different languages at the same time.

Don’t children get confused when they hear two languages spoken around them?

Children are extremely sensitive to the different ways adults speak. Even when they understand only one language, they learn quickly about the differences between how men and women talk, and other differences. Bilingual situations aren’t always a disadvantage. Sometimes it’s an advantage!
Bilingual children may take a bit longer to learn how to speak two languages. Their brains have to work harder to understand both languages. However, bilingual children do develop faster than those who speak only one language.

Raising a multilingual family is hard – what makes it work?

Many books and articles aimed at parents who want their kids to learn languages claim that the best way for them to learn a new language is through OPOL, which stands for “one person, one language.” In this case, both parents speak two languages. One parent speaks English and Spanish; the other parent speaks French and German. In fact, for several reasons, this method isn’t ideal. It is actually found that most children who speak two languages end up using one language exclusively for communication purposes. The success rate was especially high when both parents spoke the home language while the children learned the other language at school. Furthermore, even if the parents were able to speak several different languages, their children would only learn the one they actually use at home. It makes perfect sense because there’s a direct relationship between the amount of time children spend interacting with their parents and the rate at which they learn new words. However, the exact amount of time needed is not known. There is no scientific evidence to back up claims that children need to be exposed to a language for at least thirty percent of their waking hours before they begin to learn it easily (aeon.co).


‘The earlier the better’? Children learn languages best after the age of 12. The current trend in Europe for teaching children English earlier than usual isn’t working well. A child can lose the motivation to learn if starting a language too early – especially if the child is already learning a language at home from one of his or her parents (aeon.co).

How to raise kids in a multilingual family comes with many challenges. If you are a parent living in a foreign land and have to bring up your children with a mixture of languages, make sure you do not put pressure on them to learn different languages or stress yourself about not speaking the foreign language, because they eventually catch up with them by being exposed to them.

Do you have to visit your children’s Kindergarten but do not speak German? We‘ve got your back. Simply book a local now!

Booka Local

Things You Should Know While Renting a Place In Germany

Renting an apartment in Germany can be stressful. From finding a place to going through the tenancy, living there is all about following laws and rules – one has just got to make sure they aren’t doing anything illegal while renting their home! Discover these main things you should know while renting a place in Germany!

Type of rental contracts

It is important to discuss the type of contract that you want before seeing an apartment. Some rental agreements are for fixed terms, which means they have a move-in and move-out date or indefinite with no end date. In both types of contracts you can end your tenancy by giving a minimum three-months written notice. This can sometimes vary depending on the landlord and the agreement. Thus, make sure you discuss this prior to signing the contract to avoid any issue later.

Utilities (Nebenkosten)

In Germany you can either pay a cold rent (Kaltmiete) that is only rent or warm rent (Warmmiete) which includes utilities (Nebenkosten) such as electricity, gas, internet, etc. Make sure you get all these clarified before signing the rental contract so that you know exactly how much rent you will be paying each month or so you can make the arrangements for the other utilities as well in case of a cold rent.

Tenant rights

Another important thing you should know before renting an place in Germany is your rights. Landlords cannot immediately terminate contracts without any notice unless the tenants have committed serious crimes like not paying rent for months or doing something illegal at their apartment complex – but they can end these agreements if they are renovating the place and keeping it personal use only. If you think you are being evicted unfairly, it is recommended to see a lawyer!

Property rules and regulations

As a new tenant, it is your responsibility to visit the property and see if there are any damages before moving in. You should also make sure that all furniture has been moved to its original location before moving out otherwise you may be charged extra rent or deposit for restoring them back again! Landlords are allowed to charge you for any damage of the property, so make sure you return the apartment as it was before you moved in. It is recommended to discuss about all these with your landlord before signing the contract to avoid any unpleasant surprise later.

Subletting

The first thing you should know about subletting an apartment is that there are some rules. You can read more about it in our blog „Can I sublet my apartment in Germany“ here!

Deposit (Kaution)

Being a tenant in Germany, you should also know about how deposits work. Questions that come up frequently are what exactly are tenants paying when they hand over a deposit and when do they get the money back? Read this blog post to go over the basics of how it works so you know what you’re getting into before signing on the dotted line!

Having guests over

Different landlords have different rules about guests at your place. Some allow guests only during certain hours while others charge a fee for each night that someone stays at your place – even if they’re just passing through! The conditions for these are normally written in the contract so make sure you know about the rules properly before inviting anyone over. In case of doubts, it is better to talk to your landlord to clear things out and avoid troubles. Do not hide anything concerning guests in your apartment as it might lead to serious problems with your landlord!

Are you having some issues with your landlord and need someone to converse with them in German? Book a local to help you out!

Sundays in Germany

Things You Can Do On Sundays In Germany

Sundays are considered as a day of rest in Germany. While most people tend to stay at home on these days and catch up on chores around the house; there’s always those who want some excitement! It’s always nice when one has something planned though because not only does doing nothing make Sundays drag but also sometimes boredom gets too much and who wants to bore themselves?! Here are few things you can do on Sundays in Germany:

Visit a Museum

Germany has over 6,200 museums full of culture and histories. Visitors normally have to pay a fee (which varies depending on the museum) but they are open Sundays! You can visit them without getting into physical activities if you want and spend a calm Sunday while enjoying. You can also learn more about Germany by visiting these historic sites with their own unique stories to tell – don’t forget your camera either because there’s plenty worth capturing from inside or outside the building!

Visit a Castle

Home to more than 20,000 castles, Germany is in the list of the countries with the most fascinating castles and palaces in Europe. While some are free to visit, others require an entry fee. If you are fond of fairy tales and histories, then German castles are your go-tos. You can easily spend hours visiting them while learning about German past stories. You should however keep in mind the Covid-19 rules before going to any castle.

Visit a Market

You really want to go shopping on a Sunday in Germany but the shops are closed? German markets are the solution. There you can find all kind of stuffs, from fruits and vegetables to clothing and souvenirs. They are open in almost all cities in Germany on Sundays.

If you live in Berlin or are just visiting, you might want to check this list of markets located there.

Go For a Walk

If you need to relax, the best way is by taking a walk in an open space. There’s nothing like winding through green landscapes and breathing fresh air with nature all around! If that sounds too daunting for your tastes then why not head into town on a Sunday morning when there‘s less people and less noise?!

Go Hiking

Hiking is a great way to get outside and enjoy nature. In Germany, there are many trails that you can explore with friends or family members who also want an adventure in the outdoors! You’ll find yourself far from city life up on top of mountain ridges where it’s quiet enough for some peace & quite time – if only we could all have such adventures every day…

Get Brunch

Germans know how to have a good time. German folklore says that on Sundays, it’s best for friends and family members to enjoy great food together! You can have brunch with your flatmates or invite your friends over. If you do not want to cook then you can go to restaurants or cafes which are normally open middays on Sundays – just make sure not wait until last minute!

Do you want to know what else Germans say they do on Sundays? Check out our free ‚Ask the Locals‘ book here!

Go On A Trip

Germany is full of wonderful sightseeings whether they are in small towns or big cities. You can catch buses or trains that operate on Sundays too and visit a new place every weekend. If you want to travel outside Germany, you can visit the neighbouring countries – The Netherlands, Poland, France, Switzerland, etc, where shops are open.

Go To The Cinema

Cinemas are fortunately open on Sundays in Germany. The German Sunday cinema bill is a mixed bag of international flicks and dubbed blockbuster hits. But don’t let the language barriers stop you from catching your favorite movie! You can find out if there are any original versions playing by checking online to not be disappointed later. Also, make sure to buy your tickets beforehand as cinemas tend to be full on Sundays.

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Streaming in Germany- 11 ways to do it legally

German copyright laws are very strict. Videos should only be streamed or torrented in Germany if the user has registered with a streaming service like Netflix and is aware of its terms, otherwise they might receive big fines (>1000 Euros) and face legal consequences. This blog talks about safe ways to stream to avoid any mishaps. Here are 11 ways to do it legally in Germany: