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Digital Nomad Guide to Dortmund, Germany | Digital Nomad Exchange
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Digital Nomad Life in Dortmund, Germany

By Joshua Wood, LPC

Summary: Digital nomads like living in Dortmund, Germany because of its affordability, vibrant culture, and excellent transportation links. Dortmund is a major city in the Ruhr region of Germany and is known for its industrial heritage, modern architecture, and lively nightlife. The city is also home to a large student population, making it a great place for digital nomads to network and collaborate. The best neighborhood to live in Dortmund is the city center, which is known for its lively atmosphere and convenient access to public transportation. The city center is also home to a variety of restaurants, bars, and shops, making it a great place to explore and socialize. The approximate population of Dortmund, Germany is 590,000. The weather in Dortmund, Germany is generally mild, with temperatures ranging from the mid-30s to the mid-50s Fahrenheit (2-13 Celsius) in the winter and the mid-50s to the mid-70s Fahrenheit (13-24 Celsius) in the summer. The monthly cost of living for a digital nomad in Dortmund is approximately $1,500 USD. This includes rent, utilities, food, transportation, and entertainment. The cost to rent a centrally located, one-bedroom apartment with high-speed internet access in Dortmund is approximately $800 USD per month.

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How do I meet people in Dortmund?

When we asked people living in Dortmund about club and activities where newcomers can meet others, they responded:

"Expats in Dortmund can join a variety of clubs and activities, such as sports clubs, language clubs, and cultural clubs. Expats can also join local meetup groups, which are a great way to meet people with similar interests. Additionally, expats can attend local events such as festivals, concerts, and art exhibitions. Finally, expats can also meet people by attending local bars, cafes, and restaurants," remarked one member in Dortmund.

What is life like in Dortmund?

When we asked people living in Dortmund what life is like and how people spend their time, they said:

"Dortmund is a great city for expats and digital nomads, offering a vibrant cultural scene, excellent public transport, and a wide range of activities and attractions. The city is known for its friendly locals, who are always willing to help out newcomers. Expats and digital nomads can find plenty of coworking spaces, cafes, and restaurants to work from, as well as plenty of opportunities to socialize and make new friends. The cost of living in Dortmund is relatively low, making it an attractive destination for those looking to live and work in Germany," said one person in Dortmund.

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Where should I live in Dortmund?

We asked digital nomads and expats how they chose their neighborhood and found a place to live. They answered:

"One of the best ways to find a place to live in Dortmund is to use online resources such as websites like Immobilienscout24.de or WG-Gesucht.de. These websites allow you to search for available apartments and rooms in Dortmund, and you can filter your search by price, size, and other criteria. Additionally, you can also contact local real estate agents who can help you find a place to live in Dortmund. Finally, you can also look for postings on social media sites such as Facebook or Twitter, as many people post about available apartments and rooms in Dortmund," said one expat in Dortmund.

What do I need to know before moving to Dortmund?

When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Dortmund, they said:

"Before retiring in Dortmund, expats should familiarize themselves with the local language, as most people in the city speak German. Expats should also research the cost of living in Dortmund, as it is slightly higher than the national average. Additionally, expats should look into the healthcare system in Germany, as it is one of the best in the world. Furthermore, expats should research the local culture and customs, as well as the climate, to ensure they are prepared for their new home. Finally, expats should look into the job market in Dortmund, as there are many opportunities for those looking to work or start a business," remarked one member in Dortmund.

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What do people appreciate most about the culture in Dortmund?

"Expatriates in Dortmund appreciate the city's vibrant cultural scene, which includes a wide variety of museums, galleries, and theaters. They also enjoy the city's diverse culinary offerings, which range from traditional German fare to international cuisine. Additionally, expats appreciate the city's friendly and welcoming atmosphere, which makes it easy to make friends and feel at home. Finally, expats enjoy the city's many parks and green spaces, which provide a great place to relax and enjoy the outdoors," explained one expat living in Dortmund, Germany.

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What do people find most challenging about the culture in Dortmund?

"One of the most challenging aspects of the local culture for expats in Dortmund is the language barrier. Although many people in the city speak English, it can be difficult to communicate with locals if one does not speak German. Additionally, expats may find it difficult to adjust to the more formal and reserved nature of German culture, which can be quite different from the more relaxed and informal culture of their home countries. Furthermore, expats may find it difficult to navigate the German bureaucracy, which can be complex and time-consuming. Finally, expats may find it difficult to find a sense of community in Dortmund, as it can be difficult to make friends and build relationships with locals," said one person in Dortmund.

What residency documents or visas did I need if I will be in Dortmund for a while?

"If you plan to stay in Dortmund for a while, you will need to apply for a residence permit. Depending on your nationality, you may also need to apply for a visa. You will need to provide proof of your identity, proof of financial resources, and proof of health insurance. You may also need to provide proof of accommodation and proof of your purpose of stay," explained one expat living in Dortmund, Germany.

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What cultural blunders should I try to avoid making in Dortmund?

We asked people in Dortmund if they could share any humorous cultural blunders they commited. They wrote:

"It is important to be aware of cultural differences when visiting Dortmund. It is important to be respectful of local customs and traditions, and to be mindful of the language barrier. It is important to dress appropriately, as some places may have a dress code. It is also important to be aware of the local customs regarding public displays of affection, as some cultures may be more conservative than others. Additionally, it is important to be aware of the local customs regarding tipping, as some cultures may not expect tips. Finally, it is important to be aware of the local customs regarding alcohol consumption, as some cultures may have stricter laws regarding alcohol consumption," remarked one foreigner who made the move to Dortmund.

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What are healthcare services like in Dortmund?

When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Dortmund, they replied:

"Dortmund offers a wide range of healthcare services to its citizens. The city has several hospitals, including the St. Marien Hospital, the St. Josef Hospital, and the St. Johannes Hospital, which provide a variety of medical services, including emergency care, surgery, and specialized care. Additionally, there are numerous clinics and medical centers in the city, offering general medical care, as well as specialized services such as physical therapy, mental health services, and dental care. The city also has a number of pharmacies, providing access to prescription medications and over-the-counter drugs. Furthermore, Dortmund has a number of health insurance providers, allowing citizens to access the healthcare services they need," explained one person living in Dortmund, Germany.

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What are the pros and cons of living in Dortmund?

"Expats and digital nomads living in Dortmund appreciate the city's vibrant cultural scene, with its many museums, galleries, and theatres. They also enjoy the city's excellent public transportation system, which makes it easy to get around. Additionally, the city's low cost of living is attractive to expats and digital nomads. On the downside, some expats and digital nomads find the weather in Dortmund to be quite cold and grey in the winter months. Additionally, the city can be quite crowded and noisy at times," remarked one member in Dortmund.

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About the Author

Joshua Wood Joshua Wood, LPC is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange and serves as Co-President of Expat Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange and Digital Nomad Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.

Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.

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