Digital Nomad Life in Stuttgart, Germany

"Finding a place to live in Stuttgart, involves several steps. First, you need to determine your budget and the type of accommodation you're looking for. This could range from a single room in a shared apartment to a family-sized house. Next, you should research the different neighborhoods in Stuttgart to find one that suits your lifestyle and needs. Some popular areas include Stuttgart-West, Stuttgart-Süd, and Stuttgart-Mitte. Once you have a clear idea of what you're looking for, you can start your search. There are several online platforms where you can find listings for rentals in Stuttgart. Websites like ImmobilienScout24, WG-Gesucht, and Immowelt are popular choices. You can also consider hiring a real estate agent to help you in your search. They can provide valuable insights into the local market and help you navigate the process. When you find a place you're interested in, contact the landlord or agent to arrange a viewing. Be prepared to provide proof of income and possibly a reference from a previous landlord. Finally, once you've found a place you like, you'll need to sign a rental agreement. Make sure to read it carefully and understand all the terms before signing. Remember, finding a place to live can take time, so start your search well in advance of when you plan to move," said one expat in Stuttgart.

"Expats in Stuttgart often appreciate the city's rich history and culture, which is reflected in its architecture, museums, and festivals. They enjoy the cleanliness and safety of the city, as well as the efficient public transportation system. Many expats also appreciate the local food and beer culture, with Stuttgart being home to numerous breweries and vineyards. The locals' respect for the environment and commitment to sustainability is another aspect that expats admire. They also appreciate the work-life balance that is promoted in Stuttgart, with ample opportunities for outdoor activities and relaxation. The locals' punctuality and discipline are also highly valued by expats. Lastly, expats appreciate the high quality of education and healthcare in Stuttgart," remarked one member in Stuttgart.

"Expats in Stuttgart often find the language barrier to be the most challenging aspect of the local culture. Despite many Germans speaking English, daily life and administrative tasks often require a good understanding of German. Another challenge is the reserved nature of the locals. Germans in Stuttgart are known for their directness and formality, which can come off as cold or unfriendly to newcomers. Understanding and adapting to the local customs and etiquette can also be difficult. For example, Germans value punctuality and orderliness, and not adhering to these norms can be seen as disrespectful. The bureaucracy in Germany is also often cited as a challenge. Dealing with paperwork and understanding the complex rules and regulations can be overwhelming for expats. Lastly, the cost of living in Stuttgart is relatively high compared to other German cities, which can be a financial challenge for some expats," remarked one member in Stuttgart.

"If you are planning to stay in Stuttgart for a while, the type of visa or residency document you need will depend on your nationality, the purpose of your stay, and the length of your stay. If you are a citizen of the European Union, European Economic Area or Switzerland, you do not need a visa to stay in Germany. However, if you plan to stay for more than three months, you will need to register your residence at the local Residents' Registration Office (Einwohnermeldeamt). If you are a non-EU citizen and you plan to stay in Germany for less than 90 days within a 180-day period, you may need a Schengen visa, depending on your nationality. If you plan to stay for more than 90 days, you will need a national visa (D-Visa). After arriving in Germany with a national visa, you will need to convert it into a residence permit at the local Foreigners' Authority (Ausländerbehörde). If you are coming to Stuttgart for work, you will need a work visa or a EU Blue Card, depending on your qualifications. If you are coming for study or research, you will need a student visa or a research visa. In all cases, you will need to provide proof of health insurance coverage, sufficient financial means, and, if applicable, a letter of invitation or a contract from your employer or university. Please note that the information may vary and it is always recommended to check the current requirements with the German embassy or consulate in your home country," said one person in Stuttgart.

"In Stuttgart, punctuality is highly valued, so avoid being late for appointments or meetings. It's considered rude to interrupt someone while they're speaking, so wait for your turn to speak. Avoid discussing World War II or the Holocaust unless it's brought up by someone else, as it's a sensitive topic. Germans value their personal space, so avoid standing too close to someone or touching them unless you're close friends. It's also considered impolite to chew gum or eat in public places like public transportation or while walking on the street. When dining, keep your hands on the table (but not your elbows), and remember to say "Guten Appetit" before you start eating. It's also customary to wait for the host to start eating before you do. In Germany, it's considered impolite to call someone by their first name unless you're invited to do so. Use their last name and the formal "Sie" instead of the informal "du" until you're invited to do otherwise. Avoid making loud noises or speaking loudly in public places, as Germans value quiet and order. Also, jaywalking is frowned upon, so always use pedestrian crossings and obey traffic signals. Lastly, tipping is customary in Germany. While it's not mandatory, it's considered polite to leave a tip of around 10% in restaurants and cafes," said one expat in Stuttgart.

"I love Stuttgart. Even during the lockdowns, it's easy to get out and walk and bike ride. Many restaurants have started delivery services. When we're not under a lockdown, we have great restaurants, parks, museums, movie theaters, etc," said one member in Stuttgart.