n shady park-like areas or in the woods. Germans often take walks through town when all the stores are closed, or hike in the forest, stopping for a leisurely drink at an outdoor cafe or outdoor pub along the way. In America we wait to be seated, even at pizza hut and we would never think of sharing a table with a stranger; in Germany the traditions on this are totally different. It isn't customary to be seated by a host in many eating establishments in Germany. Often guests sit down at any unoccupied table or, after asking permission of those seated there, at an occupied table. Sharing tables with total strangers is common, especially in the South. Watch out, though, for tables with a Reserviert sign or those labeled Stammtisch, which are reserved for regulars. You won't automatically get a glass of water when you sit down. In fact, you should order something to drink, because 10 percent of the charge for the food and drink is part of your waiter's pay; even though you should round up you bill to the nearest mark. Most drinking water in Germany is bottled and carbonated. Germans believe it's unhealthy if you drink tap water (Leitungswasser) - but waiters will bring it if you insist. After your food is served, it's polite to wish your fellow diners Guten Appetit. In America we ask for the bill when we are done; if the wait staff hasnt already brought it. In Germany, how you position your knife and fork sends a message. If you're done, put the knife and fork together, tips toward the middle of the plate and handles toward your right elbow. Lying them down in a V with the tip facing away from you means you'd like another serving. The German dining and celebration culture revolves around alcohol much more than in the States. It only takes one visit to a German festival, like the famous Oktoberfest, for visitors to realize that it is nothing more than a big beer party. When it comes to alcohol consumption, Germans are No. 1. The average Ger...
