PHARMACIES IN RUHR
A pharmacy or chemist, Apotheke, tends to be small, under individual ownership and at least one can be found in almost every district across the Ruhr Metropolis. Indeed, in some urban neighbourhoods, numerous are available to local expats. A nearby pharmacy of choice can be searched in the Apothekenfinder of the Apothekerkammer Nordrhein.
Pharmacists are trained at length in a similar way to doctors so are permitted to offer free advice on how best to treat minor ailments, flue, colds, coughs and muscular aches and pains or indigestion. While they sell some medicines without a doctor’s note, most medical issues need a prescription. These can normally be given from their stock or within just a few hours of ordering. Chemists also offer toiletries, perfumes and other interesting supplies.Â
The traditional German red sign for Apotheke can still be seen as well as the internationally recognised green cross.
By Vincent Green, Jul 1 2021
Apothekerverband Westfalen-Lippe eV
Willy-Brandt-Weg 11
48155 Münster
+49 251 539 380
Apothekerverband Nordrhein eV
Tersteegenstrasse 12
40474 Düsseldorf
+49 211 439 170
GERMAN FOR FUN
We stand in a foreign culture finding ourselves pointing, gesticulating and hoping to be understood. Germans mostly speak at least some English. However, some expats relocating to the Ruhr Metropolis may wish to carry a few basic but helpful words with them for use in awkward moments.
PUBLIC TRANSPORT IN RUHR
The public transport system in Ruhr is extensive, safe and normally efficient. A dense network of trams above and below ground as well as buses serve the cities and suburbs. Links via the local and S-Bahn train systems interconnect many neighbouring communities.
