TAXIS IN THE RUHR METROPOLIS
Taxis in Germany are modern and clean, mostly Mercedes and always a light beige colour. They offer fairly good value for money when compared to several other countries. Most drivers are professional, knowledgeable, polite and friendly. As in other cities, all nationalities are to be found behind the wheel so driving styles vary accordingly. Most are more than likely to enter into conversation, although not so often feel secure with the English language.
Taxi organisations and companies are everywhere while many individual operators form part of the system. It’s normally possible to hail a passing taxi nowadays too. Calling to a central reservation in various locations is still popular. Taxi numbers are unfortunately not unified.
The Taxi app has been renamed FreeNow. Competition is available such as Uber, however, at the time of writing, only in Duisburg. Even Sixt has entered the business too.
The first experience of a journey from the airport can be a surprise for many foreign passengers when the vehicle speeds over main dual carriageways and motorways. Or, at other times, perhaps sits gridlocked for lengthy periods.
By Vincent Green, Jul 12 2021
Bundesverband Taxi und Mietwagen eV
Dorotheenstrasse 37
10117 Berlin
+49 30 212 223 535
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.
MOVIES IN RUHR
Original language movies are popular among expats living across the Ruhr Metropolis. Films are screened regularly in English original with subtitles, known as OmU and without, portrayed as OV. A wide variety of cinemas or movie theatres can be found, both large and small.
Staying in touch and getting together with others living in a similar situation can be important. Expat groups in social media are highly valuable sources for connecting. Socialising in the Ruhr Metropolis can include events, international clubs or heading for a popular spot to meet international residents.
