Why are these restaurants charging for ketchup?

We have been living in Germany for almost three weeks and have found some striking money-related differences when dining out.

Seasoned travellers will probably know most of these restaurant etiquette differences. But those who haven’t experienced much international travel, might find going to restaurants a bit of a shock.  Here’s why:

Tap water
In North America, it is common to get a chilled glass of tap water when you arrive. Not so in Germany, where drinking tap water is avoided and so is not served in restaurants. If you try to order tap water, you will most likely be refused, and get looks of disgust.

Water is my preferred drink when I’m dining out, but because nobody will serve me tap water, and I refuse to pay €3 (about $4)  for 200 ml of water at restaurants, I’ve had to buy a reusable water bottle to keep in my purse.

Nothing is free
You can stop looking for bread rolls to munch on before your meal. You  pay a la carte for each side dish or item, in addition to your main course. This sometimes includes condiments. Many cafes and fast food places charge for individual ketchup and mustard packets.

Paying the bill
Most restaurants don’t accept credit cards. In fact, many places that would traditionally accept credit card in North America, just don’t. I was shocked to find out that recreation centres, convenience stores, pharmacies, and some clothing shops only accept cash.

Tipping
A normal  tip in Germany is 5 to 15 per cent. The tip is always given to the waiter or waitress who served you, and is never left on the table. While tips are almost always left, if the service is very poor, you don’t have to leave a tip at all.

Sales Tax
A 19 per cent s Value Added Tax (VAT) is included in the price of almost anything you buy.It is never added onto the price, like sales tax in Canada and the USA. The VAT is also charged for meals in restaurants. Groceries and other items are taxed at a lower rate.

Having the VAT already included makes it a lot easier to realize the true cost of an item. I wish more places did that in Canada!

Have you ever been surprised by restaurant etiquette when traveling?

Also read:
I’m living in a 215 sq. ft. apartment
Relocating for work: the pros and cons 

Krystal Yee lives in Vancouver and blogs at Give Me Back My Five Bucks. You can reach her on Twitter (@krystalatwork), or by e-mail at krystalatwork@gmail.com.