This forum is terribly fun; I hope I'm not overrunning the show... Now this is just a random question. As I have no German friends I have no one to practise with, but lets say I met a German fellow or lady and I wanted to become friends with them, how approachable are German people or even a better question, would they seem it rude for me to approach them and start a conversation with them with my very limited but rapidly expanding (Thanks to rocket German) German vocabulary. It's the sort of thing I would do, but I rather not get into a pickle... if you know what I mean! Any ideas anyone? Thank you. James.

The Germans I have met so far are lovely...that's why I'm learning German now....

So far I only treated with Swiss and Austrian people and their are very friendly

Sure there is the stereotype that Germans are terribly serious, ordered and impersonal...and to a certain extent you will come across a German that fits that description. But yes-some may find it hard to believe- some of us are friendly, sociable and have a sense of humour!! So don't be scared to just go up to a German person and just start a conversation! I won't bite your head off!

Having returned from 2 weeks in Germany, I can only say that the folks I approached were very helpful. Usually I was lost! I would go up to anyone and say "Entschuldigung, bitte, wie komme ich zu ..." and they would immediately help me - usually switching to English in response to the stunned expression on my face! Other times, say at a restaurant, I would start by saying "ich spreche deutsch nur ein bisschen", and they would speak more slowly and wait more patiently while I tried to explain what I wanted. At no time was I brushed off, or treated unpleasantly at all.

Hi, I go to Berlin every year to celebrate my birthday simply because the city is fantastic and the people so friendly and welcoming. Where better to celebrate the most important day of my year?! My German is pretty basic but they are always willing to help and most really want to try out their English on me so we kind of help each other although their English is way better than my German. You will never have any problems meeting a friendly German - they really are the BEST!!! Haydn

I have been learning german for only 2 years but i love everything about germany. I have visited Cologne, Hamburg, Frankfurt and only last month, Berlin. Each time i have found the people very friendly and only happy to help you if you are having difficulties. I would not have any worries about striking up a conversation or friendship with anyone there after all people are people! go for it!!