Practical Information in Ulm

Ulm Practical Information will not only allow you to save money, but also to liberate some time so that you can spend it however you see fit. Here are some tips to make your visit to Ulm much more enjoyable.

Making the Best of the Hostelling International Network

When visiting Ulm, or any other city in Germany, it's a great idea to apply for a membership card for the Hostelling International Network of hostels. However, it's important to be aware that applications for membership cards within Germany are limited to Germans and foreign exchange students with valid student IDs. Therefore, it's best to apply in your country of origin before arriving in Germany. Having a Hostelling International card will allow you to qualify for special discounts and offers at several restaurants, shops, bars, night clubs, museums and other attractions in Germany (and all of Europe).

Finally, you will also be able to use your membership card to receive the lowest rate possible at the local youth hostel, the Geschwister Scholl Jugendherberge. Located on Grimmelfinger Weg 45, this youth hostel offers a total of 126 beds, and takes reservations at the +49-731-384455. Despite the fact that it is a youth hostel, it still offers rooms for family groups and people over 18.

Driving around Germany

Before leaving your country of origin, another good thing to apply for is an international driver's permit. Having this special driver's permit will make the car rental process much easier in Germany, because this permit is the best way to prove that you possess a valid driver's license. In North America, you can apply for an international driver's permit at your local AAA office.

It is well known that the German autbobahns have no speed limit, but there is one catch: there are only a few no-speed-limit zones. When driving on a German highway, the no speed limit zones are clearly marked with circular gray traffic signs that have diagonal lines. Once you see one of these signs, you can put the pedal to the metal and go as far as your car allows. Make sure to check the manual of your rental car for its suggested highway speed.

German Dialect of Baden Wurttemberg

Even though High German is the official language of Germany, each of the 16 German states (and even some cities) has its own German dialect. The dialect of the state of Baden Wurttemberg is called "Schawabisch," also known as "Schwab." Don't be surprised if you cannot understand locals who speak Schwabisch, as this dialect differs from High German in lexicon, phonology and syntax. Most Germans speak High German, but people older than 60 years of age may or may not speak it because it wasn't the official language of certain school systems in Baden Wurttemberg for several decades.