Home & Utilities
Once you have the keys, it’s time to get connected and set up. These guides walk you through home internet, phone plans, mail and packages, and Germany’s famous waste sorting.
You’ll also find help with the small surprises of a German home, from stovetops and hard water to bugs and summers without air conditioning.
Start here
Internet
Setting Up Home Internet in Stuttgart
Avoid getting locked into the wrong home Internet contract! This guide takes you through the most important questions to consider.
7 min read
Shipping & Receiving Packages
Sending and receiving mail and packages in Germany: carriers, Packstations, and how to make sure your package arrives.
5 min read
Phone
International Calling
If you've never lived abroad, dealing with phone numbers from multiple countries at once can be confusing. Here's a primer to make things easy!
3 min read
More guides
Mobile
Setting Up A Cell Phone Plan
Get your mobile phone working as quickly as possible in Stuttgart by following our guide to choosing and setting up a cell phone plan in Germany.
8 min read
Recycling
Waste Sorting & Recycling
Germany is known for its strict rules for waste sorting and recycling, a system so complicated that even Germans are not always sure.
5 min read
Kitchen
German Stovetops
We describe the three main stovetop types in Germany as well as their advantages and disadvantages, including cost and efficiency.
7 min read
VPN
VPN Services
A VPN, or virtual private network, can allow people from abroad living in Germany to access streaming media like they're at home.
1 min read
Water
Adjusting to Life with Hard Water
Hard water contains minerals that may affect skin, hair, and cleaning. Check out our tips for adjusting to life with hard water.
3 min read
Summer
How to Stay Cool in Stuttgart Without AC
Air conditioning is not common in Germany, so what do Germans do to stay cool in the summer heat? Read on for some helpful tips.
3 min read