Rostock: Germany's Maritime Gem

• HelloHallo
  [ha-lo]
• GoodbyeAuf Wiedersehen
  [ouf vee-der-zay-en]
• YesJa
  [ya]
• NoNein
  [nine]
• Please/You're welcomeBitte
  [bi-te]
• Thank youDanke
  [dahn-kuh]
• Excuse me/SorryEntschuldigung
  [ent-shool-di-gung]
• How are you?Wie geht es dir?
  [vee gayt es deer]
• Fine. And you?Gut. Und dir?
  [goot oond deer]
• Do you speak English?Sprechen Sie Englisch?
  [shpre-khen zee eng-lish]
• I don't understandIch verstehe nicht
  [ikh fair-shtay-uh nikht]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseIch möchte bitte die Speisekarte sehen
  [ikh merkh-tuh bi-te dee shpy-zuh-kar-teh zay-en]
• I don't eat meatIch esse kein Fleisch
  [ikh es-suh kine flysh]
• Cheers!Prost!
  [prohst]
• I would like to pay, pleaseIch möchte bitte zahlen
  [ikh merkh-tuh bi-te tsah-len]

• Help!Hilfe!
  [hil-feh]
• Go away!Geh weg!
  [geh vehg]
• Call the Police!Rufen Sie die Polizei!
  [roo-fen zee dee poh-lee-tsy]
• Call a doctor!Rufen Sie einen Arzt!
  [roo-fen zee i-nen artsht]
• I'm lostIch habe mich verirrt
  [ikh hah-buh meesh fair-eert]
• I'm illIch bin krank
  [ikh been krank]

• I'd like to buy...Ich möchte kaufen...
  [ikh merkh-tuh kow-fen]
• I'm just lookingIch schaue nur
  [ikh shou-uh noor]
• How much is it?Wie viel kostet es?
  [vee feel kaws-tet es]
• That's too expensiveDas ist zu teuer
  [dahs ist tsoy toy-er]
• Can you lower the price?Können Sie den Preis senken?
  [ker-nen zee den prise zeng-ken]

• What time is it?Wie spät ist es?
  [vee shpayt ist es]
• It's one o'clockEs ist ein Uhr
  [es ist ine oor]
• Half past (10)Halb (zehn)
  [halb (tsayn)]
• MorningMorgen
  [mor-gen]
• AfternoonNachmittag
  [nahkh-mit-tahg]
• EveningAbend
  [ah-bent]
• YesterdayGestern
  [ges-tern]
• TodayHeute
  [hoi-teh]
• TomorrowMorgen
  [mor-gen]
• 1Eins
  [ayns]
• 2Zwei
  [tsvay]
• 3Drei
  [dry]
• 4Vier
  [feer]
• 5Fünf
  [foonf]
• 6Sechs
  [zeks]
• 7Sieben
  [zee-ben]
• 8Acht
  [akht]
• 9Neun
  [noyn]
• 10Zehn
  [tsayn]

• Where's a/the...?Wo ist ein/der...?
  [vo ist ine/der]
• What's the address?Was ist die Adresse?
  [vas ist dee ah-dress-uh]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Können Sie mir (auf der Karte) zeigen?
  [ker-nen zee meer (ouf der kar-teh) tsay-gen]
• When's the next (bus)?Wann kommt der nächste (Bus)?
  [van kommt der nekhs-teh (boos)]
• A ticket (to ....)Eine Fahrkarte (nach ....)
  [i-ne fahr-kar-teh (nakh)]

Rostock was officially founded in 1218, evolving from a small Slavic settlement. During the 14th century, it rose to prominence as a key member of the Hanseatic League, a powerful commercial and defensive confederation of merchant guilds and market towns in Northwestern and Central Europe. This period marked a golden age for Rostock as it became a bustling hub of trade and maritime activity, connecting the city to major trade routes across the Baltic Sea.

Founded in 1419, the University of Rostock is one of the oldest universities in the world and the oldest in the Baltic Sea region. It has played a crucial role in the city's development, contributing not only to the academic and cultural landscape but also to scientific advancements throughout the centuries. The university has been a beacon of learning and intellectual growth, attracting scholars from around the globe.

Rostock's medieval architecture is a testament to its storied past. The city boasts remarkable Gothic structures, including the St. Mary's Church (Marienkirche), which dates back to the 13th century and features an astronomical clock from 1472. The Town Hall, originally built in the 13th century and later renovated in Baroque style, is another iconic landmark that reflects Rostock's historical and architectural heritage.

Rostock endured significant hardships during the Thirty Years' War (1618-1648). The city was besieged and suffered extensive damage, leading to economic decline. Despite these challenges, Rostock managed to recover gradually, thanks to its strategic location and resilient spirit of its inhabitants. The war left a lasting impact on the city's development and demographic structure.

The 19th century brought industrialization to Rostock, transforming it into a modern industrial center. Shipbuilding became a dominant industry, with the Neptun Werft shipyard established in 1850. The burgeoning industrial sector attracted a growing workforce and spurred urban development. This period also saw the expansion of the railway network, further enhancing Rostock's role as a critical transportation hub.

World War II had a devastating impact on Rostock, with significant portions of the city being destroyed by Allied bombing raids. The post-war period was marked by extensive reconstruction efforts, which aimed to restore the city's infrastructure and historical landmarks. During the East German period, Rostock became an important port and industrial city within the German Democratic Republic (GDR). The city's shipyards and harbor facilities were modernized, contributing to its economic revitalization.

Following the reunification of Germany in 1990, Rostock underwent significant political, economic, and social transformations. The city embraced market economy principles, leading to modernization and growth. Today, Rostock is a vibrant urban center that harmoniously blends its rich historical legacy with contemporary culture and innovation. The city's port remains one of the most vital in Germany, and its scenic location on the Baltic Sea continues to attract tourists from around the world.

Rostock is well-connected by various modes of transportation. The nearest major airport is Rostock-Laage Airport (RLG), located approximately 25 kilometers south of the city. From the airport, you can take a taxi, shuttle bus, or rental car to reach the city center. Alternatively, Berlin's airports (Tegel and Schönefeld) are about 200 kilometers away, with direct train connections to Rostock. Rostock is also accessible by train, with regular services from major German cities like Berlin, Hamburg, and Munich. For those traveling by car, the A19 and A20 motorways provide convenient access. Additionally, Rostock has a significant port, making it accessible by ferry from various Baltic Sea destinations.

Getting around Rostock is straightforward, thanks to its efficient public transportation system. The city offers trams, buses, and ferries operated by Rostocker Straßenbahn AG (RSAG). Tickets can be purchased at vending machines, kiosks, or via the RSAG app. For short distances, cycling is a popular option, with extensive bike lanes and rental services available. Taxis are also readily available, and ride-sharing services like Uber operate in the city. For exploring nearby coastal areas, renting a car can be a convenient choice.

Germany uses the Euro (€) as its official currency. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops in Rostock. However, it's advisable to carry some cash, especially for smaller establishments, markets, and public transportation. ATMs are plentiful throughout the city, and currency exchange services are available at banks and exchange offices. Contactless payment methods, such as Google Pay and Apple Pay, are also accepted in many places.

Rostock is generally a safe city for tourists, but it's always wise to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit or unfamiliar areas. The Warnemünde district and the city center are typically safe, but be cautious in certain parts of Lütten Klein, Evershagen, and Dierkow, which have higher crime rates. Keep your belongings secure and be aware of pickpockets in crowded places like markets and public transportation hubs.

In case of an emergency, dial 112 for police, fire, or medical assistance. Rostock has several hospitals, including the University Medical Center Rostock, which offers comprehensive medical services. Pharmacies (Apotheken) are widely available, and many have 24-hour services. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, over-the-counter medications can be purchased at local pharmacies.

Fashion: Do dress smart-casual, especially when dining out or visiting cultural sites. Avoid overly casual attire in formal settings. Religion: Do respect religious customs, especially when visiting churches. Silence your phone and dress modestly. Public Transport: Do validate your ticket before boarding trams and buses. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet with a firm handshake and maintain eye contact. A simple 'Guten Tag' (Good day) is polite. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes like 'Fischbrötchen' (fish sandwich) and 'Rostocker Rauchwurst' (smoked sausage). Don't forget to tip, typically around 10%.

To experience Rostock like a local, explore the Wochenmarkt (weekly market) at Neuer Markt for fresh produce and local specialties. Visit the Kröpeliner Tor shopping street for a mix of local and international shops. Take a stroll along the Alter Strom in Warnemünde for picturesque views and seafood restaurants. Engage with locals; they are often friendly and willing to share insights about the city's history and culture. Don't miss a visit to the Rostock Zoo and the Botanical Garden for a relaxing day out.