What do Germans miss in Canada?
Discover the little things that adventurous Germans leave behind from home when they dive into the vastness of Canada.
In Canada, many Germans especially miss the variety of German bread and rolls. Although the large chains offer a wide range of breads, most are in stark contrast to what is freshly baked in a German bakery. The juicy pretzels, the crispy black bread, and the delicate rolls often seem unattainable. The cultural space of cozy bakeries, where one can enjoy coffee and cake with friends or family, often remains unplayed. This leads to a longing for these traditional taste experiences that keeps re-emerging.
Another aspect is the Festivals and traditions that are celebrated grandly in Germany. Events like Oktoberfest or the Christmas market with handmade gingerbread and mulled wine are particularly popular. These cultural customs, which promote community and sociability, are not as pronounced in Canada. Instead, many Germans focus on opportunities to organize these traditions themselves, which does not always create the same atmosphere.
Additionally, the German Language is often missed, or at least the lively use of it in everyday conversations. Even though many Germans live in larger cities, the exchange in the local environment does not have the same intensity. This can evoke a feeling of isolation. And finally, access to German television and radio remains a challenge. Maintaining one’s own culture and its peculiarities from afar is difficult, significantly influencing the adaptation to the Canadian way of life.