Munich City Guide

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City Guide: Munich

www.dwellworks.com

The information contained in this publication is provided by Dwellworks GmbH and its affiliated entities (the “Company”) as a service to relocating employees and should be used for general informational purposes only. This publication contains a considerable amount of information – addresses, telephone numbers, and email addresses – and our inclusion of lists of any service providers is intended as a courtesy and not a guarantee or endorsement of those individuals. Please also note we can take no responsibility for the lines or contents of the links. While the Company undertakes measures to ensure the accuracy and completeness of the information in this publication, the Company cannot assure its accuracy or completeness and does not commit that it will maintain updated information. This publication, in its entirety, is the sole copyrighted property of the Company and may not be modified, reproduced, sold, or otherwise distributed without the express written consent of the Company.

Dear Assignee, Dwellworks GmbH in Frankfurt and your Dwellworks Destination Services Consultant warmly welcome you to Germany. We hope this Welcome Package provides you with useful and interesting information about your new destination. We suggest you take the time to look through the information and to familiarise yourself with the topics in this Guide. We hope the information helps you settle down to life in Germany. Some topics will not be completely relevant to your situation, but make interesting reading nonetheless. Please note that the information in this booklet is a guide only. Regulations and requirements are subject to change. By German law Dwellworks is not allowed to give legal advice. Therefore, information given in this guide is based on our longstanding experience. We wish you a successful and rewarding time in Germany.

Your Dwellworks Team

Provided by Dwellworks GmbH Head Office: Dreieichstraße 59, 60594 Frankfurt/Main, Germany

Tel.: +49 (0) 69 - 61 09 47 0 Fax: +49 (0) 69 - 61 09 47 40 www.dwellworks.com E-Mail: Info@dwellworks.de

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Munich City Guide

Contents City Profile ..................................................................................................... 4 Housing in Munich ......................................................................................... 5 Insurances ..................................................................................................... 7 Education ...................................................................................................... 9 Children’s Activities...................................................................................... 12 Learning German......................................................................................... 13 Everyday Shopping...................................................................................... 14 Public Transportation................................................................................... 15 Postal Services............................................................................................ 17 Pets ............................................................................................................. 18 Public Holidays ............................................................................................ 18 Social Life.................................................................................................... 19 Museums and Royal Castles Excursions ..................................................... 26 Annual Events and Highlights ...................................................................... 28 Conversions................................................................................................. 30 Useful Websites........................................................................................... 31 Important and Useful Telephone Numbers in Munich .................................. 32

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City Profile The geographical location is just one of the features which makes the Bavarian capital one of the world's most popular cities. At the crossroads between east and west, north and south, Munich is easy to reach by air, rail or road. The city has achieved its outstanding position in the international business world because of its well-developed road network and proximity to the major economic regions of Central-, Eastern- and Southeast Europe. Munich is not only centrally located, but also offers an outstanding range of leisure activities. Visitors and residents enjoy the beauty of the surrounding countryside (the Bavarian Alps are only 100 kilometres away), the culture and history, leisure and sports facilities, shops and restaurants. The city is one of Europe's most important centres for art and culture with many theatres, museums, libraries, cabarets, music theatres and palaces. The Bavarian State Opera is one of the cultural highlights in Munich. Munich has approximately 1.400.000 residents of which about 300,000 people are foreigners. Although it is an international centre, it has also retained a small town atmosphere. It is the Federal Republic's third-largest city after Berlin and Hamburg. Living in Bavaria Bavaria lies at the heart of Europe. Brussels, Milan, Vienna, Budapest, Prague, Paris, Rome or Zurich are all only a short journey from Bavaria. The State has become one of the most important air, railway and road junctions in Europe. Bavaria is the largest state in the Federal Republic of Germany, with ca. 12,6 million people living and working within its 70.554 sq. km. The neighbouring German States are Baden-Wuerttemberg and Hesse to the West and Northwest, Thuringia and Saxony to the North. The Czech Republic is to the East and Austria to the South. Bavaria is noted for the great variety of its scenery, combining four main types of landscape: the Bavarian Alps, foothills of the Alps, the East Bavarian Low Mountains and the Swabian-Franconian scarpland. The Bavarian Alps include the High Alps of the Allgäu, the Wetterstein mountains, the Karwendel mountains and the Berchtesgaden Alps. The peaks, almost all above 2.000 m, form a fascinating panorama. Towering above them all is Germany's highest mountain, the Zugspitze, at 2.964 m. Over the past decades Bavaria has been transformed into a modern industrial state with an advanced economic structure. In addition to major international companies, Bavaria’s economy is underlain by a large number of small and medium-sized businesses, thriving craft trades and efficient service industries. High-tech sectors such as information technology, laser technology and bio- engineering, or the development of new materials are also to be found in Bavaria. Tourism in Bavaria has become an increasingly important economic factor and is the most popular holiday area in Germany.

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Housing in Munich Registration with the Utility Providers Electricity

The local electricity company should be contacted to state the move-in date and check whether the previous owner or tenant has cancelled his registration. When registering, there may be a fee. Normally, a pre-payment amount will be charged every one or two months, and these are adjusted at the end of the year according to usage. The easiest forms of payment are direct debit or standing order. Water, Sewage and Garbage Collection (see also page 18 on garbage separation) The tenant normally pays for water, sewage and garbage collection to the landlord. In case he has to register directly, the tenant must call the respective local utility company himself. Snow Clearing and Cleaning of Communal Areas According to house rules which are attached to the lease agreement or put in the communal staircase, tenants are sometimes held responsible for the cleaning of the communal areas of the house and for the snow and ice removal during the winter. It is advisable to ask your landlord if you are responsible for snow and ice clearing. If the tenant is required to be responsible for snow removal during the winter, then he is liable for any damage which may be caused by his neglect to remove the snow. TV/Radio Registration In Germany all TV sets, radios, PC’s, including those in cars, have to be registered . Registration forms for the Rundfunkbeitrag can be obtained from all post offices and banks, downloaded from the internet: https://service.rundfunkbeitrag.de or via fax: 0185-99950105. The mailing address of the Rundfunkbeitrag is: ARD, ZDF und Deutschlandradio, Beitragsservice in 50439 Köln.

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Classified Advertisements Local newspapers offer a range of classified sections on accommodation either to rent or to buy however the main source is the internet. A further option is to place an advertisement oneself. Below are some contacts to look for or place advertisements: Süddeutsche Zeitung (www.sueddeutsche.de) - Saturday edition Münchner Merkur (www.merkur-online.de) - Wednesday and Saturday editions

Immobilien Scout (www.immobilienscout24.de) Basic abbreviations used in classified ads : 1-ZKB

1 Zimmer, Küche, Bad (1 room, kitchen, bathroom) 2 Zimmer, Küche, Bad, Balkon (2 rooms, kitchen, bathroom, balcony)

2-ZKBB 3-ZW Atelier

3-Zimmer Wohnung (3-room apartment)

Studio Apartment Dachgeschoss (attic) Erstbezug (first letting) Einbauküche (fitted kitchen) Erdgeschoss (ground floor)

DG EB

EBK EG KM Lux.

Kaltmiete (rent excl. heating or utilities ) Luxuswohnung (luxury apartment )

Miete z.Z. Möbl. Nachm.

Miete zur Zeit (current rent – may be raised for new tenant)

Möbliert (furnished) Nachmieter (new tenant) Neubau (new building) Nichtraucher (non-smoker) (basement apartment)

NB NK NR

Nebenkosten (maintenance costs for heating, garbage etc.)

Souterrain Teilmöbliert

(partly-furnished, usually with fitted kitchen and bathroom) Umlagen/Kaution (additional costs/security deposit)

U/Kt. Warm

heating, sometimes utilities included

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Insurances Personal Liability Insurance ( Privat-Haftpflichtversicherung ) a) Vehicle: An unlimited third party liability insurance policy is compulsory for all cars/motorized vehicles in Germany. Safe drivers are rewarded by reductions of the premiums. In order to benefit from this, please provide your insurance record from your previous insurance company. b) Private: This insurance is optional, but highly recommended. Many landlords will demand proof of liability insurance before signing a lease contract, since it covers cases of liability for injury or damage to other persons or their property. Basic or standard coverage is EUR 5-10 million against injury or damage and EUR 1 million against damage to rented property. Some insurances offer special premiums for singles. c) Animal owner: Dog liability insurance is strongly recommended. Home Contents Insurance (Hausratversicherung) Household Insurance, covering the contents of your home against fire, water damage, theft, vandalism and hail is not required by law in Germany. But it is recommended, and some landlords demand it. It is advisable to insure your home for € 700 per square meter of living space, since otherwise, you may be underinsured, and the insurance company may not pay 100 % in case of damage. Legal Insurance ( Rechtsschutzversicherung ) Covers any legal costs you encounter up to a certain limit. And, if you want to counter sue, it will cover the payment as long as there is a reasonable chance of winning. Legal insurance can be purchased for different purposes, such as for the entire family, the job, traffic infractions or the lease of your home. Recommendable English speaking independent insurance brokers* offering services in different ways (in person, via email, on-line or phone): Hoesch and Partner (offices in Frankfurt, Dusseldorf, Hamburg, Stuttgart, and Munich) Matthias Heil Rüsterstr. 1, 60325 Frankfurt Tel.: 069 - 71 70 7-0 Fax: 069 - 72 73 75 E-Mail: info@hoesch-partner.de / Website: http://www.hoesch-partner.de/home.html Competence Exclusive E.K. (offices in Cologne, Aachen, Bonn, Leverkusen, and Düsseldorf) Claus Edam Klosterstr. 6, 50181 Bedburg

Tel.: 02272 - 4 07 58 34 Fax: 02272 - 4 07 58 35 E-Mail: cedam@ce-expat.de / Website: www.ce-expat.de

Services of these brokers are offered free of charge and include not only initial consultation but also the development and presentation of tailored solutions, negotiations of conditions with insurance and financial institutions, as well as applications, claim settlements, cancellations or changes of policies.

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*Brokers may also provide contracts with state health insurance. If not, please contact the insurance company directly. Recommendable English speaking state health insurance providers offering services in different ways (in person, via email, on-line or phone):

TK – Techniker Krankenkasse Carmen Dücker and Jan Müller Rhonestr. 7, 60528 Frankfurt

Tel.: 069 - 6 64 48-937 Fax: 069 - 6 64 48-939 E-Mail: carmen.duecker@tk.de / Website: www.tk.de Barmer GEK Ralf Köhler Mainzer Landstr 293, 60326 Frankfurt Tel.: 0800 - 33 20 60 47-1506 (inside Germany) Tel.: 069 - 216 71 47-1506 (from abroad) Fax: 0800 - 33 20 60 47-1090 (inside Germany) Cell: 0151 - 18 23 43 70 E-Mail: ralf.koehler@barmer-gek.de, Website. www.barmer-gek.de

Please note that the information in this brochure is a guide only. Regulations and requirements are subject to change. By German law Dwellworks is not allowed to give legal advice. Therefore, information given in this guide is based on our longstanding experience. Dwellworks GmbH does not assume any liability for the completeness and accuracy of the statements made. Especially no liability is assumed for all legal, fiscal or other consequences as a result hereof.

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Education Childcare

The most popular childcare options for full-time working parents are au pairs, all-day babysitters and in-home care providers. Several agencies in Munich offer assistance in finding the appropriate child- care. Stadtjugendamt, Abteilung Familienergänzende Hilfe City Youth Office, day-care consulting Orleansplatz 11 81667 München Tel.: 089 - 233-2 37 62 pme Familienservice GmbH Private organisation, works with employers in helping their employees to find childcare Theresienhöhe 13 a 80339 München Kindergarten Most children in Germany go to a kindergarten between the ages of three and six, although it is not compulsory. The law guarantees a place for every child, however finding vacancies in a kindergarten can be difficult. Therefore, flexibility may be required when choosing a kindergarten. It may not be possible to send one’s child to the nearest kindergarten. Children can usually attend half-day or all day. Schul- und Kultusreferat City School and Education Department Neuhauser Str. 39 80331 München Tel.: 089 - 23 32 66 05 www.musin.de Montessori Kindergarten Private Kindergarten Espenstr. 1a 80935 München Tel.: 089 - 3 54 17 52 English Montessori Pre-School Private Kindergarten Perhamesstr. 49 Tel.: 089 - 5 44 79 40 www.familienservice.de

80687 München/Laim Tel.: 089 - 5 46 08 55

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Schooling Contact address: Staatliches Schulamt München State Education Authority Schwanthalerstr. 40 80336 München Tel.: 089 - 5 44 13 50 E-Mail: muenchen.flpost@schulamt.musin.de Bavarian International School (BIS)

The Bavarian International School is a co-educational primary and secondary day school dedicated to high academic standards and is committed to providing an international program that meets the needs of students from all nations. BIS challenges students and instills a love of learning and intellectual curiosity that will serve them throughout their lives. The educational program involves students and meets their intellectual, physical, social and emotional needs. English is the primary language of instruction, with daily lessons in German at all levels and English-language support for non-native speakers. French and Japanese instruction is also offered. The classes range from pre-school to the International Baccalaureate (IB) and both American and British diplomas are awarded. BIS's extensive arts activities range from workshops with artists and authors to theater and film productions; cultural events include an International Art Camp in Japan. BIS offers swimming, golf, dance, team sports and an exciting ski program. Summer outdoor activities and educational programs in Europe and North America along with educational visits and student exchanges, help to enrich the child's school experience. The school with its extensive campus is located on the grounds of Schloss Haimhausen , in the north of Munich. The library, cafeteria and some classrooms are in the historic castle, giving the students the unique opportunity to live and learn in an environment rich in art and history. The campus also offers a sports centre, modern computer facilities and an ideal setting for outdoor sports. Bus transportation is available to all students for a fee. Schloß Haimhausen Hauptstr. 1

85778 Haimhausen Tel.: 08133 - 91 70 Fax: 08133 - 91 71 35 www.bis-school.com

E-Mail: admissions@bis-school.com Munich International School e.V.

The Munich International School (MIS) is a non-profit co-educational primary and secondary day school that serves students from pre-reception (pre-kindergarten) through grade 12, with English as the language of instruction. Comprehensive instruction in English as a second language is offered to serve students who come to MIS with little or no English language skills. MIS is dedicated to providing a broad education based on high academic standards and to promoting international understanding and responsible citizenship. The curriculum is international in its orientation, and follows the curriculum frameworks of the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Program (IBPYP) and the International Baccalaureate Middle Years Program (IBMYP), which culminate in the final two years with the International Baccalaureate (I.B.) Diploma. The two-year International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE) Program is taught in the ninth and tenth grades.

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MIS regards the acquisition of knowledge concepts and skills as essential. They are seen as part of a broad and significant process of personal development toward independence, understanding and tolerance. Since the school is an international and multicultural community it seeks to develop in young people an active and lasting commitment to international cooperation. There is a strong emphasis throughout the school on the English language and literature, mathematics, humanities, sciences, foreign languages and the fine arts. Sports activities, which play an important role at MIS, are available to students for all ages after school and at weekends. Soccer, skiing, volleyball, basketball, track and field, tennis, badminton, softball and gymnastics are the main sports offered. The MIS is situated in stately Schloss Buchhof, an original manor house of the area, and lies at the foothills of the Alps, near the Starnberger See, not far from the city of Munich.

Schloß Buchhof 82319 Starnberg

Tel.: 08151 - 36 61 20 Fax: 08151 - 36 61 19 www.mis-munich.de E-Mail: admissions@mis-munich.de

Access to the Munich International School by means of public transport from the inner-suburbs is less favorable than from the southern suburbs - the train journey from downtown Munich takes 45 - 55 mins and the car journey can take up to 90 mins, depending on traffic. Lycée Francaise ‘Jean Renoir’ in Munich The curriculum of the Lycée Francais works according to the French school system. Children with a French passport will be accepted before children of other nationalities. The high school accepts all nationalities; the kindergarten and primary school accept only French-speaking nationalities. French-language nursery, primary and high school Berlepschstr. 3 81373 München (Sendling)

Tel.: 089 - 7 21 00 70 Fax: 089 - 72 10 07 30 www.lycee-jean-renoir.de St. George’s School Munich Schleißheimer Str. 278 80809 München Deutschland E-Mail: officemunich@stgeorgesschool.de www.stgeorgesschool.de

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Children’s Activities German families often spend their free time and vacations together. However, there are lots of opportunities for children to attend camps or other vacation activities that do not include their parents. Munich and its surrounding area are full of ideas for children. Listings of the numerous playgrounds can be obtained at the city-information in the town hall. Spiellandschaft Stadt e.V. Information about family activities and local summer parties Albrechtstr. 37 80636 München Tel.: 089 - 18 33 35 www.spiellandschaft.de E-Mail: kids@spiellandschaft.de Observatorium Observatory – Monday to Friday 8 – 10.00 p.m., Personnel help find stars and comets. There is also a planetarium. Rosenheimer Str. 145h 81671 München Tel.: 089 - 40 62 39 www.sternwarte-muenchen.de (English version available) Tierpark Hellabrunn Zoo Munich - famous for its ‘Geo-Zoo’, with the animals grouped according to the region from which they originate. Tierparkstr. 30 81543 München-Thalkirchen Tel.: 089 - 62 50 80 www.zoo-munich.de (English version available) E-Mail: office@zoo-munich.de Cosima Bad Indoor Pool with wave pool Cosimastr. 5 81925 München Tel.: 089 - 23 61 79 21 Botanischer Garten Botanical Gardens, the greenhouses have one of the world’s finest collections Menzinger Str. 65 80638 München Tel.: 089 - 17 86 13 10 Fax: 089 - 17 86 13 40 www.botanik.biologie.uni-muenchen.de/botgart (English version available) Schloss Kaltenberg Knight’s castle - every year a large knight’s tournament takes place every at Schloss Kaltenberg with fighting armoured knights, storytellers and jugglers. Schloßstr. 8 82269 Kaltenberg Tel.: 08193 - 93 31 00 Fax: 08193 - 93 31 50 Münchner Theater für Kinder Children’s Theatre - daily programs at 3.00 p.m. include stagings of classics from Janosch to the Brothers Grimm.

Dachauer Str. 46 80335 München Tel.: 089 - 59 54 54 www.kindertheater-muenchen.de

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Kinder- und Jugendmuseum im Hauptbahnhof Children’s and Youth Museum at the main railway station - Interactive children’s museum and

workshops Arnulfstr. 3 80335 München Tel.: 089 - 54 54 08 80

www.kindermuseum-muenchen.de E-Mail: kindermuseum@web.de

Learning German Being able to understand and communicate in German will help immensely to become familiar with life in Germany. Numerous institutions in Munich offer courses such as ‘German as a Foreign Language’, to learn German for general conversation or for business purposes. Instruction is given by native speakers who often apply the ‘total immersion’ system, in which only German is spoken in class. It is essential to obtain comprehensive information from different suppliers in order to meet individual needs and to find out which school, kind of instruction and level would be appropriate Goethe-Institut Official world wide non-profit organisation, active in the promotion of the German language and culture, day and evening courses Sonnenstr. 25 80331 München

Tel.: 089 - 55 19 03-0 Fax: 089 - 55 19 03 35 www.goethe.de/Muenchen E-Mail: muenchen@goethe.de Berlitz Sprachschule Commercial and expensive language school Weinstr. 3 80331 München Tel.: 089-26 80 36 www.berlitz.de (English version available) Inlingua Private language school offering day and evening courses for all levels Sendlinger-Tor-Platz 6 80336 München

Tel.: 089 - 23 11 53-0 Fax: 089 - 2 60 99 20 www.inlingua.de/muenchen (English version available) Fokus Private Language School

Brienner Str. 48 80333 München

Tel.: 089 - 52 31 43 47 Fax: 089 - 52 31 47 51 www.fokussprachen.de E-Mail: info.muenchen@fokussprachen.com

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Everyday Shopping Opening Hours

Department stores and retail shops in the city centre are usually open Monday to Friday from 9.00 or 9.30 a.m. to 7.00 or 8.00 p.m. or even 10 p.m. Smaller stores in the suburbs often close at 6.30 p.m. while major grocery stores are open to 8.00 p.m. sometimes 10.00 p.m. Smaller stores mayalso close for lunch. Saturday opening hours are generally from 9.00 or 9.30 a.m. to between 4.00 and 10.00 p.m. Exceptions are the grocery stores and shops at the main railway station and the airport. They have extended opening hours into the late evening and are also open for business on Sundays. Shops at petrol stations are an expensive choice, should beverages, food or magazines be needed urgently out of business hours. Shopping Areas The biggest department stores are all located between the main railway station and Marienplatz . Favourite shopping areas in the city are the pedestrian precinct, Sendlinger Str. with its sidestreets, the street Tal and the Viktualienmarkt (see below). For elegance and exclusivity, the Maximilianstraße, Theatinerstr., Maffeistr. and the area between Promenadenplatz and Brienner Str. are well known. Further favourite shopping centres are: Schwabing (Leopoldstr.), Neuhausen (Rotkreuzplatz), Haidhausen (near the east station), the Olympia Einkaufszentrum and the Perlacher Einkaufspassagen (both are covered). There are flea-markets in several city districts, particularly in Schwabing, Haidhausen and at Dachauer Str. 128. Viktualienmarkt / Market There is no question that the Viktualienmarkt is one of Munich's showcases. With over 160 sellers offering more than 80 different kinds of fruits and over 100 varieties of vegetables, the market has grown from being a supplier of basic products for Munich's inhabitants to an international market and tourist attraction. Not only are basic staples such as potatoes, meats, cheese and vegetables offered, but increasingly exotic items from around the world such as edible Atlantic seaweed, Costa Rican cocoa nuts, and Vietnamese red cactus fruit. New stands and snack bars have sprung up in recent years and the market has become a popular meeting place. A trip to the Viktualienmarkt is now a "must see" for visitors who come to Munich.

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Public Transportation Munich is proud of its public transportation which is swift, efficient and reliable. It is possible to go almost everywhere in the city and the suburbs by either bus, tram, U-Bahn or S-Bahn. The U-Bahn (inner-city underground), bus and tram network are run by the MVV (Münchner Verkehrs - und Tarifverbund). The S-Bahn network (commuter trains) is run by the DB (Deutsche Bahn AG) . Tickets Tickets can be bought at kiosks, from bus drivers, or from the blue automatic ticket vending machines in underground stations; tram cars have also machines. Children under six travel for free, those between six and fifteen years pay less. Tickets must be validated by punching them into the blue ‘Entwerter’ machine (indicated by a black- yellow E) in stations, buses and streetcars. The only exception is tickets bought from the ticket vending machines in trams, which will be validated automatically. The MVV-tariff area covers the inner area ( MVV-Innenraum ), which is one zone and the outer area (MVV-Aussenraum) . Please ask for current prices at a local station or check the website www.mvv- muenchen.de (English version available). For destinations only a few stops away a short trip ticket (Kurzstrecke) might be the less expensive option. Short trip destinations cover four stops in busses and trams and only two stops in the S- or U-Bahns. They are valid for one hour. Buying a "strip ticket" (Streifenkarte) which consists of 10 strips could be the best option if the stay in Munich is only for a couple of days. For every zone, two strips have to be stamped in the ‘Entwerter’ machine except for ‘short trips’ ( Kurzstrecke ) for which only one strip is needed. Single day passes (Tageskarte) either for the inner area ( Innenraum ) or the outer area (Aussenraum) allow unlimited travel until 6.00 a.m. the next day on all forms of public transportation within the area quoted on the pass. The ‘Partner’ day pass is suitable for the whole family – up to 5 adults (two children are counted as one adult). Weekly, monthly and annual season passes (IsarCard) can be purchased for the MVV tariff area. IsarCards are transferable to somebody else. An IsarCard valid for 12 months can be purchased for the price of 9.5 months. It is advisable to contact the MVV for more details. The area and zone charts at the stations always have to be checked carefully to find out the correct tariff. There are other numerous ticket and pass options available. More information is provided at: + MVV Info counter, main train station (mezzanine floor), open Monday – Friday 6.30 a.m. to 10 p.m., Saturday 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., Sunday 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. + MVG customer centre, Marienplatz (mezzanine floor), open Monday – Friday 9 a.m. to 8 p.m., Saturday 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. + MVG customer centre Poccistr, Poccistr. 1, open Monday – Friday 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. + E-Mail: info@mvv-muenchen.de Important! Trains should not be entered without a validated ticket or a pass (except trams, where tickets can be bought inside), since they only can be obtained outside. Everybody will be fined a fee in case of getting caught without a valid ticket.

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German Rail The railway system (DB-Die Bahn) in Germany is very efficient and practical. The major cities are connected by Intercity Express (ICE) and Intercity (IC) trains. Regional trains operate in the smaller cities and towns. A number of different types of train tickets and passes are available. Contact for information on individual trips: 24-hour information hotline Tel.: 11 861 www.bahn.de (English version available) Taxi Taxis can be ordered by phone or hired at taxi ranks. Waiting time in the taxi will also be charged. In case a taxi is needed early in the morning it is advisable to order it the evening before. Contacts: Taxi-München eG (www.taxi-muenchen.com) Tel.: 089 - 2 16 10 / 19 41-0 Taxi Ruf IsarFunk (www.isarfunk.de) Tel.: 089 - 45 05 40 Isar-Taxi-Betriebs GmbH Tel.: 089 - 1 23 23 00

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Postal Services The German postal service is quite reliable and efficient though rather expensive compared to other countries. Domestic letters should normally be delivered within one day. Stamps can be purchased at the post office, at vending machines outside the post office and often in newspaper stores. The public post boxes are yellow. Most post offices open from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., some smaller offices may close for lunch. Main post offices have extended opening hours. Below a

list of the main post offices in Munich: Post office at the main railway station Monday – Friday, 8 a.m. – 8 p.m., Saturday 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. Bahnhofsplatz 1 80335 München Tel.: 01802 - 33 33 Munich Airport (Franz Josef Strauss) post office Shopping centre, Post office located in the McPaper store Monday – Sunday 7.30 a.m.-9 p.m.

Zentralbereich 1 5356 München Tel.: 01802 - 33 33

The Deutsche Post publishes its rates and restrictions in a booklet called ‘Service-Informationen’, which is available at all post offices. The same information in English is provided at the Deutsche Post’s website: www.deutschepost.de (English version available). Look for “prices and facts survey”.

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Pets For information the Staatliches Veterinäramt (State Veterinary Office) can be contacted: Staatliches Veterinäramt Landratsamt Erding Dr. Ulrich-Weg 2 85435 Erding Tel.: 08122 - 4 89 43 Bundesamt für Naturschutz Information about importing exotic animals Konstantinstr. 110 53179 Bonn

Tel.: 0228 - 84 91-0 Fax: 030 - 84 91-200 www.bfn.de (English version available)

Public Holidays Additional holidays that vary from state to state: Epiphany, January 6 Ascension (also German Father’s Day) Corpus Christi (11 days after Whit Sunday)

Heilige Drei Könige Christi Himmelfahrt Fronleichnam Reformationstag Allerheiligen

Reformation Day, October 31 All Saints’ Day, November 1

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Social Life As previously mentioned, Munich has a tradition as a city of culture. The Bavarian State Opera, which houses amongst other cultural facilities the Nationaltheater, is at the top of the list of some 50 theatres of which the city boasts. The Alte and Neue Pinakothek , the German Museum and the Bavarian National Museum are the leading lights among some 50 museums, all of which deserve a visit. Munich belongs to the pioneer cities of German cinema. Nowadays the studios at Geiselgasteig are again producing artistically important films. Since the second world war Munich has developed into Germany's largest centre for printed publications. To get acquainted with life in Munich as soon as possible, it is essential to take advantage of social and cultural opportunities. The city has a well established expatriate community, offering orientation programs, welcome networks and lots of possibilities to socialise. To get first impressions of the city it is helpful to attend a sightseeing or walking tour through Munich. Useful hints: www.munich.de (English version available) Dachauer Str. 5 80335 München Tel.: 089 - 54 58 05 15 www.muenchner-bildungswerk.de E-Mail: kunstkultur@muenchner-bildungswerk.de Country Walk Two Sundays a month, starting at noon all weathers, 12 kilometres walk with a stop at a beer garden or cafe. R. Gipps Tel.: 089 - 86 30 10 American Women’s Club Many activity groups. Meetings: every 2nd Tuesday of month at15:00. c/o Park Hilton Am Tucherpark 7 80538 München Tel.: 089 - 8 56 17 01 American Association of University Women (AAUW) Monthly meetings on cultural, political and education issues every 3 rd Wednesday with guest speaker Michelle Kelly Tel.: 0179 - 1 00 72 93 Clubs and Organisations City Walking Tours of the Münchner Bildungswerk Guided tours from May to October

Amerika Haus Karolinenplatz 3 80333 München Tel.: 089 - 55 25 37 80 www.amerikahausverein.de E-Mail: info@amerikahausverein.de

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Munich City Guide

English Speaking Union Culture and language Fritz-Bender-Str.10 85402 Kranzberg

Tel.: 089 - 33 16 69 www.esu-bavaria.de E-Mail ha-bahr@t-online.de Ladies International Association Social and cultural daytime activities with English-speaking women Jolanta 08153 - 9 87 06 03 Chris 089 - 64 91 16 83 Thursday Talking Table International English speakers, every Thursday 20.00 p.m. “Wirtshaus Bratwurst Friedel” Sendlinger-Tor-Platz 10 80336 München Tel.: 089 - 393 769 E-Mail: anja-wolf@t-online.de

Institut Francais Palais Seyssel d'Aix Kaulbachstr. 13 80539 München

Tel.: 089 - 28 66 28 – 0 Fax: 089 - 28 66 28 66 www.kultur-frankreich.de/instituts E-Mail: institutfrancais.muenchen@t-online.de Jugendinformationszentrum Youth information centre Paul-Heyse-Str. 22 80336 München

Tel.: 089 - 51 41 06 60 www.jiz-muenchen.de

Bookshops The Bookshelf e.V. English Lending Library Monday, Wednesday and Friday 3.00-6.00 p.m., Saturday 11 a.m. -1.00 p.m. Blumenstr. 36 80331 München

Tel.: 089 - 61 62 27 www.thebookshelf.de British Council Goethestr.20 80336 München

Tel.: 089 – 20 60 33 10 www.britishcouncil.de E-Mail: infopoint.munich@britishcouncil.de Words Worth Booksellers Large selection of English-language literature

Schellingstr. 21a 80799 München Tel.: 089 - 2 80 91 41

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Entertainment There are plenty of interesting places to discover Munich’s nightlife – an entertaining cultural landscape with superior opera houses, various theatres, musical performances of any style, famous modern ballet companies, cinemas and also, English-language film, theatre and literature features. Below is a brief selection for a first impression: Operas and concert halls Bayerische Staatsoper

Bavarian State Opera Max-Joseph-Platz 2 80539 München Tel.: 089 - 21 85 01 089 - 21 85 19 20 (ticket sales) www.bayerische.staatsoper.de (English version available) E-Mail: ticket@staatsoper.bayern.de Gasteig

The Gasteig , Centre of cultural Life in Munich, houses renowned culture and educational institutions such as the Philharmonic Orchestra, City Library, Richard-Strauss-Conservatory for Music and Singing, Adult Education Centre and Galleries. Rosenheimer Str. 5 81677 München-Haidhausen Tel.: 089 - 48 09 80 www.gasteig.de E-Mail: zentral@gasteig.de Deutsches Theater international array of stars and shows Werner-Heisenberg-Allee 80339 München Tel.: 089 - 55 23 40 089 - 5523 4444 (Ticket sales) www.deutsches-theater.de Komödie im Bayerischen Hof

comedy in German Promenadeplatz 6 80333 München Tel.: 089 - 29 16 05 30 www.komoedie-muenchen.de Fast Food Theaterhaus Improvization-Theatre, interactive and fast Oberanger 38 80331 München Tel.: 089 - 26 02 63 74 Fax: 089 - 26 02 63 75 www.fastfood-theater.de E-Mail: office@fastfood-theater.com

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Lyrik Kabinett The Lyrik Kabinett is a ‘Reading-Society’ and consists of friends and lovers of poetry. They organise events and readings throughout the year, half of them in foreign languages. In addition, the Lyrik Kabinett runs an international Lyric Poetry Library with original editions in English, French, Italian and Spanish.

Amalienstr. 83 a 80799 München

Tel.: 089 - 34 62 99 Fax: 089 - 34 53 95 www.lyrik-kabinett.de E-Mail: lyrik-kabinett@t-online.de Bavaria Film Tour A view behind the scenes of the famous ‘movie-city’ Geiselgasteig. Bavariafilmplatz 7 80231 Geiselgasteig Tel.: 089 - 64 99 23 04 www.bavaria-filmtour.de (English version available) Cinemas

Movie enthusiasts will find a large selection of theatres showing films for every taste in Munich. Many films are screened in their original language and with original soundtrack. The abbreviation OV after the title refers to original version and OmU original version with subtitles. Generally, there are two kinds of cinemas: small arthouse theatres ( Programmkinos ) which show mainly non-mainstream and cult-films and the larger and more luxurious cinemas with the commercial programs. Below please find a small selection of cinemas in Munich: Cinema Also shows English movies Nymphenburger Str 31 80335 München Tel.: 089 - 55 52 55 www.cinema-muenchen.com (English version available) E-Mail: info@cinema-muenchen.com Museum Lichtspiele Lilienstr. 2 Ludwigsbrücke 81669 München Tel.: 089-48 24 03 www.museum-lichtspiele.de (English version available) Filmmuseum Films in the Munich City Museum St.-Jakobs-Platz 1 80331 München Tel.: 089 - 23 32 23 48 http://www.stadtmuseum-online.de/filmmu.htm E-Mail: filmmuseum@muenchen.de Lupe 2 Ungererstr. 19 80802 München Tel.: 089 - 34 76 51

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Munich City Guide

Useful Local Magazines for more Information There is a huge variety in Munich’s restaurant, café and bar scene. Every taste is cared for. Due to the numerous places and quick changes in this field we would like to refer to local magazines or special Going-Out-Guides, which can be obtained in every newspaper or book shop. + Munich Found (www.munichfound.de) – monthly city magazine in English, detailed list of useful information + Go München (www.gomuenchen.com) – published monthly in German, comprehensive information about entertainment + Prinz (www.muenchen.prinz.de) – monthly city magazine in German, ‘off the beaten track’ life and entertainment information Sports and Clubs Munich’s location with its mountains and lakes is ideal for all sports during the whole year and the equipment can be rented. Like most cities in Germany, Munich offers a selection of organised sports and clubs. The best way to look for a club is to contact one of Munich’s Sports Associations (Sportbund). They will provide information about the indoor and outdoor pools as well as the sports clubs in their area. The ‘Gelbe Seiten’ , the local classified directory, provides most of the addresses of private fitness clubs. Sportamt, Sachgebiet Freizeitsport Leisure Sports Office Ledererstr.19 80331 München Tel.: 089 - 26 39 67 77 www.sport.musin.de Sportbund München e.V.

Postfach 1245 85759 Karlsfeld Tel.: 08131 - 99 85 85 Bayerischer Landes-Sportverband e.V. Georg-Brauchle-Ring 93 80992 München Tel.: 089 - 15 70 20 Fax: 089 - 15 70 22 99 www.blsv.de E-Mail: info@blsv.de Olympia-Schwimmhalle Large Indoor Pool Olympiapark Coubertinplatz 1 80809 München Tel.: 089-30 67 21 03 www.olympiapark-muenchen.de E-Mail: info@olympiapark-muenchen.de

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Munich City Guide

Müllersches Volksbad Müller’s Public Baths, Indoor Pool and steam bath, styled in a mixture of Art Nouveau and Neo- Baroque Rosenheimer Str. 1 81667 München Tel.: 01801 - 79 62 23 Olympia-Eissportzentrum Ice skating centre, open all year Olympiapark Spiridon-Louis-Ring 21 80809 München Tel.: 089 - 30 67 21 03 FC Bayern München e.V.

Säbener Str. 51 81547 München Tel.: 089 - 69 93 10 www.fcbayern.de

TSV 1860 München Grünwalder Str. 114 81547 München Tel.: 089 - 6 42 78 51 00 Cycling

Munich is a cyclists’ paradise and a sight-seeing tour by bike will help to discover the Munich life. The city has an extensive network of cycle paths (1,100 kilometres). Detailed maps are available for most parts of the city. Cityhopper Touren by bike They offer an Old Town Tour and a Romantic Tour, lasting between 2 and 4 hours. In addition, Cityhopper Touren also offers Old Town Walks in English. Mrs Stefanie Pokorny Hohenzollernstr. 95 80796 München

Tel.: 089 - 2 72 11 31 Fax: 089 - 2 73 10 16

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Munich City Guide

Recreation (Nature, Lakes and Parks) Public Parks

The Englischer Garten with its shaded paths that follow the river is a popular area with locals for sunbathing, sports and hanging out in the beer gardens. Other attractions of the most traditional Munich park are the artificial lake, the stream, the Japanese Tea House and the Chinese Tower. Some beautiful attractions of the West Park were originally built for the National Garden Show in 1983.The park is well-equipped with a small lake, an excellent playground and a beer garden. In the summer months magical outdoor performances take place on the lakeside. The facilities of the Olympia Park are open to the public and consist of swimming, skating, cycling and various other sports programs and leisure activities. Lakes near Munich Unterschleißheimer See probably has the sandiest beach of all the lakes near Munich. It is also safe for swimming, as children can stay in their depth up to 50 meters from the shore. At its deepest point the lake measures 14 meters. Karlsfelder See is located northwest of Munich. There are no sandy beaches but it is an excellent place to take children. There are two children's play areas, plus tennis, table tennis, and even an adventure playground. The water is clear and the beer garden serves great snacks. Feringasee is one of the most popular beaches in Munich. It has good facilities, including a beer garden, a sandy play area for children, snack bars and a restaurant. There is also a separate nudist area and the lake is a paradise for windsurfers. On a nice weekend it is advisable to get there early. Neufahrner Mühlseen: North of Munich is the " Freizeit Dorado " - three lakes called the Neufahr- ner Mühlseen . Each lake serves a different purpose: one is for surfing, one is for bathing, and the third is for nature lovers to enjoy. There is a series of attractive walks, and a chance to see rare plants and animals and a special island for waterfowl and frogs. Feldmochinger See: This is one of the few beaches that caters for handicapped people. Facilities include ramps and a machine to raise and lower swimmers into the water. There is no sand, but there are over 70 hectares of grassy bank. It has also a popular separate nudist area. Wörthsee: Wörthsee is 30 km southwest of Munich. It has three pebbly public beaches (at Steinebach , Oberndorf and Walchstadt ) and three private beaches with excellent facilities. In Strandbad Raabe you can rent rowing boats, electric boats or pedalos. Strandbad Fleischmann and Paradies-Winkel have sailing and windsurfing schools. It is a great place for swimming (the lake is one of Bavaria's warmest) and for walking. It takes two and a half hours to circle the lake. There is an eleven kilometres walk around the nearby Wesslinger See, with many restaurants en route.

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Munich City Guide

Museums and Royal Castles Excursions Museums Munich meets every interest in arts – there are over 50 museums and numerous private art galleries. Below is a selection: Deutsches Museum – German Museum probably the largest technical-scientific museum in the world with models, experiments and demonstrations Museumsinsel 1 80538 München Tel.: 089 - 21 79 1 www.deutsches-museum.de (English version available) E-Mail: information@deutsches-museum.de Alte Pinakothek – European paintings and sculptures from 14 th to 18 th century Barer Str. 27 80799 München Tel.: 089 - 23 80 51 95 www.pinakothek.de/alte-pinakothek (English version available) E-Mail: info@pinakothek.de Städtische Galerie im Lenbachhaus and Kunstbau – Art-gallery featuring 19 th and 20 th century art and the remarkable collection of the ‘Blue Rider’ (Blauer Reiter) Luisenstr. 33 80333 München

Tel.: 089 - 23 33 20 00 www.lenbachhaus.de E-Mail: lenbachhaus@muenchen.de Staatliches Museum für Völkerkunde – State Museum for Ethnology

Maximilianstr.42 80538 München Tel.: 089 - 2 10 13 61 00 www.voelkerkundemuseum-muenchen.de

E-Mail: museum.voelkerkunde@extern.lrz-muenchen.de Glyptothek – collection of Greek and Roman sculptures Königsplatz 3 80333 München Tel.: 089 - 28 61 00 E-Mail: info@antike-am-koenigsplatz.mwn.de Münchner Stadtmuseum – permanent exhibitions of musical instruments, photos, fashion and puppets St.-Jakobs-Platz 1 80331 München Tel.: 089 – 23 32 23 70 www.stadtmuseum-online.de E-Mail: stadtmuseum@muenchen.de

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Munich City Guide

Deutsches Theatermuseum – German Theatre Museum, archive of theatre world history Galeriestr. 4a 80539 München Tel.: 089 - 21 06 91 0 E-Mail: deutsches-theatermuseum@extern.lrz-muenchen.de Jüdisches Museum München , Jewish Museum St.-Jakobs-Platz 16 80331 München Tel.: 089 - 23 39 60 96 www.juedisches-museum-muenchen.de E-Mail: juedisches.museum@muenchen.de Museum Mensch und Natur – Mankind and Nature Museum, interactive museum, a delight for children Schloß Nymphenburg 80638 München Tel.: 089 - 1 79 58 90 www.musmn.de E-Mail: museum@musmn.de Staatliche Sammlung Ägyptischer Kunst – State Collection of Egypt Art Residenz, entrance Hofgartenstr. 1 80539 München Tel.: 089 - 29 85 46 www.aegyptisches-museum-muenchen.com E-Mail: mail-an@aegyptisches-museum-muenchen.com Royal Castles Excursions Munich and its environs are famous for splendid palaces and castles. It is well worth visiting the royal castles built by King Ludwig II on day-excursions. In addition, there are Schloss Schleissheim , Schloss Nymphenburg and Schloss Blutenburg. For further information on these, the Munich Tourist Office can be contacted, Tel.: 089 - 2 33 03 00, www.muenchen.de (English version available). Schloß Neuschwanstein – the world-famous fairy-tale castle is situated south west of Munich high above the lake Forggensee near Füssen 87645 Schwangau Tel.: 08362 - 9 39 88-0 www.neuschwanstein.com (English version available) E-Mail: svneuschwanstein@bsv.bayern.de Schloß Linderhof – Linderhof Palace, built in the Ammer valley near Oberammergau to the south of Munich Linderhof 82488 Ettal Tel.: 08822 - 92 03 49 www.linderhof.de (English version available) E-Mail: sgvlinderhof@bsv.bayern.de Schloß Herrenchiemsee – uncompleted palace on one of the islands in Lake Chiemsee east of Munich

83209 Herrenchiemsee Tel. : 08051 - 68 87 -0 www.herren-chiemsee.de (English version available) E-Mail: sgvherrenchiemsee@bsv.bayern.de

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Munich City Guide

Annual Events and Highlights Oktoberfest in Munich

This is certainly one of the highlights in Germany’s event calender. According to its name, the largest festival in September should be held in October, however according to tradition the 16-day Oktoberfest ends on the first weekend of October. It always takes place at the "Wiesn" - on Theresienwiese. The history of the Oktoberfest, the world's biggest folk "Volksfest" (folk festival) goes back to the marriage of King Ludwig I in October 1810. The high point of the wedding celebration was a horse race and a banquet on the Theresienwiese , the fairground which was named after Ludwig's bride, Princess Therese. The festivities were repeated annually and combined with an autumn market and an agricultural fair. Soon the festival grew to include beer tents, S teckerlfisch (fried fish on a stick), Brez'n (pretzel) and gingerbread hearts, shooting galleries, swing-boats and merry-go-rounds and many other more or less spectacular attractions for all ages. Nowadays, every year more than 6 Million visitors consume appr. 5 Million "Maß" (litres) of beer and 400,000 sausages, especially in the famous beer halls of the 7 Munich breweries. The Oktoberfest traditionally begins with a festive parade of the brewers and marquee landlords, their beautifully decorated floats drawn by pig, powerful "Braurösser" (brewery horses) carrying large beer casks. The Munich Mayor officially declares the Oktoberfest open by calling out the famous "O'zapft is!" (It's been tapped!) Reservations for tables at the Oktoberfest are usually made months in advance, but tents often still have tables available until a few weeks before the festival begins. Groups of more than 10 should make arrangements for a table by the end of August. A reservation must be paid in advance, but the money is refunded in form of vouchers (e.g. for beer).

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