Rhine-Area City Guide

City Guide: Rhine-Area

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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 ISE, Dwellworks GmbH in Frankfurt, Köln 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. Should you wish to obtain more information about your future life in Germany, a few Expats have read the book “Living and Working in Germany” by Dan Finlay with interest. It can be ordered on www.amazon.com. Please note that we can not take any responsibility for the content or links. We wish you a successful and rewarding time in Germany.

Your Ford-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 Email: ford-ise@dwellworks.de

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Map of Germany

Köln

Bonn

Your location

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Contents City Profiles.............................................................................................5 Housing...................................................................................................9 Insurances ............................................................................................ 11 Education.............................................................................................. 13 Learning German .................................................................................. 17 How to Obtain a German Driver’s License ............................................ 18 Everyday Shopping ............................................................................... 34 Public Transportation ............................................................................ 41 Pets....................................................................................................... 43 Public Holidays ..................................................................................... 43 Social Life ............................................................................................. 44 Medical and Emergency Information ..................................................... 59 Conversions .......................................................................................... 63 Useful Websites .................................................................................... 64 Important Telephone Numbers.............................................................. 66

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City Profiles Köln Central Köln/Altstadt

The “Altstadt” (the old part of the city) is famous as the tourist area of Köln. A lot of bars, restaurants offering regional dishes and sights such as the Cathedral, the Gürzenich (a festival hall), the Historic City Hall and many museums are located in this area. The district is situated around the Cathedral and central station (Hauptbahnhof) with easy access to the famous pedestrian shopping areas such as the Schildergasse, Hohe Str., Breite Str. and Richmond Str. Various squares are located in the “Altstadt” e.g. Altermarkt and Heumarkt. At the Heumarkt the kickoff for the carnival season takes place every year on the 11 th November at 11:11am. Nippes/Mauenheim Nippes/Mauenheim is a northern suburb of Köln and founded at the turn of the 19 th century to the 20 th century. The main street “Neusser Str.” offers very good shopping facilities and there is a food and vegetable market on the Wilhelmsplatz every day (except Sundays). Parks and green areas are easily accessible; however, the parking situation is difficult. Nippes is a very lively area of Köln with multi-cultural atmosphere. The commuting time to Ford Niehl/Merkenich is with approx. 15 – 20 minutes drive within short distance. Tram lines: number 12/15 (Number 12 goes to Ford Niehl and Merkenich) Weidenpesch Weidenpesch is located in the northern part of the city, north of the neighborhood of Nippes and south of Niehl. The distance to the Ford site is approx. 4 to 5 kilometers. There are plenty of shopping facilities on the Niehler Str., Friedrich-Karl-Str., Neusser Str. or in Nippes. The Köln Horse Race Track is located in Weidenpesch where races take place on Sundays. Weidenpesch is also the old customs border of Köln and you will find the oldest pub of the city “Alte Zollgrenze” on Neusser Str. – the legend says that Napoleon dined there. The city center is approx. 6 kilometers away. This neighborhood offers easy access to the Ford site. Tram lines: number 12 or 15 Riehl Riehl is located close to the city but it is also a very green area due to the nearby zoo, the river Rhine and the Botanic Garden of Köln. It is a very good and wealthy neighborhood. The buildings are designed in a very mixed style. Shopping facilities are on the main street of Riehl, the Stammheimer Str. (e.g., supermarkets, butchers, bakeries, drugstore) and various “Kölsch” (special local beer) pubs and restaurants. There is a market along the Riehler Gürtel every Wednesday and Friday where you can buy fresh fruit and vegetables. There is easy access to the Ford site (approx. 10 – 15 minutes drive). Tram line: number 17, 18 and 19 Neustadt Nord The so-called Neustadt Nord (“new city north”) is located north of the Aachener Str. parallel to the Grüngürtel and the Rhine. It is one of the most popular living areas of Köln, where expatriates and locals live next to each other (Belgisches Viertel, Friesenviertel and Agnesviertel). It is a very pleasant area with plenty of galleries, small shops, trendy bars and restaurants. The rental price range is on the upper end.

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On the one hand, it is very close to the busy shopping area in the Ehrenstr; on the other hand it also offers access to open spaces like the Grüngürtel (green area) and Stadtgarten (“municipal park”) which offer possibilities for relaxation, strolls and sports. Lindenthal This neighborhood is located on the western side of the inner city, between the Grüngürtel and Aachener Weiher (a nice lake with swans etc. surrounded by nice cafes and restaurants). The East Asian Museum and the Stadtwald (“city forest”) are located in this area as well. This neighborhood offers a mixture of buildings from the 50s and 60s, new buildings and also old villas. The Universitätsklinik (“university hospital”) and the campus of Germany’s oldest university are located in Lindenthal. Lindenthal’s main street is the Dürenerstr. where one can find many small boutiques, supermarkets and restaurants. Tram lines: number 1/7/13 and several bus services. Sülz Sülz is located at the south-west of the city center. It is very close to the city and also offers a lot of green space; however, the parking situation is rather bad. This district represents the favorite residential area among the inhabitants of Köln. Many bars and restaurants, parks (such as the Beethovenpark) are located in Sülz. The English speaking “St. Georges School” is located in Rondorf which is next to Sülz. Additionally, there is a food market every week on the Auerbachplatz. Tram line: Number 9 plus various bus services Rodenkirchen Rodenkirchen is situated in the south of Köln (approx. 4 kilometers from the city center) and is characterized as a very popular living area, particularly due to the close distance to the river Rhine and the second Botanic Garden. Rodenkirchen used to be an old fishing village of Köln and therefore offers a very pleasant atmosphere. Local shopping facilities are good and there is easy access to many boutiques, food halls etc. Also, Rodenkirchen has its own access to the highway (A555 / A4). Tram line: number 16 Widdersdorf Widdersdorf is located at the very west of the city border (10 kilometers to the city center). The little village is surrounded by fields. Additionally, quite a number of new family homes were built in the past 10 years and Widdersdorf is continuously growing. Thus, this district is characterized as a very family-friendly area. Shopping facilities are within short distance, such as the shopping center “Rhine Center Mall” which is only 2 kilometers away. Public transportation: only bus services. Esch/Pesch Esch/Pesch is located in the western part of the city of Köln, 2 kilometers away from the city Pulheim. It is very close to the lakes of Esch (Escher and Pescher See) and is a fairly quiet district. Shopping facilities are only available in Pulheim. The distance to the city center is approx. 12 kilometers and to the Ford site approx. 8 kilometers. There is hardly any public transportation. Poll Poll is located to the right of the river Rhine and is also a very green area. The center of Poll is located around the Siegburger Strasse where one can find several shops/supermarkets for the daily life. The city center of Köln is approx. 1,5 kilometers away.

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Bonn Municipality Bonn

With an area of 64,2 km², Bonn is the largest of the four districts of federal town of Bonn. The district Bonn is the part within the federal city of Bonn where most of the facilities for education, culture and leisure as well as most of the offices of the local authorities and institutions are located. The “political” Bonn with the second official location of the German Chancellor and the Federal President, ministries, 29 diplomatic consulates and embassies as well as many high level government offices are located in the district of Bonn. The quarter Südstadt is one of the favourite residential areas within Bonn. In walking distance to the river along the alleys many “Günderzeit”-Villas are now residentially used but also host a number of art galleries and law offices in a very representative surrounding. Dottendorf is another well accepted residential area in the nearby countryside. It has kept its village charm. Röttgen and Ippendorf are also favoured residential areas due to their hillside location about 5 km form Bonn city centre. The absolutely high class residential location is the quarter Venusberg with its direct access to the natural park “Kostenforst-Ville” and its villa-like residences. Bad Godesberg Bad Godesberg is situated in the most southern part of Bonn and located at the river Rhine. Many diplomats used to live and work in this area when Bonn was the capital of West Germany before re-unification in 1989. It mainly consists of family homes and the two international schools are located in Bad Godesberg as well. The city of Bad Godesberg offers a pedestrian area with plenty of shopping facilities, bars and restaurants. There is also a big park at the river (Rheinaue) and a big forest close to Wachtberg (Kottenforst). There is a train station to Bonn/Köln plus the tram line number 16. Beuel Beuel is a booming and lovable district. Due to the increasing economic power and a broad range of leisure activities in the neighbourhood, living and working in this area have become very popular and attractive. The special attractiveness of the landscape shapes this district in its very own manner. The recreation areas like the mouth of the river Sieg, Ennert and the “Siebengebirge”, the 10,2 km long Rhine boardwalk and the Rheinauenpark on the right hand of the River Rhine invite to take long walks. This landscape conveys the picture of typical German scenery. The individually designed detached and semi-detached houses on spacious properties in the northern and eastern part of Holzar, about 5 kilometres from the city centre, are highly preferred residential areas. The residential areas south of the Weiheimer Str. in Holtorf are one of the best locations in the whole of Bonn. Geislar is surrounded on one side by the relatively crowded residential area Beuel and on the other side one finds the idyllic water castle “Lede”. Geislar’s calm location and the nearby motorway are positive assets of this quarter. Vilich-Müldorf, with its village charm is about 3 km away from the city centre of Beuel. Towards the north one can find the very rural and relatively calm quarters Vilich, Vilich-Rheindorf and Scharzrheindorf.

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The quarter Pützchen-Bechlinghoven has many advantages due to its proximity to the nature park “Siebengebirge”, the leisure centre and spa Ennert as well as to the lively town centre of Beuel. In this area one mainly finds detached and semi-detached housing. Hardtberg The district Hartberg is the smallest district of the four districts of Bonn with a size of 11,94 km². The German Department of Defence is still located in Hardtberg. Duisdorf is an eminent location for the supreme federal authorities. Therefore, many bigger housing estates have been built to host the federal employees. The quarter Medighoven south of the Konrad-Adenauer-Damm with its green areas running through the many 4 to 6 story high houses is a highly demanded living area. The quarter Büser Berg is dominated by a residential estate planed in the 1970s with a large diversity of detached houses. This quarter is not only famous for its residential areas in the countryside but also as a quarter where many trade associations and lobbyists from economy and society are located. Düsseldorf Everywhere in Düsseldorf, the metropolis at the Rhine, you can feel international flair. The city's population is about 570,000 inhabitants of which every sixth person has a foreign passport. The city itself covers an area of 217 square kilometres with a wide variety of different districts and neighbourhoods, each with its own special personality. The size of the city lends itself to virtually unlimited contact opportunities: from politics and business to media, science, culture and sports. At the same time, there is also a wealth of opportunities in the form of conferences, exhibitions and conventions. Currently, 40 international trade shows take place in Düsseldorf every year. Düsseldorf is connected world-wide through its international airport which is only a few minutes away from the inner city and its dense road and train system. What Oxford Street is in London and Champs Elysees in Paris, that is the Königsallee (so- called “Kö”) in Düsseldorf. Among exquisite shopping lovers it is one of the world’s first addresses. For more moderate but not less modern clothes we recommend you go to the Fußgängerzone (pedestrian zone) in Düsseldorf where you can find all kinds of shops. Düsseldorf is renowned for its carnival ( Fasching / Fastnacht) . Carnival is celebrated throughout Germany, however, Düsseldorf, Köln and Mainz are the main carnival centres where it is celebrated extensively and intensely with fancy dresses and (often) drinking. The carnival officially starts on 11 th November of each year, however, the peak times are between the end of January and the end of February (these vary each year).

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Housing 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 below) 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. Telephone registration (see also separate chapter) In order to arrange for the telephone to be connected, one provider is Deutsche Telekom (Tel.: 0800-3 30 10 00). The connection should be made within approximately 14 days. It helps to be able to give the name and number of the previous tenant. TV/Radio registration In Germany all TV sets and radios, including those in cars, have to be registered with the GEZ ( Gebühreneinzugszentrale). This fee is mandatory. Children who live with their parents but have their own income must also register their own radios and TV sets. Registration forms for the GEZ can be obtained from all post offices and banks, downloaded from the internet: www.gez.de or via fax: 0180-5 82 10 10. The mailing address of the GEZ is: GEZ 50656 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: Basic abbreviations used in classified ads : 1-ZKB 1 Zimmer, Küche, Bad (1 room, kitchen, bathroom) 2-ZKBB 2 Zimmer, Küche, Bad, Balkon (2 rooms, kitchen, bathroom, balcony) 3-ZW 3-Zimmer Wohnung (3-room apartment) Atelier Studio Apartment DG Dachgeschoss (attic) EB Erstbezug (first letting) EBK Einbauküche (fitted kitchen) EG Erdgeschoss (ground floor) KM Kaltmiete (rent excl. heating or utilities ) Lux. Luxuswohnung (luxury apartment ) Miete z.Z. Miete zur Zeit (current rent – may be raised for new tenant) Möbl. Möbliert (furnished) Nachm. Nachmieter (new tenant) NB Neubau (new building) NK Nebenkosten (maintenance costs for heating, garbage etc.) NR Nichtraucher (non-smoker) Souterrain (basement apartment) Teilmöbliert (partly-furnished, usually with fitted kitchen and bathroom) U/Kt. Umlagen/Kaution (additional costs/security deposit) 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 & 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 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: 0 800 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. Vaccinations

Gesundheitsamt in Köln Tel.: 0221 - 22 12 48 13 Mon. – Thu.: 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. Fri: 8 a.m. – 12 a.m.

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Education Childcare/ Kindergeld

The most popular childcare options for full-time working parents are au pairs (only possible if parent’s mother language is German), all-day babysitters and in-home care providers. pme Familienservice Countrywide private organization, works with employers in helping their employees to find childcare Familienservice Köln An der Flora 27 50735 Köln

Tel.: 0221 - 76 70 74 Fax: 0221 - 76 11 00 E-Mail: koeln@familienservice.de www.familienservice.de

Kindergarten International / bilingual kindergartens: BONN: Carrusel (Spanish)

Independent Bonn International

Kanalstr. 20 53175 Bonn

School (English) Tulpenbaumweg 42

Tel.: 0228 - 30 78-770 E-Mail: kita@carrusel.de

53177 Bonn

Tel.: 0228 - 32 31 66

www.carrusel.de

E-Mail: ibis@ibis-school.com www.ibis-school.com

DÜSSELDORF: Kita Die Zaunkönige (English) Bagelstr. 131/133 40479 Düsseldorf Tel.: 0211 - 5 86 88 13 E-Mail: info@diezaunkoenige.de www.diezaunkoenige.de KÖLN: Ecole Maternelle Franco-Allemand

Educcare (English) Alter Markt 36 - 42

(French)

Im Rapsfeld 32 50933 Köln

50667 Köln

Tel.: 0221 - 466 194 - 00 E-Mail: info@educcare.de

Tel.: 0221 - 4 99 20 41

E-Mail: ecolematernelle@t-online.de

www.educcare.de

www.emafa.org Rainbow Trekkers (English)

Vincerola International

Dürener Str. 394

Montessori Day Nursery (English)

50935 Köln

Clevischer Ring 172a

Tel.: 0221 - 75 98 01 91 E-Mail: post@rainbowtrekkers.de www.rainbowtrekkers.de

51063 Köln

Tel.: 0221 - 6 40 64 13 E-Mail: info@vincerola.de

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Schooling There are also various International Schools in the Rhein-Area. Bilingo Bilinguale Grundschule Köln Bilingual Primary School Stolberger Str. 311 50933 Köln

Tel.: 0221 - 7 88 73 80 0 Fax: 0221 - 7 88 73 80 10 E-Mail: info@bilingo-grundschule.eu www.bilingo-grundschule.eu Ages: 3-18 Contact persons: - Petra Schnier - Gesa Thiel

Currently Primary School (1-3 grade) and nursery school, beginning at the age of 3, Junior and Senior High School courses will be following and are in planning, including the following programs: IB Diploma-program: - Final qualification: International Baccalaureate (IB) German School-leaving certificate: - Final qualification: German Abitur (A-levels) Teaching is conducted in both English and German, in order to ensure pupil's familiarity with the terminology of the taught subjects in both languages. During the initial primary years, most areas of learning are taught in English, with community and culture-related subjects being taught in German. By the time a Bilingo pupil completes 4th grade, he or she should be fluent in English and German.

Bonn International School Martin-Luther-King-Str. 14 53175 Bonn Tel.: 0228 - 30 85 41 51 Fax: 0228 - 30 85 43 50 E-Mail: admin@bis.bonn.org www.bis.bonn.org Ages: 3 – 19 Contact persons: - Director: Peter Murphy

- Principal (secondary school): Diane Lewthwaite - Principal (primary school): Simon Davidson - Admission Co-ordination: Mrs. Wrighton Independent Bonn International School International Primary School Tulpenbaumweg 42 53177 Bonn

Tel.: 0228 - 32 31 66 Fax: 0228 - 32 39 58 E-Mail: ibis@ibis-school.com www.ibis-school.com Ages: 3 – 11

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Kay International School Kaiserstr. 43 53113 Bonn

Tel.: 0228 – 3 50 39 39 Fax: 0228 – 3 50 39 70 E-Mail: office@kay-international.de www.kay-international.de Internationale Friedensschule Köln International Peace School Köln Neue Sandkaul 29 50672 Köln

Tel.: 02234 - 31 06 34 0 E-Mail: info@if-koeln.de

www.if-koeln.de Contact person: Director: Sabine Woggon-Schulz Kindergarten, Primary School, Middle Years Programme and Diploma Programme IB-program: - Final qualification: International Baccalaureate (IB) - Teaching language: English Grammar school program: - Final qualification: German Abitur or Abitur and IB - Teaching language: German International School of Düsseldorf Niederrheinstr. 336/323 40489 Düsseldorf Tel.: 0211 - 9 40 66 E-Mail: info@isedu.de www.isdedu.de Nursery – Grade 12/13 Contact persons:

- Admissions: Christine Proctor - High School: Michael Coffey - Middle School: Eddie Martin - Elementary School: Carol Esposito - Finance and Plant Manager: Dieter Kapteina Diplomas: - International Baccalaureate Diploma - ISD High School Diploma ISR Internationale Schule am Rhein in Neuss Konrad-Adenauer-Ring 2 41464 Neuss Tel.: 02131 - 4 03 88-0 E-Mail: info@internationale-schule.de www.isr-neuss.de Kindergarten – Grade 13

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Diplomas: - ISR High School Diploma (grade 12) - US AP – Advanced Placement Exams (grade 12 or 13) - IB – International Baccalaureate (grade 12) - British AS/A-Level Exams (grade 13) ST. George’s School Duisburg Birkenstr.15 (entrance Tannenstr. 105 ) 47055 Duisburg Tel.: 0203 - 45 68 60 E-Mail: info@stgeorgesschoolduisburg.de www.stgeorgesschoolduisburg.de Ages: 3 – 18 Contact persons: - Principal: Mrs. M. Horton - School director: Miss F. Horton - Office Coordinator: Miss M. Roebuck

ST. George’s School Köln English International School Husarenstr. 20 50997 Köln Tel.: 02233 - 80 88 70 E-Mail: info@stgeorgesschool.de www.cologne.stgeorgesschool.de Ages: 3 – 18 Contact persons:

- Director: Mr. R. Hollow - Registrar: Mrs. N. Mayer Diplomas: - G.C.S.E. – General Certificate of Secondary Eduacation - AS-Level – Advanced Subsidiary - A-Level: Advanced Level - IB – International Baccalaureate

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Learning German Being able to understand and communicate in German will help immensely to become familiar with life in Germany. Numerous institutions 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 the individual needs and to find out which school, kind of instruction and level would be appropriate. BONN: Berlitz Inlingua Oxfordstr. 24 Markt 10-12 53111 Bonn 53111 Bonn Tel.: 0228 - 65 50 05 Tel.: 0228 - 63 42 55 www.berlitz.com www.inlingua.de DÜSSELDORF: Berlitz Inlingua Hüttenstr. 4 Graf-Adolf-Str. 41 40215 Düsseldorf 40210 Düsseldorf Tel.: 0211 - 30 27-210 Tel.: 0211 - 38 61 90 www.berlitz.com www.inlingua.de KÖLN: Berlitz Inlingua Schildergasse 72-74 Große Sandkaul 19 50667 Köln 50667 Köln Tel.: 0221 - 27 73 90 Tel.: 0221 - 2 57 57 90 www.berlitz.com www.inlingua.de Linguarama Volkshochschule Köln Marzellenstr. 3-5 Tel.: 0221 - 22 12 70 34 50667 Köln www.stadt-koeln.de/vhs

Tel.: 0221 - 16 09 90 www.linguarama.com E-Mail: cologne@linguarama.com

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How to Obtain a German Driver’s License Translation and Transfer Please note: In Step 3 the procedure differs from region to region. Step 1

Please make sure that your driver’s license is valid for at least another 6 months. It is absolutely necessary for the German authorities to know how long you have been driving. Therefore, please check if the first issue date is mentioned on your driver’s license. If not, please contact the issuing authorities in your home country to request a confirmation of the first issue date of your driver’s license (clearance letter). The clearance letter should prove that you have had your driver’s license for at least 185 days prior to taking residence in Germany. Driving licenses obtained less than two years before taking residence will always be considered to be “beginner’s licenses” which will lead to a probationary period of 24 months at maximum. Step 2 Please forward the following documents to your local ADAC (automobile club) for an official translation: + The confirmation of the first issue date + Your original driver’s license (a copy will not be accepted) Since you will have to leave your original license with the ADAC, they will issue you with an official receipt which allows you to drive within the borders of Germany. Driving abroad would not be recommendable as the receipt is only valid in Germany! The receipt has to be returned to the ADAC when you collect the translation and your national license. Duration: 1-2 weeks Location: please see “ADAC addresses” later in the chapter Cost: € 26 to € 46 (depending on the language) Vocabulary assistance I would like to have my driver’s license translated. Ich möchte meinen Führerschein übersetzen lassen. When can I pick up the translation? Wann kann ich die Übersetzung abholen?

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Step 3 Procedure in Köln, Düsseldorf and Leverkusen Submit the following items at the “Führerscheinstelle” (authority responsible for driving licenses) or at your local registration office (applies to Köln only): + Passport + One passport sized photo + Translation of the original driver’s license and the confirmation of issue date + Original and copy of your national driving license + Application form for new license + Administrative fee around € 40 to € 50 Neither your passport nor your driving license will be kept by the authorities. Duration: 4-6 weeks The Führerscheinstelle will not always inform you that you can pick up your German license. Please check with the relevant authorities after approximately 4 weeks. Vocabulary assistance I would like to transfer my driver’s license. Ich möchte meinen Führerschein umschreiben lassen. When can I pick up my driver’s license? Wann kann ich meinen Führerschein abholen? Procedure in the Erftkreis (Pulheim, Frechen etc.) Please forward following items to your local registration office or directly to the Führerscheinstelle (authority responsible for driving licenses) in Bergheim for faster processing: + Passport + One passport sized photo + Translation of the original driver’s license and the confirmation of issue date + Original and copy of your national driving license + Application form for new license + Administrative fee around € 40 Neither your passport nor your driving license will be kept by the authorities. Duration: 4-6 weeks In any case you will pick up your German driver’s license at the Führerscheinstelle in Bergheim, not at your local registration office. The Führerscheinstelle will not always inform you that your German license is ready for pick up. Please check with the Führerscheinstelle after approximately 4 weeks.

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Address:

Opening hours: Mon., Tues., Wed., Fri.

Kreishaus Bergheim Führerscheinstelle Willy-Brandt-Platz 1 50126 Bergheim Tel.: 02271-83 30 36

7:30 a.m. – 12:30 a.m. 9:00 a.m. – 12:30 a.m. & 2:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.

Thu.

Vocabulary assistance

I would like to transfer my driver’s license.

Ich möchte meinen Führerschein umschreiben lassen. Wann kann ich meinen Führerschein abholen?

When can I pick up my driver’s license?

Procedure in the Rhein-Siegkreis (Right side of the Rhine: St. Augustin, Lohmar etc.) First, go to your local registration office and request for a certificate of good conduct/ “polizeiliches Führungszeugnis”. When requesting, please mention that you need the certificate of good conduct for the transfer of your driver’s license. Your local registration office will forward the certificate to the Führerscheinstelle (authority responsible for driving licenses) in Siegburg when it is done. Duration: around 3 weeks Cost: around € 15 Vocabulary assistance I need a certificate of good conduct for the transfer of my driving license. Ich benötige ein polizeiliches Führungszeugnis für die Umschreibung meines Führerscheins. Then, go to the Führerscheinstelle in Siegburg and forward following items: + Passport + One passport sized photo + Translation of the original driving license and confirmation of issue date + Original and copy of your national driving license + A self-written confirmation of the validity of your driver’s license

+ Application form for new license + Administrative fee around € 40 Neither your passport nor your driving license will be kept by the authorities. Duration: 4-6 weeks Address: Opening hours: Kreishaus Siegburg Mon. 7:30 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. Führerscheinstelle Tues. – Fri. 7:30 a.m. – 12:00 a.m. Kaiser-Wilhelm-Platz 1 53721 Siegburg Tel.: 02241 - 13 20 79

You will also pick up your German driver’s license at the Führerscheinstelle in Siegburg. The authorities will not always inform you that your license is ready to be picked up. Please check with the authorities after approximately 4 weeks.

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Vocabulary assistance

I would like to transfer my driver’s license.

Ich möchte meinen Führerschein umschreiben lassen. Wann kann ich meinen Führerschein abholen?

When can I pick up my driver’s license?

Procedure in the Rhein-Siegkreis (Left side of the Rhine: Meckenheim, Wachtberg etc.) First, go to your local registration office and request for a certificate of good conduct/“polizeiliches Führungszeugnis”. When requesting, please mention that you need the certificate of good conduct for the transfer of your driver’s license. Your local registration office will forward the certificate to the Führerscheinstelle (authority responsible for driving licenses) in Meckenheim when it is done. Duration: around 2 weeks Cost: around € 15 Vocabulary assistance I need a certificate of good conduct for the transfer of my driving license. Ich benötige ein polizeiliches Führungszeugnis für die Umschreibung meines Führerscheins. Then, go to the Führerscheinstelle in Meckenheim and submit following items: + Passport + One passport sized photo + Translation of the original driving license and the confirmation of issue date + Original and copy of your national driving license + A self-written confirmation of the validity of your driver’s license

+ Application form for new license + Administrative fee around € 40 Neither your passport nor your driving license will be kept by the authorities. Duration: 4-6 weeks Address: Opening hours: Kreishaus Meckenheim Mon 8:30 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. Führerscheinstelle Tues – Fri 8:30 a.m. – 12:00 a.m. Neuer Markt 50

53340 Meckenheim-Merl Tel.: 02225 - 94 09 50-16

You will also pick up your German driver’s license at the Führerscheinstelle in Meckenheim. The authorities will not always notify you when your license is ready to be picked up. Please check with the authorities after approximately 4 weeks. Vocabulary assistance I would like to transfer my driver’s license. Ich möchte meinen Führerschein umschreiben lassen. When can I pick up my driver’s license? Wann kann ich meinen Führerschein abholen?

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Procedure in the Rheinisch-Bergischer Kreis (Bergisch Gladbach, Rösrath, Overath etc.) Please forward following items to your local registration office (Bürgerbüro) : + Passport + One passport sized photo + Translation of the original driver’s license and the confirmation of issue date + Original and copy of your national driving license + Application form for new license + Administrative fee approximately € 5 Neither your passport nor your driving license will be kept by the authorities. Vocabulary assistance I would like to transfer my driver’s license. Ich möchte meinen Führerschein umschreiben lassen. The documents will be checked and forwarded to the Führerscheinstelle (authority responsible for driving licenses) in Bergisch Gladbach. After approximately 3-4 weeks the Führerscheinstelle will notify you to pay the rest of the administrative fee (around € 30). Please go to the Führerscheinstelle in Bergisch Gladbach in order to pay the fee. You will receive a preliminary driving permit. After approximately 3 weeks the Führerscheinstelle will send the German driver’s license to you. Duration: 6-8 weeks Cost: around € 40 Address: Opening hours: Kreishaus Bergisch Gladbach Mon. – Fri. 7:30 a.m. – 12:00 a.m. Führerscheinstelle Tues. 1:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. Am Rübezahlwald 7 51469 Bergisch Gladbach Tel.: 02202 - 13 27 57 Procedure in Bonn First, go to the “Straßenverkehrsamt“ (authority responsible for driving licenses) in Bonn and request a form called „Nachweis zur Vorlage bei der Führerscheinstelle“. Vocabulary assistance I need a form for the foreign office to have my residence permit confirmed. Ich benötige ein Formular für das Ausländeramt, damit meine Aufenthaltserlaubnis bestätigt werden kann. Next, take this form to the foreign office / “Ausländeramt” in Bonn-Beuel. The Ausländeramt will sign the form and confirm your residence permit. Address: Opening hours: Ausländeramt Bonn-Beuel Mon., Tues., Thu., Fri. 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 a.m. Oxfordstr. 19 Thu. 2:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. 53111 Bonn Tel. 0228 - 77 63 00

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Last, go back to the Straßenverkehrsamt in Bonn and submit following items : + The signed “Nachweis zur Vorlage bei der Führerscheinstelle“ + Passport + One passport sized photo + Translation of the original driving license and the confirmation of issue date + Original and copy of your national driving license + € 100 in case you would like to keep your home country license when picking up your German driver's license. (Please see step 4. A confirmation letter from your employer is not required in Bonn) Neither your passport nor your driving license will be kept by the authorities. Duration: 4-6 weeks You will pick up your German driver’s license at the Straßenverkehrsamt. The authorities will not always inform you when your German license is ready to be picked up. Please check with the Straßenverkehrsamt after approximately 4 weeks. Vocabulary assistance I would like to transfer my driver’s license. Ich möchte meinen Führerschein umschreiben lassen. When can I pick up my driver’s license? Wann kann ich meinen Führerschein abholen? + Application form for new license + Administrative fee around € 40 The Führerscheinstelle will ask you to turn in your national driver’s license when you will pick up your new German license. In Germany it is illegal to possess more than one driver’s license. Therefore, the Führerscheinstelle is legally obliged to confiscate your home country license before issuing your German license. However, it might be possible to keep your national license by exception. Please contact Dwellworks to assist in providing you with a letter from your employer confirming that your national license is required for future business trips and holidays in your home country. Step 4

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Translation, Theoretical Test and / or Practical Test Please note: When tests are required, the procedure may take up to three months . Therefore, we highly recommend you to start the application procedure well in time. Please note: In Step 5 the procedure differs from region to region. Step 1 Please make sure that your driver’s license is valid for at least another 6 months. It is absolutely necessary for the German authorities to know how long you have been driving. Therefore, please check if the first issue date is mentioned on your driver’s license. If not, please contact the issuing authorities in the state in which your license has been issued to request a confirmation of the first issue date of your driver’s license (clearance letter). The clearance letter should prove that you have had your driver’s license for at least 185 days prior to taking residence in Germany. Driving licenses obtained less than two years before taking residence will always be considered to be “beginner’s licenses” which will lead to a probationary period of 24 months at maximum. Step 2 Please forward the following documents to your local ADAC (automobile club) for an official translation: + The confirmation of the first issue date + Your original driver’s license (a copy will not be accepted) Since you will have to leave your original license with the ADAC, they will issue you with an official receipt which allows you to drive within the borders of Germany. Driving abroad would not be recommendable as the receipt is only valid in Germany! The receipt has to be returned to the ADAC when you collect the translation and your national license. Duration: 1-2 weeks Location: please see ADAC addresses Cost: € 26 to € 46 (depending on the language) Vocabulary assistance I would like to have my driver’s license translated. Ich möchte meinen Führerschein übersetzen lassen. When can I pick up the translation? Wann kann ich die Übersetzung abholen?

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Step 3 Please register with a driving school. (Addresses later in the chapter) When registering you will have to pay these fees: Registration fee € 80 to € 100 (without theoretical lessons) € 120 to € 200 (incl. theoretical lessons)

Practical test Theoretical test Driving lessons

€ 180 to € 200 € 10 to € 40

€ 30 per lesson (45 min.) Total number of lessons to be taken depends on driver’s ability; generally 4-6 lessons are required. € 40 for motorway, overland or night lessons

Study material (in English, French etc.) € 40 to 90 (questionnaires) € 140 to 180 (book & questionnaires) You can order study material to prepare yourself for the theoretical test.

The prices above are only estimated since they vary from driving school to driving school. The total costs for obtaining a German driving license are around €1,000 if you have to pass both theoretical and practical tests. Vocabulary assistance I would like to register with you. Ich möchte mich anmelden. My driver’s license has to be transferred into a German one. Mein Führerschein muss umgeschrieben werden. Can I get the study material in English? Kann ich das Lernmaterial auf Englisch bekommen? Step 4 Please participate in a “first aid course” („Lebensrettende Sofortmaßnahmen am Unfallort“). The “Deutsches Rotes Kreuz” (Red Cross) or the “Arbeiter Samariter Bund” are organizations that offer first aid courses. (Addresses later in the chapter) Some driving schools may as well offer “first aid courses”. Please check with your driving school. Duration: around 1 day (around 8 hours per 45 min.) Cost: around € 25 You also need to take a sight-test. Please go to any optician and ask for a sight-test. At some “first aid courses” it is possible to take a sight-test as well. Please check with the organization. Please take your passport with you as proof of identity. This sight-test will be valid for two years. Cost: around € 20

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Vocabulary assistance

I need to take a sight-test for my driver’s license.

Ich brauche einen Sehtest für den Führerschein.

Step 5 Procedure in Köln, Düsseldorf and Leverkusen

Submit the following items at the “Führerscheinstelle” (authority responsible for driving licenses) or at your local registration office (applies to Köln only): (Addresses later in the chapter) + Passport + One passport sized photo + Translation of the original driving license and of the confirmation of issue date + Original and copy of your national driving license + Registration at a driving school + Certified participation of first aid course + Eye-test results + Application form for new license + Administrative fee € 40 to € 50 Neither your passport nor your driving license will be kept by the authorities. Duration: 6-8 weeks Vocabulary assistance I would like to transfer my driver’s license. Ich möchte meinen Führerschein umschreiben lassen. Procedure in the Erftkreis (Pulheim, Frechen etc.) Please forward following items to your local registration office or directly to the Führerscheinstelle (authority responsible for driving licenses) in Bergheim for faster processing: + Passport + One passport sized photo + Translation of the original driver’s license and the confirmation of issue date + Original and copy of your national driving license + Registration at a driving school + Certified participation of first aid course + Eye-test results

+ Application form for new license + Administrative fee around € 40 Neither your passport nor your driving license will be kept by the authorities. Duration: 4-6 weeks

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Address:

Opening hours: Mon., Tues., Wed., Fri.

Kreishaus Bergheim Führerscheinstelle Willy-Brandt-Platz 1 50126 Bergheim Tel.: 02271 - 83 30 36

7:30 a.m. – 12:30 a.m. 9:00 a.m. – 12:30 a.m. & 2:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.

Thu.

Vocabulary assistance

I would like to transfer my driver’s license.

Ich möchte meinen Führerschein umschreiben lassen.

Procedure in the Rhein-Siegkreis (Right side of the Rhine: St. Augustin, Lohmar etc.) First, go to your local registration office and request for a certificate of good conduct/ “polizeiliches Führungszeugnis”. When requesting, please mention that you need the certificate of good conduct for the transfer of your driver’s license. Your local registration office will forward the certificate to the Führerscheinstelle (authority responsible for driving licenses) in Siegburg when it is done. Duration: around 3 weeks Cost: around € 15 Vocabulary assistance I need a certificate of good conduct for the transfer of my driving license. Ich benötige ein polizeiliches Führungszeugnis für die Umschreibung meines Führerscheins. Then, go to the Führerscheinstelle in Siegburg forward following items: + Passport + One passport sized photo + Translation of the original driving license and confirmation of issue date + Original and copy of your national driving license + A self-written confirmation of the validity of your driver’s license + Registration at a driving school + Certified participation of first aid course + Eye-test results

+ Application form for new license + Administrative fee around € 50 Neither your passport nor your driving license will be kept by the authorities. Duration: 4-6 weeks Address: Opening hours: Kreishaus Siegburg Mon. 7:30 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. Führerscheinstelle Tues. – Fri. 7:30 a.m. – 12:00 a.m. Kaiser-Wilhelm-Platz 1 53721 Siegburg Tel.: 02241 - 13 20 79

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