German Survival Guide: The Language and Culture You Need to Travel with Confidence in Germany and Austria (Survival Guides)

I am currently teaching German to a beginner-level Adult group, whose goal is to learn some of the language before their vacation to Austria. While I did choose Rick Steves' "German Phrasebook and Dictionary" to be our primary text, the German Survival Guide has many merits. This book has lots of cultural tips, which even I as a teacher might not have otherwise thought to mention. It also has some useful exercises for the most important things to learn (like numbers and letters).I would not recommend this text as a crash course on the German language, but if you're looking for a basic understanding of the language and culture, this is a good one.

The ultimate compliment you can pay a travel guide? "Works as advertised". I'd argue the same goes for this survival guide of Germany and to a less extent, Austria.I acquired a handful, really just a small amount of German as a result of this book, but I used it all for twelve days, and it made a world of difference. The cultural notes, however, were of even greater value: *when* to use phrases is integral to knowing *how*.My only two concerns, a half-star I withhold for each: the two-cassette method of delivery and a too-small glossary/ vocabulary/ dictionary. Pack a CD with the book and it's a five-star value; pack another forty pages of German-English word translations and it's official.However, if you're serious about German, get the FSI course; if you need a German-English dictionary, pick up a Collins Pocket Gem. Tschüs!

This book is great! I bought the Italy counterpart years ago when I was going to Italy, and knew I had to get this for an upcoming trip to Germany and Austria. It has wonderful language and cultural tidbits, and is written to easily follow. I take notes of words and phrases I will want to know and practice, and really appreciate the tips on culture and etiquette. Would definitely recommend, and would buy another of these if going to another country.

Good pronunciation guide and author gives flexible instructions for use.

It is a great guide on language, culture and manners. There is enough German language for a visitor to easily navigate most eventualities and a lot of cultural information to avoid a major faux pas.

ok book, not as in depth as I would have liked

Bought this for a friend that is moving to Germany. Looks like a very helpful book. Hope she enjoys it.

So informative! Way beyond a little useful vocabulary, although that was also well done.

This is really handy for when you need to find basic, practical info RIGHT AWAY!