Is it safe to go to Germany if you're non-white?

Question

Ok maybe this sounds like a ridiculous question and I'm probably being paranoid. I'm half white, half Indian and due to go to Berlin soon and I've heard from people that Germany can be a little racist. I'm also British and personally know Brits that were attacked after a football match due to being British. I know this isn't the best example and don't wish to offend any Germans, as I think Germany is a fascinating country which is why I'm planning to visit. So, as a mixed race Brit will I attract any hassle? Thanks very much, any replies gratefully received.

Answer 1

THere are many people from many ethnic backgrounds here in Germany. And though there are incidents from time to time, those have nothing to do with tourists (kind of gang-like trouble in the neighborhoods, but NOTHING compared to what's going on in the US or some other countries).

You will definitely not looked down upon when you come. The only things you should be concerned with are the usual touristy problems: Plan where you go ahead of time, know which U-Bahn/S-Bahn/Bus you want to take and where to get off, keep your money save,... But Germany is a very save country. I myself have never had anything stolen from me, even if I was in a city I did not know. And in the bigger cities, most people will be able to understand English. If you are really lost or need help, look for a tourist information. There is always someone there that will be able to really communicate with you in English.

But strictly talking about the "Skin color hassle": I don't think you'll run into any problems.

Have fun in Germany!

Answer 2

My husband is African/American and we are living over 7 years in Germany and any problems. Some idiots are everywhere, but ignore them.

Answer 3

Look, I am White but I am British living in Berlin:

- Nobody hates the Brits in Berlin. You're not a football hooligan after all.

- Berlin is full of kinds of ethnicities - many Arabs and Turks, who look pretty dark like you, live in Berlin; many Asians (Vietnamese, Indian, etc.)

You will find the racists everywhere. Don't go out to look for them, people in Berlin are usually nice and non-racist, and in fact half-White half-Indian would probably sound very exotic and interesting to them, not "bad".

Answer 4

Germany has a lot less racism than the UK so you will not have a problem here.

Answer 5

It is totally safe. I have taken friends there on vacations numerous times all of different backgrounds. Just like anywhere else. Dont start any c**p there wont be no c**p!

Answer 6

Germany is certainly a lot more open-minded than the UK, whose racism is still nothing compared the the US. If you're fine in those countries, you won't need to worry at all in Germany. The c**p some people spread about neo-n***s isn't true. They still sadly exist everywhere, but once again, fewer neo-n***s per capita in Germany. If you do something weird, no one will hurt you, at worst they'll think you're "a crazy." Especially in Berlin, you'll probably have the Turks speaking Turkish to you, the Spaniards speaking Spanish to you, etc. Just remeber that Berlin is a huge anonymous city, and don't forget to try a good Neukölln Döner.

Answer 7

Germany as  a whole is pretty safe; speaking as a non-white American (Hispanic Decent).  I lived in Germany for approximately a year; without any problems.  I believe Berlin is a safer place for foreigners since it is an international city use to various people (of color) from around the world.  As any large city there will be neighborhoods that you should avoid.  My best advice to you is to travel in a group, visit tourist areas, and be a good tourist.  Enjoy Germany.

Answer 8

these football fanatics are everywhere and the clashes are not only between brits and germans(brits are more aggresive)

we have many foreign people in germany

you wont be the exception

if you act well then it should be np

Answer 9

Is it safe to go to Africa if your White?

I am Part Cherokee.

No racism is LESS in Germany per capita than the USA for positive.  SO as long as you are friendly try to speak some German and make friends you will be just fine!! I had no issues nor did my friends. One was Greek (Half)

Answer 10

my grandparents are filipino

and the locals there were pretty nice

they were southern germany

Answer 11

Dont mind. It is just like in the states. im white, my husband black. some people just look dumb oh well let them look. but in germany i never felt any racist against him . do you know how many africans live there how many turkey people are there and how many army bases? you really dont have to worry.

Answer 12

half white, half Indian...

they'll love your exotic appearance. don't worry, you'll be safe!

P.S.: I am a German citizen.

Answer 13

There are some problems in Berlin, I have heard and read. And there are aereas in the city, you should not visit. That is not only true for foreigners, but also for germans. The problems do come from the worse economic situation of the city ( jobless quote of Berlin is 14,6% and the surrounding is not better.)

If you want a  secure live, come to Hamburg. There are no nogoareas. You can freely visit any part of the city. The economic situation is better. Hamburg is number 4 in the ecconomic hitparade of the EU. Joblessquote 7,8% and in the neibourhood about 4%.

But Hamburg is a little bit more expensive than Berlin, but it is not so expensive like Munich or Frankfurt.

Here in Hamburg your race is of no importance.

Greetings from Hamburg, Germany

Heinz

Answer 14

Yes. I am a woman of color as well, and no one has bothered me. I'd be more afraid to be in Alabama than here in Germany. Have a nice time.