Servus an Alle!

Welcome back to the Munich Post! The purpose of this newsletter is to share: 3 bits of news, 2 upcoming events, and 1 amazing restaurant/café for expats living in and around Munich. This way, you have a pulse on what’s going on without scrolling through thousands of pages.

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Here’s our weekly roundup:

3 bits of news

Germany’s big spending shift begins  

Germany just made a historic move and it’s all about money—lots of it. 

The Bundestag has voted to loosen its strict “debt brake,” allowing billions of euros in new investments for defense, infrastructure and climate initiatives. 

This decision, backed by CDU/CSU, SPD, and the Greens, paves the way for the country to ramp up military spending and modernize essential public services.

Chancellor Olaf Scholz hailed the vote as a turning point, calling it a necessary step to strengthen Germany’s security and economic future. 

With growing concerns over cyberattacks, geopolitical tensions and NATO’s stability, politicians across the spectrum agree that Germany must take more responsibility for its own defense. 

However, not everyone is celebrating, AfD leader Alice Weidel called the move a “death blow for the euro,” warning of rising debt and economic instability.

So what does this mean for everyday life? 

More jobs, improved public services and a boost for Germany’s digital and energy infrastructure. 

With €500 billion now earmarked for projects like schools, daycare centers and better public transport, the effects of this vote will be felt across the country. 

Read more here and here (in English). 

Munich immigration office KVR scandal unfolds 

Munich’s immigration office (KVR) is under fire after employees were accused of taking bribes in exchange for issuing fraudulent visas and residence permits. 

Four current employees and one former employee are being investigated, along with a “relocation agent” who allegedly facilitated the scheme.

The scheme reportedly involved accepting cash, luxury goods and even limousine rides in exchange for permits. 

The KVR launched an internal audit after noticing suspicious behavior, leading to a police raid on March 12. Several suspects remain in custody, while one woman has been released under strict conditions.

What does this mean for visa applications?

The ongoing investigation isn’t expected to impact regular visa and residence permit applications. 

However, Munich’s immigration services already face long delays due to high demand and staffing shortages. If you’re applying for a visa, be prepared for continued wait times.

Authorities emphasize their zero-tolerance policy on corruption, with officials pledging to continue internal investigations. 

The case remains open, with more details likely to emerge as prosecutors dig deeper into the alleged misconduct.

Find more info here and here (in German). 

Measles case confirmed

A confirmed measles case in the Munich district has the health department on high alert. 

The infected person unknowingly visited several busy locations, increasing the risk of exposure. Measles is highly contagious, spreading through the air and lingering for up to two hours in shared spaces.

Where & when was the exposure?

If you visited any of these locations on March 6, pay close attention to your health:

• Segmüller (Ebersberg): 12 Noon – 3pm

• IKEA (Brunnthal): 3:30pm – 4:30pm

• dm & Lidl (Biberger Straße, Unterhaching): 5pm – 6pm

Anyone present up to two hours after these times may have been exposed. The health office urges those without full vaccination protection to monitor their health until March 27.

Measles often starts like the flu—fever, cough, runny nose and body aches—before the telltale rash appears days later. 

Infants, pregnant women, and those with weakened immune systems are at higher risk. If symptoms develop, avoid public spaces like schools and daycare centers. 

Call your doctor before visiting a clinic. 

More information here ​​(in German).

BONUS: 

• Siemens to cut 8% of jobs at struggling industrial automation business

• Germany probing three cases of citizens detained and denied entry to US

• Germany has launched a new online platform, the Consular Services Portal, to simplify visa applications for international travelers

• Canyon opens first store in Munich 

• Cycling in Munich Go!Family: Test bicycles for transporting children

• Tegernsee is the next Alpine lake to know

• Tech hubs collaborate to establish Bavarian support for local startups

• Bavaria requests from German health system to get ready for war

In Partnership with finbird

It is our desire to bring our readers the best information about Munich — at zero cost to you. In keeping with this theme, we thank our partners for today’s newsletter. By just clicking the link below, you’ll support The Munich Post

Understanding Interest Rate Changes: Financial Strategies for Expats

Curious about how recent shifts in market interest rates are shaping your financial options? Join our upcoming webinar, designed especially for expats in Germany, and get a clear look at how these changes affect everything from mortgage borrowing to bond investments.

In this session, you’ll learn about:

• Market Dynamics: Understand how changing interest rates influence mortgage rates, investment yields, and bond performance.

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Join us on April 1st, 2025 at 6 PM (Live) with host Daniela from finbird and don't miss this opportunity to gain a better understanding of how interest rate changes can influence your financial decisions.

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2 upcoming events

Find hidden gems in your hood

Love a good bargain? The Hofflohmärkte are back, bringing second-hand finds, rare treasures and community vibes to Munich’s neighborhoods. 

From March through October, these local flea markets pop up every weekend in a different district, giving you the perfect excuse to explore new areas while scoring unique items.

It’s about discovering hidden courtyards, chatting with neighbors and embracing sustainability by giving old items a new home. 

Upcoming Hofflohmärkte dates

• March 22: Hofflohmärkte Freiham

• March 29: Hofflohmärkte Kieferngarten

• April 5: Hofflohmärkte Kleinhadern & Blumenau

How it works

• Open to All – Free entry, no commercial vendors, just locals selling pre-loved goods

• Neighborhood Love – Each event is hosted by a different district, giving you a chance to explore Munich in a new way

• Rain or Shine – Markets run Fridays from 5pm – 10pm and Saturdays from 10am – 4pm.

Some of Munich’s biggest Hofflohmärkte are also organized by community groups:

• Glockenbach (May 17) – Run by Nachbarschaftshilfe Westermühlbach e.V.

• Schwabing (May 24) – The city’s oldest Hofflohmarkt, featuring over 300 locations

• Westend (June 7 & September 13) – A mix of flea market stalls, live music, and cultural events

Find more information here and here (in German).

General information:

📍 Various districts across Munich

🛍️ Second-hand items, vintage finds & rare treasures

⏰ Fridays 5pm –10pm & Saturdays 10am – 4pm

💶 Free entry

Buy & sell outdoor gear

Need new gear for your next mountain adventure? 

The Alpine Flea Market is the place to find high-quality second-hand outdoor equipment at great prices. Looking for some ski gear, climbing essentials or hiking maps, this market has it all. 

Looking to declutter? 

Bring your unused gear and pass it on to a new owner.

This isn’t just about bargains—it’s about sustainability. Buying and selling used equipment keeps quality gear in use and reduces waste. Meet fellow outdoor lovers, exchange tips and grab what you need for your next adventure.

Find more information or register to sell here (in German). They also have a created Facebook group where you can buy or sell.

General information: 

📍  Blumengroßmarkthalle Munich

🗓️  Sunday, March 30, 2025

⏰  9am – 2pm

BONUS

• Spring & Walk - March 22 & 29 

1 new restaurant/café to try

Kencho Matcha

Looking for an authentic matcha experience in Munich? Kencho Matcha brings the best of Japan’s green tea culture straight to the city. 

From creamy matcha soft-serve to traditional East Asian desserts, everything here is made with 100% Japanese matcha and natural ingredients. 

It’s no wonder the place is always packed!

While seating is limited, the drinks and desserts are worth the wait. If you want to skip the long lines, grab your order to-go. 

What to Try

 • K8 Matcha Latte – A fan favorite

 • Sakura Dessert – Pretty and delicious

 • Matcha Soft Serve – Creamy and refreshing

Some might find the flavors less sweet than expected, but that’s the charm of authentic East Asian desserts. 

Yes, prices are on the higher side, but that’s Munich for you.

General information:

📍  Schellingstraße 15, 80799 München 

🥘  Matcha

⏰ Tuesday – Sunday, 12 Noon – 8pm

Visit Kencho Matcha

Meme of the week 😂

Thanks for reading and sharing the Munich Post 3-2-1 newsletter.

See ya next week!

Aazar, Arlene, Christina, and Heidi

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