Servus an Alle!

Welcome back to the Munich Post! This newsletter shares 3 news bits, 2 upcoming events, and 1 amazing restaurant/café for expats in Munich. Stay updated without endless scrolling.

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Here’s what we’ve got for you today:

Munich’s Oktoberfest – the world's largest folk festival, is gearing up for its 189th celebration and the construction work is already in full swing. 

Curious about the setup? From July 19 to September 1, the Munich Tourism office is offering exclusive 90-min construction site tours on the Theresienwiese every weekend (Friday-Sunday). Ein Prosit!

And just in, this year a pint will cost between €13.60  and €15.30, which is an average increase of 3.87% from last year - more than the minimum wage of €12.41.

Also, this is a reminder that today, we’re hosting a webinar on private pensions for expats in Germany; here’s the link if you haven't registered yet. Be sure to click on the right link; otherwise, it won’t redirect you to the right Zoom link.

3 bits of news

Stamp letters with your phone

Now with the Post & DHL app, you can stamp your letters anytime, anywhere. Just select the postage value in the app, pay, and write the code on the letter. It's fast, simple, and super convenient. 

Plus, you can drop your letters into any of the 110,000 mailboxes across Germany. Here’s how you can get a digital stamp using the DHL/Deutsche Post app and never have to worry about stamps again.

First, download the DHL/Deutsche Post app. Open the app and select ‘Frankieren’ at the bottom. Whether you're sending a package or a letter, there’s an option for you. If you're unsure, use the postage consultant (Portoberater) for guidance. 

After selecting your letter type, choose ‘Als Code zum Beschriften’ and pick your payment method. Then, write #PORTO and in the next line your unique code on the top right corner of the envelope, and drop it in a nearby yellow mailbox. Voilà, your letter is ready to go!

For further details read here or watch a short reel from Simple Germany explain it.

Starting a business in Munich?

Thinking about starting a business in Munich? Whether it's your main gig or a side hustle, planning ahead is key. Here are the 10 steps you need to know before you dive into the world of self-employment.

Here's what you need to do:

1. Determine your starting position: Understand your current situation and resources.

2. Review your business idea: Make sure your idea is viable and has a market.

3. Prepare a business plan: Outline your business strategy and goals.

4. Secure financing and public support: Look into funding options and government support.

5. Decide between business or liberal profession: Know the difference and choose accordingly.

6. Choose a legal form: Select the legal structure that fits your business.

7. Clarify tax and accounting requirements: Get familiar with the financial aspects.

8. Check company insurance, laws, and contracts: Ensure you're covered legally.

9. Check social insurance: Understand your social insurance obligations.

10. Choose a location and check local zoning regulations: Find the perfect spot for your business.

Once you've ticked off the 10-point checklist, it's time to register your self-employment with the tax office and, if necessary, the trade office.

Need more help? Munich’s Business Startup Office is here to support you. Attend their online seminar “How to start a business,” download their free business plan templates, or request an appointment through their contact form.

Also mark your calendars for the next info session on July 25 from 9 - 11am – conducted in English for all our international entrepreneurs.

For more information read here (in English).

Cycling path upgrade kicks

Zeppelinstraße is getting a major makeover to become safer and more enjoyable for cyclists and pedestrians. This project is part of the Radentscheid initiative which aims to improve our city's bike infrastructure.

By the end of the year you can expect a new, continuous two-way cycle path all the way up to Kreuzplätzchen. This path will be 4.5 meters wide and protected from motor traffic by a one-meter-wide planted median strip. The street width for drivers is being being narrowed and parking spaces will be adjusted as well.

The previous cycle lane towards Corneliusbrücke will become part of the sidewalk area, giving you more space to stroll. The redesign also tackles the tricky underpass area, reducing conflicts between cyclists and walkers. Plus, new bike parking facilities are being added at side street junctions, including spots for cargo bikes.

Next year, the square in front of the Museum Lichtspiele cinema will get a facelift with new seating and greenery. All these upgrades are expected to wrap up by November 2025.

Find more information here (in German).

BONUS: 

• July 2024: 13 changes affecting expats in Germany

• Will Germany ban cellphones in schools? 

• Lufthansa city airlines: what is the German flag carrier’s new airline and where will it fly?

• Underwater rail tunnel linking Denmark and Germany

• Changes to cost for cable TV

• New Rewe market opens at Munich Airport

• German Finance Minister says Deutschlandticket must get more expensive

• Berlin and Munich could run 50 percent more direct trains to European cities

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 joining this event, you’ll support The Munich Post.

An expert reveals a market shake-up in Munich with sellers slashing prices. Now's the time to snag an incredible deal!

If you were always wondering about:

• Economic outlook for housing in Germany

• How to determine affordability

• The steps of the property buying process

Then, this webinar is for you.

Many expats struggle with nitty-gritty details about the German property market. This free webinar will help you give clarity. Most importantly, it will give you an understanding about:

• Interest rates and offers (due to the recent price drop.)

• How to think about a financing plan?

• What kind of profiles are banks looking for?

• How can you find properties that come within your budget?

• Common struggles with foreigners and how to avoid them

• How buying and financing a property differs in Munich compared to other cities?

Learn more about property and financing in Germany on July 8.

2 upcoming events

Munich Sports Festival

You know it’s going to be a great day when part of our city turns into a giant playground. This Sunday, July 7, the Munich Sports Festival is back at Königsplatz with around 60 different sports activities. 

From classics like football and table tennis to trendy activities like parkour and ninja sports. We’re even wondering if pickleball will make an appearance? 

Local sports clubs and organizations will be there to show off what they offer. You might find a new sport to try or a new club to join. Interested in getting involved? You can register your club or organization on their website.

Practical Info

• All Equipment Provided: No need to bring your gear - it’s all there for you. (Some activities might require a deposit.)

• Food and Drink: There is a food truck market and Biergarten for healthy, tasty treats. Don’t forget to stay hydrated – bring your own containers to refill at their water bar.

• Changing Rooms: There are no shower facilities or changing rooms on site, so come prepared.

Find more information here (in German).

General information:

📍  Königsplatz, Munich

📅   Sunday, July 7, 2024 

⏰ 10 am - 6 pm

Would you wake up at 5am for a dance?

Ready to step into a tradition that dates back to the 19th century? The Kocherlball is happening on Sunday, July 21 at the crack of dawn, and it's a magical experience you won't want to miss. Imagine twirling in your Tracht as the early morning light breaks.

The Kocherlball originally began as a gathering for domestic servants (with Kocherl being the Bavarian word for “cook”). They would meet at dawn to ensure they could return to work as soon as their masters came back from church. 

There are dance classes available beforehand to brush up on your steps. The ball is more than just a dance though – it's a feast for all senses. Expect delicious treats, both savory and sweet, vegetarian or meaty, all prepared with top-notch regional ingredients and a nod to animal welfare.

Find more info here or for free dance courses check here. 

General information:

📍  Biergarten am Chinesischen Turm

📅   Sunday, July 21, 2024

⏰  6am (we would advise getting their earlier if you do not have a reservation)

Bonus

• Two-day bike safety check on Theresienwiese - July 5–6

• Magdalenenfest - July 6–21

• Waldfeste at Lake Tegernsee - July 7 

• Classical music at Odeonsplatz - July 12–13

• Young City Singles - speed dating event in English (use code TMP20)

• Open Air Festival - July 20

1 new restaurant/café to try

Casa Mañana

This spot brings Tulum vibes with a modern twist, making it a must-visit for taco and tequila lovers.

The shrimp tacos are tasty and the beef brisket tacos are a hit—hot and flavorful, just like you'd find in Mexico. Remember, the taco portions are small, so be ready to order a few to fill up.

Drinks at Casa Mañana are a highlight, with the Mezcal Negroni standing out. The atmosphere is lively, the service is friendly, and dishes arrive quickly.

General information:

📍 Nymphenburger Str. 168, 80634 München

🥘  Mexican Cuisine 

⏰ Open daily from 12 Noon - 10pm

🔗 Visit Casa Mañana

Meme of the week 😂 (so relatable)

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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