International exchange student handbook - Hochschule ...
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International Office International exchange student handbook
How the Corona Pandemic may Welcome to Hochschule Konstanz
affect your Studies University of Applied Sciences
The corona pandemic and the measures introduced to contain it have had a major We are very happy that you decided to study abroad at the HTWG Konstanz - University
impact on life at the University of Applied Sciences Konstanz since March, 2020. These of Applied Sciences in Konstanz (Constance), Germany. We at the International Office
new circumstances will also most likely have an effect on your exchange semester at our would like to personally welcome you to our beautiful region. We’re sure this is going to
university. be a great and rewarding experience for you.
The University of Applied Sciences Konstanz must conform to the corona regulations This handbook was written for you, our international exchange students, to help ease
determined by the state of Baden-Württemberg. However, at the time this handbook went your transition to the HTWG Konstanz (or, if you prefer, the University of Applied Scien-
to print, it was not possible to foresee how the winter semester 2020/21 will unfold. ces, Hochschule Konstanz or simply HTWG – we have a lot of names here). It contains
a lot of practical information about living in Germany, getting settled in Konstanz and
Your year abroad will most likely be a so-called “hybrid semester”, meaning a com- getting started at our university. Some of the information would be really good to know
bination of online and in-person courses. Many of the orientation events at our university before you get here. For this reason, we recommend that you read this handbook before
will also be held online in order to meet current hygiene standards. Due to the new regu- setting off on your trip.
lations, there may be changes in terms of classes, deadlines or exams. But don’t worry:
the staff at the International Office is here to help. We will send you the final program via The topics covered in this handbook include information about getting the right visa,
email as soon as possible. traveling to Konstanz, finding accommodations, registering for classes, setting up a bank
account, where to hang out on the weekend, and a whole lot more. We also provided a
In order to stay up to date, please make use of the following information sources: pre-departure checklist in the back to make sure you haven’t forgotten anything before
you get on the airplane.
In order to stay up to date, please make use of the following information sources:
We at the International Office hope that this handbook answers all your questions. But of
course, if you still have any other questions, please feel free to contact us.
1
Please check your emails regularly and read them carefully for any key updates. We look forward to meeting you.
– Have a great time in lovely Konstanz, Germany!
2
Check the International Office website for the latest campus news:
www.htwg-konstanz.de/en/the-university/facilities/international-office/about-current-news/
–
3
Join our Facebook group to stay in touch with other exchange students:
htwg exchange winter 2020/21
–
4
Please participate in all information sessions offered by the International Office
to make your start at HTWG Konstanz as smooth easy and as possible.
–
The whole team of the International Office wishes you a great exchange semes-
ter and looks forward to welcoming you in beautiful Konstanz.
And remember: Please feel free to contact us at any time if you have any
questions.
Table of contents
Your host institution. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 06 Living in Konstanz. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Hochschule Konstanz. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 06 Location . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
List of degree programs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 07 Accomodations. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Contact information. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 08 Health insurance. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
The International office and HelpingHand. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 08 Getting around . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Budgeting. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Jobs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Academics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 09 Opening a Bank Account. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Credit & Debit Cards. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Academic Calendar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 09 Telephones / cell phones. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
Orientation Program. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 09 Post office. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
German Language Courses. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 09 Shopping. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
Choosing your Courses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 09 Bars and clubs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
Types of Classes. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Free time and leisure activities. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
Assessment / Grading . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Places to see. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
Class size / materials . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Travelling. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
Faculty. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Getting around . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
Holidays . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Fitness and sports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
Weather. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
Student facilities at the HTWG Konstanz. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
A–Z . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
The ZACK Card (Student ID). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
The Library (Bibliothek). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Email Accounts / Computer Centers / Computer Support. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 Student exchange checklist . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
The Dining Hall (Mensa). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
The Beach Bar (Strandbar). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Pre-departure. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
Student Café Endlicht. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 After Your Arrival in Germany. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
Bevore leaving Germany. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
Coming to Konstanz. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Metric conversions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
Student Visas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Electronic Residence Permit. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 Converting temperatures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
Arrival . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 Converting weight. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
Converting Volume. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
Converting Lenght . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
Maps. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
Map of Konstanz. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
Map of HTWG. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
Your host institution List of degree programs
The HTWG Konstanz offers the following bachelor’s and master’s degrees:
Hochschule Konstanz
Welcome to the HTWG Konstanz - Univer- 20 technical and professional fields inclu-
BACHELOR MASTER
sity of Applied Sciences! We would like to ding Engineering, Architecture, Computer
start by giving you an overview of the place Science, Business and Communications
Department of
you will be spending a semester or year. Design. It is even possible to earn a PhD at
Architecture
and Design
our university. Architecture Architecture
Our university is located in the southern-
Communication Design Communication Design
most part of the Federal Republic of The HTWG Konstanz is also an interna-
Germany, in the state of Baden-Württem- tionally-oriented university partly due to
berg. The HTWG Konstanz campus is geography. Switzerland is only walking
Civil Engineering Civil Engineering /
situated along the banks of the Rhine River distance from our campus, and you can
Engineering
Department
Environmental Engineering
in a neighborhood called “Paradise”, close travel to Austria, France and even Italy Environmental Engineering
of Civil
to the historic center of the city of Kons- within three hours. We have many connec- and Resource Management
tanz. It was founded in 1906 as a private tions to other colleges and universities Civil Engineering
college for Mechanical, Electrical and Civil across these borders and beyond. HTWG and Management
Engineering. Konstanz students and faculty participate
in exchange programs at more than 80
Electrical Engineering
Today the HTWG Konstanz is a state partner universities in 38 countries. Automotive Information Electrical Systems
and Information
Department of
Technology
university with 5,000 full-time students, 160
Technology
International Project
full-time professors and 120 adjunct inst- And we welcome students from around the Electrical Engineering and Engineering
ructors who work in the business world and world – like you – to come study in Kon- Information Technology
teach courses related to their professional stanz. You are one of approximately 550 Electrical Engineering
expertise. Students can earn practically-ori- enrolled students from over 60 countries on and Management
ented bachelor’s and master’s degrees in our campus.
Applied Computer Science Business Information
of Computer
Department
Technology
Science
Healthcare Computer
Science Computer Science
Business information
systems
Mechanical Engineering Automotive Systems Engineering and
Mechanical Engineering
Engineering Management:
Mechanical Engineering
Department of
and Management Mechanical Enginee-
Civil Engineering
ring and International
Process and Environmental Electrical Engineering
Sales Management
Engineering
Mechatronics Mechanical Engineering
Envorinmental and Process
Engineering
Business Administration Business Management
Business Law International Management
Business, Cultural,
and Legal Studies
Department of
Asia
Asian Studies and
Management: Legal Management
China
South-East and South Asia
Business German and
06 Tourism Management 07
Academics
Contact information This section will give you an overview of some of the essentials …
Address: Telephone (general inquiries):
Hochschule Konstanz +49 7531 206-0
University of Applied Sciences Main Fax: +49 7531 206-400
Academic Calendar
Alfred-Wachtel-Straße 8 E-mail: kontakt@htwg-konstanz.de
The academic year is divided into two semes- and of course to give students some time
D-78462 Konstanz www.htwg-konstanz.de
ters. A semester officially lasts six months; off to travel and relax. The winter semes-
Germany
however, lectures are only held four to five ter starts in October and ends in early
months out of each semester. The last month February. The summer semester starts in
is set up for final exams, writing papers or mid-March and ends in mid-July.
The International Office and HelpingHand completing projects –
As an incoming exchange student, the Interna- Telephone: +49 7531 206-252
tional Office at the HTWG Konstanz will assist or +49 7531 206-378 fall semester
you in dealing with bureaucratic formalities,
3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 1 2
choosing classes, and finding accommoda- E-mail: aaa@htwg-konstanz.de
tions. We are also here to help you with both www.htwg-konstanz.de/en/academics/ spring semester
academic and personal issues. Please make international-office/current-news/
an appointment with us if you need any help!
Orientation Program
HelpingHand is a student social organi-
The International Office offers an Orientation registering with the city of Konstanz, sig-
zation that was designed to help interna-
Program for incoming exchange students in ning housing contracts, setting up a bank
tional students feel at home during their
March and September. The program is desi- account etc. During this time you can
studies in Konstanz. The group is made
gned to give you important information about brush up your German skills in a two-week
up of local students who have also studied
the university and living in Konstanz. Our staff intensive German language class (winter
abroad and know how important it is for
will assist you with bureaucratic formalities, semester only). And we also have a lot of
exchange students to get in touch with
such as enrolling at the HTWG-Konstanz, fun things planned: social get-togethers,
locals in order to quickly orient themselves
cultural events and excursions.
in their new surroundings, make friends,
have fun and learn more about the other
culture.
German Language Courses
They help prepare the Orientation Week
You will probably want to improve your
and set up city tours, local excursions,
German skills during your time in Konstanz.
movie nights and show you around the
For this reason, the International Office offers
local pub scene. It’s a great chance to
free weekly German language classes for
meet and hang out with local students and
incoming exchange students.
really get to know what’s going on in the
area.
These German language courses range from
beginner’s level to more advanced classes
For more information, drop them a line at:
and Business German classes.
helpinghand@htwg-konstanz.de
08 09
Choosing your Courses Assessment / Grading The ECTS grading system is a standar-
What classes are you going to take during Supervised project work with professors Studying at a German university is often dized system used across the European
your exchange program? Here the general (e.g., lab work) can also be done in Eng- a big change for students from other Union to make grades comparable across
rule is that your home university/college lish. Please get in touch with the internatio- countries, particularly with regard to different university systems (so you can
needs to pre-approve the courses you nal office first. assessment and grading. Students in transfer to a university in another country).
take in Konstanz. Germany do not often receive homework It is based on the workload (attending
After choosing the courses you’re inte- assignments, nor is their work checked courses, independent studies, project
First take a look at the courses you would rested in, get in touch with your home regularly by the instructors – except in work, examinations etc.) needed to
like to take at the HTWG Konstanz. Most university for approval. Once you know language classes where you usually have achieve a program’s learning outcomes
courses at the HTWG Konstanz are taught which classes are accepted by your home regular assignments. It’s also important to and competencies.
in German. university, please notify the International know that most courses only have a final
Office at the HTWG Konstanz of your exam (no intermediate exams). Students Grades range from A-F and include
However, there is a wide range of Eng- planned course of study. are expected to study independently to keywords and short qualitative definitions
lish-language courses in the Business, prepare for classes and exams. But don´t to allow your home institution to convert
Business Law, Engineering and Computer You will receive your schedule once you be surprised by this. Just because the the ECTS grade to their own system if
Science programs. arrive in Konstanz. You can change your professors don’t give you homework, needed.
schedule within the first two weeks of doesn’t mean you don’t have to do any
You can find our catalog of Eng- classes (after checking with your home work! Talk to your professors or the staff The ECTS grading system uses this scale:
lish-language courses at: https://www. university). in the International Office if you need any
htwg-konstanz.de/de/studium/internatio- support. In addition to face-to-face cour- A: Outstanding performance without
nales-studium/internationale-studierende/ ses, you can also earn credits by carrying errors
austauschstudierende/studienmoeglich- out an independent research project for a
keiten/courses-taught-in-english/ professor. B: Above average standard but with minor
errors
There are two grading systems used at the
HTWG Konstanz: the traditional German C: Generally sound work with some errors
Types of Classes This can be challenging for some students grading scheme and the ECTS (European
There are many different types of classes who are not used to speaking in class, Credit Transfer and Accumulation System) D: Fair but with significant shortcomings
at German Universities. There are traditi- but keep in mind that your instructors may scheme. You will receive both types of
onal lectures, but also seminars, tutorials expect this (that’s their teaching style). grades in your classes. E: Performance meets the minimum
and labs taught in smaller groups. These Although it may be challenging, it is a criteria
classes often require active student parti- great opportunity to experience a different The German grading system uses grades
cipation (asking and answering questions, way of learning. Some of your courses from 1.0 – 5.0 to assess student perfor- F: Failure – considerable further work is
making small group presentations) to may also include excursions, tutorials, gui- mance: required
receive course credits. ded case studies or group study projects. 1.0 - 1.3 Excellent
1.7 - 2.3 Good P: Ungraded pass – student receives cre-
2.7 - 3.3 Satisfactory dit (but no grade) for the class, most often
3.7 – 4.0 Passing having completed a final exam
5.0 Failure
Class size / materials
The typical class size at the HTWG Most course materials are offered online
Konstanz is between 20 and 25 students and distributed via the virtual platform
(depending on the type of class). Most “Moodle”. Many instructors also use
classes use course materials selected Moodle for virtual discussions, uploading
by the instructor (often referred to as a homework or commenting on the course
“script”), which you normally have to print materials or students’ work.
out yourself.
10 11
Student facilities at the HTWG Konstanz
Faculty The ZACK Card (Student ID)
HTWG Konstanz courses are taught by Your professors also have weekly office The so-called ZACK card (a mouthful in Ger- In the cafeteria, downstairs, you can buy
professors and instructors. All teaching hours where you are welcome to come man: “Zahlungs- und Ausweiskarte Campus food and drinks with your card or cash.
faculty have the required academic in and discuss any questions you have Konstanz”) is your important, multi-purpose You also need some money on your card
qualifications – usually a Ph.D. / minimum about the course. You can also communi- student identification card. Don’t lose it. Besi- to pay for photocopies, but you can scan
of a master’s degree. A special feature at cate with your instructors via email. Take des providing identification, you can use the documents for free.
the HTWG Konstanz is that all professors advantage of this: it is a central part of ZACK card to borrow books at the library, buy
must have several years of real-world their job to be available to students! food and drink in the Mensa (our cafeteria), The ZACK-Card is free of charge. Howe-
experience working in business or indus- and make copies or scan documents on the ver, you will have to pay a € 10 fee if you
1061
g 15the 2
try. many copy machines on campus. lose Pro
it. of
Keep in ktu
/ Korre mind that
rabzu ZACK-Card
also contains your Reverse / Rückseite
At the start of each semester, you will need
Front / to
Vorderseite personal data (such
Holidays validate your card at the terminal in the library. as your name,
/
Center of rotation
Many student are happy to learn that Ger- Summer Semester: You can put money on your card on other ter- student number,
Drehachse
bau
Fakultät Maschinen
many – and particularly southern Germany minals (there’s one in the cafeteria and library). library number, Max Musterm
ann
er 123455
Matrikel-Numm
(where Konstanz is located) - has a lot of Ostern (Easter) - Good Friday through You need money on your card to pay for lunch access codes) as
holidays. There are both national holidays Easter Monday: usually in April in the dining hall, upstairs. well as the money
and religious holidays. Classes do not loaded on it.
arben
take place on these holidays. Tag der Arbeit (Labor Day): May 1 Colours / Druckf
arben ■ Cyan
Colours / Druckf ■ Schwa rz
■ Cyan taktloser Chip
The following is a list of the key holidays: ■ Platzhalter kon
Christi Himmelfahrt (Ascension Day): 40 The Library (Bibliothek) ■ Magenta
■ Gelb
days after Easter, always on a Thursday, The HTWG Konstanz library is located in the
■ Schwarz
You can even borrow current films and
Chip
Winter Semester: lter kontaktloser
and usually in May older orange and gray building (in former ■ Platzha TRW
documentaries
-Streifen to watch at home. You are
■ Platzhalter
times a slaughterhouse) directly on the Rhine. unfortunately not allowed to bring your 0 Stück
Stück max. 2.75
Auflage: 2.500
Tag der deutschen Einheit (Reunification Spring Break – Pfingsten (Pentecost) It has won a number of awards among Ger- führung
Description / Ausbackpack into the library; they have to be
z“
chule Konstan
Day): October 3 week: usually in June man university libraries. Go on in and find Mifa
outre DES Fire „Ho chs
stored in mm lockers±5% (€1 deposit) or on shel-
53,98 mm x 0,81
at: 85,6 mm x oben rechts
why. Besides offering great places to stareForm
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unser
Muster Ihrer Druck
Christmas and New Year’s Break: Two usually in June CD-ROMs and on-line databanks, as well ferent than at your our card
home university.
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papers, while catching up on the latest news dures compared to the digitaully. We recommend to check the comptext
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Mit Ihrer Unte
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Email Accounts / Computer Centers / Approval / Dru/ Datum und Unterschrift
Date and Signature
erkungen
Computer Support Comments / Bem
One of the first things incoming students do there are also plenty of computer centers
is set up their HTWG Konstanz computer on campus where you can check your
account. This not only gives you a new email email, do research on the Internet, or write
address (xxx@htwg-konstanz.de), but also those term papers. All enrolled HTWG
access to the Moodle online learning platform Konstanz students can use the various
and the computer rooms on campus. You will computer centers on campus.
receive an access code from us that you use
to set up your account. If you’re having any problems with your
computer or laptop, stop by the Help Desk
If you don’t have your own laptop or are tired in Building G, room 103b, and they will be
12 of staring at a small screen, happy to help you. 13
Coming to Konstanz
Food and Drink So, you’re getting ready to start your exch- But before you do that, you should take
The Dining Hall (Mensa) ange year or semester. You’ve decided that care of your visa. Let’s take a quick look at
The HTWG dining hall (known as the The cafeteria also offers breakfast, snacks Konstanz is the ideal place to experience the visa options to make sure you get the
“Mensa”) and the cafeteria are both loca- and several lunch items. They’re open another culture, language and surroundings. right one and can avoid any unnecessary
ted in the wood and glass building along from 7:30 to 4.00 pm. This is a popular You’ve received your acceptance letter from bureaucratic hurdles. Then we’ll look into
the Rhine River right next to the library. place to meet friends for coffee and enjoy the HTWG Konstanz. Now you just need to get how to get to Konstanz and the HTWG
Both offer fantastic views of the river. The the views. Here you have a bit more flexibi- a ticket, then pack your things and get over Konstanz and registering locally.
dining hall is upstairs and serves warm lity: you can either use your ZACK card or here.
meals at lunchtime (from 11:00 am to 1:45 pay in cash.
pm). You can choose from three different
meals, one of which is vegetarian or vegan If you’re not happy with the Mensa or cafe-
Student Visas National Visa Details:
(and surprise: may even be sweet!), or teria food, leave the Seezeit team sugge-
So, first the visa. You should apply for the visa As mentioned above, we strongly
simply try several side dishes. You pay for stions in the feedback box at the entrance.
as soon as you receive your letter of accep- recommend that exchange students
meals by using your handy ZACK card. They try to be accommodating.
tance from us. We here in the International from non-EU countries apply for the
Office will try to break it all down for you below “(Nationales) Visum für den länger-
If the food upstairs doesn’t suit your
and provide you with the most up-to-date fristigen Aufenthalt / (National) visa
palate, head downstairs to the cafeteria for
information. However: please always check for longer stays” according to Art
some noodles or a sandwich.
current visa requirements with the German 18(2) of the Schengen Convention.
Embassy / Consulate in your home country /
country of residence since they are the only This type of visa costs € 75 and allows you
The Beach Bar (Strandbar)
institutions that can give you current, legal- to stay in Germany for a period of 3 to 12
Right in front of the Mensa, on the river- shoes and relax. There will most likely be
ly-binding information. months. Although it is called a “national
side, is one of the highlights on the HTWG some pleasant chill music playing in the
visa”, this visa allows you to freely move
Konstanz campus: our very own beach background. Enjoy watching the lazy-
General Visa Rules: within the Schengen Area (currently
bar, complete with real sand and cozy rolling river flow by. And if it gets too hot,
consisting of 26 countries) for up to three
beach chairs. This is not only one of the
students’ favorite spots in spring and sum-
just walk across the street and go for a
dip! If you’re lucky, they’ll even set up the
– months in any six-month period. The visa
If you are an EU citizen: you do NOT need is issued by the embassy or consulate in
mer, but also an insider tip for locals. barbecue and start grilling some hotdogs
a visa your home country. If you enter Germany
and steaks.
with this visa, you do NOT have to apply
Just grab yourself a cold drink, cocktail,
ice cream or small snack, find yourself a The Strandbar is open every day in the
– for an electronic residence permit in
If you are a citizen of a non-EU country: Konstanz.
couple of beach chairs, kick off your summer. The bar is self-service and only
you will need a ‘(Nationales) Visum für den
takes cash.
längerfristigen Aufenthalt / (National) visa for Other Types of Visas:
longer stays” This whole visa issue can be quite
complicated and confusing. What’s
Student Café Endlicht However, there are exceptions: if you even more confusing is that there
What would a European university be are a citizen of Australia, Brazil, Canada, also a number of other visas that
without its own cozy café, where students Israel, Japan, (South) Korea, New Zea- may sound good, but are NOT the
can take a break from their heavy work land or the USA, you have two options: correct visa for you. For example,
load and meet their friends for a cup of you should in no case apply for the
coffee and philosophize about life, the – “Schengen Visa”, “Tourist Visa” or
universe and everything? Option 1 (strongly recommended!): apply for “Visa for Study Purposes”.
a ‘(Nationales) Visum für den längerfristigen
This café, run by the AStA student union, Aufenthalt / (National) visa for longer stays“
is located in tiny Building E and is open
from Monday – Thursday from 9:30am –
– 4:00pm and Fridays from 9:30am – Option 2: you can enter Germany without a
2:00pm. Great atmosphere, and they have visa but, in this case, you’ll have to apply for
the best prices in town! an electronic residence permit in Konstanz
upon your arrival.
14 15
The “Schengen Visa” and “Tourist Visa” Proof of financial resources: Electronic Residence Permit
do not allow you to study in Germany. The Whether you decide to apply for a visa or As mentioned above, we strongly recommend Just keep in mind that choosing this
“Visa for Study Purposes” is only valid for an electronic residence permit, you will that exchange students from non-EU countries route will mean a number of visits to the
three months. After that, you would have to also have to show that you have enough apply for the “(Nationales) Visum für den län- Konstanz Immigration Authorities and a
apply for an electronic residence permit, money to cover your living costs in Ger- gerfristigen Aufenthalt / (National) visa for lon- lot of paperwork – and it will take up to
which would cost you more money (visa many. This currently means that you have ger stays”. However, students from Australia, three months. Our staff at the International
fees + at least 100 € for the electronic at least enough money (now) to cover Brazil, Canada, Israel, Japan, (South) Korea, Office will of course support you through
residence permit), several personal visits an average of at least € 853 per month New Zealand or the USA can enter Germany this long bureaucratic process.
to the Konstanz Immigration Authorities (they’re very precise about these things without a visa – but then have to apply for an
and a lot of paperwork. The whole appli- here). electronic residence permit in Konstanz upon In order to get an electronic residence
cation process for the electronic residence arrival. This residence permit can be extended permit, you will also have to show that you
permit takes about three months. They also want you to be quite precise to cover the period of your exchange program have enough money to cover your living
in showing them you actually have that at the HTWG Konstanz. costs in Germany. (See “Proof of financial
€ 853 per month. You do this by turning resources” above).
If you are unsure about which visa to in a proof of financial resources, which is
select or having difficulties with the checked by both the German embassy/
application process for your visa, consulate and the Konstanz Immigration
please contact the HTWG Konstanz Authorities. As strange as it sounds, the Arrival
International Office so we can help Konstanz authorities are actually stricter Now that you’ve dealt with the bureaucratic Frankfurt Airport (Germany) – this is
you. than the embassies/consulates. We there- side of your trip, please feel free to start Germany’s largest airport, and a little bit
fore recommend that you only turn in ONE packing your bags and looking into a reaso- further away. But the price may make it
And remember: do not apply for any proof with your visa application – one that nable ticket to Europe. Since Europe is so worth the longer trip to Konstanz. The
of the other visa types! fulfils the requirements in Konstanz. compact, you can check prices to a number good news is that you can catch a train to
of fairly nearby airports – and then just catch a Konstanz right in the airport rail station –
The Konstanz Immigration Authorities train or long-distance bus to Konstanz. Most of they leave every two hours. It’s a five-six
How and when to apply: accepts the following four proofs of finan- our students fly into one of these three airports: hour train trip (enough time to let your
Please apply for your visa at a German cial resources. Important detail: you only jetlag wear off) that involves changing
Embassy/Consulate immediately after have to turn in ONE of these. Zurich Airport (Switzerland) – this is actually trains, and costs about € 80. You can also
receiving your acceptance letter from the the closest international airport to Konstanz buy your ticket at the station or from one
HTWG Konstanz. Processing your visa – Financial guarantee from a parent (about 60 km away). After grabbing your of those ubiquitous red machines, or just
may take up to 6 – 8 weeks after you have – Formal obligation (Verpflichtungserklä- bags from the carousel, make your way to buy it online at www.bahn.de.
submitted all of your documents to the rung) – a German citizen who agrees to the airport train station (right in the airport).
Federal Republic of Germany Consulate! sponsor your studies in Germany There you can buy a ticket to Konstanz at the Other Airports – If you’re not happy with
– Blocked account (Sperrkonto) – a spe- counter or from one of the machines – or of the prices to the “Big Three” airports
Documents you need for your visa: cial kind of account that has a specified course online at www.sbb.ch/ - for about 30 above, you can also try to find a better
All students who need a visa to enter Ger- amount of money per month and cannot Swiss Francs. There are direct trains to Kons- deal to Munich (Germany), Basel (Switzer-
many will receive the following documents be overdrawn. We recommend the bank, tanz every hour. Recover from your jet lag by land). Or better yet: book a flight to one
for the visa application from the Internatio- Fintiba. You can open a blocked account enjoying the scenery of rural Switzerland. of the Italian or French cities, do a bit of
nal Office at the HTWG Konstanz: online. Please note however that US sightseeing, and then make your way to
citizens cannot open a blocked account at Stuttgart Airport (Germany) – this is the Konstanz.
– Formal invitation letter Fintiba. American students should use the second closest international airport. Here
– Admission letter from the HTWG Kons- Deutsche Bank instead. you have to first catch a tram (S-Bahn) to the
tanz – Confirmation of scholarship Stuttgart Main Station (Hauptbahnhof). You
– A statement exempting you from the can buy a ticket from the airport to Konstanz
prerequisite German language certificate, Please refer to our website for more either at one of the counters, one of the red
if necessary. details. (unnecessarily complicated) machines or
online at www.bahn.de. The trip takes appro-
Please contact us if you need proof of ximately two and a half hours and costs about
health insurance coverage by a German € 45. Trains to Konstanz leave every hour or so
health insurance provider for the visa and involve changing trains in Singen.
16 application. 17
Living in Konstanz
Location The rent is very reasonable: between € 260 So, how do you get one of these great
The HTWG-Konstanz is located in the city and € 360 per month for a single room, inclu- dorm rooms? It’s easy. You first need to fill
of Konstanz (Constance in English), the ding all utilities (heat, electricity, and water), out the online application at the Internati-
southernmost city in Germany, directly on use of the kitchen and bedding. Unfortunately, onal Office website (www.htwg-konstanz.
the Swiss border. Konstanz is also located not all dorms provide pots and pans and de/de/studium/internationales-studium/
directly on the biggest lake in Central plates, meaning you will have to organize your internationale-studierende/austausch-
Europe, Lake Constance (known as the own or share with fellow students. Don’t worry, studierende/bewerbungsablauf/). Then
“Bodensee” in German). This is a beautiful though. Students who move out will often sell transfer 550 € in advance to Seezeit (€ 500
region of gentle hills, water, islands, and you their old kitchen utensils for song. If not, € security deposit + € 50 Euro adminis-
old castle ruins – an area that has drawn please get in touch with us at the International trative fee). The Seezeit bank details can
writers and artists for centuries. There Office. be found on our website. After transferring
is plenty of nature here as well as many the money, send us a copy or scan of the
cultural events. receipt. You are guaranteed to get a room
in one of the dorms.
The city of Konstanz is the largest and
most attractive city on Lake Constance
and a focal point in the “Euregio Boden-
see” (the European region that includes The HTWG Konstanz has partnerships Health insurance
western Austria and eastern Switzerland). with many of these companies, giving stu- We want to make sure you stay healthy during All insurance plans are valid for a com-
Konstanz is a well-known tourist des- dents ample opportunities to complete an your time in Konstanz. That’s why all exchange plete six-month semester (September
tination, thanks to its attractive natural internship semester or doing their theses students– like all full-time HTWG Konstanz - February for the winter semester and
surroundings, extensive recreational at the company. students – must have a German health March - August for the summer semester).
opportunities and its historical and cultural insurance plan. The good news is that student If you can‘t attend the Orientation Program
riches. Konstanz is known as a “university town”, health insurance plans are quite reasonable in September and arrive in Konstanz in
meaning there are many students (about as far as health insurance plans go. If you are early October, you will only be charged
Apart from its beauty, the city is also 16,000) and a rich student life here. In under the age of 30, you can get a subsidized starting in October (for a total of five
known for its R & D activity in various addition to HTWG Konstanz, there is also student insurance plan for about € 105 per months).
fields and its engineering, pharmaceuti- the University of Konstanz, a separate col- month. Students over the age of 30 must sign
cal, biotech and media companies, not to lege, located up the hill. You can find more up for a private health insurance plan which is Please note: You officially register
mention tourism. information about student life in the city at slightly more expensive. Contact us for more for your student health insurance
the Studying without Borders website: information. at the orientation program or at
www.studying-without-borders.com the start of the semester. If you are
There are a number of different health arriving in Germany / Europe before
insurance companies in Konstanz, all offering the orientation program (to do some
the same premiums. Students are free to traveling for example), we highly
Accommodations choose their own provider. One company recommend that you get a traveler’s
You will of course need a place to stay There are many different types of dorms we have had positive experiences with is the or international health insurance for
during your studies in Konstanz. Here you – from individual rooms to rooms in a AOK Health Insurance company which has that time so that you don’t get stuck
have a number of options. Since you’re shared flat (what the Germans call a an office just a five minute stroll from campus. paying for any expensive medical
most likely here to get a taste of German “Wohngemeinschaft” or “WG” for short). One of the advantages of choosing AOK is treatment.
culture and language, the best option The dorms here are co-ed (shared by that they send the insurance membership
is probably to live in one of the student both men and women) and each student certificate you need for your visa application
dorms. Dorms are definitely the affordable has his or her own room. All rooms are to your home address – without any need for
way to go - usually much cheaper and furnished with a desk, chair, wardrobe, documents or advance payments. You can
easier to find than private housing. desk lamp, bed and shelves. Students are take care of the rest when you get to Kons-
responsible for bringing their own towels tanz. Please contact the International Office
The Seezeit – Student Union Lake Cons- and room decoration – and of course their for their contact details.
tance operates 13 dorms in Konstanz with own food and all study-related materials.
rooms for about 3,000 students.
18 19Getting Around Jobs International students from outside the EU
Konstanz is an easy city to get around. The easiest way to get around town, In order to have a bit of extra cash (or cover are allowed to work 120 full days or 240
A lot of places can be reached on foot. though, is by bike. If you live in Kons- the expenses of studying in Konstanz), some half days per year. Check the details of
If you’re in the dorms near the HTWG cam- tanz, consider getting yourself a bike. students take on part-time jobs either on cam- your visa before looking for a job.
pus, you can easily walk to your classes or You can get around the city very well on pus or elsewhere in town.
into town in about 5 minutes. two wheels. 195 km of bike paths in and
around Konstanz make this a great biking
But Konstanz also has a good public city. It’s no surprise then that Konstanz Opening a Bank Account
transportation system. An extensive bus has one of the highest percentage of In order to be able to pay your rent or your Most student bank accounts are free of
system will get you wherever you need cyclists in all of Germany. You can buy a health insurance or receive your wages from charge. You will need your passport and
to go. If you plan to use buses regularly, second-hand bike at one of the local bike employers, you will need to open a bank HTWG Konstanz student ID to open an
it is a good idea to buy a Student Ticket auctions or by checking the newspaper, account (called a “Girokonto”) in Konstanz. account. A few days after you take care of
(“Studi-Ticket”), which is valid for unlimited Facebook groups, or posters hung around Your rent and other monthly expenses can the paperwork, you should receive an ATM
trips on the city buses (and as far as the campus. Expect to pay anywhere from then be automatically debited from your (debit) card and online banking instruc-
Landschlacht in Switzerland) and even the € 20 – 100. Keep in mind that you might account. This definitely beats paying for these tions and code in the mail. The Interna-
ferry to Meersburg, which is a cool thing need to do some work on the bikes at the things in cash. You can open an account at tional Office can assist you in opening a
to do on the weekend (you can even take cheaper end of the spectrum. any commercial bank in Konstanz or with an bank account if you do not already have
your bike on the ferry). The Schottenplatz online bank. one.
stop near the HTWG Konstanz campus Don’t have your own bike yet or only want
is a major hub in the bus network. The to use one occasionally? No problem. You
Student Ticket is a good deal at € 56 per can rent a „konrad“, one of the 150 bikes
semester. available around the clock from one of Credit & Debit Cards Don’t leave your credit card at home,
the 15 rental stations spread out across Paying for things with plastic can be a bit of an however. They are necessary for making
Insider Tip: All HTWG Konstanz students the city. And if you need to transport adventure in Germany. Today, most of us need online purchases, buying train tickets, or
pay the so-called “solidarity fee” every something heavier (like that new sofa or two cards to navigate the world of commerce: booking a hotel. Definitely bring your debit
semester. This gives you the benefits of the fridge), you can rent one of the TINK trans- debit cards (connected to a specific bank card – and remember to always have a bit
Student Ticket – for free – after 7.00 P.M. port bikes with the big basket on the front. account) and credit cards (not connected to a of cash on hand.
(but not including the late night buses). So For more information on these rentals, go specific bank account).
remember that you can hop on buses to to: www.stadtwerke-konstanz.de/mobili- Please note:
get home in the evening in any case. taet/rad-mietsystem/ Although credit cards are ubiquitous in most Despite all of the talk about globalization,
places around the world (including some sometimes your regular credit card won’t
other EU countries), Germany is not one of work here for the strangest reasons.
those countries. Most restaurants and smaller Check with your bank before you leave
Money
shops in this country do not accept credit to see if your card works in Germany,
cards. Many of them now accept debit cards whether there is a limit on withdrawals,
Budgeting
connected to a bank account, but some don’t and whether they will charge you any extra
As we mentioned earlier in the Visa sec- One-time costs (estimated):
take debit cards either – which can be a bit fees. And make sure they know you’ll be
tion, you can expect to need about € 850 a – Residence permit fee: € 100
embarrassing if you’re sitting in the restaurant in Europe; sometimes accounts get frozen
month to live and study in Konstanz. Rent – Housing deposit: € 500 (approx.)
and don’t have any cash. That often leads to a because of a “suspicious withdrawal” in
in the dorms will put you back about € 260 – Student dorm (Seezeit) registration fee:
lot of shoulder shrugging and pointing towards another country. Last but not least: take
– 360 a month, and you will need about € € 50
the next ATM, or offers to do the dishes (just your bank’s contact information in case
400 a month for food, clothing, and other – Student services fee: € 77.50
joking). you need to call them because of card
expenses. You should also plan on having – Student Ticket (bus pass): € 56 (per
issues.
a little extra money for small indulgences semester)
– like that wonderful book in the English
Bookstore, or that weekend excursion to Monthly expenses (estimated):
hike up the Hohentwiel Fortress in Singen. – Rent for student housing € 260 – 360
– Health insurance € 105
Here are some of the typical basic – Food, clothing, extras € 400
monthly expenses for students: – Cellphone plan € 10–15
20 21Telephones / cell phones Shopping
Cell phones are generally an important There are also special pre-paid SIM-cards Besides buying those goodies to send home weekdays. Most shops close sometime
issue for exchange students. They are a that offer lower per-minute prices for to your parents and friends, you will also need between 4.00 – 6.00 pm on Saturdays,
great resource for staying in touch with international calls – a great deal for those to do some shopping for yourself. Mainly you although some may stay open as late
family and friends or keeping up with students who plan on calling home often will probably be hitting the supermarkets and as 8.00 pm. Grocery stores (supermar-
news from back home. It’s probably a lot and spontaneously. other food markets regularly. Food is often kets) are usually open on week days until
cheaper to have a local telephone number an important issue for exchange students 8.00 or 10.00 pm. A key point for foreign
than to use your phone from back home A cell phone plan only makes sense if who enjoy getting to know the local cuisine, students to remember (and often a shock
(unless you have a special international you’re planning to stay in Konstanz for at but like to have some home-cooked comfort when they get here) is that all stores are
plan). least a year. Take the time to shop around food once in a while. Fortunately things have closed on Sundays and public holidays,
for the best deal. And keep in mind that gotten quite a bit better in this regard in recent except for a few bakeries and gas stations
You have two mobile phone options: you many providers only (want to) offer 2-year years. There are now a number of ethnic that often have small (but expensive)
can use pre-paid SIM cards or sign up contracts. Just be a bit insistent. They supermarkets around town, and even the big grocery shops. You may be able to find
for a cell phone plan. If you’re planning often come up with better deals if they supermarket chains have ethnic food sections an open supermarket across the border
to stay in Konstanz for less than a year, it think you’re going to walk over to the (though don’t expect to find everything your in Switzerland. Just don’t get caught
makes sense to use prepaid SIM cards. competition. You need a bank account heart desires.) food-less on a Sunday – or use it as an
These cards are available almost ever- (“Girokonto”) and valid residence permit opportunity to get in touch with your dorm
ywhere (supermarkets, phone shops, gas to sign a cell phone contract. These cont- Store hours: mates. You can suggest that they invite
stations). Some offer a monthly flat rate for racts generally offer a monthly flat rate for Most shops in Konstanz are generally open you to brunch.
outgoing calls, internet and text messa- surfing and phoning. from around 10.00 am to 6.00 or 8.00 pm on
ges. Incoming calls and text messages
are free in any case.
Bars and clubs
The night life in Konstanz is one of the best Heimat: This is a traditional European pub,
Post office
in the area. There are many nice bars, wine a great place to chill and drink a beer.
If you prefer to stay in touch the old-fas- Receiving packages from home can also
pubs, music clubs and restaurants (about 100 There are also party nights. Location:
hioned way by sending hand-written be a bit tricky. You may end up having to
in the city center), and there are regular HTWG Schreibergasse
letters or want to send a package of stop by the customs office to clear up any
Konstanz or University of Konstanz sponsored
German goodies home to your family or questions they have about the contents.
parties. These parties are often on campus or Irish pubs: Konstanz boasts not one,
friends, you’ll need to make a trip to the You may even have to pay import duties
in the dorm bars. Sometimes they also spon- but three Irish pubs: Shamrock in the
post office, run by the Deutsche Post. on some items. So, see if you can buy the
sor parties in local clubs. You’ll find plenty of Bahnhofstrasse, Logan’s in the Zogel-
The main post office is located on the item here before getting it sent from home.
posters around campus reminding you of the mannstrasse, and Old Mary’s in the
Marktstätte square in the center of town.
parties trying to make you feel some FOMO Kreuzlinger Strasse. Guinness, Kilkenny,
There are also several smaller branches
(“Fear of Missing Out”). Beamish and Murphy’s Stout are on
spread out across the city. German postal
tap, and they often have live music and
service is generally very reliable and fast,
Here is a sampling of some of the cool bars sporting events (on TV), and even bingo or
although they don’t always like to deliver
and restaurants in the city: quiz nights.
on Mondays.
Blauer Engel Cocktailbar: Located in an old Kantine: An alternative club and bar that
cellar with an impressive selection of fres- regularly plays different kinds of music.
hly-made drinks, some consider this the best Cool place to hang out, mainly frequented
place in town for cocktails. Wednesday night, by students, cheap beer and cocktails.
with half-price cocktails, is a particularly hop- What else do you want? Location: Ober-
ping time. Location: St. Johanngasse lohnstrasse
Dom: This is a very trendy bar and restaurant
and a great place to sit outside in summer.
Well-known for their burgers. Location: Brü-
ckengasse
22 23Strandbar: And don’t forget our very own Discos / clubs: If you’re looking to dance Places to see
HTWG Konstanz bar, located directly on the night away, Konstanz also has a num- And then there are the outdoor activities for Affenberg (”Monkey Mountain“), walk
the Rhine behind the cafeteria. Grab a ber of discos located in the city center and which our region is so adored. In Konstanz its- through a forested area near Salem where
beach chair, kick off your shoes, and enjoy in the industrial areas („Industriegebiet”) elf, why not start with a trip to the Insel Mainau, monkeys come and eat popcorn direc-
a drink in the sun. This is a wonderful place outside of town – so as not to disturb an island just a short bus (or bike) ride from tly out of your hand. You can get there
to chill after classes (open from May to the neighbors. Check out Berry‘s, Grey, town, famous for its beautiful flower displays. by hopping a train to Salem and then
mid-October). Location: on campus Kantine and Kula. Wander about under the magical old trees, catching a local bus.
enjoy the gorgeous flowers, visit the butterfly
Hafenhalle, Brigantinus and Stromeyer: The house, and take in a classical concert or play Hohentwiel, a former volcano close to
big three beer gardens in Konstanz, two in the evening. The American Drama Group Singen with Germany’s oldest castle ruin
located directly on the harbor (Hafen- (ADG) comes once a year with their out- draped over the top. Take the train to the
strasse) and one (Strohmeyer) located standing outdoor Shakespeare productions, Singen Landesgartenschau stop and hike
north along the Rhine in the former indus- performed right in the castle courtyard. up through vineyards to the Karls Bastion,
trial area called “Stromeyersdorf”. Cool then buy a ticket and go to the top for
place to hang out on a nice day. Other nearby excursions include: amazing views all the way to the lake and
Insel Reichenau, another island, located on even to the Alps.
the Rhine River about 15 minutes from Kons-
tanz. Three famous old churches, lots of water, This is just a start. There are many other
Free time and leisure activities
and endless vegetable gardens. A great place destinations only a short train ride away.
The city of Konstanz and its surroundings If you want to take in the big (or at least
to go for a stroll. The magnificent Rheinfall (waterfall) near
are full of attractions that draw many tou- “bigger”) city atmosphere, just hop on a
Schaffhausen (in Switzerland) is worth a
rists year round. That means the 16,000 train or bus to nearby cities like Zurich or
Meersburg, an enchanting small town with trip. And definitely make a trip to see the
students studying at the HTWG Konstanz Basel (in Switzerland), Freiburg, Stuttgart
Germany’s oldest inhabited castle, just a short nearby Swiss and Austrian Alps. Hike or
and the University of Konstanz have lots or Munich. There you will have an even
ferry ride across the lake take a cable car to one of the peaks and
of things they can do in their free time. wider range of cultural activities to enjoy.
spend the day in the mountains. It will be a
This includes a wide range of cultural and Their museums, theaters, concert halls
day to remember.
outdoor activities. and opera houses also offer inexpensive
student tickets. Go for it! Your books can
Let’s start with culture. Konstanz, as the wait until you get back.
largest and most important city in the Travelling
region, has excellent museums, theaters Many international students plan to travel You can easily reach 4-5 countries in a
and its own symphony orchestra. Take around Europe during their time here while few hours: Switzerland is just a hop, skip
a break from your studies, and go take using Konstanz as a base. And why not? Kon- and a jump away; you can get to Austria
in some culture. Besides being good for stanz is located right at the heart of Europe. in about an hour, France in about 3 hours,
the soul, the tickets are incredibly cheap. Italy in maybe 4-5 hours.
Either get yourself a normal student-priced
ticket in advance, or just show up a half
an hour before the show and get one of Getting around
the leftover tickets. Then go out for a drink ... by train: for those who plan to travel a lot bargain basement prices to other Euro-
afterwards at one of the classy bars and by train, get yourself an Interrail Pass for pean cities. Flixbus (www.flixbus.de) and
discuss the performance until late at night. unlimited travel for a month or on a set number Eurolines (www.eurolines.de) are two of
of days per month (www.interrail.eu/en). This is the more well-known carriers.
Besides the so-called “highbrow” culture, an unforgettable way to see Europe.
there are also great movie theaters (both … by car: A cheaper way to get around
mainstream and alternative), as well as ... by plane: for longer trips, you might want to Germany and Europe than planes, trains
lots of concerts around town. In summer consider flying. Ryanair, Easy Jet, Air Berlin and buses may be to hitch a ride with
there are musical festivals in the city. and Eurowings offer cheap flights from local another driver. Instead of sticking out your
There is even one right on the HTWG airports (like Friedrichshafen). thumb at the side of the road, take a look at
Konstanz campus! these websites that help connect riders and
... by long distance bus: there are now a num- drivers: www.blablacar.de, www.mifaz.de,
ber of long-distance bus companies offering www.bessermitfahren.de
24 25You can also read
