I lived in Germany for 6 years growing up. I still remember all my trips vividly! OMG!! My mom and I talk about moving there on a daily basis. There's so much to see and do. Don't be afraid to venture out!!! It can be a little scary at first but once you get the hang of the public transportation...OMG!!! the sky's the limit.
Everyone stationed overseas tends to "buddy up"...make things into "little america"...which is nice because you can all grip and complain together. But I never really wanted to hang out with that crowd. I spent alot of my time traveling!!!
It was a total of 6 yrs stationed in Germany at two different bases...both Air Force. I have always been an Air Force girl. 3 yrs in Zweibruken. 3 yrs at Rhein-Main. And with my ex-dh I lived in England for 3 yrs. THOSE WERE THE DAYS!!!
There is so much to see and do. I went Volksmarching alot...its like hiking..but you get a prize at the end!! I went to all the Christmas markets...try all the food! VISIT ALL THE CASTLES!!! Never pass up the opportunity to go ANYWHERE!! Even if money is tight...which it can sometimes be...most people get very homesick over there and tend to sit at home and make babies...
Sorry...but its in the water!
I know I would trade with you in a heartbeat!! You're really embarking on a wonderful experience. My only advice...Make friends quickly but don't let them hold you back! TRAVEL LIKE THERE'S NO TOMORROW>>>
Don't worry about the lanuage either...
***I have learned from my travels that if you can figure out these 3 questions you can travel anywhere...
1. DO YOU SPEAK ENGLISH?
2. HOW MUCH DOES IT COST?
3. WHERE IS THE BATHROOM?
Trust me...I don't spell German very well...but I can speak those 3 questions to this day!!
And trust me...you'll have a great time! Best of luck!!