The school has already given us a schedule for what we can do. We’re going to museums, factory tours, that sort. So no suggestions for any activities to do or places to go to.
I would like some tips on some things I should know about Germany, perhaps some German phrases I should understand, cultural differences, or laws I need to know. Anything important that I should be aware of?
It will be about a weeklong trip
Not quite. And throwing feces would certainly constitute a more serious crime.
Insults are prosecuted at the request of the victim (with very rare exceptions). Usually, people don’t bother. However, police officers are known for their well-developed sense of personal honor, and they hang around police stations, anyway.
Important difference between Germany and EG the US: German prosecutors must, by law, investigate all potential crimes. You’re right that such an investigation into an insult does not usually merit significant resources. Much depends on how well staffed the prosecutor’s office is. Bavaria is notorious for having time for all those little things (see the warnings about weed).
You can expect them, say, to look up a license plate and send a letter to the owner requesting a statement. Insults while driving are also seen as having higher priority, on account of the danger posed by losing your cool while driving.
Someone who has been accused more than once, will certainly merit more resources. Insults against police officers are also higher priority and usually end badly.
you guys have a strange approach to being a tourist.