The Unexpected Sleeping Adjustment Tourists Visiting Germany May Need To Make

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The Unexpected Sleeping Adjustment Tourists Visiting Germany May Need To Make” offers you an enlightening glimpse into a quirky cultural difference that might catch you off guard during your German adventure. As you settle into your hotel room, ready to recharge after a thrilling day, you’ll find an unexpected challenge in the form of the German pillow—a large, square oddity that can confound even the most seasoned travelers. Discover how to navigate this peculiar bedding tradition and glean advice from local experts, ensuring that you stay well-rested and ready to explore all that Germany has to offer. Have you ever traveled to a new country and found something unexpectedly different that you struggled to adapt to? Whether it’s driving on the opposite side of the road, different electrical outlets, or unique cultural customs, traveling brings its fair share of surprises. Now, imagine it’s evening, and you’ve just arrived in Germany after a long transatlantic flight, ready to kick off your European adventure. You’ve experienced the thrill of the speed-limitless autobahn on your way from the airport, admired Berlin’s hip and budget-friendly neighborhoods, and prepared yourself for the renowned German motto “ordnung muss sein” (there must be order), all while fighting off jet lag. As you finally check into your hotel, anticipating a cozy room to rest in, you notice something unusual.

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The Peculiar Reality of German Hotel Beds

When you walk into your hotel room, you’re likely to find something a bit different in the sleeping arrangements: two single beds placed together to create a double bed. This setup might seem odd but manageable. You might also notice that the duvets are separate on each side—peculiar, yet practical for avoiding midnight blanket wars. However, there is one unexpected sleeping adjustment you might find truly baffling: the pillows.

What’s Up With These Pillows?

German pillows aren’t your typical rectangular bed companions. They are large, square, and considerably softer than what you might be used to. Standard American pillows measure about 20 inches by 26 inches, but German pillows measure 31 inches by 31 inches. This difference in size and shape can be more than a minor inconvenience, it can disrupt your sleep entirely.

A Brief History of German Pillows

The history of these soft, square pillows dates back to the 18th century, inspired by the Romans and their trend of “soft” feather-filled pillows. Traditionally filled with down and feathers, these pillows feel similar to laying on a winter jacket. While this sounds luxurious, the extra softness can leave your head flat on the mattress if not used correctly.

The Great Pillow Dilemma

How Do German Pillows Work?

For many, figuring out how to use these pillows effectively can be quite a struggle. If you use it like a normal pillow, most of the feathers end up above your head, providing minimal support and creating an uncomfortable sleeping position that can lead to back pain.

Techniques to Tame the German Pillow

So, how should it be used? German Reddit users, known for their precision, have a few tips. One common method involves fluffing the pillow by grabbing the top two corners and shaking it up and down, then repeating with the bottom two corners. Place the pillow flat, grab each side about 30% from the bottom, and fold the bottom third underneath. Finally, lean it at a slight 45-degree angle against your headrest.

Others advocate using the pillow as a multi-purpose comfort cushion—not just for your head but to mold, cuddle, and crumple to your liking. This concept is supported by Juliane Hedderich, managing director of the Association of the German Down and Feather Industry, who asserts that they are designed to be versatile comfort tools, hence the German term “knautschkissen,” meaning “crumple pillows.”

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Pros, Cons, and Alternatives

Why Germans Love Their Pillows

Germans aren’t using these pillows to create a barrier for international guests. They are simply an attempt to accommodate all kinds of sleepers. For example:

Belly Sleepers need a flatter, moldable pillow that supports the head, shoulders, and neck.
Side Sleepers use a crumple pillow to cuddle and align their spine.
Back Sleepers need minimal support that primarily focuses on the neck.

The Dark Side of Knautschkissen

Despite their versatility, these pillows are not universally adored. Many travelers find it difficult to adapt to the shape and the level of softness. A poor night’s sleep can ruin travel plans, lower your immune system, and make you irritable—a scenario no one wants to experience while on vacation.

Enhancing Your Sleep Experience

Bring Your Own Pillow

If you have a specific pillow that you sleep well with, consider bringing it along on your trip. This way, you can ensure you’re getting the comfort you need, no matter where you’re sleeping.

Purchasing a Familiar Shape

Another option is to purchase a pillow that you are familiar with once you arrive in Germany. This could be a simple remedy to the strange pillow conundrum and can improve your sleep quality considerably.

Genius Hack to Remember Your Pillow

Should you decide to bring your own, there’s a hack to ensure you never forget it in the hotel. Place one of your shoes inside the pillowcase when you unpack. This way, you’ll be reminded to pack it when it comes time to leave.

Conclusion: Your Trip, Your Comfort

Sleep is crucial to enjoying your travels to the fullest. Adjusting to a new kind of pillow might seem like a minor detail, but it can significantly impact your overall experience in Germany. Whether you decide to brave the German pillow, bring your own, or purchase one locally, making a plan for your sleep comfort will ensure you’re well-rested and ready to take in all the incredible experiences Germany has to offer.

Safe travels and sweet dreams!

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