Today we toured two locations: the Allianz Arena, home of FC Bayern Munich, and the Munich Residenz (Royal Palace). Both were spectacular in their own right, but what stood out to me most today was the culture. Specifically, the high level of mutual respect observed in public spaces and everyday interactions.
Whether on trains, at work, or simply walking through the city, there is a strong cultural norm of being considerate toward others and adhering to shared rules. For example, on public transportation, it’s common for people to speak quietly, give up seats to those who need them, and wait patiently for others to exit before boarding. There’s a quiet efficiency and orderliness that reflects a collective respect for both the environment and each other.
It doesn’t seem to be just about following rules—it’s more about underlying cultural values: personal responsibility, social trust, and the belief that shared spaces belong to everyone.
