Rachel Loxton

Articles by this author

German Word of the Day

German phrase of the day: Die Daumen drücken

Today we look at how to say you're hoping for luck for someone in German – and the hand gesture that goes with it.

German Word of the Day

German word of the day: Lüften

One of the first lessons you learn when living in Austria is that airing out rooms is extremely important.

German Word of the Day

German word of the day: Der Kaiserschmarrn

We explore the delicious roots of this word, which is a popular dessert across the German-speaking word, and originated in Austria.

Covid-19

What's it like travelling in Germany and crossing borders in Covid times?

From long journeys wearing face masks to little social distancing, here's what The Local's Rachel Loxton found during a recent trip through Germany and Austria after travel restrictions were lifted.

Covid-19

How face masks have helped slow down the spread of coronavirus in Germany

Face masks became mandatory in Germany at the end of April, but how effective are they? A new study highlighting the eastern city of Jena sheds some light on the controversial measure.

Is Germany doing enough to ensure small businesses survive the coronavirus crisis?

Small business owners and the self-employed in Germany are being hit hard by the effects of the coronavirus shutdown. The German government put together an emergency aid package to help them weather the crisis. How effective is it?