Nic Houghton

Articles by this author

Opinion and Analysis

How German dialects are battling back against 'Hochdeutsch'

Hochdeutsch (standard German) is what's taught in schools, and what you hear on mainstream TV. But a huge variety of dialects are alive and thriving - especially in Bavaria - says Augsburg local Nic Houghton.

Opinion and Analysis

OPINION: Why Oktoberfest is one of Germany's worst beer festivals

The world-renowned Oktoberfest is returning to Germany after a two-year pandemic break. But one Bavarian local says pricey beers and rowdy mobs make it a special kind of hell - and there are much better festivals out there.

Moving to Germany

Six reasons to move to the German state of Bavaria

It may be known for its beer festivals, but there's more to Bavaria than meets the eye. From the quality of life to the interesting dialects, here's why you should consider moving to the southern German state, writes Nic Houghton. 

Bavaria

'Disaster avoided': How Bavaria voted in Germany's federal election

As the sister party of the CDU, Bavaria's CSU has also suffered massive losses in the election - but has managed to stay afloat. Nic Houghton explores how the southern state voted and what could happen next.

German federal election

Why Bavaria does politics differently to the rest of Germany

When it comes to politics and culture, Bavaria is a German state like no other. But beyond the usual social stereotypes, its love affair with the conservatives is far more complex than it appears, writes Nic Houghton.