Advertisement
Paul Krantz
Editor, The Local GermanyPaul comes from California and has lived in Berlin since 2020. He’s written for a number of US and European news outlets and magazines including DW News, Parliament Magazine and the European Correspondent. He has a MA in journalism from HMKW in Berlin as well as a BA in creative writing from the University of San Francisco. Paul joined The Local Germany as a reporter at the beginning of 2024 and became editor of the site in May 2025.
See all our journalists at The Local germany.- Email: paul.krantz@thelocal.com
Articles by this author
When do schools across Germany start summer holidays in 2026?
German school children and their families have plenty of opportunities to go on holiday, with small breaks throughout the year as well as the bigger summer holidays. Here are the dates for 2026.
Today in Germany: A roundup of the latest news on Thursday
The AfD leads by a wide margin at the state level in Saxony-Anhalt, a draft law for improving accessibility is criticised for a big loop-hole, Germany wants to change EU-decision making and more news on Thursday, May 7th.
US threatens to scrap EU visa waivers over data sharing demands
The US has given the European Union an ultimatum - grant access to sensitive police data or else lose access to visa-free travel for EU citizens.
When does your residency in Germany start counting toward citizenship?
Applicants for German citizenship need to have been living in the country for a certain amount of time in order to qualify. At what point does your time spent in Germany start to count towards your application?
Today in Germany: A roundup of the latest news on Tuesday
Suspect arrested in Leipzig after fatal car-ramming, federal coalition not feeling celebratory after one year in power, several left-leaning parties leave social media platform X and more news from Germany on Tuesday, May 5th.
How a Google Maps update exposes altered business ratings in Germany
In Germany relying solely on high customer ratings is a risky move, but a new Google Maps update reveals if a local business actually earned its high score or simply deleted all its bad reviews
Germany's 'fuel discount' tax cuts haven't fully reached drivers
The price at the pump for petrol and diesel fell at the start of May when a fuel tax cut took effect, but watchdog groups say oil companies haven't passed on the savings to consumers entirely.
REVEALED: Where to buy groceries on a Sunday in Germany
Forgot to shop on Saturday and now your fridge is empty? Sunday shopping in Germany is severely limited but it's not impossible. Some shops, and even supermarkets, stay open on Sundays and holidays – here's where to find them.
Everything that changes in Germany in May 2026
From fuel tax cuts and employee bonuses to new medical screenings for babies and three public holidays, here's a look at the significant changes coming to Germany this May.
Why do some US citizens seek asylum in Germany?
The majority of refugees who come to Germany each year come from war zones, such as from Syria around 2015 or Ukraine since 2022. So why do a number of US citizens also submit applications for asylum each year?
More debt, new taxes: What is in Germany's budget plan for 2027?
Germany is set to continue taking on huge amounts of new debt each year for the foreseeable future as it continues to ramp up spending on defence and infrastructure. Meanwhile residents can expect a few new and increased consumption taxes.
What's open and closed on May 1st in Germany?
The May 1st public holiday sees most businesses in Germany shut their doors, so it's a good idea to stock up on essentials in advance. Here's what will be open and what will stay closed on Labour Day.
Today in Germany: A roundup of the latest news on Tuesday
German Chancellor says the Iran War is exposing US weakness, a court rules that checks at the Luxembourg–German border violate European law, police raid the Hell's Angels in North Rhine-Westphalia and more news on Tuesday, April 28th.
How to save money on a camping holiday in Germany
Camping can be a great way to explore Germany, spend some time with the country’s natural wonders and save a bit on accommodation. Here are some tips for organising a camping trip that won't break the bank.
Five things to say instead of 'bitte' when someone thanks you in German
Saying 'bitte' in response to 'danke' can become a reflex, especially for early language learners, but there are plenty of other expressions to use. Here are some more interesting ways to acknowledge thanks in German.
How much money will Germany's fuel price relief actually save you?
Germany is pushing forward with its plan to temporarily cut taxes on fuels and offer relief bonuses to employees. So how much money can you actually expect to save?
German Bundestag passes controversial fuel cost relief measures
Lawmakers in the German parliament voted on Friday to pass measures aimed at relieving the financial burden on consumers related to high energy prices.
Today in Germany: A roundup of the latest news on Friday
Fuel crisis financial relief measures go to the Bundestag, Bavarian authorities hold two suspected saboteurs, electric vehicle sales surge and more news from around Germany on Friday, April 24th.
What are the best German cities to move to in 2026?
If you're planning a move to Germany you've probably thought about Munich versus Berlin or maybe Hamburg, but have you considered Erlangen, Aachen or Düsseldorf? With lower living costs and shorter commutes, you may want to consider these ten cities.
Could Berlin housing registry lead to clamp down on illegal rents in Germany?
After years of landlords skirting German rent controls, Berlin's state government coalition is pushing a proposal to create a housing and rental registry that could help authorities crack down on illegal prices. But will the law be passed?
Today in Germany: A roundup of the latest news on Thursday
Chancellor's pension comments draw backlash, Bayern Munich women's football team wins Bundesliga championship, German speaker of parliament targeted by Russian phishing attack and more news on Thursday, April 23rd.
Where in Berlin are the most bikes stolen each year?
Bike thefts are not uncommon in Germany, especially in the bigger cities. Here's a look at where in Berlin most bikes were stolen in 2025, as well as a few tips on how to make sure yours doesn't join them this year.
Today in Germany: A roundup of the latest news on Wednesday
The EU Commission plans measures against the energy crisis, Chancellor Merz to address German policy at climate talks in Berlin, Amnesty International says Germany is contributing to global human rights crisis and more news on Wednesday, April 22nd.