The first few months after you arrive in Burghausen will be filled with new challenges and activities. Although it may seem that it will never calm down or get easier, it does. It is important for spouses to come prepared with hobbies and activities to keep the mind and body busy while husbands or wives are at work. It will be a much happier experience for all if you keep busy and have things that you enjoy doing on a daily basis. Bring exercise tapes or at-home equipment or develop an exercise program that suits you in this environment. Bikes are extremely common so if you have one bring it and use it. It is suggested to bring books, video tapes (you can buy a VCR here which plays both U.S.- and German- formatted video tapes for about 100 more than it costs to buy a VCR which only plays German-formatted tapes), music, hobby books and supplies. Learn something new that you can use here such as knitting or crocheting, watercoloring, web-design, or drawing. It is important to note that TV programs in English are not available - only CNN International - and neither are daily English newspapers. If you have a satellite dish, you may receive more British programs depending on where you live. You can subscribe to various newspapers such as the International Tribune, but since it is mailed it arrives one-two days late. You may want to subscribe to English/American magazines that interest you. There is a magazine titled Munich Found published in English that offers information on cultural and special events, etc., in the Munich area. Spotlight is a good monthly magazine in English available in most large newstands. Internet access is an excellent way to keep in touch with family, friends, and the worldwide news.
The families who keep busy and socially active tend to have a much more positive expat experience in the long run. The most important advice is to get out into the community and start making social contacts with people who share your interests as quickly as possible. Here are some activities available to you in Burghausen: