Ever landed in a new country, eager to connect, only to realize your go-to greeting is useless? Knowing how to say “how are you” is more than just politeness; it’s the bedrock of building rapport and initiating genuine conversation. Whether you’re traveling through Germany, Austria, or Switzerland, or simply connecting with German speakers online or in your community, a simple greeting in their language shows respect and opens doors. It bridges cultural gaps and signals your willingness to engage on a deeper level.