Germany has had a reputation for being slow to accept payment by credit card.

Now it seems to have caught up with most of the EC and America, in that cards are most welcome. I used my Maestro card today twice without problems, and this isn't even a Visa or Mastercard.

BUT - and apparently it has been in force for some months now - you now need to show proof of identity when using it and the staff have to write down your details (I was in a large department store (Karstadt) and a regular supermarket (Neukauf/Edeka).

This was the first time I had come across it, and although it wasn't a problem it caused me to spend longer at the check out/cash desk than I had intended.

So what might you bring out to prove your identity, seeing as there's no ID card scheme in the UK at present. I used my passport at Karstadt, and my French resident's permit at Edeka. Apparently my driving licence (French) would have done too, but ALL ID must contain a PHOTOGRAPH and your name.

I recommend that you bring your passport with you to avoid hassle when shopping if you intend using payment with plastic means!!!