“Aowa Bafana”: Pretoria Man Shows Harsh Conditions of Living in Germany

• A Pretoria man filmed the cost of living in Germany, showing a burger, fries, and Coke costing over R400, giving locals insight into life abroad
• Snowy streets, cold weather, and bundled-up people made viewers reflect on how different daily life can be compared to South Africa
• Netizens debated whether they could survive abroad, comparing food and living expenses, while adding humorous takes on the culture shock
• Briefly News spoke to Tino Mazarire and Lebo, both living abroad, who shared some of their challenges of living abroad, and leaving everyone behind

A South African shared a video of his time in Germany, highlighting overpriced meals, freezing streets, and culture shocks, leaving locals laughing, debating, and appreciating life at home.

A Pretoria man went viral after sharing the harsh cost of living in Germany. TikTok user @dedrickshoots posted the video on 10 February 2026. A simple meal of a burger, fries, and Coke costs over R400, and snow and cold weather added to the culture shock. Many South Africans reflected on how their own economy compares and debated whether they could survive overseas.

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He showed how expensive life in Germany could be. He bought a burger, fries, and a drink that cost over R400. Snow-covered streets, chilly temperatures, and people bundled in jerseys highlighted the stark contrast with South Africa. He wanted locals to understand what living abroad really looked like.

South African shares the cost of living abroad

The video by TikTok user @dedrickshoots gave viewers a perspective on international costs. Many acknowledged South Africa’s high living expenses but said Germany’s prices were on another level. The combination of pricey meals, cold weather, and lifestyle differences sparked conversation. People compared food, rent, and transport costs to gauge how they would cope in Europe.

Mzansi reacted with a mix of humour, concern, and curiosity. Many joked about staying home instead of moving abroad, while others expressed amazement at the prices. The clip prompted discussions about budgeting, travel, and how lifestyle expectations differ between countries.

Tino told Briefly News that most difficult part of relocating has been starting over without the comfort of family and friends.

“The hardest part of living away from South Africa for me is being away from my family and friends. Starting a new life for myself as a young adult hasn’t been easy.”

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He admitted that homesickness does creep in, especially when social media highlights what he is missing back home.

“I do get homesick sometimes. Seeing my friends and family enjoying themselves without me can trigger it. But I remind myself that I’m here to help my family, so I stay focused and keep working.”

Despite the challenges, Tino says living abroad has shifted his perspective.

“It has changed the way I view home. I’ve learned to appreciate how beautiful South Africa is. You only start appreciating something once it’s gone. Leaving at 19 also forced me to grow up and become more responsible.”

Briefly News also spoke to Lebo, another South African living abroad, who said family separation has been the heaviest burden.

“The hardest part is having a sick mother with Alzheimer’s and a father who is almost 80. Not seeing my parents and siblings is very difficult.”

For Lebo, homesickness is constant.

“I am homesick all the time. Being in an environment with no family is the biggest trigger.”

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However, she says the experience has reshaped how she sees life and home. She concluded.

“Living abroad has definitely changed my perspective. I see life, marriage, and having children differently. Socially, I have developed more tolerance, patience, and respect for others. But I still strongly believe South Africa is the greatest country to be in.”

Here’s how Mzansi reacted

Ghostkho58 said:

“R407 for a burger. 😭😭😭”

Wild.boy_zerro said:

“Real punters will know the name of the club. 😭🤣”

Mosa M said:

“‘Koloi ya bo Ben 10’. 😭😭”

Dana said:

“R400 for a burger?”

RONALDKWETJA said:

“As for Ben 10. 😭”

Motso.Smoren said:

“Burger ya R400. 😭😭😭 Guys, we won’t survive in Germany; we can only afford Nigeria. 🤣”

Khumoetile said:

“R400 for a burger and Coke. 😩 The economy of Ramaphosa is not that bad

Kamogelo Mphahlele said:

“The way I stay away from Five Guys and stick to Burger King. 😭😹 I need to do better! Mara burger ya €21 auwa? 😭😹”

Check out the TikTok video below:

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3 Other Briefly News stories related to travelling

• Puso Dithejane has spoken for the first time since completing a move abroad despite being linked with Mamelodi Sundowns and Kaizer Chiefs.
• A solo traveller, Orsolya Lörincz, uses a creative strategy to explore the globe by connecting with local partners in every new destination; sparking interest from netizens.
• South African international Thapelo Maseko has decided to leave Mamelodi Sundowns for a move to Europe in this winter transfer window, impressing netizens.

Source: Briefly News