The first one is the way that the train directions are named. In New York, we take the "uptown," "downtown" or "Bronx-bound" train. Here, the train directions are named by the last stop on the line. So before you get on the train, you need to check what the last stop on the train is to make sure you're heading in the right direction. The other major difference is that you don't have to swipe a Metrocard or show a ticket to get onto the train or tram. You just walk on! Sometimes transit workers will go through a train or tram and check everyone's tickets (and if you don't have the right ticket you get charged a fine), but often you'll ride the train and no one ever checks to see if you paid.
The ways that people get around here reflect the culture of respecting the rules and being environmentally friendly. Rules are very important in German culture and once a rule is in place, it is taken very seriously. Even walking around Berlin, you'll see that no one ever crosses the street against the traffic light. Everyone will wait for the light to turn green, even if there are no cars coming! The fact that people use public transportation a lot also reflects how environmentally friendly people are here. If people do own cars, they tend to be small and energy efficient.
