Formal vs Informal Introductions

Hello,

I'm working through the level 1 modules and have a question about basic introductions.

The course gives the questions in the “du” form. “Wie heißt du?” etc. 

Should I actually use this on my travels as I would be using this to ask the name of someone I didn't know. 

Would the Sie form be moe appropriate, “wie heißen Sie?” or does it not matter?

Hi again!

• The du form of "you" is used to speak to children, friends, family members, pets and loved ones in a casual and familiar way. 
•  
• The Sie form of "you" is used when you want to be polite or show respect, and so it is suitable for when you're talking to strangers, the elderly, teachers or authority figures. So if you are in doubt about what form of "you" to use, the safest option is to stick with Sie during your travels. A relationship with another person often begins with the more formal Sie and progresses to the more casual du.

Hope this helps!

Thanks

Julia

Thanks - that what I was how I understood it. 

So I should avoid “Wie heißt du? for someone I meet in a pub etc. as it is likely to be a stranger but Ok to address children.

Hi again! 

In most situations, it is the safest option is to stick with Sie unless the other person addresses you with du. In a German pub ("Kneipe") it is usually ok to use du if it is very casual and relaxed setting while in a restaurant Sie would be your default option unless you're addressed otherwise. It always depends on the cultural settingand the people you are talking to but be assured that in some situations even native speakers wonder whether to use the formal or informal form. The more time you spend in Germany the more you'll get a feel for du and Sie. 

Hope this helps!

Viele Grüße

Julia