That is sad not even to hear the words "thank you" after you have given a gift to someone!

We usually don't send "thank you" notes over here (with the exception of special events, like weddings, etc.), I figure it's because the postal charges are really expensive in Germany, compared to other countries, but of course we give the person a call and say thank you. E-Mail and text messages are also an option, but I find a telephone call more personal in such a case.