B E R L I N

Last weekend I was in Berlin, a mini vacation with my sister and parents. It was a wonderful weekend. And I am still figuring out what to think about Berlin exactly. It's has some great buildings and architecture but overall it isn't a really 'beautiful' city. It isn't comparable to any other city I have ever been. Somehow there is some unidentified 'vibe' in Berlin that makes the city. The people are very friendly and willing to help you. You can feel there is something going on, a sense like everything is possible. You can start over, chase your dreams and be who you are.

If you are planning to visit Berlin I can recommend three things:

1. Rent a bike.
Because the city is so widespread and there is no real city center the best and most fun way to explore is by bike. While cycling you will see much more of the city then when you go with the metro. Besides that it is fun, far less exhaustive than walking and it gives you freedom to go where ever you want, whenever you want.

2. Pay a visit at the Holocaust Mahnmal (Denkmal fur die ermordeten Juden).
This is a memorial monument consisting of 2711 square concrete blocks, varying in size. It is very impressive and beautifully designed.

3. Go to Friedrichshain.
This neighborhood is clearly undergoing the process of gentrification. This former east-Berlin part of the city is a great cozy neighborhood. Lots of young and creative people and full of little restaurants and stores. The Michel Berger Hotel is fantastically designed and the Simon-Dach street is full of bars and restaurants to eat or drink some.

Go explore!