Berlin

"Berlin is more a part of the world than a city"- Jean Paul

After Paris we flew over to Berlin. None of us really knew what to expect from Berlin; I had been to Germany previously, but never to Berlin. All of us were surprised by how incredible the city of Berlin actually is. Obviously the history is deeply entrenched and quite extensive, but the character of the city was unlike anything I had ever experienced. The nightlife, the graffiti, the architecture, the people, and the history all work together to create an atmosphere that is both calming and energetic, historical and futuristic, grungy yet welcoming.

Upon our arrival at our hostel (The Cat's Pajamas) we were informed something had gotten messed up with our reservation so we were given the nicest private room in the hostel. We had come from staying in rooms of 12 people, so a private suite was a godsend.

Ready to drink 

We decided it would be in our best interest to go on a tour of Berlin since we really didn't know what we wanted to see. We got lucky yet again and had the best tour guide of all time. Rob McKracken was ridiculously knowledgeable about the history while still being entertaining. We ended up getting drinks with the guides after our tour and learning a bit more about the local life.

Berlin Wall 

Turkish Market 

Bubbles on the street 

Berlin Cathedral 

Brandenburg Gate

Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe

I was familiar with the Berlin Wall and the Holocaust, but learning more about both while in Berlin was an experience I'll never forget. There is a saying that "Berlin is condemned to always becoming but never being" and I'm still struggling with it. I think the beauty of the identity of Berlin is that it can change, it isn't stagnant and can adapt to the circumstances facing the city. Berliners are resilient and their city reflects the tragedy and the strength of Berlin. 

Obviously Berlin has another reputation. Berlin is known for being a great city to go out in. Berlin deserves that reputation.

Matrix

Statues

Each one of us was shocked by how much we loved Berlin. I was already a fan of Germany and Berlin just added a new side to the country.

Auf Wiedersehen!