I have been enamored of Germany
ever since exploring the vast country for the first time many years ago. Their progressive energy, the dedication to forward thinking engineering and
artistry, the storybook architecture of their charming mountain towns… it’s enough
to temp a girl to relocate immediately.
For my first trip to Berlin I was
expecting to find a city along these lines but was pleasantly surprised to
discover a metropolis so vivacious that it couldn't fit within
any parameter so neatly. Wandering around each day, the world seemed to be
fast-forwarding at a speed that could hardly be translated into language. The
non-stop energy, crowded U-Bahn rides, more art galleries than one could count and a truly mesmerizing assortment of inhabitants. I was worried that
it would become overwhelming, but the perpetual movement was comforting in an
inexplicable way.
I’ve listed my favorite experiences and places to eat, drink and visit from our time in Berlin. If you have any of your own recommendations
for my next trip, please let me know. I’m already dreaming of my return.
Where to Eat:
The Devil’s Kitchen and Bar: After walking around all day my
travel companion and I were drained and decided to eat at a little restaurant near
our hotel. Little did we know we were walking into one of the best meals of our
entire lives. The grilled eggplant and homemade hummus are out of this world.
Cocolo Ramen: As a self-proclaimed ramen aficionado I am
always on the hunt for new spots. I tried a number of ramen joints while in town,
but this little one was by far the best and most centrally located in the Mitte area. (cash only)
Café Anna Blume: While the Germans aren’t quite as up on
their brunching as some, this little spot in a charming residential section of Berlin serves up a decadent spread every weekend. Warning: not vegetarian friendly.
Where to Drink:
Mein Haus Am See: The nightclub energy is present all day
long and creates a lively mix of daytime revelers and laptop-wielding freelancers
under it's enormous disco ball.
Bar Babette: An extension of the art gallery above, this
little bar offers a quiet space to relax and enjoy a drink or two. It’s not
particularly flashy, but their lemon lime margarita is not to be missed.
O Tannenbaum: If it’s kitsch you’re after, then this year-round
Christmas themed bar is probably right up your alley. An odd sensation but a pretty accurate representation of that slightly alcoholic feeling that surrounds the holidays.
What to See:
Do You Read Me?!: One of the most extensive collections of
magazines I’ve ever seen under one roof. They offer nearly every fashion,
cooking, academic and athletic journal out there.
Tiergarten: The expansive park is a welcome respite from the
bustling city if only to take few moments to quietly prepare yourself for
your next beer. People are very free here to go for a bike ride, sunbathe
topless, or enjoy a drink at one of the park’s bars.
BerlineOnBike: If you’re in a rush, why not explore the city
on wheels? There are a number of tour companies available, but the one that we
choose was well managed and affordable. Just make sure to call ahead as they
tend to sell out of the English-speaking ones quickly.
Reichstag: A
breathtaking government building, which has been restored to
reflect the reunification of East and West Berlin in the early ‘90s. The dome offers magnificent 360-degrees of
Berlin as well as serving as a symbolic offering of parliament by allowing
viewers to see their inner workings.
