Weekly Highlights: Nov 18-24
This week, I celebrated my birthday with a 48-hour adventure in Berlin! Although it was a short trip, the city’s vibrant culture, rich history, and unparalleled energy made every moment unforgettable. Here are the highlights from my whirlwind trip:
1. Immersed in History
Berlin is a city steeped in history, and I was determined to see as much as I could. Highlights included:
Checkpoint Charlie: The iconic Cold War-era crossing point between East and West Berlin. Standing there felt surreal, imagining the stories and lives it once separated.
Brandenburg Gate: A symbol of unity and peace, this architectural masterpiece left me in awe of its grandeur.
Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe: A deeply moving experience. The stark, maze-like memorial captures the weight of history in a way words can’t describe.
Reichstag Building: This magnificent structure combines old-world architecture with modern design through its striking glass dome—a perfect representation of Berlin’s spirit.
As an architecture lover, I was enchanted by Berlin’s mix of old and new. The way historic buildings coexist with sleek modern structures reminded me of Paris, yet with its own unique, industrial charm. Berlin’s ability to embrace its past while looking toward the future is evident in every corner of the city.
2. Food and Culture
Berlin’s effortlessly cool culture made it a joy to explore, and each neighborhood I visited had its own vibe:
Neukölln: Trendy and eclectic, this area is brimming with creative energy. I couldn’t resist stopping at Companion Tea and Coffee for a beautifully brewed matcha latte.
Mitte: Sophisticated and central, Mitte feels like the heart of Berlin. I loved grabbing a delicious kebab at Kebap with Attitude and wandering the streets filled with quirky shops and lively bars. I enjoyed the most perfectly baked sourdough at Aera Bread and gluten-free dessert.
Kreuzberg: This bohemian neighborhood is buzzing with artistic spirit.
Each neighborhood offered a glimpse into Berlin’s diverse cultural landscape, and I can’t wait to return and explore even more of the city’s hidden gems.
3. Art at Every Turn
Art is everywhere in Berlin, from its streets to its museums. Two spots particularly stood out:
East Side Gallery: A stretch of the Berlin Wall transformed into an open-air gallery, featuring murals that tell stories of hope, freedom, and resilience. Each piece is a powerful reminder of the city’s journey and creativity.
Museum Island: This UNESCO World Heritage site houses some of Berlin’s most renowned museums. Even with limited time, wandering around the stunning island was a highlight—each building is a masterpiece in itself.
Looking Ahead
This birthday trip was just the beginning of my love affair with Berlin. Its rich history, dynamic culture, and vibrant art scene have left me eager to return, hopefully this summer. There’s so much more to explore, and I can’t wait to dive deeper into this incredible city.