Carolina- Berlin
What was it like growing up in Italy, surrounded by history and art?
I grew up in a town called Pistoia, near Florence. Growing up there was great. It’s quite a central location in Italy, so I always had options. I could go to the sea, hiking, and skiing- all within 1-2 hours.
Is there a piece of Italy—a place, a tradition, or even a meal—you miss the most?
T-bone steak (Bistecca alla Fiorentina). This is a specialty in Florence that you can’t find anywhere else. It’s a meal, of course, but the tradition comes through in how we eat it. It must be eaten as close to raw as possible. It is seen as a crime to overcook the steak. If you’re not seeing blood, it’s not done correctly.
How does Berlin compare to Florence in terms of lifestyle and culture?
Berlin is so much more open-minded and crazy. To live in Berlin, you have to be up for anything. There is always something bizarre happening, but you learn to love it. If you’re looking for a place where weird is normal and normal is weird, Berlin is it.
Have you found any spaces in Berlin that feel like a “home away from home”?
I love Treptower Park along the banks of the Spree River. Being by water brings me back to some of my fondest memories of growing up in Italy.
What’s something you love about Berlin that you never expected to enjoy?
Donor kebab! My favorite is Rüyam Gemüse Kebab 2.
What does your skincare routine look like these days?
Nothing crazy. Every day, I wash off my makeup with a foam cleanser. Then, I use a toner and a skin cream. Before bed, I like to use The Ordinary hyaluronic acid.
Are you obsessed with any Berlin-based wellness spots or trends right now?
Vabali Spa is a beautiful spa near Central Station that focuses on Balinese wellness- there are saunas, pools, and majestic open outdoor spaces.
If someone had just 24 hours in Berlin, what would you recommend they do to experience the city like a local?
First, assuming you’re here on a weekend in the summer, I’d start at one of the city’s epic flea markets- there are so many! If you’re here on a Sunday, check out the Mauerpark Fleamarket. After strolling through the flea markets, head to a boozy brunch. Mimosas are very popular in Berlin. Then, you may want to check out a club. Clubs in Berlin aren’t like clubs in the US. Clubs in Berlin are more like a social gathering/ an experience rather than drinking and dancing (although you can find that too, it’s not the central theme). Club culture is something everyone should experience- some people show up on Saturday and don’t leave until Sunday or Monday!
If you could describe your aura color, what would it be and why?
I think blue… water is my element.
Do you have any hobbies or passions that might surprise people who know you?
I studied Japanese for 3 years! I also love having ice baths. I go to the Dopamine Studio once a week in Berlin, where I do sauna infusions and ice baths.
If you could pick one word to describe this chapter of your life, what would it be?
Overexcitment. I’m currently switching jobs and traveling, and I’m very much looking forward to what’s to come!