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Berlin

Since World War II great effort has been put into making Berlin an International Metropolis. It is a fascinating city which is home to many artists, bohemians, politicians and businessmen. It also has a huge gay and lesbian scene. There's an amazing mixture of "old" and "new", from the old streets of Berlin through to modern and grand architecture. If you fancy some greenery to relax and enjoy the warm summer days then go to Tiergarten Park and then later in the evening you could take advantage of Berlin's buzzing nightlife. Shopping Potsdamer Platz and the New Centre - It lay desolate for decades but has now been given a complete overhaul and is now a new precinct full of shops, bars, restaurants and entertainment venues. Kurfürstendamm is a beautiful boulevard of shops and department stores, with lovely little designer boutiques hidden in the side streets. Kaufhaus des Westens is supposedly the largest department store in the whole of Europe so it is a must visit for all you shopoholics! Eating Out Berlin has many restaurants, from expensive Gourmet and trendy restaurants, to less pricy ones that are still very nice. The cuisine available varies from traditional German cuisine to more international fare. There are many lively restaurant/bars to choose from also. Don't Miss... Reichstag - Since being damaged in the fire of 1933 it has been transformed by architect Lord Foster. The new dome is supposed to symbolise the transparency of the democratic government. You can visit it and pass between its layers to see the decision-making chamber of the government. When Parliament is not in session there are guided tours held as well as Free hourly talks (in English). It is a stunning building and a definite must see. Panorama-Point - This is found at the top of the Kollhof building at Potsdamer Platz (as seen in shopping section). It has absolutely terrific views over Berlin. You get to the top via a lift which is supposed to be the fastest in Europe. Berlin Wall History - Gedenkstatte Berliner Mauer is a small stretch of the Wall that has been preserved by the authorities. There is a visitor centre with information about the Wall years and a chapel that is dedicated to the victims that died trying to cross it. If you love history or just want to understand more about the divided city, this is a definite must see for you. Close to here is also the Mauermuseum Haus am Checkpoint Charlie, it houses a number of permanent exhibitions that clearly explain the history of the Wall. Currency The Euro. Time Difference +1 hr (+2 from last Sunday in March to Saturday before last Sunday in October) Flying Time Approx 1hr 45 min