Travelling solo: Berlin

My next stop took me from the Netherlands to the German capital Berlin. 

Admittedly, that journey became a nightmare as soon as I hit the German border - what should have been one direct train turned into four seperate trains and a bus for one-stop's-length. Danke Deutsche Bahn. 

Understandably, after that fiasco, I got straight to the hostel and then sleep...! 

I must admit, that if I had to pick a least favourite, it would be Berlin (one of them had to be); it had an efficiency to it, but I think for me, the time I spent there was enough. Having said that though, I am definitely glad I went to this European capital. 

Getting around: 

Being a bit city, while you COULD walk everywhere, but I would recommend getting the tube. You can get tourist tickets that last either 24 or 48 hours, covering as many zones as you need to. These tickets also cover the buses, as they're all in the same network (yay!). 

Attractions: 

The highlight of any trip to Berlin, in my opinion HAS to be the Berlin Wall in the Eastern side of the city. What once was a sign of division and oppression, has become the East Side Gallery, the longest art gallery in the world. 

Before looking at all the art, pop up to the Wall Museum, going into the history of the Berlin Wall - from the end of the Second World War, to the wall being finally torn down. 

Then after getting all the context, meander down the gallery wall (literally) and take in all the amazing street art. Much of it is reflective on the walls history, and for calling for a peaceful future for Berlin. Some of it is simple, some abstract, some like classical painting, and some hallucinogenic. Make sure you take your time meandering down the wall. 

One thing about Berlin is it is a city that is conscious of its darker history. The gallery is just one remembrance monument, the other big one has to be the Holocaust Memorial. You can find this round the corner from the Bandendurger Tor and the Reichstag Building built out of concrete blocks of varying heights. It is specifically for the murdered Jews across Europe during the Second World War. Again, take your time walking through this expanse and take it in. 

Also in that vicinity is the Tiergarten, a vast park expanse which also holds the Berlin Zoo. Not from the zoo entrance, is the biggest surprise of not just Berlin, but perhaps my whole trip itself: What looks like an ugly tower next to an old ruin, you soon find out is the Kaiser-Wilheim-Gedächnus-Kirche now built in two parts. Originally a gift to the German monarchy in the 19th century, it was bombed during World War Two, and is now another symbol of reflection and reconciliation. 

The old part has a stunning mosaiced ceiling, just like other churches you would see of the time. But head into the new part (the jarring tower next to it) that was built in the 196s after funds were raised to restore the church, and you say "wow" for completely different reasons. It's like a concert hall, making you want to break out into gospel music! 

I didn't see this church mentioned anywhere in the guide books; guessing I've been blind! Because it is 100% worth a look. 

Food: 

For the best German schnitzel in Berlin, go to Schnitzelei along Novalstraße. They pair theirs with a mustardy potato salad, which admittedly is a bit stodgy. The cranberry sauce and pickled cucumber helped cut through the veal and heavy potatoes. Especially with a full pint of shandy... should have got a half... I was so full afterwards. 

But if there was one thing you have to try in Berlin, it is Currywurst. It is everywhere! This traditional smoky German sausage is served with spiced tomato sauce and either bread or fries. As you can see, I went with fries. Drinks-wise, yes there's beer but I also cannot recommend Spezi enough. It's basically orange cola; and it is delicious! 

Snack-wise, check out the ice cream parlour in Charlottenburg, which houses Lebkuchen ice cream. 

***

I know Berlin may not have been my personal favourite, but I did still enjoy my time there, and would recommend spending a day there. More than anything, you can tick it off your list. From Germany, I moved on to Austria for my next two stops...