Berlin - Highlights

Fascinating points about Berlin

[Note that this is a view of a fascinated newbie that spent only 5 days in the city]

The Wall
How amazing and unconceivable (for most of us Europeans) is it to live in a city that was once divided physically and intellectually speaking - East vs. West, Communism vs. Capitalism.

The marks weren't very evident from a tourist point of view, as both sides have blended quite smoothly. It was in fact difficult to realise what had been where. We were told to look at the lamps on the streets, but even so, it was hard to tell.


The graffiti
when did the Authorities realised that it was a problem? I don’t think Berlin would be Berlin at all without the scribbles and doodles that are everywhere, and I mean everywhere: walls, inside and top of buildings, monuments, trains, etc.

At first it looks appaling but then it just feels comfortable and non threatening, it just becomes something that belongs there. [Primeiro estranha-se, depois entranha-se]


The cool and relaxed European look

Berliners are the new Barcelonese, not much attitude, everything just looks natural on them. Could be a very superficial opinion but I felt like the first times I went to Barcelona and thought that most people look too kool for skool. [I then realised the people there were all looks'n attitude].

I absolutely loved the people and shops in Prenzlauer Berg, Kreuzberg, and Friedrichschain.

There were loads of crazy people on the streets. I guess the Wall must have caused a huge impact on Berliner's lives throughout History. I can only imagine the emotional rollercoaster it must have been for some East Berliners to dwell on the rise and downfall of the way to look at a Capitalist regime.

Oh, and there were a few Christiane F look-alikes too.




The public transport
Their public transport system works the whole night over the weekend – and I mean non-stop. The overground and underground trains are always running frequently.

Safety
where are the groups of kids in hoodies? Where are the gangs of loud drunken people? Oh yeah, this is not dear old London, it’s Berlin. Probably because we were totally unaware of any dangers or what are considered dangers in Berlin, and because we didn’t understand the language, Suzy O and I felt quite relaxed and safe at all times.

7/7

We were safe in Berlin when the terrorist attacks were happening in London.