When in Berlin
When it comes to Berlin, most British travellers have finally got over the rather dull habit of automatically linking Germany to football or the war. Instead, Britons now see Berlin as a city renowned for great nightlife and cheap shopping, with a rich culture and excellent infrastructure thrown in to boot.
The German National Tourist Office, who conducted the opinion poll, did claim, however, that many Britons struggle with mixed preconceptions of Germans, seeing them as either modern, smart and good at English or more disappointingly humourless, dull and rude. Many would argue that the best way to really understand our German neighbours is just to get over there and party it up with them and with Berlin's nightlife routinely regarded as among the best in Europe, you'd be hard pressed to find an excuse not to.
Until just over 15 years ago the city of Berlin was divided in two, with east and west Berlin separated by the notorious Berlin Wall. This does undeniably give the city a unique history and the divided history can be felt in many parts, most notable on the east side. However, visitors shouldn't think that a trip to Berlin is nothing more than an educational experience, as while it has one of the most dramatic 20th century histories of any European city, it has also succeeded in reinventing itself as one of the most modern, fast-paced and environmentally friendly cities for the 21st century.
With a population of just under 3.5 million, Berlin is around half the size of London but in no way feels provisional. Described by Lonely Planet as concealing a "feast of history, theatre and music", the city offers much for the traveller and is fast establishing itself as an essential destination among culture buffs, latter day bohemians and trendy barflies alike.
Situated close to Poland on the eastern side of Germany, the climate in Berlin is undeniably bracing, with an average January temperature of minus one degree. The summers are more temperate, with daytime temperatures hovering around 18 degrees. Despite the occasionally bracing weather, cycling is a popular means of transport in Berlin, further proof of its modern, green credentials. The city has well laid out cycle lanes, making the two-wheeled option both easy and pleasurable. With the city described as a "cyclists' paradise" renting a bike for daytime sightseeing should be a serious option for many visitors. Berlin is also well served by its public transport systems, with visitors able to buy a single ticket for travel on the extensive network of trains, trams, buses and ferries. Taxis are also plentiful and relatively inexpensive, not to mention an attractive option in the wee hours of the morning if you've been seduced by Berlin's nightlife.
As a major European city it can be taken as a given that Berlin is well served by airlines, with visitors able to choose between Berlin Brandenburg Airport and Berlin International Airport. Travel from the UK takes less than two hours and with tickets easy to find for under £100, Berlin is an attractive option for a last minute, action filled break. Hotels are reasonable priced, although booking in advance is always recommended, while a number of hostels cater for those who'd rather spend their euros in the city's bars and clubs than its creature comforts.
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Introduction
