The city as visited recently will not look the same in 15 years. Arguably the experience would be completely new once the countless number of construction projects are completed. Despite the fact that the city has deep historical roots, a cultural revolution post Berlin wall era has caused an explosion of modernization projects. The Waldorf Astoria Berlin is one of these projects that effortlessly combines luxury and comfort while incorporating historical accents that set the scene for a memorable stay. Located in West Berlin, steps from the zoo, the underground and notably one of the best currywurst stalls in the city, The Waldorf Astoria was the perfect location to experience West Berlin.
A private city tour set the stage for this quick visit providing the highlights and hidden gems that ended with a tour and drinks at the dome of the Reichstag building which presented the most breathtaking views of the city. One of the most famous street art capitols in the world, a graffiti tour brought east Berlin to life where pictures and symbols represented the hope, sadness, oppression and rebellion of a generation. The opportunity even arose to enjoy this freedom of expression personally in an old warehouse where creativity ran wild.
Enjoying the city right at the beginning of the Christmas season afforded the joy of the Christmas markets, mulled wine, light snowfall, caroling, and the famous German pyramid nativities. A visit to Weihnachtszauber at the Gendarmenmarkt provided rows of delicious delicacies, live entertainment and a Christmas gift for everyone on your list. One of the most authentic Christmas markets, the locals gather here for the Sauerbraten, Spätzle, and large selections of wursts. Once you have had your fill of the cold walk right around the corner to Fassbender & Rausch, Berlin’s Oldest chocolatier. Warm up with their signature indulgence hot chocolate which will have you seeing sugar plum fairies in your sugar induced coma.
Walking around playing tourist, check-point Charlie, The Berlin Wall, The Cold War Museum, The Spy Museum, the Topography or Terror Museum, and the Jewish memorial are just a few of the must see places while visiting the city. The best way to see the city is to jump on the underground or on a trolley and get off at a random stop to explore the area, as the transit system in Berlin is easy, convenient, clean and very well organized. Berlin is such a wonderful city filled with so many hidden gems that it would be nearly impossible to see everything during a short trip. However, once you leave Berlin will be calling you back to continue your explorations of the past and present.
