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The Splendour of Berlin
A visit to the German capital, Berlin, left me with a lasting impression of how rich the German and Prussian culture are, that it is of little wonder many in the world are fascinated by its rich heritage.
Certainly, apart from France and Italy, Germany has one of the most mesmerising culture, tradition and legacy in all of Europe. And certainly besides Paris and Milan, Berlin must be one of the better known fashion capitals of the world.
Hence, a visit to Germany would not be complete without going to Berlin. It is a tale of two cities divided by the Cold War only to be united almost five decades later.
Berlin has seen numerous changes ever since its unification and the breaking up of the Berlin wall marking an end of communism in most parts of Europe. This historic occassion took place before the end of the 20th century in 1990.
Certainly, Berlin is one of the most culturally vibrant cities in Europe and since the demolition of the wall separating west and east, the German and Prussian culture have prospered.
As a result, the city of five million people is the third most popular city in European Union measured by tourist visits. While most parts of the city may have been destroyed following World War II, it has been rebuilt back to its original self turning it into a modern metropolitan while maintaining its rich tradition and ambience.
 Berlin is accessible via road, train and of course by air making it easily accessible from major European cities. Although German is the official language, English is now widely spoken there. However, it would not hurt to bring a German dictionary along and know a few useful phrases.
Certainly being in Berlin invoke my inner most thoughts about Germany. Located in the North-eastern part of the country, it is made up of the Berlin and Brandenburg metropolitan area.
The Brandenburg gate is one of the must-see places to visit when in Berlin.
Described as the Eiffel Tower of Germany, the gate remains an icon for the German people. It was against this backdrop that the late President Ronald Reagan uttered the famous phrase “Mr Gorbachev, tear down this wall” leading to the unification of Germany.
Nearby is the `Checkpoint Charlie’ which was once the border check-post that seperated West and East Germany during the Cold War. It was also the border crossing but it now houses a private museum showcasing the leaving remnants.
The Reichstag, the legislative building for Germany since its unification is another place I visited. Located behind the Brandenburg gate, the building now has a glass dome just over the area, providing a view of parliament while in session.
Another interesting area is the neoclassical square called Gerdarmenmarkt, which borders the French and German cathedrals. The Kozerthaus, meanwhile is home to the world renowned Berlin Symphony Orchestra.
There are many old and classical buildings around Berlin depicting the rich culture of the city situated in a more temperate section and built during the 12th century. Certainly, the architecture illustrates the rich influence of the German culture.
I certainly enjoy shopping and the Kurfürstendamm, is the place to head to because it houses many of Berlin’s luxurious stores. You can find the latest fashion, and tech goods over there.
The DZ Bank is another place to visit. It looks like any normal building on the outside but once inside you will witness magnificent paintings decorating its ceilings. There are also museums galore in Berlin and you will certainly be spoilt for choice of where to go.
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