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German Cities - Berlin  
   
Berlin: Steeped in History and AtmosphereBerlin, once again the capital of Germany (after the famous fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989 and the subsequent reunification of the city in 1990), is a stunning, spectacular place to visit.

Not only is its history incredibly unique and gripping, thanks to the division between “East” and
“West” which, for so long, captivated the minds and hearts of people all over the globe, but it’s also just an amazing showpiece.
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With almost four million inhabitants, this city is pumping and energetic any time of day or night. You’ll never be without something to do in Berlin; it’s simply not possible! In fact, you may just forget to sleep while you’re visiting, because there’s just so much going on. Not far from Poland, Berlin is a bit cooler in the summer months (usually in the mid-60 degrees Fahrenheit), but isn’t too terribly cold in the winter (right around the Fahrenheit freezing temperature of 32 degrees.) Thus, it’s really quite pleasant for the tourist who chooses to travel there during a winter holiday break.

Because of Berlin’s pivotal role during World War II, one of the most famous landmarks to which tourists from around the world flock is the Reichstag. Other hot spots from that era include Checkpoint Charlie, the gate where some individuals were able to travel from the East to the West and vice versa.

However, Berlin hasn’t rested upon its laurels; in fact, business is booming across the region! As the headquarters of many media centers, such as national television stations, and the preferred locale for corporations like Sony, you’re likely to see professionals from all walks of life trading goods and services throughout this city. Berlin is also a place where many German films are created. Like Hollywood in America, young star “hopefuls” travel to Berlin in search of fame and fortune. With all the production, television, and other performing arts companies, many of those actors, directors, and designers are able to snag parts and roles in various productions.

As there has been such an influx of young people, there has also been a growth in the “counter culture” and revolutionary movement. Plenty of discos and clubs play music that can best be considered “underground” style, so if you’re into alternative rocking, you’ll find your paradise in Berlin.
 
 
The arts are always fresh and new in Berlin, and though you can visit many of the museums, you are encouraged to stop by some of the smaller galleries and view some new art that’s coming from local painters, sculptors, and craftspersons. In fact, like Seattle, Berlin has become a magnet to musicians and artists from different parts of the country and Europe in general who feel a freedom and acceptance here.

This sense of unity is strong among the gay community, too, where the attitude toward homosexuality is, not surprisingly, quite relaxed. In fact, sexual inclination hardly draws a second glance from the people who live in this very liberal city.

Of course, museums abound in Berlin, such as the Pergamon Museum, one of the most famous in the world. And there are over 150 more as well! For instance, the Alte Nationgalerie, the Gemaldegalerie, and the Deutsches Historisches Museum are open to the public and offer a wide variety of exhibits. One of the most riveting museums might be the Jewish Museum, which highlights two millennia of Jewish history.

If you’re visiting Berlin with the family, a trip to the Zooligischer Garten, one of the oldest zoos in the area, might be a worthwhile venture. In fact, you might even enjoy a quick walk around the Botanic Museum, where the fragrance and sights will transport you to heaven on earth. The Tiergarten is another terrific place to just enjoy nature, as this park is relatively crime-free and quite breathtaking.

No matter what your speed or style, Berlin is one of those places you have to experience at least once. But don’t be surprised if it gets into your blood and you have to trek there annually to get your fill of this
magnificent city. Available Hotels in Berlin Germany