Travel notes
Day 1: Arrival in the Grey City: First Impressions and the Gate of Berlin
The clouds hung low as the plane descended, casting a soft, diffused light over the sprawling city of Berlin. From above, the city seemed to be painted in shades of grey, a vast canvas of buildings, trees, and winding streets. As I collected my single, meticulously packed suitcase from the carousel, I couldn’t help but feel a mix of anticipation and responsibility. My first assignment as a young diplomat had officially begun.
The air was crisp, carrying the promise of rain, or perhaps a hint of the coming fall. My first stop, as advised by my predecessors, was the iconic Brandenburg Gate. Standing before it, I felt a profound sense of history enveloping me. It was more than just a tourist hotspot; it was a symbol of unity and peace, standing resilient through the city’s tumultuous past. The quadriga atop, overlooking the city, seemed to echo the sentiments of endurance and fortitude.
Walking through the city, the grey hues I observed from the plane began to differentiate. The vibrant graffiti on the East Side Gallery, the lush greens of the Tiergarten, and the stark, contemporary architecture of the government district painted a city of contrasts and resilience. Each street corner told a story, and each building seemed to hold a piece of Berlin’s complex historical puzzle.
Berlin’s cafés and eateries offered a welcoming warmth against the chill. I indulged in a cup of strong, aromatic coffee at a quaint café tucked away from the bustling streets, observing the locals in their daily dance through life. Their casual ease and open demeanor hinted at a city not just survived, but thriving in its unique identity.
My first day in Berlin concluded with a reflective walk along the Spree, the city lights beginning to twinkle against the twilight sky. The day’s experiences left me eager to delve deeper into the cultural and political heartbeat of this historic metropolis. As I penned down my thoughts for the day, I realized that Berlin, with its blend of the old and the new, was a city where history and future converge, offering endless lessons and stories for a young diplomat like myself.
Travel notes:
📍Brandenburg Gate: Berlin’s iconic landmark symbolizing unity and peace. No entrance fee required. Located in the city’s heart, it’s easily accessible by U-Bahn (Unter den Linden station). Ideal for history enthusiasts and photo opportunities.
🎨 East Side Gallery: A significant open-air gallery showcasing vibrant graffiti on the remnants of the Berlin Wall. Free to visit and open 24/7, it stretches along the Mühlenstraße in Friedrichshain-Kreuzberg. A must-see for art lovers and history buffs.
🌳 Tiergarten: Berlin’s largest and most popular urban park. Free entry. Perfect for leisurely walks, picnics, and a brief escape from the city hustle. Accessible by various public transport options (S-Bahn: Tiergarten station).
🏛 Government District: Known for its contemporary architecture, including the Reichstag building. Tours may require booking ahead and can vary in price. Located near the Brandenburg Gate, it’s a pivotal site for those interested in politics and modern architecture.
☕ Quaint Café: While the exact location is not specified, Berlin is renowned for its cozy cafés offering strong coffee and a glimpse into local life. Prices for a coffee range approximately from 2 to 4 euros. Exploring side streets in any neighborhood can lead to discovering such charming spots.
🚶♂️Spree River Walk: An ideal route for an evening stroll, offering picturesque views of the city lit up at night. Free and accessible at any point along the river. The Spree River walk is especially recommended for those looking to unwind and reflect on their day’s journey in Berlin.