Berlin in a Nutshell

It has been 2.5 months since I’ve came to Europe, and I’ve spent exactly 7 weeks in Berlin. Oh, how time flies.
These few months have been pretty insane, and I thought that I’d just post about life in Berlin this week. So here are some thoughts so far:

1. You need appointments for almost anything

Be it opening a bank account, getting your health insurance validated or even going to the doctor, the best thing to do is to have an appointment. I’m guessing this also applies to all other parts in Germany and not just Berlin, but do take note, especially if you want to do an exchange in Germany where you will have to go through some form of administration, plan in advance! And make sure you get your appointment. I’ve been quite lucky thus far, being able to get same day appointments for the registration of my residence permits and opening a bank account, but best not to push it.

2. Techno is the way to go

Berlin is all about techno music. It’s practically the religion of clubs here. Most clubs range from 8-15 Euros, and guess what ladies, you have to pay too! Gender equality is pretty prevalent here, in this aspect. Some clubs can get pretty wild, but its a cool experience because Berlin is one hell of a city when it comes to night life and clubbing culture – definitely make sure you experience it! I also get the vibe that the clubbing culture here is so much more genuine, in the sense that people go to clubs solely FOR the music, and not for other reasons such as getting wasted or whatever else. But that’s just my take on this.

3. The weather here is unpredictable

Expect bright, hot sunshine on one day and overcast skies and rain the next. The temperatures in Berlin fluctuate pretty much as well, it’s hard to believe that the next day would be rainy when today there’s an abundance of blue, cloudless skies. Another tip, the weather forecast here is really accurate, so definitely trust that and make sure you get out of the house well prepared to face whatever weather comes your way!

4. Currywurst and Döner Kebab are EVERYWHERE

Literally, every corner or U-Bahn Station you alight from will have at least on Döner Kebab store. Currywurst is not as common, but they aren’t hard to find so take heart in that. As a huge Kebab fan, I’ve taken the task to find the best Döner Kebab in Berlin, and so far, I think that the one from Bodrum Imbiss nearby the Rathaus Steglitz U-Bahn is the best I’ve had so far (ask for their chili sauce, it’s really spice and so good!)! I think the runner-up for now is King’s at Lankwitz Kirche, but we shall see in the days to come. Mustafa’s Gemüse Kebab is really famous as well, but I’ve yet to give that a try so I think that may be next on my list!

5. Parks are definitely a must go

There are so many in Berlin, and no, I’m not just referring to the Tiergarten (even though no one can resist the lush greenery there). Görlitzer Park is definitely one of my favourites, and even the smaller ones such as Am Gemeinde Park is really nice as well! When the weather is great, a picnic is a must in one of the parks around Berlin. It really brightens the mood and relaxes the soul to just take things slowly for a day, or evening, whichever you prefer.

I’m so thankful for the experiences I’ve had here thus far, and I can’t wait to see whats in store for the remaining few!