Berlin, Germany

By Heidi Jen

Survivor's Guide: Berlin
Berlin In The News
Epicurean Delights


As the largest city within Germany, Berlin serves as the epicenter of the nation’s political, economic, cultural, scientific, and academic advancement and excellence. Vibrant and cosmopolitan, the capital city of Berlin is the epitome of a vastly changing Europe. Having evolved from the former capital of the Prussian Empire to that of the German Empire, which would eventually be dissected after World War II into independent East and West sectors, the city has since 1990 reunited and grown into a metropolis that is famous for its festivals, contemporary architecture, nightlife and avant-garde arts. Along with the communities of Turkish, Spanish, American, French, Polish and so many other nationalities and languages that contribute to the unique flavor of this city, Berlin’s forward-thinking nature attracts those that are drawn by the city’s liberal lifestyle, urban eclecticism and artistic freedom.


Located on the east-west axis from Paris to Warsaw and Moscow and on the north-south line from Stockholm to Prague, Vienna and Budapest, Berlin has transformed from the point of European division to the bridge between East and West Europe. The growing economy in Central and Eastern Europe finds a bridge to the western economy in Berlin. Companies with world-wide operations make use of the many institutions located in Berlin and the expertise that is concentrated here.

The presence of the Humboldt University of Berlin, Technical University of Berlin, and Berlin University of the Arts, to name a few, are testaments to Berlin’s scientific, research and cultural institutions represent one of the invaluable strengths of the city. The particularly high number of students and young people in the city has contributed significantly to the energy and freshness of the city. Popular hot spots include the modern streets of Prenzlauer Berg, Friedrichshain, and Mitte. In addition to the iconic Berlin Wall, the historic Bradenburg Gate is a main tourist attraction in Berlin. Pictured on the German euro coins, it is the former city gate and the symbol of Berlin.

Although some resentment still exists between Eastern and Western Germans, Berlin has within the past two decades transformed itself into a revolutionized city that continues to change and grow into one of Europe’s most significant cities.