8 things: Berlin

Berlin is a city that has risen from the ashes. It has throttled itself into modernity and also as the political center of Germany since reunification 20 years ago. Here're 8 things in Berlin you cannot miss:

1. Diversity

With so many people from different backgrounds and ethnicity, Berlin is a cosmopolitan city and the influence of immigrants are apparent. Munch a Turkish döner from Kreuzberg, or scarf down a cheap, authentic Asian meal from a Vietnamese eatery in Prenzlauer Berg.

2. Architecture

Berlin's architecture may be well clichéd and at times, overrated, but it is after all, what makes Berlin the city that it is. The eclectic blend of old and new cannot be missed. Amongst buildings to spot are the Brandenburger Tor, the unmissable Fernsehturm (TV Tower), and the Berliner Dom.

Brandenburger Tor - ignore the date!

3. History galore

Berlin has seen through critical events that has shaped the world today. Follow the path of the Mauerweg (Wall way) where the Berlin wall has separated the city in two for over 20 years, or gaze upon the missing turret of the Gedächtniskirche (Memorial church), where the tower has been blown off by bombs during the second world war.

Gedächtniskirche in Kurfürstendamm

4. Museums

Berlin has a wide array of museums, from the Musical Instruments Museum near Potsdamer Platz to the blockbuster Pergamon Museum on Museumsinsel. If you crave for something different, the Currywurst museum should be interesting. After all, you'll get to understand the craze that has become the food icon of Berlin.

5. Music

Berlin is a place of good music. If you like classical music, then the Berlin Philharmonic should be familiar to you. But Berlin is also the home of many musical acts popular in the entire Germany and even in Europe. Bands to look out for are Rosenstolz, a pop duo that has enjoyed massive success in Germany, Austria and Switzerland, and of course, Die Ärzte for the punk rock junkies. Also, electronica fans can dance it out at the many nightspots around Berlin.

6. Concerts

Being the biggest city in terms of population in Germany, it is of course customary for musical acts mentioned above to stop over at Berlin for tour. A great place to catch a concert is at the Waldbühne, a beautiful outdoor setting amidst lush greenery - it's like having the entire area to yourself.

7. Eco-friendliness

Germans in general are eco-friendly. Recycle bins are rampant, reuse policy are implemented in stores and of course, the Umwelt (environment) zone where only vehicles that conform to certain environmental standards are allowed to go in.

8. Accessibility

Berlin is easy to get around (though expect some difficulty if you're disabled). The transport system is highly extensive, safe and efficient. In fact, if you decide to stick around spots where travellers and tourists hang out, the metro system itself is sufficient. Invest in a Berlin welcome card where you pay for transport beforehand, and also get discounts at various attractions both in Berlin and in neighbouring Potsdam.

Berlin has something to offer for everyone. So why not go?

Before I end this, here's a thought: Mayor Klaus Wowereit once said, "Berlin is poor, but sexy". Berlin may not be poor in times to come, but one can only wonder if it can retain its sexiness as it pushes forward into a dynamic future.