Kelsey Wood: 8 Things about Berlin

1.       German is not mandatory

Berlin is a big city with people from all over the world.  The common language spoken is English, so if you’re German language skills are not tip-top, no worries.  I don’t regret attempting to learn the language before I arrived, but I can’t say it really has done me any real good (no harm either.) Everyone speaks better English than my German.  At least I tried.

2.       Beer (But the wine’s good too)

I somehow thought that by moving to Germany I would be drinking beer exclusively.  I lasted about two weeks.  As someone who doesn't typically enjoy beer I thought that by not drinking a lot of beer I wouldn't be experience Germany to the fullest.  Who knew that Germany is a  wine producing country?  I recommend a Dornfelder.

3.       Night Owl

If you turn into a pumpkin at midnight, Berlin might not be the city for you if you’re interested in the night life.  The party doesn't get going until 2 or 3 in the morning and lasts until the morning commuters are heading the office.   An evening nap is highly recommended.

4.       Good shoes

You may get away with some cheap kicks back home, but Berlin still has cobble stones and those are not so forgiving.  Make sure you invest in some stylish shoes that can hold up to the wear and tear (remember you’ll be walking more.)   Shoes are very expensive in Berlin.  Something that is $80 back home is about $130 here, so bring don’t buy.  You will not regret it.

5.       Get room-mates

It’s the absolute norm in Berlin to have room-mates, which is not something everyone is used too.  Here’s its fun and a great way to meet people.   Plus you will save on money, which is awesome!

6.       Bring drugs from home

In Germany things like aspirin are over the counter at the Apotheke.   While you do not require a prescription you will still have to speak German and figure it all out (not the best when you have a headache).  Save yourself some trouble by going to Costco and stocking up beforehand.

7.       Cash is King

Since I’ve been in Berlin I have only used my Visa card twice.  In Berlin cash is king, and the most accepted form of payment.   If you’re paying at a bar or restaurant it’s easy to break bills, just tell your server the amount you want back.  Example if you’re paying for a 6.50 bill with 10.00 bill and you want to leave .50 tip just tell your sever you want “3 back”

8.       Don’t walk in the bike lane

People from Berlin will ring to let your know they’re coming, and will certainly let you know if you’re standing in the bike lane.  Sometimes it’s on the road, but it’s sometimes right on the side walk.  So if you’re standing in a red lane, move on over.

 

 

 

Kelsey is a third year Bachelor of Business Administration student studying abroad at SRH Hoschule Berlin in Berlin, Germany.