April 19-27 edited

Reflecting on my recent travels through Germany, each day unfolded with its own unique blend of adventure, discovery, and unexpected encounters. From the charming streets of Munich to the eclectic neighborhoods of Berlin, every moment was an opportunity to immerse ourselves in the vibrant tapestry of German culture.

Our journey commenced on the 19th as we bid farewell to the idyllic landscapes of Zermatt and embarked on a Eurorail adventure to Munich. Navigating the intricate web of train connections proved to be both exhilarating and challenging, with multiple transfers along the way. Despite the initial chaos, we found ourselves settling into the rhythm of train travel, eagerly anticipating the sights and experiences that awaited us.

Arriving in Munich, we were pleasantly surprised by the Europaisher hotel, a hidden gem conveniently located across from the Muensch HBF. With its affordable rates and impeccable cleanliness, it quickly became our home away from home. After checking in, our rumbling stomachs led us to a nearby Turkish restaurant, where we indulged in fragrant kebabs and flavorful dishes, setting the stage for our culinary adventures across Europe.

The following morning, fueled by anticipation, we boarded an early train bound for Berlin. Opting to navigate the city via public transport upon our arrival, we embarked on a journey of exploration through the bustling streets of Kreuzburg and Friedrichshain.

Our accommodations at the NHow music hotel added an extra layer of excitement to our Berlin experience, with its vibrant pink-themed rooms and eclectic decor. A serenade from my husband on a borrowed piano provided the perfect soundtrack to our arrival. Despite a comical mishap at a local kebab stall, where a language barrier led to amusing misunderstandings reminiscent of a scene from a sitcom, we soon discovered culinary delights at spots like Peter Pane, where juicy burgers and crisp salads became our go-to comfort food.

Days in Berlin were a whirlwind of exploration, from the historic East Side Gallery, adorned with vibrant murals, to the multicultural oasis of YAAM, where the sounds of reggae mingled with the scent of jerk chicken. Evenings were spent at iconic music venues like Cassiopeia and Astra Hause, where we lost ourselves in the mesmerizing rhythms of Lime Garden, Bier Babes, and Declan McKenna.

Amidst the excitement, a work-related email briefly pulled us back to reality, serving as a reminder of the transient nature of travel. Yet, we quickly shrugged off the intrusion, diving back into the vibrant tapestry of Berlin’s cultural scene, from art exhibitions to culinary delights.

As our time in Berlin drew to a close, we savored the warmth of a sunny day, strolling along the banks of the Spree and indulging in one last Italian feast at La Cesta. With hearts full of memories and bellies full of delicious food, we bid farewell to Berlin, already dreaming of future adventures in this captivating city.