“On one of our visits to Berlin, after a late-night concert, my husband and I felt a bit peckish. By chance, we stumbled upon a Currywurst stand, surprisingly crowded even at that late hour. Curiously, we joined the queue and ordered our Currywurst. While waiting for our food, we noticed a large bottle of Dom Pérignon – quite an unexpected sight at a snack stand! This moment remained in our memories as a quirky and charming Berlin experience. Later, we learned that even Tom Hanks appreciates this Berlin specialty, once jokingly saying he’d like to have an apartment near “Curry 36.”“

If you’re visiting Berlin, don’t miss out on the chance to eat at one of the legendary Currywurst stands. It’s not just an opportunity to try the local cuisine but also to immerse yourself in the city’s vibrant atmosphere. Who knows, you might discover your love for this Berlin specialty – just like Tom Hanks. A visit to “Curry 36” or a similar establishment offers authentic Berlin flair and maybe even a surprise, like a bottle of champagne next to the Currywurst.

“During one of our last visits to Berlin, we experienced a concert by Simon Rattle, who was the principal conductor in Berlin for many years and now holds the same position in London. The concert in Berlin was a memorable experience. However, after the “official” concert, he performed a piece by a very contemporary composer, which was quite unconventional. As it was a free “encore,” many attendees left the concert hall, but we found it very interesting that he offered this additional performance.“

For culture enthusiasts visiting Berlin, experiencing a concert at the Philharmonie is a must-do. The unique architecture of the concert hall and the world-class performances make it an unforgettable experience. Even today, the Philharmonie continues to host a range of concerts, from classical to contemporary, often featuring renowned conductors and musicians. It’s a perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in Berlin’s rich cultural scene and perhaps discover something new and unexpected, just as we did with Simon Rattle’s additional contemporary piece. Don’t miss the chance to be part of this vibrant musical tradition.

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During our visit to Berlin, the Jewish Holocaust Memorial and the Jewish Museum were on our must-see list. Encountering the Holocaust Memorial, an expansive field of 2,711 concrete slabs dedicated to the murdered Jews of Europe, left a profound impact. The silence among the stelae, arranged in a varying, maze-like order, created an atmosphere of reflection and remembrance that deeply moved us.

The Jewish Museum, a masterpiece by Daniel Libeskind, impressed us as well with its shattered star structure symbolizing the fragmentation and survival of the Jewish people. The exhibits inside provided profound insights into Jewish history, culture, and the tragedy of the Holocaust.“

For Americans traveling to Europe, especially those with Jewish roots or relatives, I highly recommend visiting these sites. They offer a powerful connection to history that not only informs but prompts reflection and underscores the importance of remembering and commemorating.