"Germany´s dynamic capitol city" Berlin by skullcrusher

There are some cities that I keep going back to and Berlin is definitely one of them. Berlin has truckloads of history, culture, and nightlife to offer the visitor. I´ve been to Berlin about ten times now and I have always enjoyed my time here.

Berlin has all manner of museums; though I´ve only visited a handful myself. If you are interested in history and archeological stuff then you´d probably like the Pergamon Museum, the Bodes Museum, the Altes Museum & also the Alte National Gallerie - all four located close to each other on "Museum Island". It should be noted that the Deutch History Museum didn´t really have much about Deutch history but instead was all about WWII, the holocaust, and Jewish History (say what!?!).

I found the Erotic Museum, which is a block from the Zoologischer Gartens Metro, quite interesting. I enjoyed walking the streets of the city and visiting the Schloss Charlottenburg, Bradenburg Gate, the Reichtag, and other historical places. Alexander Platz is a popular crossroads and you´ll likely find yourself there on more than one occasion. If you want to put even more milage on your feet then a nice diversion might be to take a stroll along the East Side Gallery - some of the artwork is very good, while other sections are in desperate need of renovation.

For great views of the city you can climb to the top of the Siegesäule (Victory Monument), take an elevator to the observation desk of the Fernsehtern (Radio Tower), or even hop on a tethered ballon which is close to Potsdamer Platz. All are worthwhile adventures in their own right. Though truthfully Berlin from above isn´t the most picturesque city in the whole. I think this is because the city is so spread out and also that many old buildings were wiped out during WWII.

There are long lines to enter the Reichtag (the capital building). It´s exterior is old and the interior is brand new. I wasn´t all that impressed with it, however the views from the top are OK and the futuristic dome is way cool.

This city has recovered quite nicely and seems to have taken it´s place as one of Europe´s cool cities to visit. The mix of Eastern Block vs. Western Mentalities, a process that´s still working itself out, makes for an interesting merging of lifestyles. And I might add that the nightlife in Berlin is in itself worth making a trip for ..... IMO.

Yes, Berlin is a large city, however you can make use of the excellent rail system which can get you darn near anywhere you might want to go. Investing in an All Day, 3-day, or 7-day card would be wise if you want to see a lot of the town without having to take some tour.

I finally tracked down a good gym for serious lifters in Berlin! Unfortunately in Germany most gyms are intended only for locals who will pay a membership and most of them don´t even have good equipment. However I recently found a place called "Power House Berlin" that´s located at Sophie-Charlotten-Strausse, 5. It´s near the Schloss Charlottenburg and a bit of a distance from the downtown. Yet if you want a serious lifters gym with heavy weights and meat heads on the verge of a `roid rage then this is a good place. Another great thing is that the daily rate is a mere €5. Not bad at all.

• Pros:A wonderous mix of East & West Europa
• Cons:Remember to bring a jacket