I am in Berlin now. I arrived early yesterday morning to Berlin and yes, I decided to stop writing Lithuanian blogs. After my website was hacked and I had to rebuild entire database and picture base I gave up rewriting it in Lithuanian.
Table of Contents
Unexpected Long Lost Classmate in the Airport
I did not sleep at all the night before the flight and I could not fall asleep in the shuttle bus on the way to Kaunas airport. In the end, I stood by the boarding gate feeling exhausted and waited for the moment I could finally doze off on the plane. Something truly incredible happened then. I met a classmate I had not seen since the fourth grade. I waited by the gate and, luckily, I bought priority boarding, so there were only two other people there with me. I noticed a woman waiting behind me and thought her face looked familiar. My brain immediately started working, trying to figure out who she was. That smile and those eyes felt like something I had seen before. I did not know who she was until the last minute, but I saw the name Lisa (name changed) on her ticket. Thus, I suddenly understood that she might be the classmate I had not seen for 18 years. I asked her if she attended my high school. She replied that she did. I introduced myself. We sat together and talked for the entire flight. She told all her life story and how she edned up as a surgeon. I remember she was always had best grades in our class. Strangely, when we landed I did not even feel sleepy despite getting up early that morning.
Lost in Berlin Hauptbahnhof Train Station
The first thing I’ve noticed how huge Berlin Hauptbahnhof train station was when I was riding the escalators up from the platform. Also, it had this majestic model of the station, which was impressively huge and it also had toy trains!
I needed to find a locker for my suitcase, but finding it in that huge Berlin train station was a massive achievement in itself and it took some time wondering back and worth.
A funny incident occurred when I wanted to exchange money at a machine near the lockers. For some reason, the machine did not accept my 10 Euro note, and only green lights flashed. I pressed the button for change, and 8 Euros fell out of the machine. Somehow, the machine forgot to dispenese additional 2 Euros! Whoever runs this business – that is a theft in the middle of the day!
Not to mention the public toilet in that station because using it was quite a challenge! One had to insert coins and then press something to enter. It was too difficult as I never seen a machine like that! Meanwhile, when I was leaving, I nearly pressed a large red button by the gate, which I later discovered was an emergency exit button. Imagine if I would have triggered the fire alarm or something! That would have likely showered everyone for free with the sprinklers from the ceiling. Thankfully, everything ended well and the attendant shouted just in time for me not to press it. I was already reaching out my hand towards that button.
Impressive Berlin Zoo
We walked to a shop, bought some salads, and headed towards the Berlin Zoo. We spent a long time walking there and talked about our school days. Moreover, the Zoo was quite impressive. There were many species of birds, a panda, elephants, and an especially interesting nocturnal animal exhibit. Most of these animals I saw for the first time in my life!
First, I saw a rather amusing interaction between the resident wild goats and the local wildlife. Two ibexes rested calmly amongst the sun-drenched stones while a jackdaw bird boldly perched on the back of one of them. This sort of coexistence felt fascinating, spontaneous moments that occurred when wild birds dropped in to visit the zoo inhabitants.
I saw a magnificent family of Asian elephants (Elephas maximus) wandering around their spacious outdoor enclosure too. A remarkably large adult stood prominently in the foreground, whilst a playful calf explored the sandy ground nearby. Meanwhile, a third elephant stood further back near the brick building, facing away from the crowd. Therefore, I managed to capture three completely different perspectives of these majestic creatures in a single photograph. I’ve seen elephants before in Kaunas Zoo, but these ones looked some much happier!
I looked at the steep, rocky hill and caught a glimpse of an ibex looking straight down at me. Only its head and slender, curved horns emerged from behind a large stone ledge, making it look as though it played a playful game of hide-and-seek. Meanwhile, the lower half of another resting goat was just visible at the top edge of the frame, basking on the higher rocks. These animals really know how to conquer the steep hills and mountains!
When I lifted my head up toward the highest peaks of the enclosure – I spotted a young ibex standing precariously on a narrow rock ledge. The agile little creature twisted its body and raised a hind leg to scratch its neck, tilting its head sideways with a comical, content expression. Behind it, the vivid, cloudless blue sky created a striking contrast against the massive, rugged cliffs. I marvelled at how effortlessly it maintained its balance on the steep drop-off, showcasing the incredible innate climbing skills of these alpine animals even at a young age.
At the aviary enclosure I encountered a magnificent Red-headed vulture (in Latin Sarcogyps calvus, which is also widely known as the Asian King vulture, Indian Black vulture, or Pondicherry vulture) sunning itself on a patch of grassy earth. The impressive bird stood with its back to me, stretched its massive dark wings wide, and tilted its distinctive, pink featherless head toward the warm sunlight. Behind it, the shaded, rugged rock wall provided a stark contrast that accentuated the sheer scale of its wingspan. I smiled looking at its dramatic posture, knowing that the bird used the sun’s heat to regulate its body temperature and keep its feathers in pristine condition.
In the next enclosure I spotted a striking White-Necked Raven/Crow (Corvus albicollis) enjoying a hearty meal on the grassy ground. This highly intelligent African corvid, recognisable by the prominent white patch on its neck and the white-tipped, deeply curved beak, was enthusiastically tearing into a large piece of raw meat. I watched in fascination as it gripped the food firmly, demonstrating the raw power and opportunistic feeding habits that make these birds such successful scavengers in the wild.
Next I stopped by a quiet enclosure and I saw a slender female barasingha (Rucervus duvaucelii) standing elegantly on the sandy ground. The graceful creature, also known as a swamp deer, tilted its head slightly forward while its large eyes remained alert to the surrounding sounds. Meanwhile, a tall wire fence and a lush barrier of green bushes framed the background, highlighting the animal’s gentle silhouette and the faint white spots along its golden spine. I felt compelled to capture this serene moment, admiring how beautifully the sunlight filtered through the leaves to illuminate its soft coat.
Next, I approached a shaded wooden shelter and marvelled at a striking male lechwe (Kobus leche) standing proudly in the dappled sunlight. The magnificent antelope displayed long, beautifully ridged, lyre-shaped horns and a vibrant golden-brown coat contrasted by a bright white underbelly and dark markings on its legs. Meanwhile, another member of the herd stood further back in the enclosure, partially obscured by the wooden pillars. I felt incredibly fortunate to capture such a clear view of this elegant African antelope as it turned its head, perfectly showcasing its majestic profile against the rustic wooden backdrop.
Then I walked along the edge of a sunlit pond and spotted a stately grey heron (Ardea cinerea) standing motionless on the rocky bank. The tall wading bird displayed its signature long neck, sharp yellowish bill, and beautiful grey-and-white plumage while it kept a watchful eye on the water. Meanwhile, a pair of dark cormorants loitered to the left, and several ducks drifted lazily across the shimmering green surface of the water. I quietly snapped a photo of this diverse avian community as they all enjoyed a peaceful afternoon together along the shore.
I felt so happy when outside a glass viewing window I saw lovely giant panda (Ailuropoda melanoleuca) happily munching on its favourite food – bamboo stalks. The striking black-and-white bear peered out from behind a thick tangle of green bamboo stalks, completely absorbed in selecting the best leaves. Meanwhile, the reflective glass panes and structural columns of its indoor habitat created a bright backdrop that illuminated its fuzzy black ears and distinctive eye patches. I felt incredibly lucky to catch such a close, intimate look at this beloved conservation icon during its afternoon feeding routine.
I peeked through the thick metal bars of an enclosure and saw a beautiful leopard (Panthera pardus) fast asleep on a concrete ledge. The big cat lay completely relaxed in the warm afternoon sun, its head resting softly on its paws while showcasing its magnificent coat covered in dark, rosette-shaped spots. Meanwhile, a rustic brick wall behind the platform provided a textured backdrop, casting soft shadows across its sleeping form. I quietly stood and admired this serene, powerful predator enjoying a deep nap, far removed from the bustling crowds of the park.
I continued walking and while passing a sun-dappled grassy enclosure I encountered a pair of striking grey crowned cranes (Balearica regulorum) standing elegantly in the meadow. The crane in the foreground proudly showed off its stiff halo of golden feathers, white cheek patches, and bright red gular pouch. Meanwhile, its companion stood nearby, facing away to display its lovely chestnut, black, and white wing plumage. In the background, a stately grey heron (Ardea cinerea) loitered quietly near the dark shade of the trees, adding a touch of serene contrast to this majestic avian gathering.
Next I saw a solitary grey heron (Ardea cinerea) striking a dramatic pose amidst a lush patch of green undergrowth. The stately bird stood tall, fully extended its long neck upward, and spread its large grey-and-white wings low to the ground to soak up the morning warmth. Meanwhile, a dense, dark wall of leafy bushes and tangled branches rose sharply behind it, providing a beautiful natural contrast to its bright white breast. I quietly watched this elegant wader enjoy its peaceful sunbathing routine, utterly fascinated by its unusual and majestic stance.
I walked past a spacious, sun-dappled enclosure and noticed a small herd of plains zebras (Equus quagga) enjoying a relaxed afternoon. Two of the beautifully patterned animals lowered their heads in the foreground, eagerly munching on a fresh pile of green grass. Meanwhile, a third zebra stood further up the sandy path, facing away from me as it strolled toward the shade of the distant trees. Large, rugged grey boulders punctuated the exhibit, casting long shadows that mirrored the mesmerising, unique black-and-white stripes of these iconic African equines. I lingered for a while, completely captivated by the peaceful rhythm of their lunchtime routine.
As I continued walking I passed by a spacious sand-covered paddock and observed a majestic common eland (Taurotragus oryx) grazing peacefully. The massive antelope lowered its head to munch on a fresh pile of green grass spread across the ground, showing off its spiralled horns and sandy-brown coat marked with faint vertical white stripes. In the background, a rustic building with large pillars and a dark doorway provided a shaded sanctuary from the bright afternoon sun. I tried to capture the moment behind some leafy bushes to admire this gentle African giant as it contentedly enjoyed its midday meal.
When I walked past the rocky marine exhibit and spotted a sleek, dark fur seal (Arctocephalus pusillus) basking in the afternoon warmth. The handsome pinniped propped itself up on its strong flippers, pointing its nose toward the sky to catch the golden rays of the sun. Behind it, a rugged landscape of massive boulders and small patches of green vegetation framed its wet, shimmering coat beautifully. I admired how gracefully it transitioned from an agile swimmer in the water to a poised sun-worshipper on the rocky shore.
Next I walked past a secure (look at those metal bars!), dirt-covered paddock and noticed a pair of massive gaur (Bos gaurus) resting in the dappled afternoon shade. The colossal wild cattle in the foreground showed off an incredibly muscular, dark ridge along its back and thick, upward-curving horns as it lay peacefully on the ground. Meanwhile, its companion rested slightly further back near the heavy metal fencing and a prominent red pillar, its head alertly raised to watch the passing visitors. I was amazed by the sheer size and silent power radiating from these magnificent Asian giants during their quiet afternoon break.
After the gaurs I walked up to a shaded fence line and found myself staring directly into the curious eyes of a greater rhea (Rhea americana). The large, flightless South American bird poked its long, downy neck close to the dark metal bars, tilting its head slightly as if evaluating me right back. Behind its soft grey-and-white feathered body, the deep shadows of the enclosure and scattered green foliage provided a muted backdrop that made its detailed facial features stand out. I smiled at this charmingly inquisitive encounter, completely enchanted by the gentle (didn’t try to stick my fingers through the bars though) and bold nature of this magnificent ratite as it quietly observed the passing visitors.
Next enclosure was a shallow, sunlit pond and I saw a pair of vibrant Chilean flamingos (Phoenicopterus chilensis) filtering the water for a midday meal. The graceful birds bent their long, elegant necks downward simultaneously, submerging their large, black-tipped bills upside down to strain out tiny nutrients. Meanwhile, the bright pink and salmon hues of their plumage contrasted beautifully against the dark, mossy concrete ledge and the sandy bank behind them. I admired their perfectly synchronised movements, completely mesmerised by the delicate harmony of their unique feeding ritual.
Then I saw a striking silvery-cheeked hornbill (Bycanistes brevis) perched proudly on a thick, weathered log. The fascinating African bird tilted its head upward, perfectly displaying its massive, cream-coloured casque and dark, glossy plumage. Meanwhile, a textured tan wall and a large tree trunk framed the background, while the white-streaked tail feathers of a second hornbill were just visible on the right side of the frame. I quietly captured a photo of this unique creature, completely captivated by its prehistoric appearance and calm demeanour.
In another aviary I saw a pair of blue-winged macaws (Primolius maracana) sharing a tender moment on a weathered branch. The affectionate parrots snuggled closely together, with the upper bird gently preening the neck feathers of its companion. I admired their beautiful plumage, which displayed vibrant green bodies, blue wing feathers, and a distinct splash of red on the forehead. Meanwhile, the mesh ceiling of the enclosure filtered the soft daylight, casting a peaceful glow over this intimate display of bonding. I quietly watched them for a few seconds, completely charmed by the deep social connection shared by these intelligent South American birds.
Near by there was a shaded pathway and spotted a magnificent Asian black bear (Ursus thibetanus) lounging comfortably on some massive tree branches. The large mammal, frequently called a moon bear, rested its heavy body against the thick wood while a faint white crescent marking on its chest peeked through its dense black fur. Meanwhile, a dense canopy of vibrant green trees provided a beautiful natural backdrop that framed the enclosure. I stood there to admire this formidable climber enjoying a peaceful midday nap high above the ground.
In a grassy enclosure I encountered a magnificent male lowland nyala (Tragelaphus angasii) resting quietly on the lawn. The striking antelope showed off its long, spiraled horns with pale tips, a dark shaggy coat marked by thin vertical white stripes, and a distinctive white chevron between its eyes. Meanwhile, a textured, mossy rock wall and a glass-windowed building framed the background, providing a safe and shaded nook for the animal. It is a really elegant African creature and I was completely captivated by its regal posture and the peaceful atmosphere of its morning rest.
In earth-covered enclosure I could see a South American tapir (Tapirus terrestris) resting quietly on the ground. The unique mammal reclined peacefully among the fallen leaves, its distinctive flexible snout slightly raised as it sniffed the afternoon air. Meanwhile, a tall wooden fence and a dense canopy of trees framed the back of the habitat, creating a secluded sanctuary away from the main pathways.
Alongside a large sandy enclosure I noticed a massive Indian rhinoceros (Rhinoceros unicornis) deeply asleep on the soft ground. The magnificent creature stretched out flat in the dappled sunlight, its thick skin folding across its body like heavy sheets of prehistoric armour plate. Meanwhile, a rugged stone wall, heavy metal gates, and a system of thick wooden logs enclosed the back of the habitat to create a protected space. It could see the vulnerable side of this powerful creature, marvelling at how soundly such a massive animal could sleep right out in the open, when there are no predators.
Next I was walking past a sprawling, sunlit paddock when I had to stop and check if I had accidentally wandered into a giant root vegetable farm. Sprawled out across the lush green lawn were three massive hippopotamuses (Hippopotamus amphibius), completely passed out in the afternoon heat. They looked less like formidable semi-aquatic giants and more like a bumper crop of oversized, sun-baked sweet potatoes left out to cure.
I was wandering past the primate section and stopped to admire a toque macaque (Macaca sinica) rocking the absolute pinnacle of retro fashion. This little guy was sporting a hairdo so perfectly circular, it looked like his mom had placed a coconut bowl on his head and trimmed around the edges. He looked like he was ready to audition for a 90s boyband, showing off a golden-brown crown that contrasted beautifully with his lighter grey coat.
While I was in indoor viewing area and I came face to face with a magnificent male Bornean orangutan (Pongo pygmaeus). Initially, the great ape sat in profile, quietly chewing on some green shoots while its long, shaggy reddish-brown hair draped dramatically over its large frame. At first glance, I was convinced someone had just left a massive, shaggy reddish-brown rug propped up against the wall, with a single brave leaf somehow attached. It really looked like a creature with no face at all, just an endless, dramatic drape of ginger hair. Moments later, it slowly turned its head, revealing its prominent cheek pads and fixing its deep, intelligent eyes directly on me. A pile of straw rested in front of its enclosure while a perforated metal partition lined the background. I could see his human-like expression of this incredible primate as it looked right back at me in a sad look.
I stopped by the indoor primate gym and immediately did a double-take at the gravity-defying residents. One particular orangutan hung suspended from the ropes in a wild, mid-air stretch. The copper-coloured ape looked less like a primate and more like a giant, shaggy mop head drying out after a fierce spin cycle.
Nearby, the other young orangutan climber was busy showing off their impressive aerial skills on the playground. One agile acrobat bridged the gap between a metal pole and a thick rope with effortless grace. It was also heavily coated performer hung completely horizontally from the scaffolding to display its superb strength. Its long, fiery coat draped straight down like a curtain, completely hiding its face from the amused onlookers. The gym felt like a high-energy circus act with no shortage of hairy stunts.
I eventually locked eyes with the star of the show sitting quietly on a platform. The young ape sat cradling its hands with a wonderfully messy bedhead hairstyle. In addition, it wore a subtle, knowing smirk that suggested it knew exactly how entertaining its family’s antics were. It seemed to be patiently waiting for me to leave a glowing review of the performance. The charming moment wrapped up a truly memorable and funny afternoon at the enclosure.
After walking for a few hours in the zoo and filling my camera with pictures (old good days, when we had to use digital camera instead of mobile phone), I couldn’t feel my feet anymore, so it was time to head towards the hostel. I accompanied Lisa to the main train station, said my goodbyes and left.
Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church
I walked onto the bustling Breitscheidplatz and stopped to admire the stark, dramatic contrast of the Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church (Kaiser-Wilhelm-Gedächtniskirche). The original nineteenth-century neo-Romanesque tower, heavily damaged during a World War II bombing raid in 1943, rises into the sky with its top broken off like a jagged, hollow tooth. Right next to this historic ruin stands the modern, hexagonal bell tower designed by Egon Eiermann in the late 1950s, its dark honeycomb facade topped with a slender golden cross. Under the bright blue sky, the weathered sandstone of the old structure seems to hold a quiet, solemn dialogue with the sleek grids of post-war brutalism. I stood at the busy crossing, completely fascinated by how beautifully Berlin has integrated the scars of its past into a powerful monument of peace and renewal.
Berlin Television Tower (Fernsehturm)
While wondering in Berlin I saw the city’s ultimate overachiever, the Berlin Television Tower (Fernsehturm). The iconic landmark soared over 368 m into the cloudy sky, looking less like a standard broadcasting antenna and more like a giant, metallic disco ball skewered on a concrete toothpick. Furthermore, blocky, communist-era buildings flanked the tower to give the whole scene a wonderfully retro, Cold War-era science-fiction aesthetic. Down on the asphalt, the local traffic was in full swing, featuring a bright red hatchback and a cyclist breezing past, completely unfazed by the architectural giant looming directly behind them. I took a quick moment to snap a photo, completely charmed by how this towering metallic giant sits so casually amidst the everyday bustle of city life.
The World’s Longest Open-Air Canvas – East Side Gallery
Later I took a walk along the Spree River to experience the East Side Gallery, a 1.3 km stretch of the Berlin Wall transformed from a symbol of division into a massive monument to freedom. Walking along the busy Mühlenstraße, I found myself sandwiched between flowing traffic on one side and decades of creative resistance on the other.
Tourists clustered near retro advertising columns while cars breezed past the concrete barrier, creating a unique space where heavy history directly collides with everyday city life. Following the gentle curve of the wall, the path stretched out ahead as visitors slowly ambled alongside the colourful concrete slabs to admire the sprawling murals.
The sheer variety of artistic styles along the wall was dizzying, with the emotional tone of the exhibition shifting completely every few steps. Some murals featured eccentric, street-smart figures, such as a stylised rebel sporting oversized metallic aviators and a gold-toothed grin right next to the Stralauer Platz sign.
Other sections turned incredibly intricate, displaying dizzying patterns of swirling, rainbow-coloured faces that stretched high up the concrete under the gaze of modern city billboards.
In contrast, some panels featured raw, chaotic splatters of black, white, and blood-red paint dripping down a cold grey background, capturing the raw frustration of a city once divided. The mixture of abstract outbursts and detailed portraits made the entire stretch feel like a living museum.
No visit to this open-air gallery would be complete without stopping in front of its most famous and heavily photographed resident, which is Dmitri Vrubel’s iconic mural depicting a passionate kiss between Soviet leader Leonid Brezhnev and East German President Erich Honecker. This satirical, larger-than-life painting remains a poignant reminder of the bizarre political alliances of the Cold War. Nevertheless, standing in front of the image, I was struck by how a barrier built to keep people apart has ultimately become a global symbol of connection and creativity.
The construction of the Berlin Wall in August 1961 transformed the city overnight, slicing through streets, underground lines, and families. This physical barrier was designed by the East German regime to halt the massive exodus of its citizens to the West. Initially, the blockade consisted of hastily erected barbed wire and brick walls. Subsequently, these temporary obstacles were systematically replaced by a formidable, multi-layered concrete system that stretched over 155 km around West Berlin. The final iteration, known as Border Wall 75, featured 3.6 m high concrete slabs topped with smooth pipes to make gripping impossible.
The physical concrete wall was only the outer shell of a vast, militarised “death strip” designed to stop anyone from getting close to the border. These fortifications included rows of razor-sharp concertina wire and a signal fence that carried a low-voltage electrical current. Even the slightest touch of this wire would silently trigger alarms in the nearby watchtowers, alerting armed guards instantly. Moreover, the strip was heavily illuminated by powerful floodlights at night, whilst guard dogs on long guide-wires and vehicle-blocking trenches made any land-based approach incredibly perilous. Most escape attempts on land were thwarted long before a person could even lay hands on the main concrete structure.
Where the border met the water, the East German forces engineered even more sinister defences to secure the city’s rivers and canals. The Spree River became a highly contested boundary where the water itself belonged entirely to the East, meaning the actual border lay right against the West Berlin bank. Meanwhile, the regime installed underwater chain-link barriers, submerged barbed wire, and metal grates inside the sewer lines to prevent people from swimming underneath the surface. Tragically, many desperate swimmers who braved the freezing currents were spotted by searchlights and fatally shot by guards, whilst others succumbed to exhaustion or drowned after getting tangled in the hidden underwater nets. These watery pathways to freedom became final resting places for dozens of brave escapees, proving that even the rivers of Berlin were heavily imprisoned.
The absolute physical finality of the Berlin Wall eventually shattered on the historic night of 9 November 1989. Following months of massive, peaceful protests across East Germany and a wave of citizens fleeing through newly opened borders in Hungary and Czechoslovakia, the East German government decided to ease travel restrictions. Right after a confusing announcement by a government official during a live-broadcast press conference led thousands of ecstatic East Berliners to flood the border checkpoints immediately. Overwhelmed guards at the Bornholmer Straße crossing chose to open the gates rather than use force, allowing crowds to pour into West Berlin to dance on top of the concrete barrier and chip away at it with hammers. As a result, this momentous breach not only united families who had been separated for twenty-eight years but also marked the symbolic end of the Cold War and the fall of Berlin Wall.
Exploring Berlin on Foot
I took a leisurely stroll through the eastern side of Berlin and watched the city’s creative, historic, and slightly eccentric elements seamlessly collide. My afternoon kicked off with a delightful blast from the past as a classic, bare-metal vintage Austin 7 race car zoomed past, roaring down the city pavement in a flash of polished aluminium. Furthermore, both the driver and the passenger were totally committed to the aesthetic, sporting matching leather flying caps, retro goggles, and heavy shearling-lined pilot jackets. Complete with a tiny yellow safety flag waving proudly off the back, the pair looked as though they had been directly transported out of a 1930s grand prix.
A bit further along, I stopped in front of the fenced-off perimeter of the Sandsation festival to admire a truly spectacular work of temporary art. Towering high above the barriers was a massive, incredibly detailed sand sculpture depicting two figures lounging atop a giant mountain of old, blocky CRT television sets. Similarly, surreal carvings of expressive faces, bunches of grapes, and mythical beasts emerged from the sandy heap, turning discarded technology into ancient-looking ruins. The sheer scale of the sculpture was absolutely amazing and the detail really impressive, turning a grey afternoon into a showcase of pure, whimsical creativity.
Continuing my walk, the stunning red-brick towers of the Oberbaum Bridge (Oberbaumbrücke) rose gracefully against a cloudy sky. A bright yellow U-Bahn train rumbled across the elevated tracks of the bridge, passing directly beneath the twin gothic spires that once marked a heavily guarded border crossing. Down below, everyday traffic hummed along whilst a teal hatchback sat parked in the foreground, showing off the beautiful contrast between historical architecture and the steady rhythm of modern Berlin life.
Wondering Within Skyscrapers
I made my way to Potsdamer Platz, a bustling intersection that serves as the ultimate symbol of Berlin’s rapid modernisation and architectural reinvention after the fall of the Wall. Looking down from an elevated viewpoint, the square opened up into a massive, multi-lane urban canyon framed by soaring, blocky high-rises. A sea of pedestrians, cyclists, and cars navigated the wide crossing down on the pavement, right outside the entrance to the Potsdamer Platz S-Bahn station. Additionally, a massive, curved building draped in a giant iPad advertisement dominated the right side of the street to highlight the area’s bustling commercial culture under a cloudy sky.
I turned my attention slightly upward to admire a spectacular showcase of architectural contrast between two of the square’s most iconic towers. The sleek, curved glass facade of the 103-metre-high Bahn Tower, which serves as the Deutsche Bahn headquarters, rose gracefully into the clouds to act as a giant, cylindrical mirror. Consequently, the shimmering glass beautifully captured the reflection of the adjacent Kollhoff Tower, whose dark, textured brickwork was partially covered in scaffolding. In contrast to the cold, futuristic steel of the glass tower, the warm red-brown terracotta brick of its neighbour offered a nostalgic nod to 1930s brick expressionism.
A lively scene unfolded in Berlin back in 2010, though it is worth gently noting that this event actually took place in the iconic Potsdamer Platz rather than Alexanderplatz. A massive crowd had gathered on the paved square right outside the busy station entrance, drawn together by the infectious energy of a street performance. A group of dancers in casual wear had formed a vibrant circle, holding hands and moving to the beat whilst spectators of all ages looked on with bright smiles. In addition, the surrounding city hummed with its usual daily activity, creating a wonderful snapshot of how public spaces in Berlin organically transform into stages for community and artistic expression.
A truly unique interactive art installation took over the centre of the plaza just a short distance away from the performance. A giant, stark white protective canvas had been laid directly across the ground, completely transforming the stone floor into an open invitation for public creativity. Initially, only a few curious onlookers stopped to inspect the pristine white sheet, but soon, a small community of local artists and passers-by gathered around the perimeter. Furthermore, the presence of a green-and-white police van parked quietly in the background added a distinctly local, safe, and communal atmosphere to the creative gathering. The blank canvas stood ready to capture the collective imagination of the city’s residents.
The collective masterpiece quickly began to take shape as participants rolled up their sleeves and got to work. Armed with numerous colourful paint cans scattered across the white surface, several people sat, knelt, or lay flat on the floor to paint vibrant strokes of colour directly onto the giant sheet. Abstract shapes and colourful patches began to spread across the canvas, reflecting the diverse and spontaneous energy of the participants. Additionally, other visitors stood by to watch the process unfold, chatting casually beneath the towering presence of the nearby Bahn Tower and the giant iPad advertisement draping the adjacent high-rise. This wonderful moment beautifully captured the free-spirited, artistic, and communal essence that continues to define the streets of Berlin.
Brandenburg Gate and Jews Memorial
Later I walked through the heart of the city and finally arrived at the majestic Brandenburg Gate, one of Berlin’s most famous and emotionally charged landmarks. This neoclassical 18th-century monument stood prominently against a dramatic, overcast sky, its twelve massive Doric columns supporting the iconic bronze Quadriga statue—the goddess of victory steering a four-horse chariot—which kept a watchful eye over the gathering crowds. Furthermore, the bustling plaza in front of the gate was packed with energy as visitors moved around temporary event setups, including white tents and green “Berliner” branded umbrellas prepared for the upcoming Berlin Pride Festival.
I paused along the edge of the Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe, deeply moved by the quiet, heavy atmosphere of the sprawling monument in the heart of Berlin. Designed by architect Peter Eisenman, the site consists of 2,711 dark grey concrete blocks, arranged in a vast grid pattern across an undulating field, symbolising a cemetery of coffins. These slabs vary in height, creating an uneasy, labyrinthine landscape that seems to shift and grow deeper as you walk through its narrow pathways. Additionally, the sharp, geometric lines of the stone blocks contrast sharply with the modern glass-and-steel office buildings lining the background, standing as a permanent, solemn reminder of history amidst the city’s modern rebirth.
Berlin and Football Fans
Football fans were all around us with their faces painted and their bodies wrapped in German flags while they blew their trumpets. It seemed like the whole of Berlin was overflowing with those fans. Wherever I went, televisions were on and everyone watched football, but not sure if Germany was playing tonight . Some shops even placed televisions outside to watch the matches. It was simply a mass football phenomenon.
I had to walk around a couple of blocks before I found my hostel, but eventually I did find it
Horros of Hostel Life
It was standing in front of St. Christopher’s Hotel holding my luggage in my hand. To be honest, the receptionist seemed to be extorting the customers a bit, as she did not accept cards and somehow did not want to give me change when I gave her cash. She joked that the 8 Euros were her tip. Naturally, she gave me the money back, but it felt a bit uncomfortable.
The elevator to my floor was a bit creepy. Everything rattled and clattered, and the light flickered just like in a those horror movies. There were four bunk beds in the room. In total, eight people stayed there. There was a huge mess in the middle of the room because someone had dumped their underwear and other belongings right in the center. It was a nightmare. Additionally, I had to buy a padlock for my locker myself because they did not provide one. In China, they provided them even without asking. Through the window, I could see a building around which crowds of people gathered in the evening.
Back to Reality in Kaunas Airport
Lastly, when I flew back to Kaunas airport couple night later, I was looking for a public transport to get back to the city. I saw the bus stop sign and I could barely read the timetable. Look at the sign yourself! Welcome back to the Silent Hill! Also, there were only few buses a day going to Kaunas, form where I had to take a train to Vilnius. Eventually, I had to call a taxi.
