Explore Europe: Berlin Show Notes This very first episode of Explore Europe starts in the capital city of Berlin. A fantastic city that is steeped in history, has a long association with the U.S. Military and is full of must-see sights. It's super easy to get to and very simple to get around. Simply put, Berlin is at the top of the list of places you should visit whilst based in Germany! Here are the links from our Explore Europe Berlin episode: For booking train tickets (aim for three months out for the best deals): https://www.bahn.com/en/view/index.shtml For finding accommodation: booking.com This is the hotel where John stayed: http://www.titanic.com.tr/titanicgendarmenmarktberlin/default-de.html Hop on/Hop off Bus Tours of Berlin: http://www.berlin-city-tour.de/en.html or https://www.hop-on-hop-off-bus.com/berlin-bus-tours The restaurant John recommends: http://www.hackethals.de/ The history of the Berlin Wall: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Berlin_Wall President John F Kennedy speech at The Brandenburg Gate ‘Ich bin ein Berliner’: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0GKd50lrROc President Ronald Reagan speech at The Brandenburg Gate ‘Mr Gorbachev, open this gate! Mr Gorbachev, tear down this wall!’ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5MDFX-dNtsM (11:20) The Tank ‘stand_off’ at Checkpoint Charlie that Michelle mentions: https://www.theguardian.com/world/2011/oct/24/berlin-crisis-standoff-checkpoint-charlie Check Point Charlie Museum: http://www.mauermuseum.de/en/index.html Spy Museum Berlin: http://www.spymuseumberlin.com/en/ Ka De We famous department store: https://www.kadewe.de Rittersport: https://www.ritter-sport.de/en/Visit-RITTER-SPORT/berlin.html Sustainable Travel Tip: Refuse the straw! In German when ordering a drink, say ‘Kein Strohalm bitte’. Find out more about the effect straws are having on our oceans and marine wildlife here: http://www.vancouverbc.surfrider.org/straws-suck/   Are you planning a trip to Berlin? We would love to hear all about your trip and any tips you have for fellow explorers. Leave a comment below or tweet us at @explore_europe and use the hashtag #ExploreEurope   Podcast Conversation Timeline 00:01 - Introduction to Berlin 1:28 - The History of Berlin 2:50 - When is the best time to visit? 4:13 - What is the public transport system like? 6:48 - How to book your accommodation 7:37 - Prices of Hotels in the city 8:22 - What is the food like? 8:56 - The Famous Currywurst debate 9:35 - Restaurant recommendations and tips 11:16 - Local Currency and Visa Information 12:13 - Is Berlin a safe city to visit? 12:48 - But, what about the language barrier? 13:35 - Is it family-friend