Europe at last!

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"Ich bin ein Berliner" - John F Kennedy
(... translation: "I am a jelly donut")

Relieved to be out of Russia, we arrived in Berlin, smiling. Although it would only be a short stop-over for us en route to Paris, Berlin was a great way for us to segue into the European portion of our trip. We immediately felt at ease: things were clean & organized, Tom could speak with the locals, and people were actually friendly to strangers! Definitely a welcome change to get us excited about the rest of our travels.

But the real reason we stopped here was to meet up with Tom's friend, Steve O'Connor. Steve is in Berlin as a student, and has been busy learning German for the past 6 months so he can continue with his masters program in full-on German. It was funny to hear him speak it, but he seems to be picking it up well and is able to hold his own!

During our three days in Berlin, we didn't plan an ambitious agenda. We mostly just hung out, strolled around picturesque neighbourhoods and even found a way to squeeze in a jam session! With Steve on drums and Tom on bass, it was like two musical soulmates reuniting!

Berlin itself is quite an important and impressive city. Much of the city was damaged by bombing campaigns of WWII, so there is an interesting mix of older-style and uber-modern architecture. The city's culture seems to be very progressive, open-minded and trendy, while upholding the high standard of German efficiency. From what we saw, it's quite a cheap place to live and would be a nice place to hang out for longer!

Of course another large part of Berlin is the infamous Wall that ran through it from 1961 to 1989. Parts of the wall still stand as a living reminder of the grim division of the city and nation. Throughout the city, where the wall used to stand, is a line to show how it really split the city in two.

After a good visit in Berlin, next is France to meet up with Maria's family for Easter... yay!

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Photos

Berlin
Standing in front of the Brandenburger Gate with Steve

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Fresh off the plane & happy to be in Europe!

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Checkpoint Charlie, former site of the Berlin Wall

Berlin
The former foundation of the Berlin Wall is marked throughout the city

Berlin
Not typically Berlin, is it?

Berlin
Enjoying the sights of Berlin

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Berliner Dom

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Open-air museum about the Berlin Wall

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Remaining portions of the Berlin Wall in Mauerpark

Berlin
Steve & Tom jamming out!

Berlin
Maria rocking out! If only she could really play....

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Damn papparazzi!

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Crosswalk guy of East Berlin: notice he's wearing a hat!