Berlin, Where Winter Will Find You Un-Hibernating

One would expect that since Berlin's symbol is a bear that, when winter comes around, the city will hibernate, too.  Fortunately, the bear is just that - a symbol.  And so, Berlin winter is as alive as it is in the other three seasons of the year. 

Just how alive?  Well, picture this, Berliners celebrating Christmas by singing carols in the streets and churches, Christmas markets in full swing, and people of all ages skating across Potsdamer Platz as well as almost all accommodations fully booked.  Now, that is what we call swinging Berlin!

That being the case, you should reserve your holiday apartment weeks before coming to the city.  Go online for the ease, convenience and choices available in many of the reservation websites.  

Christmas is in Town

Berlin may be the most cosmopolitan city this side of Europe but it has retained a certain quaint charm about it when the Christmas season rolls around.  And we are talking about engaging all the senses in reminding everybody that Christmas is just around the corner.

You can smell the spicy aromas wafting through the air from the homes and the shops, whetting your appetites for the world-famous gingerbreads and cinnamon-laced wine.  Music from the carolers, the merry-go-round music and the jingles played over the store loudspeaker usher in the Christmas spirit.  Meanwhile, the lights, decorations and nativity scenes vie with each other to attract your attention. 

Wishes in the City

What will Christmas be without the gifts and the food?  Well, head on to the many small shops and boutiques selling everything from holiday food to expensive trinkets to take home to your holiday apartment. 

Buy homemade chili, beer mustard, humbugs, lime drops and bitter almond marzipan to stock up the pantry.  Then give their gifts in the form of toys, gadgets and clothes from any of the many stores and shops in the city.  Indeed, Berlin is a city where wishes can come true, even a great Christmas away from home. 

Where Warmth is All-Enveloping

If the outdoors gets too cold for you, go into the warmth of a spa.  You can have your massage, mint tea drinks and warm steam to your heart's content, all of which can be had for a reasonable fee.  You should ask the locals for directions to the best spa in town.  With Berlin as a city where establishments can pop in and out like mushrooms, you want to get to the right spa as soon as possible. 

Skip, Skate and Slide

Winter in Europe often means skipping, skating and sliding on the frozen waters.  In Berlin, you can find many individuals of all ages and orientations skating, some tumbling, across the Winterwelt.  Or you can go on a toboggan run or drive to the Alps, if you have a mind to.  After such strenuous activities, do munch on the apple strudel and schnapps to regain your energy for yet another shot at winter fun.

Indeed, hibernation is unheard of in Berlin.  Just go out into the winter scene and grab life by the hands.

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