Berlin, Germany

Berlin, capital of a unified Germany since 1999, is one of the planet’s most dynamic cities. This is the European Shanghai, where construction is always occurring. Berlin is the European city that is most able to preserve its history while also embracing the future head on.

Berlin is chic and cool. Just look at the Reichstag, the German Parliament building, with its Baroque façade and modern interior, topped by Norman Foster’s glass dome. Or gaze towards the Holocaust Memorial, with its uneven, solemn gray columns that create a maze for those wishing to cross it. Walk for a few minutes and one will arrive at the Baroque Brandenburg Gate, the symbol of Berlin. This is how amazing Berlin is; old and new, Communist and stylish, the city has it all!

With my friends Gabriela and Alex as my hosts and tour guides, I got an insider’s look at this thriving metropolis. We visited a typical “living room” bar in Prezlauer Berg, the city’s trendy district. We listened to music generated by Berlin-style music boxes. We relaxed by the city’s sand volleyball complex, soaking up some needed rays. We savored the most delicious doner on the planet--chicken, with veggies and goat cheese. And lastly, we enjoyed the best view of Berlin, on top of Viktoria Park, all the while drinking German beer.

Dresden, Germany

Dresden, the capital of the German state of Saxony, unfortunately suffered massive destruction due to bombings during the closing stages of WWII. Nevertheless, the restored Altestadt (old town) is a UNESCO world heritage site.

Highlights of Dresden include the baroque Zwinger, a royal courtyard that now houses a few museums. The Zwinger contains architectural gems such as the Crown Gate and the Nymph Fountain. Moreover, I enjoyed viewing the Procession of Princes, a porcelain wall that chronicles all the Saxon kings from the 12th to 19th centuries.

On a side note, Dresden was the first place where I visited a McCafe in Europe for the first time. McCafe is the upscale, chic part of McDonald’s that serves coffee and desserts. The McCafe I visited had couches, comfy chairs and even outdoor seating. The coffee was served in glasses and proper cutlery was used for serving tortes. I was impressed by all that I saw; even the regular McDonald’s has some chic café elements to it, such as modern-design chairs, wall décor and flat-screen TVs.