Around The World Discovery 2007 - Day 5: Berlin, Germany



IAN'S DIARY:
2/9/07:(Sun) Once again had a good breakfeast at Hostel collected “doggie” bag for later. Had a couple of hours rest At lunchtime followed the same path as previous day back to Brandenburg Gate for “Berlin city “ walking tour.

Unlike previous day this tour was promoted as “free” but later we ended up paying a “tip” The tour was taken by the American girl that originally met us the previous day. This tour did cover some of the areas covered the previous day. We did this time visit “checkpoint Charlie” or as we were told “cold war disneyland”. There were fake American and Russian soldiers facing of against each other which was similar
too that seen at the Brandenburg Gate.

Despite being extremely tired, Ian continued on as this was another 4 hour walking tour.


Tour then moved on mainly through the old East Berlin. Past
A shop where buildings on a small scale were moulded in chocolate (Reichstag Titanic were examples). We ended up in the university quarter in particular the “Humbolt University”.

Here a lot of building had either survived and/or being repaired after war The “imposing” building feeling was there again. In a square we saw a memorial to the night in the 1930’s when the nazi’s burnt a lot of books. You look at the glass window in ground and see a lot of empty book cases.

Also in this square was a large catherdral and opera house where Wagner performed.Tour then went to the Memorial “to unknown soldier” saw buildings that East
German’s had started to restore but failed to complete Also saw this communication tower in Alexandraplatz that the East Germans had to call (in secret) help from the west to complete.

Ian was glad that tour finally concluded as he was very tired sore feet as well
In a park opposite this old church here the tour guide gave us a few
Stories about the wall coming down in 1989 (ie two old women had border passes but due to bungling by East Germans guards let the masses through as well) Also heard story about East German government spokesman reading incorrect statement to press in which he announced that border with the west would be opened.

After asking various people finally found station. Took train across
City to Olympic Stadium The 2006 soccer world cup held here. Also 1936 nazi Olympic games held here saw some evidence of this. Eventually headed back to Hostel.

Justin's Diary and Photos published soon.