In July 2018 I decided to take a break from work and buy a one way ticket to Europe. My plan was to start in Berlin and see where I end up. Although I've moved on from Germany and am now currently in France, my time in Berlin was something special and important. I learned a lot about myself, about my needs and about how to navigate a big city without knowing anyone.
My first few days were surprisingly dull. Not only did it take me a whopping 4 days to get to Berlin from LA (due to flight delays and cancellations), but upon my arrival I experienced bad weather and rude people. It was just another lesson that expectations can only be carried so far. Once I settled in, however, I began to experience the true nature of the city. I met amazing people that have become close friends of mine, and I saw the spirit of a free city in everyone I interacted with. I won't sugar coat it, Berlin is a tough city. You never know what you will run into (or who). Once I figured out my routine though, things moved pretty smoothly.
I don't want to go too far into explaining the ups and downs of my time in Berlin, so I'll give you the juice - people are truthful, upfront, and sometimes a bit impolite...but they are raw. They care about what's happening around them. They are inspired and they somehow manage to live in one of the most diverse cities in the world. Thanks to all the friends I made, and for the amazing time with my host family, with whom I spent a lot of time. Living on a houseboat had its perks. Here's some photos of my time, with more to come.
