I had to admit I had great expectations of Berlin before arriving, which is unusual for me. More generally my attitude to life (while positive) aligns to that of the insightful German political theorist Hannah Arendt who noted that she lived by the following mantra

‘prepare for the worst; expect the best; and take what comes’.

So I packed a chunky parka alongside my favourite over-sized scarf for protection against inclement weather and stepped off the S-Bhan ready for what Berlin had to offer. I am glad to report that it didn’t disappoint. I have always had a soft spot for Germans and since heading to Hamburg last year have grown to greatly admire their culture and attitude.

I stayed with my friend,who has been to Berlin many times and is currently residing there for a few months. She cast a careful eye over my itinerary  that was hastily scribbled…