Yay. Berlin! This was actually my third time there but I love it every time. I was there in ’98 when Potsdamer Platz was just a giant construction site, again in ’07 and this time to celebrate my 30th birthday with my friend Jessica. The weather was wonderful and we had fun exploring the city.

Beautiful apartment. Check.

(My friends Dan and Dietmar lent us their apartment while they were gone on vacation. It’s an amazing place with high ceilings and a mix of modern and vintage decor. I first met Dan the first day of my sophomore year in high school. I asked him if he was a new freshman. His response “No, I’m a senior from Germany.” Woops. It’s fun to think that 15 years later we’re still in touch. Thanks again Dan and Dietmar!).

Pedestrian light. Check.

Currywurst. Check.

TV tower. Check.

Holocaust memorial. Check.

Brandenburg Tor. Check.

Reichstag Dome. Check.

(The only time you should even attempt to go here is at eight in the morning right when it opens. Even then we had to wait an hour, but every time I’ve come here before the line is at least three hours long. It’s a nice view, but not worth a three hour wait.)

Berlin Wall. Check.

(The East Side Gallery was repaired and repainted last year).