Gruß aus Berlin...

The Brandenburg Gate
The Reichstag (German Parliament Building)
Interior of Sir Norman Foster's glass dome, on top of the Reichstag

Happy holidays from Berlin, the center of the "New Europe." Christmas season in Berlin is full of public excitement, including many outdoor "Weinachtsmarkt," which are festive street markets. Vendors sell everything from carved nativity scenes and ornaments to smoked sausages and candied almonds. The smells are amazing and the Glühwein (warmed, spiced wine) tastes incredible! The mood on the streets feels like New York City during the holiday season, and all of the stores are decorated with elaborate displays. The streets are lined with twinkling white lights, which makes the atmosphere even more magical. We've been exploring the city, and since this is our third visit here, we feel even more at home. One day, it would be wonderful to have an apartment in Berlin! Big dreams! The Stilwerk is a modern home décor mecca! They have everything from Kartell furniture to German graphic art galleries.

It was serendipity that the New York Times published an article about Berlin the day before we flew to Berlin. This city is a portrait of change. The energy is palpable; construction cranes are everywhere. Berlin has been transformed from a city that was a the epicenter of 20th century world politics to a thriving cultural, political and financial hub of The New Europe. Check out this video to experience a little bit of the trip!

-Andrew and Rachel