#71

After a few years in Berlin we could be used to the view of Berlin´s TV tower, one could think. But nope. There´s still something special to it.

Too many things to do once again? The to-do-list is way too long, too little time to live for the moment, for "let´s see, what summer holds"? Well, we´ve got some inspiration for you. Completely without deadlines, pressure or performance evaluations.

Let´s start by winning back some of our former relaxation – for example with help from our favourite hits from the nineties. The MEGA 90er Live Open Air (the CAPITALISATION was not our MEGA great idea!) tomorrow evening at the arena of Gärten der Welt is just our place to be – we can experience Jenny from Ace of Base, Culture Beat and some more there. For those of us, who have not only stayed young, but are actually still young, HipHop/R´n´B-Festival on Saturday might be more to their liking. And Gärten der Welt are always worth a visit (as we have reported).

Our plan to relax and calm down hasn´t worked yet? Well, maybe Forward Festival at Haus der Kulturen der Welt on 29 and 30 August would be a good compromise then. The various workshops, exhibitions and talks with members of the international culture scene help us combine networking with private inspiration – perfect for all of you, who would still like to tick "do something for my career" on your lists. But now off we go to our summer break! (© photo: Studio Bowie / HKW)

Before we overthink our relaxation too much now, let´s get physical! Oh, not, what you might think now. You are our estimated guests, but you being so many and us being…. ok, let´s move on. At Strandbar Mitte in Monbijoupark, right at the river Spree, with a fabulous view of Bode Museum, every day is a day to dance. Depending on our taste and mood we choose for example Monday for Salsa and Friday for Swing. Just make your donation at the DJ booth and hit the dance floor! Those of you, who just want to watch, are equally welcome. We can imagine a quicker recreation only at the sauna.

After dancing the night away yourself it might be nice to watch professionals do that for a change. With Tanz im August (Eng.: dance in August) HAU – Hebbel am Ufer presents a festival for contemporary international dance for the 36th time at various places of the city. Three world premieres and ten German premieres make it improbable for us to get bored here from 15 to 31 August. (© photo: Tammo Walter)

What´s the one thing you can´t miss in Summer? Ok, except for sun and some kind of water to dive in, of course. Open air cinema! At Volkspark Friedrichshain it is especially convenient to enjoy movies. The benches of Freiluftkino Friedrichshain have backrests, are accessible, there are decent bathrooms and the films are being shown regardless of the weather (some of them in English, some with English subtitles). May the weather gods have mercy on us! (© photo: freiluftkino.berlin)

Travel broadens the mind, they say. And this is also possible within Berlin´s borders! Samurai Museum Berlin makes it possible thanks to immersive technologies and fascinating exhibits taking us to the world of the Japanese warriors. There are shows at the original Nō theatre and traditional tea ceremonies are being held at the tea pavilion. And now you know what the rather spooky lady at Ku´damm, who appeared some weeks ago, is trying to promote standing in the middle of her virtues on the ribbons.

Of course Konzerthaus´ looks are more familiar to us – at least speaking of its inside, as Gendarmenmarkt is currently given a facelift. From 9 until 25 August this is where 25th Young Euro Classic will take place. Among the classic concerts of highly qualified youth orchestras playing European classical music, there will also be some South American and South African Music as well as the special appearance of an orchestra from Kazakhstan at the special festival "re:play". So there´s actually enough programme for every day. But, wait, we didn´t want to set an agenda, again – so let´s just see, when we will head towards Mitte again.

To enjoy all these marvellous summer activities, you have to be in Berlin, of course. You haven´t found a flat yet? Well, we feel you… Still no room booked? How is this even possible?! But no problem. That´s what we´re here for at the end of the day (literally). Don´t miss our latest package Suite Dreams: flexible cancellation policy until one day before your arrival, breakfast included, 15 % off. Book online or with a little help from our friends of the reservation team (+ 49 30 695 39 68 701). (© photo: Fridolin Full) 

Oh, talking about nights: 12 August is Night of Shooting Stars – all around the world, by the way. Especially from 2 to 4 AM a special interstellar constellation makes it possible to enjoy the sight of up to one hundred shooting stars per hour. So there´s nothing left for us to do than hope for a clear sky and wish you all a good night!