This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at NYU chapter.
I loved Berlin, I’m just not quite sure it loved me back.
I thought I understood the city at first—it initially seemed like a strange combination of the grunge of Venice Beach, the streets of New York, and the Europe-ness of Europe. Over the past four days, I learned that Berlin really is just a city all its own. A city with its own rules, its own dress code, its own stride. Despite the excellent schnitzels and crazy cheap beer, I was happy to return to Paris where I know the Do’s and Don’ts of city life. I don’t know when the next time I’ll be back in Berlin is, so here is a list of what I learned for all you travelers. Prepare yourselves.
DO remember to bring your combat boots. The only way to get into clubs here is to leave those perfect little black heels you swooped up during the Soldes in Paris.
DO get an espresso every hour on the hour.
DON’T ask the taxi driver where to go on Sunday night and expect him to take you anywhere but a five-story nightclub, decorated with palm trees, and filled with dub-step dancing Guido’s. Oh, and when you get there, DON’T let your friend try and leave with a sweaty man named Sven.
DON’T be afraid to make DIY cocktail at a bar. I highly recommend a Club Mate with a shot of tequila, squeeze of orange, and pinch of cinnamon.
DO partake in the mosh pit at the punk rock club playing American Ska music.
DO leave some extra tip money at the two euro unlimited wine bar.
DON’T accidentally try and go to a leather fetish party on Easter Sunday.
DON’T sleep.
DO wake up you’re entire hostel every morning at 5 a.m. when you get home.
DON’T try and get the ice cream from the hostel fridge by yourself—just ask the receptionist, it’ll save you a broken nail.
And most definitely,
DO go to Berlin.