I could write so many words about my visit to Berlin, but will post the best photos and just a short write up about each day. I travelled by bus this time, which was a cheaper option although not so comfortable. Like all coaches it took the roundabout route, stopping at big towns on the way to pick up more passengers. Unfortunately I sat next to a very large man, whose elbows insisted on taking up my armrest. I was pleased to arrive at the central coach station in Berlin to be met by V and J. On the first evening we managed to get timed tickets to view the dome of the Reichstag. We were fortunate, as that Sunday was the last chance to view before the dome is closed for a week for essential cleaning. It's an interesting structure, with a central, supporting mirrored column, which in turn supports the outer steel frame which is fitted with glass panels. Around the base are a series of historical photographs and the history of the building from its construction, to its destruction during the war and to its rebuilding as the seat of the German government. A spiral staircase winds its way to the top, where visitors get a magnificent view over the city. We visited at sunset, which was particularly colourful and fascinating. Entry is free of charge and the last entry is at 11pm.
It's an environmentally friendly building, with the collected rainwater being used for various purposes within the building, and the mirrors and the automatic ventilation control the heating of the Government chamber underneath. I managed to get a glimpse of the seat of Government, and could see the place where Angela Merkel and members of goverment stand and address the chamber.
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| The Dome designed by Sir Norman Foster. Small figures can be seen walking upwards along the spiural staircase towards the top of the structure. |
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| The Reichstag Building. The dome can be seen in the centre above the portico. |
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| The Brandenburg Gate, with a constant stream of visitors day and night. |
I could write so many words about my visit to Berlin, but will post the best photos and just a short write up about each day. I travelled by bus this time, which was a cheaper option although not so comfortable. Like all coaches it took the roundabout route, stopping at big towns on the way to pick up more passengers. Unfortunately I sat next to a very large man, whose elbows insisted on taking up my armrest. I was pleased to arrive at the central coach station in Berlin to be met by V and J. On the first evening we managed to get timed tickets to view the dome of the Reichstag. We were fortunate, as that Sunday was the last chance to view before the dome is closed for a week for essential cleaning. It's an interesting structure, with a central, supporting mirrored column, which in turn supports the outer steel frame which is fitted with glass panels. Around the base are a series of historical photographs and the history of the building from its construction, to its destruction during the war and to its rebuilding as the seat of the German government. A spiral staircase winds its way to the top, where visitors get a magnificent view over the city. We visited at sunset, which was particularly colourful and fascinating. Entry is free of charge and the last entry is at 11pm. 
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