#berlinlearnings

[kzberlin]

Berlin Learnings: Döner

Döner was introduced to Berlin in the 70s by Turkish immigrants and now can be found everywhere in the city —you can’t seem to walk half a block without seeing this magical street food. Döner is traditionally made with lamb, but you can also get them with chicken or veal, nestled between a toasted roll and topped with lettuce (or as they say “salad”), onions, tomatoes and a spicy yogurt sauce. There’s even a thing called a “Döner Box”, which takes a deconstructed version of the sandwich, puts it in a Chinese takeaway box, and tops it with french fries... your hungover DREAM. Let’s just say we all became addicted and used this meal as our automatic default. You will be sorely missed, Döner!

[kzberlin]

Berlin Learnings: Sundays

Sundays in Berlin are complete days of rest. Most boutiques, department stores, shops and grocery stores are closed for the day, so make sure to take care of your errands on Saturday or earlier in the week. The only things that tend to be open are restaurants.

The Good News: Sundays are known for their brunch buffets! Most bars or restaurants will disregard their regular menus on Sundays and only serve a really fresh, all-you-can-eat brunch buffet. If you’re from the States, forget about what you know as a buffet, these places serve fresh fruit, eggs, meats, cheeses —you name it, and it’s never cold or stale. 

[kzberlin]

Berlin Learnings: Finding a Doctor

I was in need of an eye doctor really bad on my trip when I got an infection. My boss told me the best thing to do was to go to an Apotheke and ask one of the pharmacists. Unlike in the States, German pharmacists have a lot of general knowledge of medical conditions, allowing them to aid you in the hunt for the right medicine AND the right physician. Sure enough, the pharmacist recommended an optician nearby for my eye infection and saved the day.

[kzberlin]

Berlin Learnings: Illegal Downloading

I learned that the media companies in Berlin (and possibly Germany in general) are really cracking down on illegal downloading. It’s become such an issue, that some landlords are refusing to let tenants have the internet after being left with left with fines between €300 to €1,500. This is something to be aware of, especially if you’re traveling from another country and are potentially accustomed to easily downloading movies, music or *ahem* porn. You don’t want to be the asshole who leaves your Airbnb host with a huge fine.

[kzberlin]

Berlin Learnings: Drugstores

There are Apothecken and there are Drogeries. Apotheken sell prescription drugs and over the counter medications, although most of the "over-the-counter" drugs in sealed display cases. You have to ask the pharmacist for what you want, as you can not pick it up for yourself — even Aspirin.

Drogeries are more closely related to U.S. drugstores, like Walgreens or CVS. They’re a place where you can buy shampoo, toothpaste, sodas and house cleaners.

[kzberlin]

Berlin Learnings: Tipping

Typically, you want to try to round up. The waiter will come to you and tell you your total, then you should tell them how much you’ll pay, “rounding up.” For example, if the waiter tells you €7.30 and you hand them €10 note, say “8 Euros.” They will then give you €2 in change. In Germany, waiters are paid more and so the tips are smaller compared to the USA. Nevertheless, the 10% rule of thumb still applies.*

*You should be tipping servers at least 20% for good service in the States.

[kzberlin]

Berlin Learnings: Bars

All bars are a bit dank and smokey — get used to it, or enjoy some outdoor bars. I suggest packing some Fabreze.

[kzberlin]

Berlin Learnings: Ordering Water

Water is not free in restaurants. If you order water you will be expected to pay for it, just like any other beverage. If you order water, you will be asked whether you wish still or carbonated mineral water and, in some, you may request tap water — but the practice is uncommon and seen as cheap.