🇩🇪 | Berlin: The First City That Makes Me Want to Escape

My first impression of Berlin is a deeply solemn one. As a capital city, it’s worlds apart from Prague’s fairy-tale charm—Berlin always, intentionally or not, reminds me of the hardships it once endured 🕯️. Most cities I’ve seen in Europe are vibrant and colorful, making you want to dance in the wind anytime, anywhere. But Berlin’s buildings have such a monotonous palette; it feels like a capital city heavy with political undertones. Yet, the graffiti on the Berliner Mauer (Berlin Wall) and its famous party culture are also there, desperately showing off the city’s rebellion and unruliness ✍️🥳. Unlike Dresden, Berlin is far more modern—but this modernity gives me a sense of contradiction. Maybe it’s the inherent conflict between West and East Germany concentrated here. Or maybe it’s because Dresden’s Altstadt (Old Town), the scenery along the Elbe River, and TU Dresden left such a wonderful impression on me that I’m more forgiving of that city. Or perhaps it’s just that I don’t like partying—I can’t seem to grasp Berlin’s charm. It’s the first European city that makes me want to escape 😔. #StudyAbroadInGermany #InternationalStudent #Berlin #Travel