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Memories of Fools at Chamaeleon Theatre Berlin

April 12, 2019 by cheriecity

For the past few years, I’ve had the privilege of regularly visiting Berlin to catch the latest contemporary circus show at the beautiful Chamaeleon Theatre. This landmark theatre in Mitte’s iconic Hackesche Höfe attracts the world’s leading circus productions while also supporting new local talent, making it a truly influential part of Berlin’s creative scene.

2019 is particularly special for the Chamaeleon as it celebrates 15 years of new circus. It’s also set to welcome its 1,000,000th visitor in its birthday year, which is rather exciting for that special person.

This twice-yearly jaunt has given me the chance to see how truly diverse their programme is and they’ve certainly kept up the high standards with new show Memories of Fools by award-winning Czech company Cirk La Putyka.

Directed by Rostislav Novák Jr, this enchanting show tells the story of a little boy (Vojtech Fülep) dreaming of becoming an astronaut. It opens with archive footage of Neil Armstrong taking his first steps on the moon and three of the nine performers appearing as astronauts and moving as if weightless – a theme that recurs in various forms throughout. It’s also fitting that this year is the 50th anniversary of the Apollo 11 moon landing, a historic moment that most of us have etched in our collective memory.

He shares his space ambitions with his pal (Filip Zahradnický) and their friendship is so endearing and innocent, as they mess around with home-made astronaut costumes and juggle with models of the planets. Their playtime soon gets interrupted by bad boys in black hoodies that leap and somersault on the teeterboard, eventually getting them in trouble with their parents.

The young boy might not be the most likely NASA candidate, but he triumphs over his peers and is chosen for the all-important rocket mission. During this time he falls in love with a beautiful blonde astronaut, and his parents benefit from the fame, attempting to become a showbiz duo with some slapstick moments.

The story is moved along with interludes featuring models of the solar system and the space rocket. Cirk La Putyka has a long family legacy of puppetry and the Novák brothers have kept the tradition alive.

The second part of the show becomes much more surreal and zany, as all of the characters take on a different personality. We are introduced to Bugs Bunny with an alienesque voice, a hip-swivelling Elvis, a suave Spanish matador, a candy-dipped Amadeus and the original naked couple Adam and Eve with extra shimmer.

Something I’ve discovered from watching many circus shows is that they all love a good party scene, so true to form, the disco soundtrack is cranked up with Elvis DJ-ing while Amadeus juggles vinyl records and the matador struts his stuff.

Unlike some of the more high-octane circus shows I’ve seen, Memories of Fools purposefully focuses on narrative, however there are still plenty of jaw-dropping tricks and ‘wow’ moments. The complex trapeze number performed by Adam and Eve (Solenne Baily and long-time partner Romuald Solesse) is simply dazzling and Šárka Fülep Bocková perfectly portrays the lack of gravity in space, spinning with such grace and lightness on the hoop. Alexandr Volný’s cyr wheel piece is also mesmerising and impressive.

Memories of Fools is a truly joyful show that will appeal to all generations and leave you feeling uplifted and nostalgic for simpler times. Some of the story is left open to interpretation and requires you to use your imagination and in a space as magical as the Chamaeleon, that isn’t so hard to do.

Memories of Fools runs at Chamaeleon Theatre until 18th August. For more information and booking, visit: www.chamaeleonberlin.com

Thanks to Chamaeleon Theatre, Holiday Inn Berlin – Centre Alexanderplatz and Berlin WelcomeCard for a great trip to Berlin.

All photos by Chérie City

Berlin, Theatre

CIRCA’S PEEPSHOW at Chamaeleon Theatre

October 3, 2018 by cheriecity

Chamaeleon Theatre in Berlin is one of the best venues in the world to watch new circus and its programme is always inspiring and varied. Not only does it attract the very best international circus companies, but its exquisite cabaret-style set up really elevates the atmosphere and sense of anticipation.

I was thrilled to be invited back again to check out its latest show, CIRCA’S PEEPSHOW. I was really looking forward to this show, as many performers and reviewers have spoken so highly of Brisbane-based CIRCA – and they have been named the ‘rock stars of the circus world’, after all.

You might recognise Circa’s PEEPSHOW from its summer residency at London’s Underbelly, however this was an abridged, one-hour festival show in a Spiegeltent. CIRCA’S PEEPSHOW was specially created with the Chamaeleon in mind and it’s clear that this conceptual two-part show needs the time to breath and play out to its full extent.

The Show

While many of the shows I seen at the Chamaeleon have been arty, emotional or raucous, none have been as unashamedly sexy as CIRCA’S PEEPSHOW. But you guessed that already from the name, right? What you might not expect, however, is the psychological meandering of this provocative show, set in two distinctly different parts.

Created by Artistic Director Yaron Lifschitz and Associate Director Libby McDonnell, the show explores the concept of being watched and how human behaviour changes when we are being observed or when we think we are alone. It begins with the performers mirroring each other’s movements and balancing on each other like structures, as well as a fun surprise (which I won’t spoil by revealing).

Part One

This first part is all about voyeurism and the seven artists are playful and keen to show off to the audience. Their bodies are purposely exposed in simple nude lycra underwear and glitzy sequin hotpants. The constant glow of the neon ‘peepshow’ sign and retro fringe curtain also add to the sense of exhibitionism and self-aware performance.

Nathan Knowles’ solo vignette celebrates the splendour of the body seen from pretty much all angles and Giulia Scamaria’s enigmatic rope performance is mesmerising. We were all rather taken with Jessica Connell, who brings a touch of burlesque with a coquettish, ironic ‘striptease’ and a truly impressive hula hoop dance.

Part Two

In the second part, the mood instantly becomes dark and intense as the stage is flooded in red neon light. The audience reciprocation is severed, so we can simply observe the performers as their behaviour becomes more wild, erratic and twitchy.

The scene switches from their private inner torment to letting it all go in a club setting with pulsating music. Many of the shows I’ve seen at Chamaeleon are enhanced by live music, but CIRCA’S PEEPSHOW focuses purely on the high-energy acrobatics and dance. Saying that, the music is perfectly-curated and includes a poignant version of Sweet Dreams for the finale.

CIRCA’S PEEPSHOW is such a high calibre show and very different in style and tone to other new circus performances. It’s seductive, raw and thought-provoking – a real must-see!

Here are a few more spots to check out while in Berlin…

SEE

Hamburger Bahnhof Museum

Hamburger Bahnhof Museum is a stunning contemporary art museum that was originally the terminus of the railway line between Hamburg and Berlin, established in 1846. Its late Neoclassical style was designed by the architect and railway pioneer Friedrich Neuhaus and today, it’s preserved as the city’s only train station remaining from that era.

It closed as a railway station in 1884 and was subsequently used as an exhibition hall before incurring major damages in WWII and laying dormant during the division of Germany. After significant renovation, it reopened in 1996 as a museum of contemporary art for works of the collection of the Nationalgalerie and the Marx Collection.

We saw a few exhibitions there, but the most enjoyable was The Collections with works by Andy Warhol, Robert Rauschenberg, Joseph Beuys and Carolee Scheemann.

Urban Spree

If you’re looking for a slower pace on the weekend, head to the outdoor wonderland that is Urban Spree. It’s a 1700 sqm artistic space in Berlin-Friedrichshain dedicated to urban culture with exhibitions, artist residencies, skate park, climbing wall, market and outdoor Biergarten with plenty of rum cocktails, vegan street food and if you’re lucky, sunshine.

Stroll around and take in the creative graffiti, alternative music and chilled-out atmosphere. It’s also conveniently close to the East Side Gallery, so you can really make a day of it.

EAT

Shiso Burger

The Chamaeleon Theatre is conveniently close to Berlin’s cool restaurants and bars around Auguststraße and Shiso Burger has been on my list for a while. It’s a popular, casual burger joint with an Asian twist and we were fortunate to score a walk-in table before the show. We started with some steamed edamame and indulged in delicious burgers – Wagyu beef, marinated tuna and veggie – packed inside fluffy bao-style buns and accompanied by hot, crispy sweet potato fries.

Brammibal’s Donuts

On my free day in Berlin, I explored the pretty, leafy Kreuzberg neighbourhood and just had to stop by Brammibal’s Donuts. This hip all-vegan donut and coffee shop offers dairy-free donuts in creative flavours such as rosehip jam, pumpkin spice & cream cheese, nougat and Boston Cream. I tried the Maple smoked coconut donut, which was suprisingly light and fluffy with excellent salty-sweet glaze. Definitely the best vegan donut I’ve ever had.

The Visit Coffee Roastery

The Visit Coffee Roastery, espresso bar and kitchen is a great new addition to Berlin’s speciality coffee shop scene. Tucked away in a peaceful Kreuzberg mews, The Visit is a sleek, minimalist space where the vibe is chilled and the drinks are taken seriously. They do a great Iced matcha latte and you can get a healthy brunch there on weekends.

STAY

Holiday Inn Berlin – Centre Alexanderplatz

This towering hotel at Alexanderplatz was our base for two nights and I found it comfortable, modern and well-located in a convenient part of town. The bed and shower in my room were of a high standard and the generous buffet breakfast had everything you could want, including freshly-made pancakes with a choice of natural syrups.

Circa’s PEEPSHOW runs at Chamaeleon Theatre until 17th February. For more information and booking, visit: www.chamaeleonberlin.com

Thanks to Chamaeleon Theatre, Holiday Inn Berlin – Centre Alexanderplatz and Berlin WelcomeCard for a great trip to Berlin.

All photos by Chérie City

For more Berlin travel inspiration, read my review of:

Berlin, Theatre

FINALE at Chamaeleon Theatre, Berlin

April 6, 2018 by cheriecity

Chamaeleon Theatre in Berlin is one of my favourite travel discoveries and I recently had the fortune of visiting a third time for a performance of new show FINALE by Analog Group.

Each show that I’ve seen at this timeless, jewel-box theatre in Mitte’s historic Hackescher Höfe has been vastly different in style and narrative. Underart by Sweden’s Cirkus Cirkör was highly-conceptual and emotive while Company 2’s Scotch & Soda was a raucous, Aussie boozefest, so I was intrigued to see how this young Berlin-based troupe would approach circus.

The Show

FINALE begins off-stage with a humorous see-saw scene with Creative Director Florian Zumkehr and acrobat Richie Maguire competing for attention – a theme that runs through the show. The narrative is quite loose, as it’s mostly just about having fun, but I noticed a few references to teenage nostalgia, from a library scene to a sweet love duet.

The Cast

Gradually we’re introduced to each member of the cast and their unique acrobatic talents are revealed. We all fell in love with the talented singer-songwriter Ena Wild – a star of the Berlin club scene – mostly for her smoky, heavenly vocals but also her spectacular outfits, meticulously changed with every scene. In fact, she composed the entire score with writing partner and live drummer Lukas Thielecke.

Perhaps the most unforgettable scene was New Yorker Richie Maguire sharing his obsession with Jean-Claude Van Damme and performing some extreme Van Damming while eating a banana in a gold sequin thong. That image doesn’t tend to leave your mind!

I was also mesmerised by Manda Rydman’s aerial hoop solo and nail-biting rope performance that saw strands flying as she tumbled down from a height. Another highlight was Carlos Zaspiel’s slick spinning pole piece using a large prop that he actually developed during his acrobatic training.

By the end of the show, you’re transported to a proper Berlin rave, in a flurry of colour, neon lights, cool electronic music and the cast jumping through a hoop. With the incredibly catchy music and charismatic performers it really feels like a party, making the thrills of the circus even more joyful. It’s definitely a show that’s not to be missed!

The rest of the weekend was ours to explore the city and recover after a late-night lock-in with some of the cast. Here are a few more places for your Berlin ‘to do list’…

SEE

East Side Gallery

It’s hard to comprehend, in this age, that the Berlin Wall divided east and west Germany for over 28 years and that part of it can still be seen today. The open-air East Side Gallery features 105 murals painted directly on a 1316m long remnant of the wall in Friedrichshain-Kreuzberg in 1990.

The murals are united by their messages of peace, hope and anti-fascism and include the famous Fraternal Kiss capturing the historic embrace between Soviet leader Leonid Brezhnev and East Germany’s Erich Hoenicker.

Alte Nationalgalerie

Museum Island, a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a real treat for Berlin visitors with six renowned state museums set across a picturesque island in the Spree. You can buy a ticket for 18 Euros that allows access to all museums in one day, but as time was short, I focussed on just one – the Altes Nationalgalerie (Old National Gallery). This impressive museum, founded in 1861, houses a collection of Neoclassical, Impressionist and early-Modernist works by mostly German but also European artists.

It’s a well-curated collection, with a few quirky talking point pieces, and it’s a pleasure to delve into the works of artists such as Karl Blechen, Adolf von Menzel, Max Liebermann and Caspar David Friedrich.

EAT

Spreegold

This all-day casual restaurant near Alexanderplatz became a bit of a blogger hangout on our trip. On the first night in Berlin, we indulged in enormous burgers and ‘stacks’ of avocado, bacon and poached eggs on sourdough, and then returned for iced lemon black tea and banana bread before our journey home.

The Store Kitchen at Soho House Berlin

For a chilled-out lunch in Mitte, head to The Store Kitchen on the ground floor of Soho House Berlin (no membership needed). The kitchen is set across an open-plan concept store filled with stylish homewares, books and magazines, fragrances and covetable designer brands such as Off-White, Vetements and Balenciaga. There’s also a live DJ to complete the ambiance.

I enjoyed a healthy lunch of Avocado toast and poached eggs with lime and a fresh red chilli kick, plus a potent matcha latte for a caffeine fix – highly recommended!

Princess Cheesecake

This bijou tea salon and patisserie is one of my favourite spots in Berlin. It serves an impressive range of cheesecake, from traditional German poppy seed to proper New York cheesecake, and they are always to die for.

STAY

Park Inn by Radisson Berlin Alexanderplatz was my base for two nights, where I had some great views of the iconic Fernsehturm (television tower) from my room on the 26th floor of this huge tower hotel. Alexanderplatz is central, convenient place to stay, particularly for first-time visitor to the city, and the hotel is just 13 minutes walk from Chamaeleon Theater.

The lobby was constantly busy (the hotel has a whopping 1012 rooms and suites, after all) but the rooms were calmer – contemporary and simple with a comfortable bed and powerful shower. I was particularly impressed with the quality and service at the buffet breakfast in Spagos Restaurant and enjoyed fresh scrambled eggs with herbs, a variety of excellent German bread rolls and even cheesecake.

Are you a fan of contemporary circus? Have you been to Chamaeleon Theatre?

FINALE runs at Chamaeleon Theatre until 19th August. For more information and booking, visit: www.chamaeleonberlin.com

Thanks to Chamaeleon Theatre and Park Inn Berlin Alexanderplatz for a great trip to Berlin.

All photos by Chérie City

Berlin, Theatre

Scotch & Soda, Chamaeleon Theater Berlin

May 30, 2017 by cheriecity

Berlin is one of my favourite destinations for a weekend city break and I was thrilled to be invited back to the wonderful Chamaeleon Theater to discover the latest show, Scotch & Soda.

I was blown away by the theatre’s previous show UNDERART by Swedish company Cirkus Cirkör and really fell in love with contemporary circus, so I knew I was in for a treat.

Chamaeleon Theater is a rare gem, tucked away in Berlin’s historic Hackesche Höfe – a large complex with eight curious interconnecting courtyards. Berlin may be famed for its cabaret shows, however Chamaeleon Theater is all about contemporary circus, presenting the very best shows by leading companies around the world.

Currently in residence is Australia’s super-talented Company 2 with their magnificent show, Scotch & Soda. It’s also part of Australia Now Germany 2017 – a year-long programme to showcase Australian culture in Germany.

Scotch & Soda is a raucous, booze-soaked soirée that makes you feel like you’re at the best party of your life. As the name suggests, the show is an intoxicating blend of circus and jazz created by two groups of artists and friends – Company 2 led by David Carberry and Chelsea McGuffin and The Uncanny Carnival Band.

Set inside a bohemian spiegeltent, the show opens with plenty of energy and chutzpah as the group get merry, balancing on Champagne bottles and having drunken fights. James Kingsford Smith steals the moment as an incoherent, rowdy Scotsman and yes, you do see what’s under his kilt!

However, it’s not all just larking around as the mesmerising acrobatics make your jaw quickly hit the floor, where it’s likely to stay for the rest of the evening. Skip Walker-Milne balances atop a number of precariously-stacked suitcases while sisters Alice and Kate Muntz perform a captivating balancing routine and gang up on David Carberry, sending him hurtling down a flight of steps.

Other highlights include the ‘morning after the night before’ aerial straps act performed by a hungover James Kingsford Smith, Matthew Ottignon being given a comical bathtub wash and the spectacular finale that surely breaks records for how many people can ride just one bicycle.

Live jazz is also at the heart of Scotch & Soda and composer Lucian McGuiness’ original score is just so uplifting, infectious and at times poignant. The musicians also have their own sketches in the show, from Lucian’s eyebrow-raising ukele-playing to Eden Ottignon ‘marrying’ his double bass.

Scotch & Soda is so joyful and awe-inspiring that I really didn’t want it to end and was literally on the edge of my front-row seat the whole time.

Following the show, we had a chance to meet some of the performers before they headed out to play an impromptu gig at a nearby bar. They’re such a friendly, tight-knit group and Chamaeleon Theater really invests in their wellbeing and happiness while living in Berlin.

Afterwards, we were treated to a lovely, relaxed dinner at Hackescher Höfe just next door to the theatre. It’s a classic Berlin restaurant in style with a large dining room and the cuisine is a good mix of German favourites and international dishes.

I started with a delicious Caesar salad and followed with the most enormous steak with lashings of tangy Béarnaise sauce and a super-indulgent, buttery potato gratin.

For dessert, it just had to be a traditional warm apple strudel with vanilla sauce – what better way to finish a meal when you’re in Berlin?

The food at Hackescher Höfe was perfectly-cooked and so hearty and generous. It’s a great spot for a post-theatre treat, especially in the warmer months where you can dine on the terrace under the parasols.

Our base for the trip was the stylish and contemporary Hotel NH Collection Berlin Mitte Friedrichstrasse. It was the first time I’d experienced the NH Hotels brand and there were so many things that I liked about this stylish and comfortable hotel.

Firstly, it’s in a great position for visiting Chamaeleon Theater, as it’s just 7 minutes away by tram (the stop is literally on the hotel’s doorstep), or a pleasant 15-minute walk over the river and through Monbijoupark. Then there’s the sleek, minimalist design and the feeling of zen throughout the hotel.

We each had a fabulous Terrace Room on the eight floor, which has its own dedicated penthouse elevator. My room was bright and spacious with thoughtful touches such as a Nespresso machine and plush bathrobes and a real highlight was the large terrace with views over the city. I was also kindly welcomed with handmade chocolates and strawberries and a bottle of San Pellegrino.

The hotel is located in a busy shopping area so there are useful things nearby and I was really pleased to find dean&david in the same building. It’s a cool healthy fast food place that Berliners love for its aromatic Thai curries, cold-pressed juices and gourmet salads with meat or seafood grilled to order. I ordered my favourite salad combo and enjoyed a peaceful lunch on my terrace in the sunshine.

Another perk of staying at this hotel is the excellent breakfast, which is served in an enormous, futuristic atrium – it’s just so impressive! Among the usual breakfast items was a chef station for fresh egg dishes, an overwhelming choice of breads, macarons and an exciting selection of loose leaf teas to start the morning nicely.

The hotel also features a sauna and steam room, complimentary sweets and juices in the lobby and if you stay on the weekend, a special Lazy Sunday offering with breakfast served until noon and a late check-out of 5pm.

Before heading back to London, we had some time to explore Berlin. I took a stroll around the Hackescher Markt, along the River Spree and over to Alexanderplatz, enjoying the bright and sunny day.

There’s always something new to see in the hip Mitte neighbourhood and one of my favourite new discoveries was Zeit für Brot, an artisan bakery with cinnamon buns in lots of flavours. I also loved shopping at CRUBA, Paper & Tea and Record Store Berlin.

I had such a wonderful weekend in Berlin and cannot stress enough just how memorable Scotch & Soda at Chamaeleon Theater really is. Berlin is beautiful at this time of year and there’s still plenty of time to see the show – book a flight immediately!

Scotch & Soda runs until 20th August at Chamaeleon Theater. For more information and booking, visit: www.chamaeleonberlin.com

Thanks to Chamaeleon Theater, NH Hotels, Hackescher Höfe and Berlin Card for a wonderful Berlin trip.

Photos by Chérie City (Scotch & Soda images by Andy Phillipson)

Berlin, Theatre

How to Spend 24 Hours in Berlin, Germany

October 31, 2016 by cheriecity

Last weekend, I hopped over to Berlin for a magical night out at the cabaret. However, it wasn’t the kind of decadent, kitsch show you might expect to find in Berlin – Chamaeleon Theater is all about ‘new circus’.

The whirlwind trip started with an early morning Eurowings flight, where I met the other lovely UK bloggers. After an easy journey from Tegel Airport into the city using the Berlin Welcome Card, we checked in to the Scandic Hotel Potsdamer Platz.

Lunch at Oliv Eat

Our first stop was lunch at Oliv Eat, a stylish, healthy eatery just 15 minutes walk from the hotel on Potsdamer Strasse. It’s in a quiet yet creative neighbourhood next to Acne Studio and the famous variety theatre Wintergarten, as well as a cluster of art galleries.

The menu is a mix of all-day breakfast dishes as well as larger plates and home-made cakes. I had Avocado on sourdough toast, which included chunky avocado with a lemon dressing and the most delicious bakery-fresh bread and a perfect poached egg. The others also enjoyed their colourful quinoa bowls and warming home-made soup.

After a quick look around Potsdamer Platz, we drove over to Rosenthaler Strasse in Berlin’s hip Mitte district for our night at the theatre. Chamaeleon Theater is tucked away in the Hackesche Höfe, a large complex with eight curious interconnecting courtyards.

The Chamaeleon Theater

The former ballroom was built in 1906 and its original Art Nouveau facade with decorative tiles has luckily survived until this day. Inside, the theatre is set up in a cabaret style with table seating and you can enjoy a full meal or antipasti board ahead of the show.

We met with the brilliant team behind the theatre and German bloggers over Champagne and nibbles on the newly-renovated balcony before heading down to our seats ready for the show.

The programme at Chamaeleon Theater changes twice a year and the current show is UNDERART: Ode to a Crash Landing, performed by Swedish new circus company, Cirkus Cirkör.

The Show

The concept of this awe-inspiring show is about overcoming the trauma of a crash and working back to a good place. Director Olle Standberg broke his neck doing a triple somersault in 2005 and was paralysed from the neck down. The show is based on his experience and begins with a harrowing expressive dance interpretation of his life-changing condition.

However, the show is much more uplifting than it may sound, even though I almost cried during one of the more emotional moments. It’s a stunning mix of dance and gravity-defying acrobatics set to mesmerising live electronic and acoustic music (think Goldfrapp and Fever Ray with a dash of lo-fi indie).

I won’t spoil the surprise too much, but there are some real ‘wow’ moment, as the agile performers leap off each other’s shoulders, balance on wooden stilts, hang suspended from the lighting rig and end up submerged in water upside down.

The Cast

After the show, we had the chance to meet some of the performers at the bar and they really are such magnetic, interesting people. They all arrived at the new circus company from different disciplines. Anna Ahnlund is a musician who found participating in the acrobatics a fun challenge while Methinee Wongtrakoon started as a contortionist and combines these impressive skills with dance. The company is one to watch and I can’t wait to see what they come up with next.

We then met with a tour guide who took us on a night walking tour of Berlin, passing sights such as Museum Island, the Berliner Dom, Hackescher Markt, Berlin Public Library, the River Spree and even Angela Merkel’s apartment building. It was a great way to see some of the city’s highlights in less than an hour and prepare our appetite for our evening meal.

Dinner at the top of the Reichstag

Dinner was a suitably spectacular affair at Käfer Dachgarten-Restaurant Berlin at the top of the Reichstag. Even at 9pm, there were queues for a tour of the historic German parliament building, but you’re able to skip the lines by dining at the high end restaurant (breakfast is a popular option).

The rooftop boasts some amazing views over the city and the glass dome looks magical lit up at night. Just like Norman Foster’s iconic glass dome, the restaurant has a sleek contemporary style and the menu is modern German to match.

We started with a warming, velvety Asian-style Hokkaido pumpkin soup with styrian oil and roasted sunflower seeds. I couldn’t help mopping it up with many slices of excellent German rye bread with salted butter, as I was feeling really peckish after the walking tour.

Next up was a super-indulgent Saddle of beef with Caesar crust, creamy savoy cabbage, carrot terrine, potato and hazelnut purée and Dijon mustard sauce. The beef was tender and juicy and the creamy, garlicky accompaniments and rich red wine mustard sauce complemented it well. Surprisingly, the portion size was enormous and I struggled to finish it. Be sure to bring your appetite and a stretchy waistband!

Dessert was more dainty yet still elaborate – Valrhona chocolate mousse with pear sorbet and rosehip pears. The chocolate mousse was exemplary and I loved the tiny, chewy chocolate macaron, dark chocolate curl and the refreshing, sweet pear sorbet. We finished the meal with coffee and tea served in cute ladybird china and left feeling full and happy.

The Hotel

After dinner, we arrived back at the Scandic Hotel Potsdamer Platz, ready for some much-needed sleep. This enormous, shiny hotel on Potsdamer Platz has a contemporary Scandinavian style and is the most eco-friendly hotel in Berlin. It also brings a touch of nature to the city with fun features such as birdsong in the lifts, tree trunk patterned carpets and majestic elk Lasse guarding the hotel.

The Room

My Superior Room was spacious yet cosy with a comfortable bed, large LCD TV, floor-to-ceiling windows, a rustic shearling-style chair, tea and coffee making facilities and best of all, a complimentary minibar stocked with premium soft drinks, water, wine and beer.

The bathroom was also modern and pristine with a bath and shower, a decorative nature window and wall-mounted bathroom products by Face Stockholm.

Breakfast

A perk of staying at Scandic Hotel Potsdamer Platz is the amazing buffet breakfast. The third-floor dining room is huge with a number of stations filled with over 150 breakfast items. There’s a hot selection of dishes, cured meats and cheeses, cereal, yoghurt, mini pastries, different breads and plaited brioche and the most delicious iced lemon cake. Guests with allergies or intolerances are also well cared for with a whole area dedicated to gluten- and dairy-free items.

My 24 hours in Berlin were so magical and it reminded me just how much can be packed in to a small amount of time. It’s the perfect itinerary for a memorable night out in Berlin

Many thanks to Chamaeleon Theater, Käfer Restaurant and Scandic Hotel Potsdamer Platz for an amazing time in Berlin.

Photos by Chérie City (interiors by Käfer Restaurant and UNDERART images by Chamaeleon Theater).

Berlin, Hotels

An Amazing Stay at Hotel Zoo Berlin

February 16, 2016 by cheriecity

Hotel Zoo is one of Berlin’s most fashionable hotels, nestled between designer stores on the city’s prestigious, tree-lined Kurfürstendamm.

It’s a visual feast for design lovers with exquisite, contemporary interiors by New York/LA design team Dayna Lee and Ted Berner. However, Hotel Zoo isn’t entirely new – it opened in 1911 and was once the official VIP hotel to the Berlin International Film Festival, attracting the likes of Romy Schneider and Sophia Loren.

Many newly-renovated hotels try to hide any trace of their old furnishing, but Hotel Zoo cleverly enlisted Swedish photographer Andreas Kock to capture the naughtier side of hotel life in the bedrooms before closing for renovation.

Arrival

Arriving at Hotel Zoo, you immediately feel like you’re entering a glamorous world as you walk the jade green leopard carpet through to the check-in desk. This leads on to the elegant lounge with floor-to-ceiling windows, a giant Alice in Wonderland-style door, over-sized mirrors, striking artwork and plush pink velvet sofas with Dali-esque gold coffee tables.

This buzzing space is bathed in natural light due to the gorgeous winter garden, complete with lanterns, open fire and sleek outdoor seating.

The Room

Our Grand Deluxe Room with a view over the Ku’damm was just as impressive as the public areas with the same lofty ceilings and attention to detail. The spacious room was designed in a palette of soft neutrals with opulent dark aubergine curtains covering both the windows and door, wood flooring and a sumptuous statement rug.

Room features include a large LCD flat-screen TV, executive writing desk, free wifi, Nespresso machine and a mini bar filled with gourmet treats from Dean & Deluca and Berlin-based producers. The king-size bed was extremely comfortable and covered in high quality linen with a number of plump pillows.

A stay at Hotel Zoo is made even more luxurious with its uber-cool partnership with Maison Margiela. The textiles in the room have been designed for the hotel by the avant-garde brand, including a chic wool throw, fluffy bathrobes and slippers and fringed bathroom towels. Also to be found in the minibar is a limited edition bottle green nail polish created by Uslu Airlines exclusively for Hotel Zoo – all available to buy at the hotel or online.

A Welcome Treat

We were very kindly welcomed with delicious and beautifully presented raspberry panna cotta, fresh berries and copious bottles of L’Eau Sans Souci mineral water. It was a perfect early afternoon treat before we set out for a long walk exploring the Ku’damm, Tiergarten and Potsdamer Platz.

The Bathroom

The bathroom is a joyful oasis of calm with a wide double sink, powerful rain shower, underfloor heating and full-size April Aromatics bathroom products blended specially for Hotel Zoo. I also loved the pretty butterfly mother of pearl tablet and trinket box and artisanal purple glasses – it’s rare to see so much thought put in to accessories to make the bathroom feel homely.

Breakfast

In the morning, we enjoyed a delicious buffet breakfast in the stunning Restaurant Grace. There was a good selection of items, from Continental cheeses to yoghurt with fruit purées and marble cake, and I particularly liked the dedicated tea station with an overwhelming range of loose-leaf infusions. Hot dishes such as pancakes and waffles can also be cooked to order.

In the evening, Restaurant Grace offers fresh and healthy Asian-inspired dishes such as sashimi, summer rolls, black cod, Maine lobster and beef Chinois. I would definitely come back for dinner on another trip to Berlin to experience this scene restaurant at night.

The seductive speakeasy Grace Bar attracts Berlin’s well-heeled fashion set and after 7pm, even hotel guests need to dress to impress to gain access. I personally prefer a more relaxing bar aimed towards the comfort of hotel guests in residence, but if you’re in the mood, there’s something rather decadent about rolling upstairs to your room after a glitzy night out in Berlin.

The only thing that could possibly be added to Hotel Zoo is a spa, however it has a partnership with the nearby Aveda Institute for beauty fixes.

Hotel Zoo is a fabulous place to stay in Berlin if you want stylish design with a lively, central location. With such sleek interiors and cosmopolitan atmosphere, you might not want to leave.

Chérie City was a guest of Hotel Zoo

Photos by Chérie City

Berlin, Hotels

A Luxury Stay at Hotel Adlon Kempinski Berlin

January 4, 2016 by cheriecity

Hotel Adlon Kempinski is the grande dame of Berlin hotels, standing majestically on the corner of Pariser Platz overlooking the Brandenburg Gate.

It’s a legendary hotel with quite a history and a stellar list of iconic past guests including Charlie Chaplin, Marlene Dietrich and Josephine Baker during Berlin’s Golden Twenties. Greto Garbo delivered her famous line, ‘I vant to be alone’ in one of its rooms while filming Grand Hotel and the hotel also gets a name-check by Liza Minnelli’s Sally Bowles in Cabaret. As a fan of historic hotels with character, that alone was enough to get me through the golden revolving door.

While the Adlon is steeped in history, in fact the building was destroyed in a fire in 1945, leaving ruins in its place for decades before it was entirely rebuilt and restored in the style of the original hotel in 1997. So accomplished was the regeneration, with its French-style balconies and verdigris roof, that it’s easy to believe the hotel had never went away.

Arriving at Hotel Adlon Kempinski, to a red carpet and a flurry of traditionally-dressed luggage porters, you know you’re somewhere very special. The bright, flower-filled Lobby Lounge and Bar offers plenty of old world glamour and a sense of calm, with a pianist playing jazz classics while guests enjoy afternoon tea, or a signature Adlon-Currywurst.

The Suite

We were warmly welcomed by the front desk staff and were shown to our Junior Suite with a spectacular view of the Brandenburg Gate. The circular entrance hall soon became my walk-in dressing room, as it was handily lined with fitted wardrobes and had a centre table and an additional door to the bathroom – excellent hotel room design, no?

Sliding doors led on to the large open-plan suite, designed in a colour palette of cream and ochre with highlights of mahogany and cherry wood. It felt stately yet cosy with a plush suede sofa in the living area and a very comfortable king-size bed. On the executive writing desk was an iPad for use during our stay and thankfully free wifi (it’s hard to believe but some high end hotel groups still charge for this).

A Welcome Treat

We were kindly welcomed with Moët & Chandon Champagne chilled on ice, copious fresh fruits and the most exquisite hand-made chocolates on a bed of mini chocolate chips (most likely for decoration but I couldn’t resist grazing on them later). There was also complimentary bottled mineral water by our beside and our room was thoughtfully turned down for our late-afternoon arrival.

Another lovely touch was the wake-up call complete with complimentary tea and mini pastries delivered to our room. Be sure to request a wake-up call the night before, so you can start the day in the sweetest way possible.

The Bathroom

The sleek mahogany wood and black granite bathroom was a real highlight, with a deep soaking tub in the centre of the room, a powerful walk-in shower, double sinks, plush bathrobes and slippers, a full set of Elemental Herbology bathroom products and Blaise Mautin bath salts.

Swimming Pool and Spa

After settling in to our suite, we hit the pool and sauna to unwind after a day of travelling. I was thrilled to find an opulent, Italian garden-inspired oasis with a tranquil, perfectly heated pool and a blissful whirlpool. The separate and mixed sauna and steam room were some of the hottest, most effective that I’ve encountered and there are plenty of mini Evian bottles and iced teas to keep you cool and hydrated.

The three-level Adlon Spa by Resense is quite spectacular, with beautiful Asian-style interiors by Anne Maria Jagfeld, stylish treatment rooms and a yoga studio. I highly recommend treating yourself to a spa treatment there if you have time for some serious pampering, as the spa is really something to see.

Dining at Adlon Kempinski

Dining is a big event at Hotel Adlon Kempinski with no less than four restaurants. The crown jewel of the hotel is the two Michelin star Lorenz Adlon Esszimmer with innovative fine dining by Chef de Cuisine Hendrick Otto and the hip, seductive pan-Asian Sra Bua by Berlin’s renowned chef Tim Raue. Le Petit Felix serves sunny Mediterranean dishes with a focus on the south of France while Quarré Restaurant is a classic brasserie where breakfast is served.

Breakfast

The bountiful breakfast buffet with live cooking stations is widely known as the most luxurious in Berlin – where else is Champagne and a selection of caviar included? You’ll want to schedule at least an hour to navigate the offering and indulge in pancakes, pastries, cured meats and smoked salmon before ordering some tasty Eggs Benedict (also included) to really ensure you’re set up for the day.

As if the breakfast buffet of dreams wasn’t enough already, our charming waiter presented us with a paper bag of Berliner doughnuts to munch on later – such a fun, thoughtful touch. We left feeling comfortably full and ready to explore the city.

While this prestigious part of Mitte isn’t the most lively at night, I thoroughly recommend staying at Hotel Adlon Kempinski if you’re planning to see sights such as the Brandenburg Gate, the Reichstag, the Holocaust Memorial, Potsdamer Platz and the leafy Tiergarten.

Our stay at Hotel Adlon Kempinski was so memorable, luxurious and incredibly relaxing. The friendly, enthusiastic staff really enhance the charm of the hotel and we always felt welcome and well looked after – everything that you could possibly desire from a five star Berlin hotel.

For more information and booking, visit: www.kempinski.com

Chérie City was a guest of Hotel Adlon Kempinski

Photos by Chérie City and Hotel Adlon Kempinski

Berlin, Cafes, Restaurants

Great Places to Eat Out in Berlin

October 8, 2015 by cheriecity

Berlin may be best-known for its signature currywurst, schnitzel, fresh pretzels and Berliner doughnuts, but its thrilling food scene has an international outlook.

With such innovative food, cool design and mostly affordable prices, you will be spoilt for choice on a city break in the German capital. My list of Berlin dining hotspots is ever-growing, but here are a few top places that you won’t want to miss…

Yumcha Heroes

This petite canteen in hip neighborhood Mitte serves top notch dim sum from 12 to 12 every day. It’s a contemporary take on the traditional Chinese tea house, offering a wide selection of steamed and fried dumplings, as well as soups, salads, grilled meats and chef’s signature dishes.

Yumcha Heroes is in a family of celebrated, design-led Chinese restaurants in Berlin, including Long March Canteen, Toca Rouge and Soya Cosplay, so you know you’re in good hands. In fact, it’s such a popular place that we counted ourselves very lucky to score a corner table as a walk-in at around 9pm – I didn’t realised at the time that they do in fact take reservations.

We started with a few dim sum, which are offered either steamed in a bamboo basket or grilled with pak choi. The generously-filled, hand-minced Black Beef Dumplings were punchy and well-seasoned, while Orange Prawns boasted whole, plump king prawns and a subtle ginger flavour. My favourite Xiao Long Bao (Shanghai dumplings filled with hot broth) were a real joy to eat and Cho You Bao – an enormous steamed bun filled with sweet pork – was fluffy yet substantial and ever so moreish.

Yumcha Heroes does dim sum in its own unique way, and that’s hearty, high quality and big portions. Be sure to get a table close to the open kitchen, so you can watch your tasty parcels being hand-wrapped.

NENI

Israeli chef Haya Molcho’s debut restaurant NENI regularly tops ‘Berlin’s best restaurants’ lists and it’s easy to see why.

Located on the 10th floor of the 25hours Hotel Bikini Berlin, NENI and the adjoining Monkey Bar offer spectacular, panoramic views of the Berlin Zoo. However, it’s the home-style cooking inspired by Haya’s nomadic travels that draws the crowds. Her signature cuisine – with a focus on small plates for sharing – is an eclectic blend of Persian, Russian, Arabic and Israeli with a few Spanish, German and Austrian influences.

While daytime at NENI (the initials represent Haya’s four sons), is like dining above the treetops, the evening is a slick, sexy affair with dimmed lighting and a lively atmosphere. As such, it’s essential to book far ahead – even then our slot was restricted to 9pm.

We started with a litre carafe of home-made iced tea and grazed on the most amazing Classic hummus, served with two large pieces of warm, freshly-baked pitta bread. Another delicious small plate was NENI-style Kebab – home-made beef and lamb patties with cilantro tahini and oven-baked vegetables. This dish was just like the Persian food of my childhood, so by this point I could tell that the cuisine was more than just a fashionable melting pot of cultures.

We were both tempted by the Chicken breast strips in a crispy almond coating with sweet potato fries and sweet chili sauce, so we ordered it as a large plate to share. The chicken was succulent and tender with a flavoursome, crunchy coating and the sweet potato fries were exemplary.

I highly recommend NENI for a stylish, sociable night out in Berlin – it really is a restaurant that you won’t want to miss.

Princess Cheesecake

I found my happy place in Berlin and it’s a small boutique and cafe called Princess Cheesecake. I’m pretty sure that Berlin’s favourite cake is cheesecake over strudel (from my extensive research on this trip), and here you can find any flavour and style under the sun. German cheesecake…Austrian cheesecake…New York cheesecake…Russian cheesecake – you name it, they bake it!

Once you’ve deliberated over which mouth-watering, luxurious cheesecake to sample, grab a seat in the Marie-Antoinette style tea salon or take in the sun on the pretty, highly Instagramable terrace. We shared a slice of Dancing the Meringue cheesecake – a delicate and fruity option with a cool, creamy layer of cheesecake studded with tart redcurrants, lightly-as-air meringue and a spiced, crumbly biscuit base.

We felt rather virtuous as we sipped on our lovely Samova Earl Grey tea, however cake envy soon ensued as the schoolgirl sitting next to us wolfed down a whole wedge of dense, brick-like New York cheesecake all to herself. A lesson learned – restraint is not a quality to encourage when at the temple of cheesecake!

Michelberger Hotel

Since I discovered Fountain of Youth coconut water last summer, I’ve been dying to check out its creator’s home – the Michelberger Hotel in edgy Friedrichshain. Unfortunately the restaurant was closed on the evening we visited, and we already had our hearts and bellies set on Yumcha Heroes, so we parked up at the lobby bar for some low-key drinks.

I wanted to get my Fountain of Youth fix, but Steven went for a whisky sour, which was nice and strong and perfectly mixed. In the summer, the courtyard is the place to be, or if you’re in the mood for a indie sing-along shenanigans, finish the night next door at Monster Ronson’s Ichiban Karaoke.

Where are your favourite places to eat in Berlin? Which restaurants are on your foodie wish list?

All photos by Chérie City

Berlin, Drinks, Hotels, Hotels - Budget, Hotels - Design, London

Fountain of Youth Coconut Water by The Michelberger Berlin

June 22, 2014 by cheriecity

Coconut water is having quite a moment and the best one I’ve tasted has got to be Fountain of Youth.

A lifestyle project from the hip Michelberger Hotel in Berlin, Fountain of Youth is simply 100% natural, fresh coconut water in an illustrated can (how cool is the ‘founder’ Monkey).

The collective behind the hotel fell in love with coconut water on a beach holiday and brought it back to their bar in Berlin.

Named Fountain of Youth for its health benefits, the hydrating coconut water is produced by a collective of small farmers from a region in Thailand known for the natural sweetness of its coconuts. In fact, it’s where the King of Thailand gets his coconut water from.

The Michelberger Hotel is a creative, affordable hotel in a Friedrichshain former factory, designed by Werner Aisslinger. Its courtyard and beer garden in particular is renowned for its all-night parties, gigs and DJ sets.

Open to everyone, it’s the place to sip a few experimental cocktails made with Fountain of Youth coconut water or the hotel’s very own Michelberger Booze.

However, there’s no need to hop on a plane to Berlin (although I am tempted), as Fountain of Youth is now available at various cool places in London. I tried a few cans of Fountain of Youth and am already craving more.

The clear coconut water is so subtly sweet and flavoursome that it’s delicious just on its own. However, I particularly liked blending it up with strawberries, blueberries and banana as a tasty smoothie.

For a simple cocktail in a can, Fountain of Youth suggests adding just a shot of white rum, a squeeze of lime and a straw. It can even be served hot with ginger and lime or in a healthy green juice with pear, avocado, raw kale, agave and fresh ginger.

I’m tempted to try the Monkey Diablo – 35ml of 100% Agave blanco tequila on ice, topped up with Fountain of Youth, drizzled with cassis and garnished with a spritz of lime.

Fountain of Youth coconut water is priced from £2.50 (330ml can) and £3.50 (520ml can). UK stockists include: Dalston Roof Park, Peckham Springs, Rita’s Bar & Dining, The Alibi, The London EDITION and Violet Cakes.

To buy online and read the brilliant story behind Monkey’s coconut water discovery, visit: www.michelbergermonkey.com

Photos by Chérie City and Michelberger Hotel

*samples

Beauty, Berlin

Shan Rahimkhan Haircare Collection Launch At The Soho Hotel

March 17, 2011 by cheriecity

Last night, Handpicked Media bloggers got together for a very stylish evening with cult Berlin hair expert Shan Rahimkhan at The Soho Hotel.

Shan Rahimkhan’s eponymous hair collection has just launched at Harvey Nichols, so we were given a rare opportunity to meet with Shan Rahimkhan and his right-hand man, stylist Fabio F.D’Acri, for personal hair consultations, a prescribed product regime and hair styling.

Based in Berlin’s central Gendarmenmarkt district, Shan Rahimkhan Casa is a chic lifestyle concept store that includes a hair salon, a boutique stocking designer products sourced from all over Europe and a cafe that turns into a sleek cocktail bar at night.

Shan told us that he created the hair collection to bring volume and moisture to fine hair. With many volumising product, you often have to sacrifice nourishment and hydration for extra body.

Shan Rahimkhan products are completely natural and free from all the paraben and sulphate nasties that leave residue on the hair. The collection includes active natural ingredients such as Bamboo, Aloe Vera juice, Tamanou Oil, Quinoa and Argan Oil.

Shan Rahimkhan styles the hair of A-listers such as Jennifer Aniston and Charlize Theron when they’re in Berlin, so of course I jumped at the chance to have a bespoke up-do by the master.

I did have a professional blow dry at Taylor Made salon the night before, so I wasn’t too embarrassed about my locks, but after a harsh winter, they’re not in the best condition.

I sat in the styling chair and after a quick surveying of my hair, Shan immediately knew how to style my hair. After just five minutes of back-combing, pinning and a finishing spritz, I had softly tousled red carpet hair.

My hair was full of volume and the few loose strands of hair perfectly framed my face. Of course, A-list hair needs an occasion, so Katie Chutzpah and I headed out into Soho for drinks at The QV Bar at Quo Vadis.

The products I was given to try out were True Colour Shampoo, True Colour Shiny Gold Treatment and Supreme Volumizing Double Phase Leave-In Treatment.

The shampoo lathered well and I only had to use a tiny amount to get my hair super clean. My hair was ready for some indulgence, so I used the Shiny Gold treatment, which brings out natural gold tones, and found it to be light and moisturising.

I was sceptical about replacing my usual conditioner for a leave-in conditioner spray, but it instantly softened my hair and made it manageable. Best of all, it reduces my time in the shower and smells incredible.

I’m already sold on the Shan Rahimkhan collection, but I’ll road test the products properly and post an update soon.

Now I just wish that Shan Rahimkhan would open a sister salon in London, as I’m already tempted by a weekend trip to Berlin!

Shan Rahimkhan products are now available at Harvey Nichols. For more information on Shan Rahimkhan Casa, visit: www.shanrahimkhan.de

Berlin, Events, Hotels - Design, Music

Berlin Festival in style!

July 14, 2010 by cheriecity

The fifth annual Berlin Festival (10-11 September 2010) looks set to be one of the coolest city festivals of the summer, with amazing acts such as Fever Ray, LCD Soundsystem, Editors, Caribou, Hot Chip, Boys Noize, Adam Green and Atari Teenage Riot.

Taking over Berlin’s historic Tempelhof Airport for two days of partying, Berlin Festival is perfect for people who like short but full-on festivals close to the capital’s hotels and culture, rather than camping out in the middle of nowhere.

Bordering Neukoln and Kreuzberg, the venue in Tempelhof is just 1o minutes drive from Mitte (Berlin’s city centre) or a short train ride away on the U-Bahn, so you can get back have a sleep, do some exploring or carry on the party in Berlin.

The whole line-up looks pretty much ideal, but my must-see artists would be Adam Green for his oddball, anti-folk tales, Mit for some noisy disco and cowbells and Atari Teenage Riot for the sheer carnage that will ensue (their London performance this year was mad but nothing compared to Berlin).

As it you need any more persuasion, here are the line-up lists so far…

Friday, 10th September:

Editors, Fatboy Slim, LCD Soundsystem, Fever Ray, Atari Teenage Riot, Robyn, Adam Green, 2manydjs (live), Blood Red Shoes, Caribou, Erol Alkan, Junip, Herman Dune, Goose, Mit, Norman Palm, Zola Jesus, Barbara Panther, Bon Homme, Le Corps Mince Du Francoise, De Staat, Spleen United, Megaphonic Thrift, Jesse, Cast Of Cheers, Therese Aune, Boemklatsch and many more…

Saturday, 11th September:

Hot Chip, Soulwax, Tricky, Boys Noize, Peaches, “Chilly” Gonzales, Lali Puna, Wedding Present performing Bizarro, Superpunk, We Have Band, Seabear, Neon Indian, Baby Monster, Fang Island, Shadow Dancer, Djedjotronic, Les Petit Pilous, Housemeister, Strip Steve & Das Glow, Kimono, Rich Aucoin, Yes Cadets and many more…

Berlin has a number of cool hostels and apartments, but if you’re after more of a comfortable city break, luxury design hotel, The Weinmeister Berlin-Mitte just opened last week in Berlin’s fashion-forward, cafe lined Mitte district.

Created by the owners of chic apart-hotel Lux 11, The Weinmeister Berlin-Mitte mixes contemporary high design with handmade artisan touches to create a homely and unique atmosphere that reflects Mitte’s creative spirit.

The room’s focal point is the oversized and incredibly comfy-looking, avant-garde sleigh bed that I can imagine is like sleeping in the Batmobile.

All rooms are technological hubs and come with an Apple iMac instead of a TV, which seems to be a growing trend among new design hotels, and iPads are available for hire.

Contrasting with the futuristic element are handmade furnishing using organic materials, including natural oak shelves and interesting hand-crafted lamps.

Another hotel trend seems to be removing the boundaries between the bedroom and bathroom, presumably for more fluidity and because having a free-standing bath just looks so cool. On a recent trip to Spain, both of my hotel rooms had open-plan bathroom areas but with a Japanese-style wooden door partition.

To be honest, I like to have a bit of bathroom privacy, as you can unwind in peace, but I’m also open to the idea of moving from bath to bed in one decadent move.

All guest bathrooms are kitted out with an Asprey London cosmetics box, fluffy bathrobes and tailor-made pyjamas, just to make you feel at home.

There’s almost too much temptation not to leave the hotel, with its ClubLounge, Schwarz bar (named after German film actress Jessica Schwarz) and a restaurant serving traditional German dishes with a contemporary twist. There is also a whirlpool and sauna, 24-hour room service menu and breakfast.

There is also an invitation-only rooftop area with a bar, which I presume all hotel guests are able to visit, although this is worth checking with the hotel first.

The hotel is within walking distance of some of the most style-concious streets in Berlin – Oranienberger Strasse with its amazing Pan-Asian terrace restaurants, cool bars and art squats, Hackescher Markt with its cafe-filled viaduct arches (perfect for observing Berlin street style) and the conceptual boutiques of Rosenthaler Strasse.

The Weinmeister Berlin-Mitte is offering a special opening rate of 129 EUR per night until the end of August and starts from 189 EUR during the Berlin Festival.

Berlin Festival takes place at Berlin Tempelhof Airport on 10-11 September.

*Cherie City hasn’t had the pleasure to visit this hotel, so cannot personally recommend it…yet. This post is purely to offer travel ideas, so if you’ve stayed at this hotel, please leave a comment and let us know if it really is as fab as it looks!