Elite Traveler May-June 2015

107 elite traveler MAY/JUNE 2015 ISSUE 3

Be a Berliner

Germany’s capital is growing up . Google and Twitter have opened offices here, joining hundreds of young IT start-ups, such as music streaming service Soundcloud. It lends credence to the hype that Berlin is turning into Europe’s Silicon Valley. Money is pouring in and architects – Frank Gehry and David Chipperfield to name two – are designing modern landmarks and renovating historic cultural institutions such as Museum Island, in the developing central area of Mitte. Ambitious restaurants are opening in even the grittiest neighborhoods and once-deserted corners of the city, such as Gleisdreieck – an abandoned railway – are being turned into contemporary public spaces. No wonder Berlin is the third most-visited European city. From art exhibitions to luxury concept stores, there is something for everyone.

By Gisela Williams