Day 1: 15.05.2024
Morning: Journey and Hotel Check-In
Our group, comprising young girls from Poland and Germany, set off on an educational and cultural trip to Berlin. We departed from Frankfurt (Oder) and took a train to Berlin, filled with excitement and anticipation for the days ahead.
Upon arrival in Berlin, we checked into our hotel. The girls were eager to start exploring the city, so after a brief rest, we headed out for our first activity.
Afternoon: Visit to the Bundesrat
Our first stop was the Bundesrat, where we were met by a knowledgeable tour guide. The guide provided a detailed explanation of the German democratic system, focusing on how laws are made in Germany. The girls learned about the roles of the Bundesrat and the Bundestag and how representatives from each federal state discuss and vote on legislation. This visit gave the girls a deeper understanding of the intricacies of German politics and the importance of democratic processes.
Early Evening: City Tour and Historical Sites
After our enlightening tour at the Bundesrat, we walked to Potsdamer Platz, a vibrant area of Berlin rich in history and modern attractions. Here, we began a city tour that highlighted significant historical landmarks.
- Berlin Wall Remnants: We explored the remaining pieces of the Berlin Wall, with our guides providing a briefing on the Cold War, the division of Berlin, and the eventual reunification of Germany. The girls were fascinated by the stories of courage and resilience associated with this period.
- Brandenburg Gate: Next, we visited the iconic Brandenburg Gate, an enduring symbol of Berlin’s history and unity. The girls took numerous photos and enjoyed the lively atmosphere around the monument.
- Holocaust Memorial: Our tour also included a visit to the Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe. This poignant site commemorates the Jewish victims of the Holocaust. The girls walked through the stelae and reflected on the importance of remembering history to prevent future atrocities.
Evening: Dinner and Relaxation
To conclude our first day, we had dinner at the Mall of Berlin. The variety of dining options allowed everyone to find something they liked, and the meal provided a chance for the girls to relax and share their thoughts about the day’s experiences.
Overall, our first day in Berlin was both educational and moving. The girls gained valuable insights into German history and democracy, setting the tone for the rest of our trip.
Day 2: 16.05.2024
Morning: Breakfast and Berlin Zoo Visit
We started our second day in Berlin with a hearty breakfast at the hotel, ensuring the girls were well-energized for a day of adventure. After breakfast, we headed to the renowned Berlin Zoo, one of the oldest and most famous zoos in the world.
Upon arrival at the zoo, we separated into smaller groups at the entrance to explore the various animal exhibits. This allowed the girls to discover the zoo at their own pace and according to their interests.
- Panda House: One of the highlights was the Panda House. Here, the girls learned about the strong diplomatic relationship between Germany and China, exemplified by the pandas gifted from China. Our guide explained the meticulous process of transporting the pandas and the extensive care measures taken to ensure their well-being, contributing to global efforts in panda conservation.
- Other Animals: The girls were thrilled to see a variety of animals including elephants, hippos, and sea dogs. They also marveled at the diversity of birds and other wildlife, each exhibit offering a unique learning experience about different species and their habitats.
- Aquarium: Our visit also included a tour of the aquarium. The vibrant marine life captivated the girls’ attention as they competed to take the most selfies with the animals, making the experience both educational and fun.
Afternoon: Leisure Time and Dinner
After an exciting morning at the zoo, we headed to an Italian restaurant for dinner. The girls enjoyed a delicious meal, sharing their favorite moments and the interesting facts they had learned during the day. This relaxed setting provided a perfect opportunity for socializing and bonding over shared experiences.
Evening: Return to Hotel
We concluded the day by returning to the hotel. The girls were enthusiastic about their adventures and eager to rest in preparation for the next day’s activities.
Day 3: 17.05.2024
Morning: Visit to Museum Barberini
Our third day began with a visit to the Museum Barberini in Potsdam. Upon arrival, we were greeted by our guide, Mr. Stephan, who led us on an engaging tour of the museum. He introduced us to the world of Impressionism, focusing on the works of the renowned painter Claude Monet. The girls were captivated by Monet’s vibrant and evocative paintings, gaining a deeper appreciation for this influential art movement.
- Workshop: After the tour, we participated in a workshop on the first floor of the museum. The hands-on activities allowed the girls to explore their creativity and apply the techniques they learned about during the tour. It was a fun and educational experience that enhanced their understanding of Impressionist art.
Afternoon: Sanssouci Palace and Potsdam Old Town
Following our time at the museum, we visited the majestic Sanssouci Palace. The girls enjoyed a free tour of the palace and its beautiful gardens, marveling at the opulent architecture and rich history of the former summer residence of Frederick the Great, King of Prussia.
After exploring Sanssouci, we gathered in Potsdam Old Town for lunch. The charming atmosphere of the old town provided a perfect backdrop for our meal, and the girls enjoyed trying local dishes and sharing their impressions of the palace and the museum.
Evening: Europafest 2024 in Potsdam
In the afternoon, we attended the Europafest 2024 in Potsdam. This festival was a vibrant event where various organizations showcased their initiatives funded by the European Union. The girls had the opportunity to learn about different projects and the impact of EU funding on local communities.
- Political Engagement: The festival also featured political parties promoting the upcoming European elections in June 2024. The girls engaged with representatives, learning about the importance of the elections and how they could shape the future of Europe. This experience provided valuable insights into civic engagement and the democratic process.
Return to Hotel: Dinner and Reflection
After a day full of learning and exploration, we headed to the train station for our journey back to Berlin. We had dinner at the station, allowing the girls to relax and reflect on their experiences. Back at the hotel, we discussed the day’s highlights and the knowledge they had gained.
Day 4: 18.05.2024
Morning: Visit to the Bundestag
Our fourth day started with breakfast at the hotel, as usual, preparing us for another day of exploration. We then visited the Bundestag, the German federal parliament.
- Bundestag Dome: We ascended to the top of the Bundestag Dome, where we listened to an informative audio guide available in different languages. The guide detailed the history of the Bundestag and its crucial role in preserving democracy in Germany. The panoramic views of Berlin from the dome were breathtaking and provided a unique perspective on the city’s layout and landmarks.
Afternoon: Alexanderplatz and DDR Museum
After our visit to the Bundestag, we proceeded to Alexanderplatz for an open tour. The bustling square, known for its iconic TV tower and vibrant atmosphere, offered plenty of sights and activities.
- Lunch: We had lunch at one of the many eateries in Alexanderplatz, allowing everyone to choose from a variety of local and international cuisines.
- DDR Museum: Post lunch, we visited the DDR Museum. This interactive museum provided the girls with an immersive experience of life in East Germany during the Cold War. They engaged with exhibits showcasing everyday life, politics, and culture in the former GDR, which deepened their understanding of Germany’s divided past.
Evening: Spree River Walk, Berlin Wall, and Cultural Carnival
We continued our day with a leisurely walk along the Spree River, where we enjoyed the scenic views and historical sites, including remnants of the Berlin Wall. The walk offered the girls a chance to reflect on the historical significance of the wall and the impact of its fall on German reunification.
- Dinner: We had dinner at an Italian restaurant near Ostbahnhof. The delicious food and cozy ambiance provided a perfect setting for the girls to relax and share their thoughts on the day’s activities.
- Night Walk and Cultural Carnival: After dinner, we took a night walk through Berlin to experience the city’s vibrant nightlife and cultural scene. We visited the Carnival of Cultures, an annual festival celebrating Berlin’s diversity with music, dance, and food from around the world. The lively performances and colorful displays were a highlight, making it a memorable end to the day.
Day 5: 19.05.2024
Morning: Hotel Check-Out and Berliner Unterwelten Museum
On the final day of our trip, we began with breakfast at the hotel, fueling up for our last adventure in Berlin. After breakfast, we checked out of the hotel, ensuring all belongings were packed and ready for our return journey.
Our last visit was to the Berliner Unterwelten Museum, which provided a fascinating exploration of Berlin’s underground history. The museum offers insights into the city’s subterranean world, including bunkers, tunnels, and escape routes used during World War II and the Cold War. The girls were intrigued by the stories of resilience and ingenuity associated with these hidden spaces, adding a unique perspective to their understanding of Berlin’s history.
Afternoon: Return to Frankfurt (Oder)
After our tour of the Berliner Unterwelten Museum, we made our way back to Frankfurt (Oder). The journey was filled with reflections on the trip, as the girls shared their favorite moments and the new knowledge they had gained about Berlin and its rich history.
Conclusion
Our trip to Berlin was a resounding success, providing the girls with a blend of educational experiences, cultural insights, and memorable adventures. From learning about democracy at the Bundestag to exploring the city’s historical landmarks and engaging with contemporary cultural events, each day was filled with opportunities for growth and discovery.
The girls returned to Frankfurt (Oder) with a deeper appreciation for history, art, and the importance of cultural exchange, carrying with them wonderful memories and newfound friendships.