Travelling Fletchers

It was time to leave – another early start to catch a train to Kiel. This time it was a local train, a fairly short journey by comparison.

As we left our apartment, I had a moment to reflect on all we’d done since arriving. We’d packed so much in – learnt plenty – but most importantly, we’d laughed together.

One of my favourite laughs came in the ‘well equipped’ kitchen. I say that not only because this was how it was described but also because it was very precise – exactly 4 plates, 4 bowls, 4 knives, 4 forks, 4 spoons. Four coffee cups and four mugs. Perfect for a family of four.

But scissors? Nowhere to be found. Opening any packet became a slow and careful exercise in knife skills.

The real surprise came when I spotted what was in the cutlery drawer – 4 cake forks!

Which, when you think about it, makes perfect sense here. Berliners take their Kaffee und Kuchen very seriously – that daily mid-afternoon ritual of coffee and cake. And not just any cake – think Käsekuchen, Bienenstich, Black Forest, and, of course, the Berliner Pfannkuchen doughnut. In this city, cake clearly takes priority over scissors.

Berlin – a city to return to

We loved the city – and the feeling of space that comes from being bombed in WW2 and then rebuilt.

Getting around has been so easy. The subway is wonderfully simple, with numbered tube lines that make navigation a breeze. The trams are quiet, regular, and just as easy to use.

People are happy to chat – and if you try a little German, they smile before replying in English. The point is, they welcome everyone. And it’s such a clean city too.

Most of all, Berlin is layered with history – and we didn’t even cover half of it. But that’s ok. We’ve left plenty for next time. And I’m sure there will be a next time.

Next stop – Kiel.