by Hugo, aged 35, for everyone

Bohemian Berlin: Camping, architecture, beer gardens & public art.

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Hugo's experience was in Berlin, Germany. He went on 15 of July 2007 for 1 day. He went for tourism, culture, nightlife, relaxation. Hugo went with a friend. He got there and around by walking, train, airplane or helicopter. Hugo's verdict is: recommended.

Last weekend I had a cheeky trip to Berlin to visit Christian , a friend who is writing the Rough Guide to Berlin. What better opportunity to catch up with a friend and get a personal tour of this great city.

Christian was insisting on being an authentic Rough Guide punter by staying in a campsite called Tent Station, which is pretty much in the centre of Berlin. I am a fan of tents and all that, although I must say I prefer it when the tent is the only accommodation option around because you are in the wilderness. However, as it turns out the bohemian Tent Station campsite is the perfect introduction to Bohemian Berlin. Set-up in a dis-used Lido complex it has a relaxed and fun atmosphere that gets you in the mood for Berlin's intriguing cultural mix of anarchic counter-culture (eat your heart out Haight Ashbury and Notting Hill). Bars and clubs are more like what I imagine a squat to look like with a touch of artistic (and art thrown in).

Tent Station Campsite in Berlin

Berlin TentStation website: http://www.tentstation.de/englisch/index.php

The converted Lido complex and Bar now at Tent Station

What I enjoyed most about Berlin was the relaxed beer gardens (which are suprisingly family orientated), the Go-Karting (see other experience), the amazing architecture and public art.

Comments

jesikha says...

whoah.. i've never heard of this tent station and i live there! was it comfortable? what part of town?

Posted 487 days ago.
Hugo says...

Yes, sorry, I forgot to link to it. TentStation is on Seydlitzstrasse within close walking distance of the new central train station. It is hard to spot on the street, even if you are looking for it, so I am not suprised you have not heard of it. Very low key but rather a useful gem to know about.

Here is a link:
http://www.tentstation.de/englisch/index.php

Yes, it was comfortable enough. The bar/ complex was in a fun setting and they organise regular entertainment like bands to come and play. The actual amenities were pretty poor. I think they are not certain how long they will be able to use the location for so perhaps are holding back on proper investment - or perhaps that is just Berlin cool for you?

Posted 487 days ago.
RB says...

do you have any other friends in other places who are writing Rough Guides? Sounds like the perfect way to get to know a place.

Posted 461 days ago.
Hugo says...

Having friends as travel writers is a bonus but on this site I guess everyone is a travel writer!

Posted 456 days ago.