Berlin's BEST Hotel? InterContinental Berlin Review! ✨
Berlin's BEST Hotel? InterContinental Berlin Review! ✨ (Brace Yourself, It's Gonna Get Real)
Okay, so let's talk about the InterContinental Berlin. "Best" is a BIG word, right? But after my stay, I'm leaning in that direction. Not because it's flawlessly perfect – no place is – but because it gets it. It understands the blend of luxury and practicality that a modern traveler craves, especially when exploring a city as vibrant and layered as Berlin.
First, the stage setting. I arrived, bleary-eyed and with the kind of luggage situation that screams "I packed everything and the kitchen sink." But the doorman? Smooth. The check-in? Faster than I could say "Currywurst." Seriously, the "Contactless check-in/out" was a godsend after a long flight, and the "Elevator" meant I didn't have to haul my suitcase up some ancient spiral staircase. Whew.
Accessibility: A+ (Mostly)
Let's be real, accessibility is crucial. InterContinental Berlin clearly cares. "Wheelchair accessible" is a big win, and I noticed "Elevator" access everywhere, including for the pool and spa. The rooms are designed with "Facilities for disabled guests" in mind.
Rooms: Sanctuary Found
My room? A damn oasis. "Air conditioning" that actually worked, not some weak-kneed whisperer. "Blackout curtains" that banished the Berlin light (needed after a late night exploring the city's hotspots!). "Internet access – wireless" that actually worked (and free – thank the travel gods!). The "Bed" itself? Clouds of down comforters and pillows - a dream. The "Mini bar" was stocked, the "Refrigerator" hummed, and the "Coffee/tea maker" was a lifesaver. I'm a caffeine fiend, and the "Complimentary tea" was a very nice touch. Oh, and the "Slippers" were so soft I could have kept them on forever. Honestly, I could've stayed in that room for a week solid and been perfectly content.
Bathroom Bliss (and a Minor Quibble)
The "Private bathroom" was spacious and spotless. The "Bathtub" was deep enough to actually soak in, with ample "Toiletries." The "Shower" pressure was perfect (important!), and the "Hair dryer" was surprisingly powerful. However, I will drop a minor rant on the "Bathroom phone" – did anyone actually use those anymore? Seemed a bit… archaic? Other than that, no complaints. The "Mirror" was excellent for pre-dinner self-assessment.
Cleanliness and Safety: Feeling Safe Feels Good
This is where the InterContinental truly shined. "Anti-viral cleaning products," "Daily disinfection in common areas," "Rooms sanitized between stays"… they're serious about this. It gave me a real sense of security. The staff were constantly cleaning, hand sanitizer was everywhere, and the "Hand sanitizer" stations were strategically placed (and not empty!). The commitment to "Physical distancing of at least 1 meter" was noticeable, but mostly kept to by guests and staff alike. I felt genuinely safe, and that's priceless. Security was visible but unobtrusive – the "CCTV in common areas" gave me a good feeling.
Dining, Drinking, and Snacking: Food Glorious Food!
Okay, buckle up, because the food situation at the InterContinental is chef's kiss.
Breakfast? YES, PLEASE. The "Breakfast [buffet]" was a magnificent spread. From the usual suspects ("Western breakfast" staples) to more exciting options like freshly made omelets and "Asian breakfast" options. The "Coffee/tea in restaurant" kept the caffeine flowing.
The Restaurants: I'd say the main restaurant was where I had an absolutely amazing meal. I tried the "A la carte in restaurant" with some delicious dishes of "International cuisine."
Poolside Bar: Heaven! The "Poolside bar" was the perfect place to sip a cocktail and unwind, it was very pleasant.
A little hiccup: The "Room service [24-hour]" was a lifesaver more than once, especially after a long day of sightseeing. The food was delicious, and the delivery was prompt and efficient. I didn't try a "Snack bar" but heard great things.
Things to Do & Ways to Relax: Spoil Yourself!
This is where the InterContinental really ups the ante.
The Pool: The "Swimming pool [outdoor]" was a glorious respite. The "Pool with view" was a definite highlight. The surrounding decor was aesthetically pleasing. Bliss. Pure Bliss.
Spa Time! The "Spa" was a total game-changer. I indulged in a "Foot bath" and a "Massage" and emerged feeling like a new woman. The "Sauna" and "Steamroom" were perfect for detoxing after a day of indulging in Berlin's culinary delights.
Fitness Fanatics: If you are one of those people, the "Fitness center" is well-equipped and has plenty of space.
Services and Conveniences: They Thought of Everything!
The InterContinental is a well-oiled machine. "Concierge," "Daily housekeeping," "Dry cleaning," "Laundry service," "Luggage storage," and "Currency exchange" – they’ve got you covered. The "Cash withdrawal" ATM was a blessing. I'd highly recommend the "Gift/souvenir shop." I even saw a "Shrine" for some lovely art.
For the Kids: Family-Friendly Fun
While I don't have any kids, I saw plenty of families. The hotel offers "Babysitting service," and "Kids meal" options. The "Family/child friendly" vibe was definitely present.
Getting Around: Easy Peasy
The InterContinental is super convenient. "Airport transfer" was easy, "Taxi service" readily available, and they had a "Car park [on-site]" if you need it.
Let's Talk Money (and Value)
Look, the InterContinental isn't a budget hotel. But you're paying for an experience – the location, the service, the amenities. And for what you get? I think it's worth every penny.
The Verdict:
The InterContinental Berlin is a winner. It's luxurious, it's comfortable, it's safe, and it's impeccably run. The staff are genuinely friendly and helpful. The facilities are top-notch. It's not perfect, but it's damn close.
My Unvarnished Recommendation:
If you're looking for a truly memorable stay in Berlin – one where you can relax, explore, and feel utterly pampered – book the InterContinental. You won't regret it. I'm already planning my return!
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**Lux 11 Berlin Mitte: The Most Exclusive Apartment You've Never Seen**
Okay, buckle up, buttercups, because this isn't going to be your sanitized, perfectly-formatted travel brochure itinerary. This is me, flailing through Berlin (metaphorically, hopefully, although…you never know) and documenting it for posterity. Or, you know, until I forget to save the file. Here we go:
Berlin: A Love Letter (Probably) and a Series of Slightly Embarrassing Events – An Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival, Awkward Encounters, and the "Oh, THAT'S Why They Call It Berlin" Moment
Morning (ish): Arrive at Tegel Airport (RIP, old friend!). Passport control? Smooth. Baggage claim? Smooth. Finding a taxi? Okay, that was less smooth. Apparently, my German is limited to "Danke" and "Bier," which, frankly, got me further than I expected. Managed to wave down a taxi and vaguely communicate my destination: InterContinental Berlin. The driver… well, let's just say he had opinions on tourists. And my luggage. And probably my life choices, judging by the side eye.
Afternoon: Check-in. The InterContinental is… well, it's fancy. Like, "I-might-accidentally-break-something-and-then-cry-in-a-corner" fancy. The lobby is all marble and chandeliers, and I immediately felt underdressed in my travel-worn jeans. My room is… HUGE. And has a view. An excellent view. I promptly dropped my bag (after almost tripping over it), did a little happy dance (don't judge), and then immediately spilled coffee on the pristine white duvet. Bravo, me.
Late Afternoon/Early Evening: I venture out. Armed with a map and a naïve sense of adventure, I figure I can conquer the city! Wrong. I stumble around, feeling like a lost puppy, for a good hour. Finally, I locate the Brandenburg Gate. Majestic. Impressive. Filled with, you guessed it, other tourists. I get some photos, get bumped into approximately 17 times, and then get accosted by a guy in a weird suit trying to sell me a "Berlin Experience Tour" he looks like he has been up all night. I politely decline, but now I'm paranoid that he might be secretly following me.
Evening: Dinner. I try to find a restaurant that looks decent. The first place I walk into is packed and I cannot understand anything the waiter says. I'm getting hot and bothered. Eventually, I stumble across a cozy little place tucked away on a side street, a traditional German restaurant with a very grumpy-looking waitress. Ordering is a challenge. My German is, again, useless. I attempt to point at the menu, hoping for the best. I end up with something…meat-heavy. But also delicious. I have a pint of local beer that's the best thing that's happened to me all day. The waitress is still grumpy, but I'm starting to warm up to her. The whole thing feels authentically German, in a perfectly messy, slightly irritating, and wholly satisfying way.
- Emotional Reaction: Finally a good meal. I am so happy. I am now at peace with being a tourist.
Late Night: Back at the hotel. I try to figure out the TV. I fail. Give up and fall asleep.
- Quirky Observation: Berlin is a city of contrasts. Grand architecture juxtaposed with street art. Trendy cafes next to old-school pubs. And a whole lot of people walking really, really fast.
Day 2: History, Heartbreak and a Very Long Walk
Morning (Again, ish): Breakfast at the hotel. The buffet is an absolute feast. I try everything. Feel vaguely guilty. Then I decide to just embrace it and get seconds.
Mid-Morning: A visit to the East Side Gallery. The remnants of the Berlin Wall. An incredible, moving experience. Graffiti art covering the remaining wall; it's vibrant, political, and damn beautiful. I spend a lot of time wandering along the gallery, reading the messages. It's heavy, it's emotional, and it's a reminder of a painful past. I’m almost moved to tears (again) It makes me feel strangely hopeful. It's a reminder of the resilience of the human spirit.
- Doubling Down on an Experience: I'm transfixed by a particular piece, a portrait of two men kissing. It feels powerful, and it reminds me of how far we still have to go. I spend ages just staring, thinking, feeling… I find myself deeply moved by it just standing there.
Afternoon: Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe. This is… overwhelming. The sheer scale of it is hard to comprehend. Walking through the rows of concrete slabs is disorienting and sombre.
- Emotional Reaction: I feel the weight of history. Of loss. It's almost suffocating. I need air. This place is not just a museum; it's a reminder.
Late Afternoon: A long, long walk through Tiergarten park. I'm tired. My feet hurt. But the sun is shining, the air is fresh, and it's peaceful. I find a bench and just sit and watch the world go by.
- Messier Structure and Occasional Rambles: I started thinking about my life back home, about the people I love, and about how lucky I am. I’m now also questioning my life decisions.
Evening: Dinner at a small Italian place. The pasta is amazing, the wine is flowing. I feel… better. Lighter. Ready to face another day (or at least, the next few hours).
Late Night: I have a drink at the hotel bar. It's sophisticated, but I'm still slightly out of place. I people-watch, and make mental notes to learn at least some German.
Day 3: Museums, Misunderstandings, and the Quest for the Perfect Schnitzel (and the Subsequent Food Coma)
Morning: Museum Island! I'm somewhat overwhelmed by the number of choices. I opt for the Pergamon Museum because, you know, the Pergamon Altar! Majestic. Impressive. Lots of walking. My feet are protesting loudly at this point.
Afternoon: Shopping? Because I have to. I stumble upon some amazing stores, but alas, my budget is not matching the level of my desire. I buy a scarf. It's red. I love it.
Late Afternoon: The quest for the perfect schnitzel begins. I ask a local for a recommendation. He gives me a very long, very detailed explanation in rapid-fire German that I completely fail to understand. I nod and smile and head off in the general direction he gestured. Result: I end up wandering around, getting lost again.
Evening: Finally, I actually find a place. It's busy, bustling, and the air is thick with the smell of deliciousness. I order the schnitzel and beer. The schnitzel arrives. It's massive. It's golden brown. It’s the most beautiful thing I’ve ever seen. I devour it. I eat all of it. I feel a level of satisfaction deep in my soul. After a long wait the food coma kicks in.
- Stronger Emotional Reactions: The schnitzel was heavenly. I almost cried. I almost proposed marriage to the cook. I was that happy.
Late Night: back in my room. I watch some tv, I crash.
Day 4: Good-byes, Reflections, and the Promise "I must Come Back".
Morning: One last breakfast. I get a pastry. It's good. But not Schnitzel good. Check out of the hotel. Say good-bye to the view.
Afternoon: Depart from Berlin.
Emotional Reaction: Say good bye with mixed feelings.
- Opinionated Language and Natural Pacing: Berlin is a complicated city, but definitely worth it.
Quirky Observation: I'm not sure what I expected from Berlin, but it completely exceeded my expectations. I will come back.
And that, my friends, is that. A slightly chaotic, slightly embarrassing, and ultimately wonderful trip. Until next time, Berlin!
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Berlin's InterContinental: The Good, The Bad, and The REALLY Weird (Trust Me)
Is the InterContinental Berlin actually "the best"? What's the hype?
The vibe is so much more on the history and old-school aspect. And honestly, it works. If it's Instagrammable, you're probably gonna be disappointed.
Location, Location, Location...Is it *really* as good as everyone says?
Let's talk rooms. Are they luxurious? Worth the price tag?
The Spa! Spill the beans, is it worth a visit?
Food & Drink - The Restaurants and Bars. What's the deal?
Is there anything REALLY bad about the InterContinental?
Would you stay there again?
