Three Familiar Cities, New Adventures
My journey next took me to three cities I had visited before.
After a single-night stay, where I enjoyed traditional German fare at the Gasthaus zum Hirsch in Kriftel, I first found myself in the bustling city of Frankfurt.
Connecting With Expats in Frankfurt
I had the opportunity to attend an InterNations networking function through a LinkedIn connection.
It was a wonderful chance to meet fellow expats and exchange stories and experiences.
The Frankfurt Marriott hotel provided me with a room that boasted an excellent view of the cityscape, allowing me to witness Frankfurt’s dynamic energy right from my window.
It was a captivating sight that set the tone for further exploration of this cosmopolitan city.
Revisiting Berlin’s History
My next stop was Berlin, a city teeming with historical significance.
Eager to delve deeper into its rich past, I visited the iconic Brandenburg Gate, standing as a symbol of unity and resilience.
I also explored sections of the Berlin Wall, a poignant reminder of the city’s divided past.
Standing at the site where the wall once stood, on Bornholmer Strasse in 1989, I couldn’t help but reflect on the profound impact its fall had on the world.
Exploring Berlin by Bicycle
To navigate the city efficiently and experience its vibrant atmosphere, I opted for a bicycle, graciously provided by my hotel—an ideal way to immerse myself in Berlin’s charm.
Here is a short video from my ride one morning along the streets of Berlin…
From Berlin to Warsaw
Continuing my westward journey, I arrived in Warsaw by train, eager to experience the culinary delights and mesmerizing vistas the city had to offer.
On the train, I indulged in my favorite Polish dish—pierogi z wołowiną (meat-stuffed dumplings)—a mouthwatering treat that never failed to satisfy my taste buds.
Once in Warsaw, I found myself on the top floor of The Warsaw Marriott, treated to breathtaking panoramic views of the city below.
The illuminated skyline painted a picture of vibrancy and allure.
Pierogi in Warsaw
During my stay in Warsaw, I visited Zapiecek, a renowned Polish Pierogarnie that has been crafting delectable dumplings since 1913.
The pan-fried pierogis, served with sour cream on hot pans alongside meats served on cast-iron sizzlers, were an absolute delight.
I savored every bite while relishing the charming ambiance.
Leicester City Fans in Warsaw
One evening, I had the pleasure of connecting with fellow Leicester City fans and rejoiced in another victory together.
Another night, I ventured to The View, an exquisite venue atop the Spectrum Tower.
The open-air deck on the 33rd floor offered an unparalleled view of Warsaw’s stunning cityscape, complemented by a sleek and stylish atmosphere.
Three Cities, New Memories
My journey from Frankfurt to Warsaw was a captivating re-exploration of vibrant cities and cultural delights.
From immersing myself in Frankfurt’s expat community to witnessing the historical landmarks of Berlin, and indulging in the culinary pleasures of Warsaw, each destination offered its unique charm and left an indelible mark on my journey.
As I continued to embrace new experiences and connect with fellow travelers along the way, I cherished the beauty of these cities and the memories created in their midst.
Where I Stayed
Frankfurt: Skyline Hotel City Frankfurt
During this time in Frankfurt, I stayed at the Skyline Hotel City Frankfurt, a conveniently located hotel that made a good base for exploring the city. Located within walking distance of Frankfurt’s main train station, the hotel was particularly convenient for getting around the city and continuing my travels by rail.
The hotel is also within reasonable walking distance of the city center, allowing me to explore Frankfurt on foot rather than relying on transportation for every outing. That made it a practical choice for a traveler who wants to see the city while keeping things simple.
Overall, Skyline Hotel City Frankfurt was a convenient and practical place to stay, particularly because of its location near the main railway station. For travelers using Frankfurt as a base or passing through the city by train, its central location makes it a useful option.
Berlin: Adina Apartment Hotel Berlin Mitte
During this trip to Berlin, I stayed at the Adina Apartment Hotel Berlin Mitte, a property that combines the convenience of a hotel with some of the comforts of an apartment. Located in Berlin’s Mitte district, it was a particularly good base for exploring the historic center of the city.
The apartment-style setup was another nice feature. Having more space than you typically find in a standard hotel room gives the property a more relaxed, residential feel. The rooms are designed with longer stays in mind, making the hotel equally suitable for a short visit or several days in Berlin.
Overall, Adina Apartment Hotel Berlin Mitte was a comfortable and convenient base for exploring Berlin. The central location and apartment-style accommodations made it a particularly practical choice for travelers who want a little more space and the flexibility to settle in while exploring the German capital.
Warsaw: Warsaw Marriott Hotel
During my time in Warsaw, I stayed once again at the Warsaw Marriott Hotel, a large, full-service hotel in the heart of the city where I had stayed previously. Its central location made it a convenient base for exploring Warsaw and getting around the city.
The hotel is located near Warsaw Central Station and the Złote Tarasy shopping center, putting transportation, restaurants, shopping, and many of the city’s attractions within easy reach. Its location was particularly useful for a traveler arriving or departing by train, while public transportation made it easy to explore areas farther from the center.
For me, the hotel worked well as a base for exploring a city that has an interesting combination of modern development and a remarkable history. Warsaw’s Old Town, museums, historic sites, and other attractions are easily accessible from the hotel, making it possible to see a lot of the city without spending excessive time getting around.