Why Berlin?

Why did I choose Berlin? Why on earth did I choose windy, freezing, and arctic Berlin, when I could have gone to somewhere like Italy or Spain that was warm and sunny?

Well, to be fair, I didn't really have a good answer to that question until I got here. While determining my study abroad location, I immediately eliminated France (been there), Spain (not interested), England (been there too many times), Italy (been there recently), and a good number of other nations. Originally, Switzerland was my top choice, but my school didn't have any programs there. The idea of Germany then popped up, and it just clicked. It was in Europe, central in location, and had a completely new language and culture. It just made sense. From there, Berlin seemed like the best choice, as I hadn't been to Eastern Germany, and I wanted a city. It was as if a dart had been thrown at the map, the realization was quick and sudden. I'd just fallen into it.

Now, I'm here. It's so damn cold, the wind is awful, but I'm in love with this city. It's the most tolerant place I've ever been, with minimal judgment on public transportation. The locals are fascinating and friendly, if you're polite and not an obnoxious American. There are tons of green spaces, parks and trees all over. Street art and graffiti decorate every building, bringing a harsh urban beauty to every street. History is everywhere - in the buildings, art and even in the residents. The public transportation is quick and brilliant. Hundreds of cultures influence the atmosphere here. Every type of food is available. Street performers provide background music. There is so much to see, and I haven't even left the city yet. Germans and their language surround me and nearly every minute I pick up something new.

Today, on my commute home, an older man who looked grizzled and brusque was reading a princess fairy tale book to his five year old daughter on the U-Bahn.

Things just make sense here.