Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
CHAIN HOTELS
In recent years, practically all international hotel chains have opened one or multiple proper-
ties in Berlin. Since most conform to certain standards of decor, service and facilities,
they're great for people who enjoy predictability and privacy (or simply want to use up those
frequent flyer points). Most have several categories of comfort, from cramped singles to
high-roller suites, with rates reflecting size and amenities. Generally, prices fluctuate dra-
matically, with serious bargains a possibility when occupancy is low. Besides the interna-
tional chains, there are also some Berlin-based contenders, including Amano
(
www.amanogroup.de
)
and Meininger (
www.meininger-hotels.com
).
Hostels
Berlin's hostel scene is as vibrant as ever and consists of both classic backpacker hostels
with large dorms and a communal spirit, and modern 'flashpacker' crashpads catering to
wallet-watching city-breakers. Also increasingly popular are hostel-hotel hybrids with hotel-
like amenities. You'll find them in all districts, but especially in Kreuzberg and Friedrich-
shain, putting you within stumbling distance of bars and clubs. Dorm beds can be had for as
little as €9, but spending a little more gets you a dorm with fewer beds, private quarters with
attached bathroom, or self-catering apartments. Dorms tend to be mixed, although some
hostels also offer women-only units with hairdryers and make-up mirrors. Indie hostels have
no curfew and staff tend to be savvy, multilingual and keen to help with tips and advice. For
bookings, try
www.hostelworld.com
,
www.hostels.com
or
www.hostelbookers.com
.
B&Bs
Nostalgic types seeking Old Berlin flavour should check into a charismatic B&B, called
Hotel-Pension
or simply
Pension
. They typically occupy one or several floors of a historic
residential building and offer local colour and personal attention galore. Amenities, room
size and decor vary, often within a single establishment. The cheapest rooms may have
shared facilities or perhaps a sink and a shower cubicle in the room but no private toilet.
Travellers in need of buckets of privacy, high comfort levels or the latest tech amenities may
not feel as comfortable, although wi-fi, cable TV and other mod cons are becoming increas-
ingly available. Overall, though,
Pensions
are a dying breed in Berlin, where they're most
prevalent in the western district of Charlottenburg, around Kurfürstendamm.
Short-Term Rentals
Furnished flats are a hugely popular - and economical - alternative to hotels in Berlin. The
benefit of space, privacy and independence makes them especially attractive to families and
