Schaubuehne

Solid stay in my week in Berlin. Wish they had a fan or AC though but still satisfied. That might be a Berlin or Germany thing.

the Birgit is located in what was East Berlin, which means that the building and those around it haven't been bulldozed and rebuilt after the Wall fell. Also, there are nearby tram lines. It is in the Mitte area, north of the Spree River, so within tram, walk, or Uber reach of the river, the museum island. Across the street is a elementary school, and the noise of kids playing is a nice touch. As expected, the room is quite small, but there is a balcony, and there is working a/c unit in the room. No room safes but the staff was kind enough to store passports etc in their secure area. The breakfast is sufficient, there is a nice garden area, as well as wicker chairs in front. The hotel is eclectic (and Rick Steves recommendation). We're glad we took his advice. Also, the small sitting area serves as a bar, if so inclined. Excellent Asian food 50 meters away. Hokey Pokey ice cream nearby, as is the oldest beer garden in Berlin. What's not to like?

You know that feeling when you walk into a hotel and think, "Aye, this'll do"? Well, this wasn't that. This was, "Bloody hell, this is brilliant!" They upgraded me to an executive room - and I swear it was bigger than my first flat. Spotless, comfy, and one of those places you actually want to come back to after a day stomping round Berlin. Breakfast? Outstanding. None of this sad wee bit of toast nonsense - proper variety, good coffee, and enough to keep you fuelled till dinner. And the staff! Friendly without being fake, the kind of people who make you feel like a guest rather than a nuisance with luggage. Location's spot on too - easy to get about, but not stuck in the middle of tourist mayhem. Absolutely loved it. If you're coming to Berlin, book this place. If you're not coming to Berlin, book it anyway and find an excuse.