Trustroots Wiki - User contributions [en]

Barcelona Hacking Collective 2019

2019-11-13T09:01:32Z

Iotrj: /* Features ideas */

== Agenda ==

'''29th'''
* People arrive

'''30th'''
* Breakfast & Welcome session
* Hacking + meals
* night fun activity

'''1st'''
* hacking
* Closing session

== Features ideas ==
* References system
* Search members by name (get it working!)
* Fix bugs in mobile app
* Publish IPhone app
* Give a communication channel to tribes
* Decide about the future of TR wiki (is there any good use/purpose for it or should it be integrated in Nomadwiki?)
* https://wiki.trustroots.org/en/Special:RecentChanges, there is a new spam entry every 5 minutes. Mainly people only create pages for their user as they can probably not add new articles.
* -> Add yours

Barcelona Hacking Collective 2019

2019-11-13T08:58:26Z

Iotrj: /* Features ideas */

== Agenda ==

'''29th'''
* People arrive

'''30th'''
* Breakfast & Welcome session
* Hacking + meals
* night fun activity

'''1st'''
* hacking
* Closing session

== Features ideas ==
* References system
* Search members by name (get it working!)
* Fix bugs in mobile app
* Publish IPhone app
* Give a communication channel to tribes
* Decide about the future of TR wiki (is there any good use/purpose for it or should it be integrated in Nomadwiki?)
* https://wiki.trustroots.org/en/Special:RecentChanges, there is an new spam entry every 5 minutes. Mainly people only create pages for their user as they can probably not add new articles.
* -> Add yours

Barcelona Hacking Collective 2019

2019-11-13T08:54:49Z

Iotrj: /* Features ideas */

Main Page

2019-05-30T15:58:39Z

Iotrj: Changed protection level for "Main Page": Excessive spamming ([Edit=Allow only administrators] (indefinite) [Move=Allow only administrators] (indefinite)) [cascading]

{{trwiki}}

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Vilnius

2019-03-24T14:33:52Z

Iotrj: Reverted edits by Iotrj (talk) to last revision by Gintare

{{City header
|city = Vilnius
|country = Lithuania
|areas =
|toplinks =
|bwgroup = 1078
|csgroup = 1351
|wikipedia = Vilnius
|hitchwiki = Vilnius
|wikivoyage = Vilnius
|image = Grand_Coat_of_arms_of_Vilnius.svg
|imagetext = Flag of Vilnius
}}
{{TOCright}}
'''Vilnius''' is the capital city of [[Lithuania]] and the largest city in the country with the population of over
550.000 and all major political, economic, social and cultural centres.

== Vilnius on CouchSurfing ==

[http://www.couchsurfing.com/group.html?gid=1351 The Vilnius group] currently consists of approximately 2000
members, who are locals, expats and travellers from all over the world. It is an active and constantly growing group with lots of events, meetings and activities - just follow posts in the forum.

Take a look at some photos of our meetings in the [http://picasaweb.google.com/cslithuania CS Lithuania Gallery] and
[https://picasaweb.google.com/106659005364119821571 CS Vilnius Gallery]

=== Emergency couch in Vilnius ===

[http://www.couchsurfing.com/group.html?gid=13026 Emergency couch in Vilnius] is a group of CS'ers from Vilnius who
are able to offer a couch at a short notice for guests who are coming in 3-4 days or less and do not have a couch
yet. Therefore, use this group to find a couch only if it is emergency situation so if you know you are coming in 1
month, please use couchsearch and send individual couch requests.

=== Vilnius CS Musicians ===

[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group.html?gid=33375 Vilnius CS Musicians] is a new fresh group of local and traveling
musicians for sharing great music. If you want to organise a concert, gig, jam-session or just meet CS'ers who love
music, this is a group for you. There is a list of some useful live music spots and festivals held in all Lithuania.
Let the music play!

== City Attractions ==

Vilnius is one of the most frequently visited cities of Eastern Europe. It draws attention, not only because of its
unique architectural character, but also by its cultural events and attractions.

Parts of the town you should definitely visit are first of all the Old Town (Senamiestis) which is one of the
largest old town centres in Eastern Europe and is included in UNESCO World Heritage List. However, before starting
your meanderings around the streets of the Old Town it is worth getting a bird’s eye view of Vilnius and taking in a
panoramic view of the city. There are some high buildings suitable for this purpose namely the TV tower, ''Skybar''
of the ''Reval Hotel Lietuva'' and the top floor of the shopping mall ''Europa'' near the northern bank of the Neris
River, on the edge of the Old Town. You can get the best open air view of the Old Town at the top of the Gediminas’
Hill, Hill of Three Crosses, Bastille Hill or Bekešo Hill.

Top attractions in the old town would include Gediminas’ Tower and upper castle; The cathedral with a Belfry by the
side; Pilies & Didžioji streets with lots of luxurious boutiques, coffee shops, cultural centres, embassies, night
clubs, souvenir sellers and the happy hubbub of the city; late Gothic architectural masterpiece that impressed
Napoléon Bonaparte a lot - St. Anne’s Church; Townhall and Vokiečių street where many bars, clubs and restaurants
are located; an area known as the “Jewish Ghetto” centred on Stiklių, Gaono, Antokolskio and Žydų streets;
Presidential Palace and one of the oldest universities in Eastern Europe - Vilnius University which campus consists
of Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque, and Classical buildings arranged around twelve closed courtyards and the tallest
Church of St John; the Bastion which is an original Renaissance fortification; the only surviving gate of the first
original five gates in the city wall named the Gates of Dawn and of course the main street of Vilnius - Gediminas’
Avenue, where you can find some important national institutions such as the Parliament or the National Library, as
well as banks, hotels, shops, casinos, restaurants and cafés. Some small things also worth experiencing is Frank
Zappa monument and a "magical" tyle with the word "Stebuklas" (Miracle) in the Cathedral square where one can make
his wish come true by simply stepping on it and turning around with the eyes closed.

The Republic of Užupis is worth a separate notice and is a must while visiting Vilnius. Užupis is a recognised
district for artists and won the name of the most bohemic, mysterious and romantic district of Vilnius which has
its own constitution, national anthem, calendar, map, its own holidays, "main institutions" and so on. If you walk
along the banks of the Vilnia River, you will be sure to come across artists working there who will invited to have
a try at the various kinds of art, like photography and painting, or to take part in an evening of summer cinema or
exhibitions.

Take a look at our album of
[http://picasaweb.google.com/CSLithuania/SightsOfLithuania# Vilnius Sights] in order
to get a better view what the city looks like.

=== Museums and Galleries ===

There are a lot of [http://www.vilnius-tourism.lt/topic.php?tid=64&sid=95 museums]and [http://www.vilnius-
tourism.lt/topic.php?tid=64&sid=97 galleries] in Vilnius however, not all of them are worth visiting. Here is the
list of the most recommended ones:

[http://www.genocid.lt/muziejus Museum of Genocide Victims (KGB)]is located in the former headquarters of the KGB
and has the former execution chamber open to visitors.

[http://www.cac.lt/ Contemporary Art Centre]is the largest art centre in the Baltic States presenting the latest
international art tendencies of the contemporary art.

[http://www.ndg.lt/index.php?id=37&L=1 National Gallery of Art] presents a collection of Lithuanian art of the 20th
and 21st century and is a good space for active communication where the audience can see the permanent exposition
and temporary exhibitions as well as participate in cultural events, lectures and educational programmes.

[http://galera.multiply.com/ Užupis Galera] is an alternative gallery in Užupis where the expositions are pretty
unique and you can witness the creatinion of it's masterpieces.

[http://kultflux.puslapiai.lt/ Kultflux] is a gallery - platform on the river Neris next to Mindaugas bridge where
various exhibitions and other cultural events take place.

=== Sightseeing outside Vilnius ===

If you are staying in Vilnius for few days, you might want to make some day trips and see few places outside
Vilnius:

[http://www.trakai.lt/index.php?-2130764187 Trakai] is a historical capital of Lithuania where one can find the only
castle in Eastern Europe built on the island on the lake, Karaite national minority and it's unique cuisine. There
are a lot of buses and trainsgoing there and it takes only about half an hour to get there. If the weather is good,
you should take a chance to see it!

[http://www.europosparkas.lt/ Open air museum of the center of Europe] signifies the geographical centre of Europe
in the language of contemporary art and is a place where nature and art are combined.

[http://www.belmontas.lt/apie_belmonta/ Belmontas park] is very close to Vilnius center and is a complex of
restaurants serving traditional meals arranged around little lakes, watermills, river and waterfalls and is a very
nice place to spend a relaxing afternoon.

=== Tourist information ===

If your host cannot show you around or you like exploring the city by yourself, you might still find it helpful to
get city maps and some additional information about the city, things to see&do, events etc. There are a few tourist
information centres in the Old Town: one is inside the Townhall and another one is located in Vilniaus street.

You also have a superb possibility to go for [http://www.vilniusfreetour.com/ Vilnius free tour] and see the hiden
side of Vilnius through the eyes of the people who live here. All you need to do is to appear at 12PM any day of the
week in front of the Townhall and look for a person with a yellow suitcase. Enjoy!

You can get some more information about Vilnius prior to your arrival in [http://www.inyourpocket.com/lithuania/
city/vilnius.html?more=1 Vilnius in your pocket] guide or browse [http://www.vilnius-tourism.lt/topic.php?tid=63
Vilnius tourist information center website].

[http://www.vilnius-tourism.lt/mediabank/A4_Dviraciai%20PRINT(1).pdf Map of Vilnius old town] - quite a nice map
with the routes you can explore either by bike or on foot.

[http://www.lietuvosmarsrutai.eu/index.php?lang=2 Lithuanian routes] is a really great website where Lithuanian
routes are coherently presented with the help of textual, photo and video material for those who want to travel
around Lithuania.

[http://www.fotoskrydis.lt/kategorija/vilniaus-apskritis/ Vilnius from above] - some nice pictures of Vilnius and
other cities of Lithuania made from an air ballon.

=== Events ===

Apart from Couchsurfing events there are plenty of things to do in Vilnius and around. Vilnius is ''European Capital
of Culture 2009'' and therefore there are a lot of cultural, artistic and social activities every month. Check out
what's happening in Vilnius during your stay:

[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=1351&post=4162900 Cultural events in Vilnius ]
about interesting events in Vilnius provided by Couchsurfers of Vilnius group;

[http://www.eb.lt/en.php3 Entertainment bank] - the biggest database of all kinds of events in Vilnius and the rest
of Lithuania;

[http://www.vilnius-life.com/ Vilnius life] - a very handy website with a lot of useful information about Vilnius;

[http://www.vilnius-tourism.lt/index.php?lang=EN Vilnius tourist information center];

[http://www.djscene.lt/event?fCity=vilnius&lang=en DJ Scene LT]

[http://www.club.lt/ Club.lt] - and some more clubbing events

[http://www.ore.lt/event.php?kada=&kur=Vilnius Ore.lt] - one more event calendor. Please note that the website is
only in Lithuanian;

some information

- some clubbing events in Vilnius;

[http://lietuva.lt/en/events/ Events in Lithuania] - if it's still not enough ;)

[http://www.cinema.lt/ Cinema] news. The website is in Lithuanian, but they have titles in original language as
well, so it's easy to get it;)

[http://www.vilniusjazz.lt Vilnius Jazz festival] - takes place every October and invites lots of great jazz
musicians from all over the world. Jazz lovers - don't miss a chance!

==== Cinemas ====

All non-hollywood movies fans should check out two cinemas in Vilnius (both of them are major venues for cinematic
events – festivals, meetings with filmmakers, retrospectives, special screenings etc.):

* [http://www.kinopasaka.lt/ Cinema Pasaka] - (Šv.Ignoto St. 4/3) is a very cozy little cinema in the heart of the
old town, same building as La Boheme wine bar.

* [http://www.skalvija.lt/index.php/about_skalvija/743 Skalvija] - (A. Goštauto St. 2/15) is another cinema center
that focuses on non-commercial European and World cinema, both classics and recent film.

Other cinemas with more recent/Hollywood movie repertoire are:

* [http://www.forumcinemas.lt/?lang=eng Forum Cinemas Vingis] - Savanorių St. 7;
* [http://www.forumcinemas.lt/?lang=eng Forum Cinemas Akropolis] - Ozo St. 25 - the one in a shopping mall

=== Shopping ===

Although Vilnius is not the capital of shopping, there are several places to do that:

* There are a lot of souvenir shops and little street market in the Old town. The typical Lithuanian souvenirs would
be amber, linen and mead, but the latter is available only in the shops where they sell alcohol.
* Shopping centers: the biggest in the city center are ''Europa'' (Konstitucijos 7a) and ''Gedimino 9'' (Gedimino
Av.9) and ''VCUP'' (Konstitucijos St. 16); a bit out of the city center, but still in Vilnius - ''Akropolis'' (Ozo
St. 25) and ''Panorama'' (Saltoniškių St. 9)
* The biggest grocery chain stores are ''Rimi'', ''Maxima'' and ''Iki'' - you'll see them everywhere.
* There are a lot of proprietary brand clothing shops in the Old town, especially in the area round the Town hall;)

== Accommodation ==

Hopefully you will be able to find a host and will not need to look for accommodation, but in case you do, here are some useful websites:

[http://www.hostels.com/findabed.php?ChosenCity=Vilnius&ChosenCountry=Lithuania&Search=1 Inexpensive hostels,
guesthouses and hotels]

[http://www.vilnius-tourism.lt/topic.php?tid=62&sid=75&aid=437 Youth hostels]

[http://www.vilnius-tourism.lt/topic.php?tid=62&sid=75&aid=438 Motels]

[http://www.vilnius-tourism.lt/topic.php?tid=62&sid=75&aid=630 Hotels and guest houses]

[http://www.camping.lt/index.php?lang=2&sid=432 Campsites across Lithuania] - in case you feel like going to the
nature ;)

== Restaurants, cafés, bars, pubs & clubs ==

=== Restaurants & cafés===

No doubt you will find McDonald's yourself, but in case you want to experience lithuanian cuisine, here are the most
popular restaurants serving traditional lithuanian meals:

[http://www.cili.lt/ Čili Kaimas] - a chain restaurant, located in Vokiečių St. 8 and Gedimino Ave. 14;

[http://www.fortodvaras.lt Forto dvaras] - also a good one and is right in the center - Pilies St. 16;

[http://www.zemaiciai.lt Žemaičiai] - a bit more expensive place in Vokiečių St. 24 and sometimes it takes ages to
get your meal, but the result is usually rewarding.

''Pilies menė'' in Pilies St. 8 or ''Amatininkų užeiga'' in Didžioji St. 19/2 might be also an option for
traditional meals.

What shall you order there to get real lithuanian experience? A distinctive trait of Lithuanian cuisine is the
preponderance of potato dishes, so try one of those:

* ''Cepelinai'' (‘Zeppelins’) - the most typical dish, large boiled potato dumplings (made from grated raw potato)
with fillings of minced meat or cottage cheese. Be careful - they are really filling;
* ''Kugelis'' (potato pie);
* Potato pancakes made from grated raw potato or boiled potato (sometimes – with a meat filling);
* ''Vėdarai'' (potato sausages) – a pretty creepy meal, made of pork intestines stuffed with grated raw potato,
baked in a wood stove or electric oven.

For a snack you should definitely try fried bread with cheese, marinated herring with boiled potatoes, various kinds
of cottage cheese or fermented cheeses, and hot-smoked or cold-smoked hams and sausages. Lithuanians also know many
recipes for mushroom dishes which are used in sauces, as fillings, or served as an accompaniment to meat dishes.

Soup is very popular in Lithuania and there are lots of kinds of it, but the most interesting Lithuanian soup
is ''šaltibarščiai'' (cold beetroot soup), which is made from beetroot, kefir (a fermented milk product), greens and
boiled eggs, is served chilled and is very refreshing on a hot summer day. Just don't get scared of a pink colour!

And finally, beer goes with pretty much everything, so go ahead! (ok, maybe not for breakfast;)

If you're done with typical lithuanian cuisine, there's plenty of other choices to eat out that match all tastes and
budgets (in most restaurants approximately LTL 20-40 should be enough for lunch or dinner for one person):

* European cuisine is predominant in Vilnius restaurants, with a few Lithuanian dishes included in the menu - check
out ''Užupio cafe'' (Užupio 2) - a super place and a heart of Užupis Republic during the summer time; [http://
www.avilys.lt Avilys] - really nice beer brewery & restaurant (Gedimino Ave. 5); [http://www.cozy.lt Cozy] - a
restaurant and a cozy club downstairs (Dominikonų St. 10); [http://www.steakhouse.lt Steak House Helios] (Didžioji
St. 28, 2 floor, Helios Entertainment Centre).
* Restaurant with amazing view - [https://sventaragiosodas.lt/?lang=en Šventaragio sodas] restaurant in Vilnius can accommodate more than 100 people inside and the same amount on the outdoor terrace. Where the the golden sun-shaded Vilnius Cathedral stands before the eyes and right where every hour the bell tower tolls you back to the present .
* Italian cuisine - [http://www.antonio.lt/index.php?k=EN Da Antonio I] (Vilniaus St. 23) and ''Da Antonio
Tratoria'' (Pilies St. 20); ''St. Valentino'' (Vilniaus St. 47/Trakų St. 18); ''Pomodoro'' (Jogailos g. 4)
and ''Fiorentino'' (Universiteto g. 4) with a nice inside yard during spring/summer. Note that pizzerias now
outnumber Lithuanian restaurants, so do not be surprised to find a wide range of pizzas available at most
restaurants (especially medium price range restaurants). The people of Vilnius are starting to jokingly say that
pizza is becoming Lithuania’s national dish.
* French cuisine - ''Les Amis'' (Savičiaus St. 9) and ''Saint Germain'' (Literatų g. 9), also ''La Provence''
(Vokiečių St. 22), but this one is a bit expensive.
* Czech cuisine - ''Pas Rudolfą II'' (Gedimino Ave. 46-2) - not very cozy place, but they have some quite nice
beers.
* Argentine cuisine - ''El Gaucho Sano'' (Pilies St. 10) - meat lovers, please enjoy;)
* Chinese cuisine - there is a big and always growing number of chinese restaurants in the Old town, so you will see
them at once.
* Vegetarian - ''Balti drambliai'' (White Elephants) is a purely vegetarian restaurant and very cozy bar (Vilniaus
St. 41) although you might have to wait about an hour for a beer, so better don't go there if you are in a hurry.
Vegetarians should be also able to find a suitable dish on the menu of almost any restaurant.

In terms of numbers of cafés, Vilnius is not far behind the traditional ‘café culture’ cities of Europe and they can
be found in almost every street of the Old Town, mostly in Trakų, Pilies, Didžioji, Vokiečių, Domininkonų, Savičiaus
streets and Gedimino Prospect. Most popular chain cafés are ''Double Coffee'' and ''Coffee Inn'', but don't expect
to find ''Starbucks Coffee'' here;)

=== Going out ===

There are few more mellow capitals than Vilnius - a hectic metropolis it ain't. But when night falls, there's no
shortage of revellers who are up for a party. What's more, the local beers make for a tasty tipple really worth
giving a try...again and again ;)

Note that many Vilnius bars function as restaurants during the day, and in terms of subtlety of interior décor and
quality of cuisine, they compete with the best restaurants. Some of the bars could also be appropriately included
in the list of intimate-sized clubs, because in the evenings they have live music or a DJ. List of suggested bars &
pubs, which might have a dance-floor as well is the following:

* [http://www.cafedeparis.lt Cafe de Paris] (Didžioji St. 1) - a small place in one of the main streets of the old
town, which has an incredible capacity to surprise with its wide range of events and installations, always vivid
and full of interesting people,live music every Saturday, local and international DJ’s any other day, visual arts,
alternative foods and international staff.
* [http://www.baltidrambliai.lt/main.php?page=1 Balti drambliai] (Vilniaus St. 41) - cozy and extremely relaxed
atmosphere, very reasonable prices and live music once in a while.
* [http://www.invino.lt/ In Vino] (Aušros Vartų St. 7) - is the kind of laid back haunt, especially recommended
during summertime when you can sit in outside in the inner yard, but note that it's not easy to get a table as this
place is always crowded. But give it a try.
* [http://www.mojitonaktys.lt/ Mohito Naktys] (Didžioji St. 33/2)- cocktail bar famous for their Mojitos (the best
in town), currently one of Vilnius’ hottest night spots. Drinks are pricey enough here (so not the best place to get
drunk;) therefore it tends to attract a bit more sophisticated but fun crowd rather than a beer-swilling rabble.
* [http://www.laboheme.lt/ La Boheme] (Šv.Ignoto St. 4/3) - cozy and very beautiful wine place + nice atmosphere,
very recommended.
* [http://www.tempolibero.lt/index.php/pageid/459 Tappo d'oro] ( l.Stuokos-Gucevičiaus St. 7) - cozy wine places
that has lots of inexpensive wines to offer;)
* Vasaros terasa (Vilniaus St. 39) - a very nice outdoor terrace located in the yard of the historic Teacher's
House, opened during spring/summer/early autumn, there are usually live concerts on weekends, as well as other
cultural events during the week, like cinema, theatre, dance, market etc. Really nice place.
* [http://www.absentofejos.lt/ Absento Fėjos] (Aušros Vartų St. 11) - if you manage to get in (the queue at the door
is usually pretty long and the face control is trick enough as well) you will probably like it, though it's pretty
expensive. No kids running around though :)
* [http://www.briusly.lt/ Briusly] (Islandijos St. 4.) - a very nice and cozy place, reasonably priced and very
popular + it also offers nice asian food.
* [http://www.cozy.lt Cozy] (Dominikonų St. 10) - combination of bar, cafe, restaurant and nightclub, where from
morning till nighttime, people can come to eat, drink and relax and later go downstairs for more lively activities.
* [http://www.alutis.lt/snekutis/ Šnekutis] (Polocko St. 7A and Šv.Stepono St. 8) - if you want to try some awsome
home-brewed "live beer" without any ripoff, that's the place to be.
* [http://www.busitrecias.lt/index.php/en/ Būsi trečias] (Totoriu st.) 18 - mini brewery, offering a big range of
flavoured beers and hearty food.

The most recommended nightclubs would be the following:

* [http://www.tamstaclub.lt Tamsta] (Subačiaus St. 11A) - probably the best club with live music (unfortunately
closed for summer holidays..).
* [http://www.pabolatino.lt Pabo Latino] (Trakų St. 3/2)- if you like salsa, then that's the place to be. Beautiful
interior, nice cocktails, if you come a bit earlier, the entrance fee is not too bad + you get a free drink.
* [http://www.cozy.lt Cozy] (Dominikonų St. 10) - a really cozy place to chill out and the entry is always free of
charge.
* [http://www.pachavilnius.lt Pacha club] (Gynėjų St. 14) - the name already speaks for itself, and people say it is
one of best clubs in Vilnius, posh and expensive though, but pretty worth it.
* [http://www.tarantinoclub.lt Tarantino club] (Trakų g. 2) - quite cozy and nice club, sometimes have live
concerts, sometimes the entrance is free, so might be worth checking it out.
* [http://www.artistai.lt Artistai] (Šv. Kazimiero St. 3) - pretty simple and relaxed place, especially popular
among students, so expect to be surrounded by a very young crowd and a possibility to get drinks in a plastic cup.
Has a nice inside yard and there is karaoke night on Tuesday.
* [http://www.havanasocialclub.lt Havana Social Club] (Šermukšnių St. 4a) - pretty nice place with friendly
atmosphere, not too posh, but nice interrior, has some good cocktails as well;)
* [http://www.brodvejus.lt Brodvėjus pub] (Mesiniu St. 4) is mostly attended by foreigners and students and the
music is mostly 90's pop, however, the place is still quite popular.
* [http://www.clubgravity.lt Gravity Club] is a good place for electronic music lovers, located in a former bunker,
usually crowded and always lacks oxygen.
* [http://www.play-club.com Play Club](Pamenkalnio St. 17/3) - you either love it or hate it: it's very small, very
alternative and simple, drinks usually come in plastic cups, but it has some charm for sure. And a football table.
* [http://www.bix.lt Bix baras](Etmonų St. 6) - rock club, pretty laid back and very popular among students.

== Getting in & around ==

=== Transportation to/from Vilnius ===

Choose the best way to get to Vilnius city:

* If you are coming by '''plane''' to [http://www.vilnius-airport.lt/en/ Vilnius international airport] you can take
a train to the central railway station (it only takes 7 minutes to get there, it goes twice an hour and costs less
than EUR 1) or take a bus Nr.1 going to the bus station or bus Nr. 2 going to the center of the city. There are
lockers in the railway station if you need to leave your luggage before heading to the city, it is very close to
the bus station (just across the street) and they both are close to the Old town even if you are going on foot (but
note that almost every trolleybus goes to the city center). You can always take a taxi, but it if you catch the ones
standing in front of the airport, they will charge you much more than you would if you call one. The journey should
cost you about EUR 7.

If you are landing in [http://www.kaunasair.lt/index.php?lang=en&page=express Kaunas airport], there is a bus going
to Vilnius (the bus schedule is in accordance with operating flights).

* [http://www.litrail.lt/wps/portal Lithuanian railways] - for those who are travelling by '''train'''. Note that
unfortunatelly ''Interrail'', ''Eurorail'' and similar tickets are not valid in Lithuania :(

* [http://www.autobusustotis.lt/en Vilnius bus station website] might be useful if you are travelling by '''bus'''.
[http://www.eurolines.ee/en/node Eurolines] coach company offers probably the cheapest and the most popular
international bus routes in the Baltics and the rest of Europe.

* '''Hitch-hiking''' is pretty popular way to travel in Lithuania as well as to the other countries and is safe
enough as long as you are staying rational yourself. [http://www.autostop.lt/main.php Hitch-hiking Club's] members
can help you a lot with tips on the best hitch-hiking-routes both in Lithuania and to nearby countries, what are the
best spots to hitch-hike etc. so definitely check out the website if you choose to travele this way.

* It is also possible to take a '''ferry''' to Klaipeda and then come to Vilnius by bus, car or train. Check out the
website of [http://www.portofklaipeda.lt/en.php/port_of_klaipda/cruising/ferry_lines/437 Klaipeda seaport] for the
ferry lines.

=== Transportation in Vilnius ===

A good thing about Vilnius is that it's small enough for you to easily get around on foot, by bike or by public
transport.

* If you are staying in the Old town, the best way to explore it is on foot. Most sights are within the walking
distance and don't be afraid to get lost, as it is the best way to discover the wonders of the city ;)

* [http://www.vilniustransport.lt/en.php/ Public transport] is neither the worse nor the best: there are quite
enough of buses and trolleybuses during the day, but they stop at 11:30 P.M. and there are no more night buses
available :( You can buy a ticket either in a kiosk (LTL 2) or from the driver (LTL 2.5) There are also tickets
valid for 1 day (LTL 13), 3 days (LTL 23) or 10 days (LTL 46), but see if it's worth it. [http://www.marsrutai.lt/
vilnius/?a=p.routes&transport_id=bus&t=xhtml&l=en Traffic schedules and route planning]might be handy as well. Note
that the public transport starts running at 5:30 AM and stops around 11:30 PM, so if you happen to fall in this gap,
choose taxi, walking, friends car or killing a night in a club ;)

* Taxi...uh, if you need to get a cab, there are two things you should bear in mind:
1)it is way cheaper to call a cab than to catch one on the street and
2)most likely they will try to rip you off anyway, so ask some local how
much your journey should cost in advance (the rate varies from LTL 2.2 to LTL 4 per km). You may try calling one of
those [http://www.taksi.lt/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=30&Itemid=63 taxi companies]

* Bike can also be an option so if you or your host doesn't have one, you can try to rent. Some places hiring bikes
in the city center are [http://www.dviratis.lt/index.php?page=catalogue&cat=nuoma&view=45 Velo-City] (Bernadinų St.
10, in front of St. Anns Church) or [http://www.kelrodis.lt Kelrodis](T.Ševčenkos g. 15/14).

* If you're coming by car, well, be careful :) but if you wish to rent a car, you can do it in the centre of the
city as well as at the airport. Note that you will be asked for your identification card and a valid international
credit card. Check out the list of [http://www.vilnius-tourism.lt/topic.php?tid=62&sid=76&aid=461 car rental
companies]

== Other useful information ==

* There are many Wi-fi places in Vilnius, but if you need an '''Internet cafe''', here are some of them (click for
the map):

[http://www.travel.lt/turizmas/map.do?addresscaseid=780BEC7DC51211D8AC97746164617373
[http://www.travel.lt/turizmas/map.do?addresscaseid=112C5A2E7C2E11DA8602746164617373
[http://www.travel.lt/turizmas/map.do?addresscaseid=70651542C51411D8AC97746164617373
[http://www.travel.lt/turizmas/map.do?addresscaseid=5064990FC51311D8AC97746164617373
[http://www.travel.lt/turizmas/map.do?addresscaseid=A37A73BA7C2B11DA8602746164617373
[http://www.travel.lt/turizmas/map.do?addresscaseid=7113DE227C3111DA8602746164617373

* [http://www.meteo.lt/english/forecasts.php Weather forecast] if you want to check what the weather is like during
your stay.
* You can '''exchange''' money in any bank, which may also be located in bigger shopping centers, there is an
exchange booth at the airport (arrivals hall) and outside railway/bus station as well. Note that ''Parex'' bank is
the only bank that accepts coins for exchange.
* '''Smoking''' is prohibited inside all restaurants, cafes, bars etc. unless there are tables outside.
* If you you can use your phone with other SIM cards, it would be cheaper to buy local sim card in a kiosk or in any
mobile phone shop. The most popular ones are ''Pildyk'', ''Labas'', ''Ezys'', ''Extra''. The SIM card costs from 5
to 10 lt (1,5-2,5 euros) and you can top it up.
* Free Wifi internet spots are available at many cafes in the whole city. Please ask the staff or watch for a Wifi-
sign at the door.
* '''Emergency number''' is the same as for the rest of Europe - 112.

Some websites to give you an idea about the '''costs in Vilnius''', but note that the prices are rising all the
time, so the information can really be not accurate enough:

* [http://www.tefl.com/home/col_survey.html?ci_id=81&tefl_session=9fad1961fc581111f947e98b26b81f3d&x=1&y=1
International City Cost Guide] - update the prices by doubling the given ones;)

== Foreigners about Vilnius, LT & CS ==

Colleqium] - Pilies St. 22-1;
Avineta] - Naugarduko St. 76;
Bazė] - A. Rotundo St. 2;
Fantazija] - Naugarduko St. 34;
Liumineta] - Antakalnio St. 40;
Netcafe]- Antakalnio St. 36

* [http://www.couchsurfing.com/group_read.html?gid=1351&post=2680237 Vilnius. What it's like in foreign eyes?] - CS
thread on foreigners' impression about Vilnius.
* [http://www.expatintelligence.com/expat-lithuania.shtml Expat Lithuania] - short introduction about life in LT
* [http://www.expatexchange.com/expat/index.cfm?frmid=247&forumid=0&dbname=ee&shared=N ExpatExchange] - website
where expats share their experience in LT. Can't promise all the information is correct, but might be useful.

== CS in the Press ==

There are several articles about CS in the media in Lithuanian:

http://www.zebra.lt/lt/laisvalaikis/keliones/Couch-surfing-kitoks-keliavimo-budas-2009-10-12.html
http://whatson.delfi.lt/news/travel/article.php?id=16689368
http://whatson.delfi.lt/news/travel/article.php?id=16695835
http://whatson.delfi.lt/news/travel/article.php?id=17138568
http://whatson.delfi.lt/news/travel/article.php?id=17188256
http://whatson.delfi.lt/news/travel/article.php?id=17203292
http://whatson.delfi.lt/news/travel/article.php?id=17285172
http://www.alfa.lt/straipsnis/157702
http://www.universitetozurnalistas.lt/uz/skotija/pub4.html

[UPDATE] and in english:
* http://www.travelblog.org/Europe/Sweden/Orebro-County/Orebro/blog-558605.html

[[Category:Lithuania]]
[[trash:Vilnius]]
[[hitch:Vilnius]]
[[nomad:Vilnius]]

Vilnius

2019-03-24T14:20:37Z

Iotrj: Reverted edits by Gintare (talk) to last revision by Robyt

{{City header
|city = Vilnius
|country = Lithuania
|areas =
|toplinks =
|bwgroup = 1078
|csgroup = 1351
|wikipedia = Vilnius
|hitchwiki = Vilnius
|wikivoyage = Vilnius
|image = Grand_Coat_of_arms_of_Vilnius.svg
|imagetext = Flag of Vilnius
}}
{{TOCright}}
'''Vilnius''' is the capital city of [[Lithuania]] and the largest city in the country with the population of over
550.000 and all major political, economic, social and cultural centres.

== Vilnius on CouchSurfing ==

[http://www.couchsurfing.com/group.html?gid=1351 The Vilnius group] currently consists of approximately 2000
members, who are locals, expats and travellers from all over the world. It is an active and constantly growing group with lots of events, meetings and activities - just follow posts in the forum.

Take a look at some photos of our meetings in the [http://picasaweb.google.com/cslithuania CS Lithuania Gallery] and
[https://picasaweb.google.com/106659005364119821571 CS Vilnius Gallery]

=== Emergency couch in Vilnius ===

[http://www.couchsurfing.com/group.html?gid=13026 Emergency couch in Vilnius] is a group of CS'ers from Vilnius who
are able to offer a couch at a short notice for guests who are coming in 3-4 days or less and do not have a couch
yet. Therefore, use this group to find a couch only if it is emergency situation so if you know you are coming in 1
month, please use couchsearch and send individual couch requests.

=== Vilnius CS Musicians ===

[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group.html?gid=33375 Vilnius CS Musicians] is a new fresh group of local and traveling
musicians for sharing great music. If you want to organise a concert, gig, jam-session or just meet CS'ers who love
music, this is a group for you. There is a list of some useful live music spots and festivals held in all Lithuania.
Let the music play!

== City Attractions ==

Vilnius is one of the most frequently visited cities of Eastern Europe. It draws attention, not only because of its
unique architectural character, but also by its cultural events and attractions.

Parts of the town you should definitely visit are first of all the Old Town (Senamiestis) which is one of the
largest old town centres in Eastern Europe and is included in UNESCO World Heritage List. However, before starting
your meanderings around the streets of the Old Town it is worth getting a bird’s eye view of Vilnius and taking in a
panoramic view of the city. There are some high buildings suitable for this purpose namely the TV tower, ''Skybar''
of the ''Reval Hotel Lietuva'' and the top floor of the shopping mall ''Europa'' near the northern bank of the Neris
River, on the edge of the Old Town. You can get the best open air view of the Old Town at the top of the Gediminas’
Hill, Hill of Three Crosses, Bastille Hill or Bekešo Hill.

Top attractions in the old town would include Gediminas’ Tower and upper castle; The cathedral with a Belfry by the
side; Pilies & Didžioji streets with lots of luxurious boutiques, coffee shops, cultural centres, embassies, night
clubs, souvenir sellers and the happy hubbub of the city; late Gothic architectural masterpiece that impressed
Napoléon Bonaparte a lot - St. Anne’s Church; Townhall and Vokiečių street where many bars, clubs and restaurants
are located; an area known as the “Jewish Ghetto” centred on Stiklių, Gaono, Antokolskio and Žydų streets;
Presidential Palace and one of the oldest universities in Eastern Europe - Vilnius University which campus consists
of Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque, and Classical buildings arranged around twelve closed courtyards and the tallest
Church of St John; the Bastion which is an original Renaissance fortification; the only surviving gate of the first
original five gates in the city wall named the Gates of Dawn and of course the main street of Vilnius - Gediminas’
Avenue, where you can find some important national institutions such as the Parliament or the National Library, as
well as banks, hotels, shops, casinos, restaurants and cafés. Some small things also worth experiencing is Frank
Zappa monument and a "magical" tyle with the word "Stebuklas" (Miracle) in the Cathedral square where one can make
his wish come true by simply stepping on it and turning around with the eyes closed.

The Republic of Užupis is worth a separate notice and is a must while visiting Vilnius. Užupis is a recognised
district for artists and won the name of the most bohemic, mysterious and romantic district of Vilnius which has
its own constitution, national anthem, calendar, map, its own holidays, "main institutions" and so on. If you walk
along the banks of the Vilnia River, you will be sure to come across artists working there who will invited to have
a try at the various kinds of art, like photography and painting, or to take part in an evening of summer cinema or
exhibitions.

Take a look at our album of
[http://picasaweb.google.com/CSLithuania/SightsOfLithuania# Vilnius Sights] in order
to get a better view what the city looks like.

=== Museums and Galleries ===

There are a lot of [http://www.vilnius-tourism.lt/topic.php?tid=64&sid=95 museums]and [http://www.vilnius-
tourism.lt/topic.php?tid=64&sid=97 galleries] in Vilnius however, not all of them are worth visiting. Here is the
list of the most recommended ones:

[http://www.genocid.lt/muziejus Museum of Genocide Victims (KGB)]is located in the former headquarters of the KGB
and has the former execution chamber open to visitors.

[http://www.cac.lt/ Contemporary Art Centre]is the largest art centre in the Baltic States presenting the latest
international art tendencies of the contemporary art.

[http://www.ndg.lt/index.php?id=37&L=1 National Gallery of Art] presents a collection of Lithuanian art of the 20th
and 21st century and is a good space for active communication where the audience can see the permanent exposition
and temporary exhibitions as well as participate in cultural events, lectures and educational programmes.

[http://galera.multiply.com/ Užupis Galera] is an alternative gallery in Užupis where the expositions are pretty
unique and you can witness the creatinion of it's masterpieces.

[http://kultflux.puslapiai.lt/ Kultflux] is a gallery - platform on the river Neris next to Mindaugas bridge where
various exhibitions and other cultural events take place.

=== Sightseeing outside Vilnius ===

If you are staying in Vilnius for few days, you might want to make some day trips and see few places outside
Vilnius:

[http://www.trakai.lt/index.php?-2130764187 Trakai] is a historical capital of Lithuania where one can find the only
castle in Eastern Europe built on the island on the lake, Karaite national minority and it's unique cuisine. There
are a lot of buses and trainsgoing there and it takes only about half an hour to get there. If the weather is good,
you should take a chance to see it!

[http://www.europosparkas.lt/ Open air museum of the center of Europe] signifies the geographical centre of Europe
in the language of contemporary art and is a place where nature and art are combined.

[http://www.belmontas.lt/apie_belmonta/ Belmontas park] is very close to Vilnius center and is a complex of
restaurants serving traditional meals arranged around little lakes, watermills, river and waterfalls and is a very
nice place to spend a relaxing afternoon.

=== Tourist information ===

If your host cannot show you around or you like exploring the city by yourself, you might still find it helpful to
get city maps and some additional information about the city, things to see&do, events etc. There are a few tourist
information centres in the Old Town: one is inside the Townhall and another one is located in Vilniaus street.

You also have a superb possibility to go for [http://www.vilniusfreetour.com/ Vilnius free tour] and see the hiden
side of Vilnius through the eyes of the people who live here. All you need to do is to appear at 12PM any day of the
week in front of the Townhall and look for a person with a yellow suitcase. Enjoy!

You can get some more information about Vilnius prior to your arrival in [http://www.inyourpocket.com/lithuania/
city/vilnius.html?more=1 Vilnius in your pocket] guide or browse [http://www.vilnius-tourism.lt/topic.php?tid=63
Vilnius tourist information center website].

[http://www.vilnius-tourism.lt/mediabank/A4_Dviraciai%20PRINT(1).pdf Map of Vilnius old town] - quite a nice map
with the routes you can explore either by bike or on foot.

[http://www.lietuvosmarsrutai.eu/index.php?lang=2 Lithuanian routes] is a really great website where Lithuanian
routes are coherently presented with the help of textual, photo and video material for those who want to travel
around Lithuania.

[http://www.fotoskrydis.lt/kategorija/vilniaus-apskritis/ Vilnius from above] - some nice pictures of Vilnius and
other cities of Lithuania made from an air ballon.

=== Events ===

Apart from Couchsurfing events there are plenty of things to do in Vilnius and around. Vilnius is ''European Capital
of Culture 2009'' and therefore there are a lot of cultural, artistic and social activities every month. Check out
what's happening in Vilnius during your stay:

[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=1351&post=4162900 Cultural events in Vilnius ]
about interesting events in Vilnius provided by Couchsurfers of Vilnius group;

[http://www.eb.lt/en.php3 Entertainment bank] - the biggest database of all kinds of events in Vilnius and the rest
of Lithuania;

[http://www.vilnius-life.com/ Vilnius life] - a very handy website with a lot of useful information about Vilnius;

[http://www.vilnius-tourism.lt/index.php?lang=EN Vilnius tourist information center];

[http://www.djscene.lt/event?fCity=vilnius&lang=en DJ Scene LT]

[http://www.club.lt/ Club.lt] - and some more clubbing events

[http://www.ore.lt/event.php?kada=&kur=Vilnius Ore.lt] - one more event calendor. Please note that the website is
only in Lithuanian;

some information

- some clubbing events in Vilnius;

[http://lietuva.lt/en/events/ Events in Lithuania] - if it's still not enough ;)

[http://www.cinema.lt/ Cinema] news. The website is in Lithuanian, but they have titles in original language as
well, so it's easy to get it;)

[http://www.vilniusjazz.lt Vilnius Jazz festival] - takes place every October and invites lots of great jazz
musicians from all over the world. Jazz lovers - don't miss a chance!

==== Cinemas ====

All non-hollywood movies fans should check out two cinemas in Vilnius (both of them are major venues for cinematic
events – festivals, meetings with filmmakers, retrospectives, special screenings etc.):

* [http://www.kinopasaka.lt/ Cinema Pasaka] - (Šv.Ignoto St. 4/3) is a very cozy little cinema in the heart of the
old town, same building as La Boheme wine bar.

* [http://www.skalvija.lt/index.php/about_skalvija/743 Skalvija] - (A. Goštauto St. 2/15) is another cinema center
that focuses on non-commercial European and World cinema, both classics and recent film.

Other cinemas with more recent/Hollywood movie repertoire are:

* [http://www.forumcinemas.lt/?lang=eng Forum Cinemas Vingis] - Savanorių St. 7;
* [http://www.forumcinemas.lt/?lang=eng Forum Cinemas Akropolis] - Ozo St. 25 - the one in a shopping mall

=== Shopping ===

Although Vilnius is not the capital of shopping, there are several places to do that:

* There are a lot of souvenir shops and little street market in the Old town. The typical Lithuanian souvenirs would
be amber, linen and mead, but the latter is available only in the shops where they sell alcohol.
* Shopping centers: the biggest in the city center are ''Europa'' (Konstitucijos 7a) and ''Gedimino 9'' (Gedimino
Av.9) and ''VCUP'' (Konstitucijos St. 16); a bit out of the city center, but still in Vilnius - ''Akropolis'' (Ozo
St. 25) and ''Panorama'' (Saltoniškių St. 9)
* The biggest grocery chain stores are ''Rimi'', ''Maxima'' and ''Iki'' - you'll see them everywhere.
* There are a lot of proprietary brand clothing shops in the Old town, especially in the area round the Town hall;)

== Accommodation ==

Hopefully you will be able to find a host and will not need to look for accommodation, but in case you do, here are some useful websites:

[http://www.hostels.com/findabed.php?ChosenCity=Vilnius&ChosenCountry=Lithuania&Search=1 Inexpensive hostels,
guesthouses and hotels]

[http://www.vilnius-tourism.lt/topic.php?tid=62&sid=75&aid=437 Youth hostels]

[http://www.vilnius-tourism.lt/topic.php?tid=62&sid=75&aid=438 Motels]

[http://www.vilnius-tourism.lt/topic.php?tid=62&sid=75&aid=630 Hotels and guest houses]

[http://www.camping.lt/index.php?lang=2&sid=432 Campsites across Lithuania] - in case you feel like going to the
nature ;)

== Restaurants, cafés, bars, pubs & clubs ==

=== Restaurants & cafés===

No doubt you will find McDonald's yourself, but in case you want to experience lithuanian cuisine, here are the most
popular restaurants serving traditional lithuanian meals:

[http://www.cili.lt/ Čili Kaimas] - a chain restaurant, located in Vokiečių St. 8 and Gedimino Ave. 14;

[http://www.fortodvaras.lt Forto dvaras] - also a good one and is right in the center - Pilies St. 16;

[http://www.zemaiciai.lt Žemaičiai] - a bit more expensive place in Vokiečių St. 24 and sometimes it takes ages to
get your meal, but the result is usually rewarding.

''Pilies menė'' in Pilies St. 8 or ''Amatininkų užeiga'' in Didžioji St. 19/2 might be also an option for
traditional meals.

What shall you order there to get real lithuanian experience? A distinctive trait of Lithuanian cuisine is the
preponderance of potato dishes, so try one of those:

* ''Cepelinai'' (‘Zeppelins’) - the most typical dish, large boiled potato dumplings (made from grated raw potato)
with fillings of minced meat or cottage cheese. Be careful - they are really filling;
* ''Kugelis'' (potato pie);
* Potato pancakes made from grated raw potato or boiled potato (sometimes – with a meat filling);
* ''Vėdarai'' (potato sausages) – a pretty creepy meal, made of pork intestines stuffed with grated raw potato,
baked in a wood stove or electric oven.

For a snack you should definitely try fried bread with cheese, marinated herring with boiled potatoes, various kinds
of cottage cheese or fermented cheeses, and hot-smoked or cold-smoked hams and sausages. Lithuanians also know many
recipes for mushroom dishes which are used in sauces, as fillings, or served as an accompaniment to meat dishes.

Soup is very popular in Lithuania and there are lots of kinds of it, but the most interesting Lithuanian soup
is ''šaltibarščiai'' (cold beetroot soup), which is made from beetroot, kefir (a fermented milk product), greens and
boiled eggs, is served chilled and is very refreshing on a hot summer day. Just don't get scared of a pink colour!

And finally, beer goes with pretty much everything, so go ahead! (ok, maybe not for breakfast;)

If you're done with typical lithuanian cuisine, there's plenty of other choices to eat out that match all tastes and
budgets (in most restaurants approximately LTL 20-40 should be enough for lunch or dinner for one person):

* European cuisine is predominant in Vilnius restaurants, with a few Lithuanian dishes included in the menu - check
out ''Užupio cafe'' (Užupio 2) - a super place and a heart of Užupis Republic during the summer time; [http://
www.avilys.lt Avilys] - really nice beer brewery & restaurant (Gedimino Ave. 5); [http://www.cozy.lt Cozy] - a
restaurant and a cozy club downstairs (Dominikonų St. 10); [http://www.steakhouse.lt Steak House Helios] (Didžioji
St. 28, 2 floor, Helios Entertainment Centre).
* Italian cuisine - [http://www.antonio.lt/index.php?k=EN Da Antonio I] (Vilniaus St. 23) and ''Da Antonio
Tratoria'' (Pilies St. 20); ''St. Valentino'' (Vilniaus St. 47/Trakų St. 18); ''Pomodoro'' (Jogailos g. 4)
and ''Fiorentino'' (Universiteto g. 4) with a nice inside yard during spring/summer. Note that pizzerias now
outnumber Lithuanian restaurants, so do not be surprised to find a wide range of pizzas available at most
restaurants (especially medium price range restaurants). The people of Vilnius are starting to jokingly say that
pizza is becoming Lithuania’s national dish.
* French cuisine - ''Les Amis'' (Savičiaus St. 9) and ''Saint Germain'' (Literatų g. 9), also ''La Provence''
(Vokiečių St. 22), but this one is a bit expensive.
* Czech cuisine - ''Pas Rudolfą II'' (Gedimino Ave. 46-2) - not very cozy place, but they have some quite nice
beers.
* Argentine cuisine - ''El Gaucho Sano'' (Pilies St. 10) - meat lovers, please enjoy;)
* Chinese cuisine - there is a big and always growing number of chinese restaurants in the Old town, so you will see
them at once.
* Vegetarian - ''Balti drambliai'' (White Elephants) is a purely vegetarian restaurant and very cozy bar (Vilniaus
St. 41) although you might have to wait about an hour for a beer, so better don't go there if you are in a hurry.
Vegetarians should be also able to find a suitable dish on the menu of almost any restaurant.

In terms of numbers of cafés, Vilnius is not far behind the traditional ‘café culture’ cities of Europe and they can
be found in almost every street of the Old Town, mostly in Trakų, Pilies, Didžioji, Vokiečių, Domininkonų, Savičiaus
streets and Gedimino Prospect. Most popular chain cafés are ''Double Coffee'' and ''Coffee Inn'', but don't expect
to find ''Starbucks Coffee'' here;)

=== Going out ===

There are few more mellow capitals than Vilnius - a hectic metropolis it ain't. But when night falls, there's no
shortage of revellers who are up for a party. What's more, the local beers make for a tasty tipple really worth
giving a try...again and again ;)

Note that many Vilnius bars function as restaurants during the day, and in terms of subtlety of interior décor and
quality of cuisine, they compete with the best restaurants. Some of the bars could also be appropriately included
in the list of intimate-sized clubs, because in the evenings they have live music or a DJ. List of suggested bars &
pubs, which might have a dance-floor as well is the following:

* [http://www.cafedeparis.lt Cafe de Paris] (Didžioji St. 1) - a small place in one of the main streets of the old
town, which has an incredible capacity to surprise with its wide range of events and installations, always vivid
and full of interesting people,live music every Saturday, local and international DJ’s any other day, visual arts,
alternative foods and international staff.
* [http://www.baltidrambliai.lt/main.php?page=1 Balti drambliai] (Vilniaus St. 41) - cozy and extremely relaxed
atmosphere, very reasonable prices and live music once in a while.
* [http://www.invino.lt/ In Vino] (Aušros Vartų St. 7) - is the kind of laid back haunt, especially recommended
during summertime when you can sit in outside in the inner yard, but note that it's not easy to get a table as this
place is always crowded. But give it a try.
* [http://www.mojitonaktys.lt/ Mohito Naktys] (Didžioji St. 33/2)- cocktail bar famous for their Mojitos (the best
in town), currently one of Vilnius’ hottest night spots. Drinks are pricey enough here (so not the best place to get
drunk;) therefore it tends to attract a bit more sophisticated but fun crowd rather than a beer-swilling rabble.
* [http://www.laboheme.lt/ La Boheme] (Šv.Ignoto St. 4/3) - cozy and very beautiful wine place + nice atmosphere,
very recommended.
* [http://www.tempolibero.lt/index.php/pageid/459 Tappo d'oro] ( l.Stuokos-Gucevičiaus St. 7) - cozy wine places
that has lots of inexpensive wines to offer;)
* Vasaros terasa (Vilniaus St. 39) - a very nice outdoor terrace located in the yard of the historic Teacher's
House, opened during spring/summer/early autumn, there are usually live concerts on weekends, as well as other
cultural events during the week, like cinema, theatre, dance, market etc. Really nice place.
* [http://www.absentofejos.lt/ Absento Fėjos] (Aušros Vartų St. 11) - if you manage to get in (the queue at the door
is usually pretty long and the face control is trick enough as well) you will probably like it, though it's pretty
expensive. No kids running around though :)
* [http://www.briusly.lt/ Briusly] (Islandijos St. 4.) - a very nice and cozy place, reasonably priced and very
popular + it also offers nice asian food.
* [http://www.cozy.lt Cozy] (Dominikonų St. 10) - combination of bar, cafe, restaurant and nightclub, where from
morning till nighttime, people can come to eat, drink and relax and later go downstairs for more lively activities.
* [http://www.alutis.lt/snekutis/ Šnekutis] (Polocko St. 7A and Šv.Stepono St. 8) - if you want to try some awsome
home-brewed "live beer" without any ripoff, that's the place to be.
* [http://www.busitrecias.lt/index.php/en/ Būsi trečias] (Totoriu st.) 18 - mini brewery, offering a big range of
flavoured beers and hearty food.

The most recommended nightclubs would be the following:

* [http://www.tamstaclub.lt Tamsta] (Subačiaus St. 11A) - probably the best club with live music (unfortunately
closed for summer holidays..).
* [http://www.pabolatino.lt Pabo Latino] (Trakų St. 3/2)- if you like salsa, then that's the place to be. Beautiful
interior, nice cocktails, if you come a bit earlier, the entrance fee is not too bad + you get a free drink.
* [http://www.cozy.lt Cozy] (Dominikonų St. 10) - a really cozy place to chill out and the entry is always free of
charge.
* [http://www.pachavilnius.lt Pacha club] (Gynėjų St. 14) - the name already speaks for itself, and people say it is
one of best clubs in Vilnius, posh and expensive though, but pretty worth it.
* [http://www.tarantinoclub.lt Tarantino club] (Trakų g. 2) - quite cozy and nice club, sometimes have live
concerts, sometimes the entrance is free, so might be worth checking it out.
* [http://www.artistai.lt Artistai] (Šv. Kazimiero St. 3) - pretty simple and relaxed place, especially popular
among students, so expect to be surrounded by a very young crowd and a possibility to get drinks in a plastic cup.
Has a nice inside yard and there is karaoke night on Tuesday.
* [http://www.havanasocialclub.lt Havana Social Club] (Šermukšnių St. 4a) - pretty nice place with friendly
atmosphere, not too posh, but nice interrior, has some good cocktails as well;)
* [http://www.brodvejus.lt Brodvėjus pub] (Mesiniu St. 4) is mostly attended by foreigners and students and the
music is mostly 90's pop, however, the place is still quite popular.
* [http://www.clubgravity.lt Gravity Club] is a good place for electronic music lovers, located in a former bunker,
usually crowded and always lacks oxygen.
* [http://www.play-club.com Play Club](Pamenkalnio St. 17/3) - you either love it or hate it: it's very small, very
alternative and simple, drinks usually come in plastic cups, but it has some charm for sure. And a football table.
* [http://www.bix.lt Bix baras](Etmonų St. 6) - rock club, pretty laid back and very popular among students.

== Getting in & around ==

=== Transportation to/from Vilnius ===

Choose the best way to get to Vilnius city:

* If you are coming by '''plane''' to [http://www.vilnius-airport.lt/en/ Vilnius international airport] you can take
a train to the central railway station (it only takes 7 minutes to get there, it goes twice an hour and costs less
than EUR 1) or take a bus Nr.1 going to the bus station or bus Nr. 2 going to the center of the city. There are
lockers in the railway station if you need to leave your luggage before heading to the city, it is very close to
the bus station (just across the street) and they both are close to the Old town even if you are going on foot (but
note that almost every trolleybus goes to the city center). You can always take a taxi, but it if you catch the ones
standing in front of the airport, they will charge you much more than you would if you call one. The journey should
cost you about EUR 7.

If you are landing in [http://www.kaunasair.lt/index.php?lang=en&page=express Kaunas airport], there is a bus going
to Vilnius (the bus schedule is in accordance with operating flights).

* [http://www.litrail.lt/wps/portal Lithuanian railways] - for those who are travelling by '''train'''. Note that
unfortunatelly ''Interrail'', ''Eurorail'' and similar tickets are not valid in Lithuania :(

* [http://www.autobusustotis.lt/en Vilnius bus station website] might be useful if you are travelling by '''bus'''.
[http://www.eurolines.ee/en/node Eurolines] coach company offers probably the cheapest and the most popular
international bus routes in the Baltics and the rest of Europe.

* '''Hitch-hiking''' is pretty popular way to travel in Lithuania as well as to the other countries and is safe
enough as long as you are staying rational yourself. [http://www.autostop.lt/main.php Hitch-hiking Club's] members
can help you a lot with tips on the best hitch-hiking-routes both in Lithuania and to nearby countries, what are the
best spots to hitch-hike etc. so definitely check out the website if you choose to travele this way.

* It is also possible to take a '''ferry''' to Klaipeda and then come to Vilnius by bus, car or train. Check out the
website of [http://www.portofklaipeda.lt/en.php/port_of_klaipda/cruising/ferry_lines/437 Klaipeda seaport] for the
ferry lines.

=== Transportation in Vilnius ===

A good thing about Vilnius is that it's small enough for you to easily get around on foot, by bike or by public
transport.

* If you are staying in the Old town, the best way to explore it is on foot. Most sights are within the walking
distance and don't be afraid to get lost, as it is the best way to discover the wonders of the city ;)

* [http://www.vilniustransport.lt/en.php/ Public transport] is neither the worse nor the best: there are quite
enough of buses and trolleybuses during the day, but they stop at 11:30 P.M. and there are no more night buses
available :( You can buy a ticket either in a kiosk (LTL 2) or from the driver (LTL 2.5) There are also tickets
valid for 1 day (LTL 13), 3 days (LTL 23) or 10 days (LTL 46), but see if it's worth it. [http://www.marsrutai.lt/
vilnius/?a=p.routes&transport_id=bus&t=xhtml&l=en Traffic schedules and route planning]might be handy as well. Note
that the public transport starts running at 5:30 AM and stops around 11:30 PM, so if you happen to fall in this gap,
choose taxi, walking, friends car or killing a night in a club ;)

* Taxi...uh, if you need to get a cab, there are two things you should bear in mind:
1)it is way cheaper to call a cab than to catch one on the street and
2)most likely they will try to rip you off anyway, so ask some local how
much your journey should cost in advance (the rate varies from LTL 2.2 to LTL 4 per km). You may try calling one of
those [http://www.taksi.lt/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=30&Itemid=63 taxi companies]

* Bike can also be an option so if you or your host doesn't have one, you can try to rent. Some places hiring bikes
in the city center are [http://www.dviratis.lt/index.php?page=catalogue&cat=nuoma&view=45 Velo-City] (Bernadinų St.
10, in front of St. Anns Church) or [http://www.kelrodis.lt Kelrodis](T.Ševčenkos g. 15/14).

* If you're coming by car, well, be careful :) but if you wish to rent a car, you can do it in the centre of the
city as well as at the airport. Note that you will be asked for your identification card and a valid international
credit card. Check out the list of [http://www.vilnius-tourism.lt/topic.php?tid=62&sid=76&aid=461 car rental
companies]

== Other useful information ==

* There are many Wi-fi places in Vilnius, but if you need an '''Internet cafe''', here are some of them (click for
the map):

[http://www.travel.lt/turizmas/map.do?addresscaseid=780BEC7DC51211D8AC97746164617373
[http://www.travel.lt/turizmas/map.do?addresscaseid=112C5A2E7C2E11DA8602746164617373
[http://www.travel.lt/turizmas/map.do?addresscaseid=70651542C51411D8AC97746164617373
[http://www.travel.lt/turizmas/map.do?addresscaseid=5064990FC51311D8AC97746164617373
[http://www.travel.lt/turizmas/map.do?addresscaseid=A37A73BA7C2B11DA8602746164617373
[http://www.travel.lt/turizmas/map.do?addresscaseid=7113DE227C3111DA8602746164617373

* [http://www.meteo.lt/english/forecasts.php Weather forecast] if you want to check what the weather is like during
your stay.
* You can '''exchange''' money in any bank, which may also be located in bigger shopping centers, there is an
exchange booth at the airport (arrivals hall) and outside railway/bus station as well. Note that ''Parex'' bank is
the only bank that accepts coins for exchange.
* '''Smoking''' is prohibited inside all restaurants, cafes, bars etc. unless there are tables outside.
* If you you can use your phone with other SIM cards, it would be cheaper to buy local sim card in a kiosk or in any
mobile phone shop. The most popular ones are ''Pildyk'', ''Labas'', ''Ezys'', ''Extra''. The SIM card costs from 5
to 10 lt (1,5-2,5 euros) and you can top it up.
* Free Wifi internet spots are available at many cafes in the whole city. Please ask the staff or watch for a Wifi-
sign at the door.
* '''Emergency number''' is the same as for the rest of Europe - 112.

Some websites to give you an idea about the '''costs in Vilnius''', but note that the prices are rising all the
time, so the information can really be not accurate enough:

* [http://www.tefl.com/home/col_survey.html?ci_id=81&tefl_session=9fad1961fc581111f947e98b26b81f3d&x=1&y=1
International City Cost Guide] - update the prices by doubling the given ones;)

== Foreigners about Vilnius, LT & CS ==

Colleqium] - Pilies St. 22-1;
Avineta] - Naugarduko St. 76;
Bazė] - A. Rotundo St. 2;
Fantazija] - Naugarduko St. 34;
Liumineta] - Antakalnio St. 40;
Netcafe]- Antakalnio St. 36

* [http://www.couchsurfing.com/group_read.html?gid=1351&post=2680237 Vilnius. What it's like in foreign eyes?] - CS
thread on foreigners' impression about Vilnius.
* [http://www.expatintelligence.com/expat-lithuania.shtml Expat Lithuania] - short introduction about life in LT
* [http://www.expatexchange.com/expat/index.cfm?frmid=247&forumid=0&dbname=ee&shared=N ExpatExchange] - website
where expats share their experience in LT. Can't promise all the information is correct, but might be useful.

== CS in the Press ==

There are several articles about CS in the media in Lithuanian:

http://www.zebra.lt/lt/laisvalaikis/keliones/Couch-surfing-kitoks-keliavimo-budas-2009-10-12.html
http://whatson.delfi.lt/news/travel/article.php?id=16689368
http://whatson.delfi.lt/news/travel/article.php?id=16695835
http://whatson.delfi.lt/news/travel/article.php?id=17138568
http://whatson.delfi.lt/news/travel/article.php?id=17188256
http://whatson.delfi.lt/news/travel/article.php?id=17203292
http://whatson.delfi.lt/news/travel/article.php?id=17285172
http://www.alfa.lt/straipsnis/157702
http://www.universitetozurnalistas.lt/uz/skotija/pub4.html

[UPDATE] and in english:
* http://www.travelblog.org/Europe/Sweden/Orebro-County/Orebro/blog-558605.html

[[Category:Lithuania]]
[[trash:Vilnius]]
[[hitch:Vilnius]]
[[nomad:Vilnius]]

Guide to punk

2019-02-16T11:11:27Z

Iotrj: Undo revision 11254 by Iotrj (talk)

{{tribe-header|punks}}
{| align="right"
| {{tribe|punks}} __TOC__
|}
This page was originally created by users of the CouchSurfing Punk Rock Group  to provide punk travellers an access to the local scenes. So for your convenience you find a list below that consists of links to sites where you can find out what to do or who to see at the place you're going to. If you wanna hang out with punks, you should join the [[:trtr:tribes/punks|punks on Trustroots]].

Let's keep this page as DIY as possible, remember : punk rock is not for sale!

If you can help, please do. If your country isn't yet in the list, just create a new paragraph, or even a regional sub-chapter.

A last detail, most of those links are in local language, but you can use a translator (like http://translate.google.com i.e.) it's usually enough to get the information you need.

[[File:Atoxxico Banda De Punk.jpg|right]]

== Worldwide ==
* http://www.anarcho-punk.net/
* http://www.byofl.org/ : Book your own fuckin' life
* [http://wiki.gifteconomy.org/Free_Shop A listing of freeshops]

== [[Africa]] ==

== [[North America]] ==
=== [[Canada]] ===

==== [[Montreal]] ====
* http://steemilieskillshare.com/ : A skillshare art space that has a fun workshops
* http://www.cinemapolitica.org/ : Free/by donation political movies
* [http://maps.google.com/maps/ms?ie=UTF8&hl=en&msa=0&msid=112205855090852845604.000444470b1fe51bf2b2a&t=h&ll=45.534287,-73.598614&spn=0.128832,0.117073&source=embed A map of trash in Montreal for dumpster diving]
* http://www.centresocialautogere.org : Autonomous social center website
* http://themidnightkitchen.wordpress.com/ : Free or PWYC hot vegan lunch 5 days/week at 12:30pm during the academic year at McGill University
* http://www.peoplespotato.com/ : Concordia University's free or PWYC hot vegan lunch!

=== [[USA]] ===
* http://www.houseshowdatabase.com/ : A guide to alternative venues all over the states

==== [[New York city]] ====
* http://www.abcnorio.org/ : ABC No Rio is a collectively-run center for art and activism
* http://www.abcnorio.org/affiliated/fnb.html : Food Not Bombs in Manhattan, runs out of ABC no Rio
* http://bluestockings.com/ : Activist/fair trade cafe and bookstore, there is some sort of event here almost every night
* [http://maps.google.com/maps/ms?ie=UTF8&hl=en&msa=0&msid=100574565875408827436.000460d7b0698fbea089e&ll=40.712004,-73.965969&spn=0.058423,0.11055&t=h&z=13 Trash map of NY for dumpster diving]
* http://vacantnyc.crowdmap.com/ : A map that shows vacant lots and abandoned buildings in NYC, it's helpful to street view them in google maps to see what they look like.

==== [[San Francisco]] ====
* https://www.noisebridge.net/wiki/Noisebridge : Noisebridge is an anarchist collective governed by do-ocracy. There are skill-sharing classes (mostly to do with tech) every night and free access to tools, co-working space, and an expansive library of political texts
* https://sffnb.org/list-of-san-francisco-empty-and-abandoned-buildings/ : Up-to-date list of abandoned buildings in SF, maintained by Food Not Bombs

=== [[Mexico]] ===

==== [[Mexico city]] ====
* CSO Casa Naranja - the only punk squat, some gigs

* http://www.facebook.com/chantiollinmx - Chanti Ollin, a hippy squat

* Okupa Che - a squat in the UNAM campus (philosophy faculty) - anarcho-communist ideas

* Cubiculo Emma Goldman in Economics Faculty at UNAM

* Furia de las Calles (Punk Collective that sells some anticapitalist stuff and organize gigs)

* http://multiforoalicia.blogspot.mx: Multiforo Alicia(punk, anarcho venue)

* http://www.lastfm.es/venue/8927865+El+Clandestino: El Clandestino (punk venue)

* http://www.theunder.org/under3/index.php?option=com_events&Itemid=100011: El Under (concert venue/bar)

* Gato Calavera: punk/goth bar, some gigs

=== [[Guatemala]] ===

==== [[Guatemala city]] ====
* La Maga Gitana y Genuina - alternative venue/bar, punk/metal/rockabilly gigs

== [[South America]] ==
=== [[Argentina]] ===
* http://www.sevoszine.com.ar/ : webzine about being yourself and notes about local melodic hardcore and punk bands.

== [[Asia]] ==
=== [[Indonesia]] ===
=== [[Japan]] ===
=== [[Malaysia]] ===
http://www.myspace.com/hatirecs (Based in Borneo,booking Southeast Asia tour)

=== [[Philippines]] ===
'''United By Chaos''' - http://www.chaosnet.tumblr.com

=== [[South Korea]] ===
* http://www.myspace.com/soeultari : DIY punkrock show organizer. people who run this are disorganised bigots who've burned too many bridges to be helpful.
* http://brokeinkorea.proboards.com/ : english web board on korean punk scene. people who are posting here are disgusting expats.

== [[Australia]] ==
==== [[Sydney]] ====
* '''[http://jura.org.au/ Jura Books]'''
* '''[http://shac.squat.net/ Sydney Housing Action Collective]'''
* '''[http://www.bikesarefun.org/ Critical Mass Sydney]'''

==== [[Melbourne]] ====
* '''[http://mac.anarchobase.com/ Melbourne Anarchist Club]''' venue, infoshop and events
* '''[http://irenewarehouse.org/ Irenes Community warehouse]''' Food not bombs cooking, mondays and tuesdays, from 10am and 4pm, free computer access, workshops, artspace and concerts
* '''[http://www.melbourne.foe.org.au/ Friends of the Earth]''' with cheap food, environmental shop, food co-operative, environmental projects.
* Squats are everywhere, you just need to find a person and ask, they are houses not social centers.

== [[Europe]] ==
* http://radar.squat.net/ : stuffs to do in your punk life in Europe
* http://squat.net : news about squatting in Europe

=== [[Austria]] ===
==== [[Wien]] ====
* [http://www.med-user.net/~ekh/ EKH] famous austrian squat
* [http://autonomizethecity.blogsport.eu/ a squatters' collective]
* http://www.capeet.com/gigs_list.html : Website listing gigs in Vienna
* http://www.gegendielangeweile.net : DIY Calendar for Vienna
* http://www.pankahyttn.at : Streetpunk-House/Squat
* http://pizza.noblogs.org : Squatted Pizzeria(!)
* http://www.dasbaeckerei.net : Anarchist cultural center
* http://wagenplatz.at/ : coordination site for the wagenplätze of Vienna (there are 2 at the moment)
* [http://bahoe.tk/ Bahö Magasin] anarchist (propaganda) collective, meets every Wednesday in lolligo kids cafe
* http://www.bikekitchen.net : DIY-bikeworkshop, also has a bar and events from time to time.
* http://wipplinger23.blogspot.com/ - Anarchist space in the city center. Has educational events as well as a bar and anarchist library.
* http://kaleidoskop.kukuma.org/ : Anarchist cultural center, anarch@-hippies gather here :)

==== [[Graz]] ====

(second largest town, exactly between Vienna, Zagreb and Ljubljana; 60km to Maribor No-border-Jam-Festival)

* [http://www.subsubsub.at Sub]: non-profit DIY location.

=== [[Belarus]] ===

* http://belarus.indymedia.org/ : Indymedia Belarus
* http://www.375crew.org/ : d.i.y. political punk/hardcore culture of Belarus
* http://belarus.avtonom.org/ : Autonomous action
* http://fnbminsk.noblogs.org/: FoodNotBombs Minsk
* squatthebelarus A T riseup.net : Squatters' movement of Minsk
* http://kairos.noblogs.org/: Kairos - libertarian analytic blog
* http://tryznas-kefiras.noblogs.org/ : Tryznas kefiras zine
* http://eatyourselfcrew.ucoz.ru/ : Eat Yourself Crew
* http://www.svabodny.kantakt.net/: Free Theatre - anarchist theatre from city of Brest
* http://rebels-library.org: Rebel Studies Library (Minsk)

=== [[Belgium]] ===
* '''[http://c3p0o.org/queerpunxbelgium/ QueerPunxBelgium]'''

==== [[Brussels]] ====
* '''[http://c3p0o.org/queerpunxbelgium/ Queer Punx Belgium]''' : a nice punk agenda
* '''[http://www.acrata.be/ Acrata], anarchist library''' : 32, Rue de la Grande Ile, 1000 Bruxelles / acrata(at)post.com
* '''[https://lapetroleusebxl.noblogs.org/ La Petroleuse]''', a squat

==== [[Liege]] ====
* http://www.chauvesouris.collectifs.net/ : a squat (had been destroyed)
* http://pigeoncommunal.collectifs.net/ : a squat
* http://www.myspace.com/suxtobeyoupresents : Show organisation
* http://www.carlolevi.be/ : a café that organises lot of punk shows

=== [[Bosnia & Herzegovina]] ===

=== [[Bulgaria]] ===
* http://www.diy.aresistance.net/ : d.i.y. anarchopunk webzine

According to those people :

" OK, so the situation in Bulgaria is very different than in the other
European countries.

There are no squats and autonomous centres!

There are problems with Nazis in cities like Sofia and Plovdiv, so you
have to be very aware of this, especially if you're with a mohawk and
dress like a punk.

Varna was much better, but the only DIY punk club was closed by the police
two months ago and there is nothing happening right now there.

Bulgarian and Serbian are the most intolerant to gay people societies in
Europe. 80% of Bulgarians are homophobes and some kind of nationalists.
Punk shows are two types: completely apolitical or nazi-friendly. The
hardcore scene is into tough guy macho beatdown or NYHC stuff without
political messages. Very patriotic, sexist and homophobic.

There are environmentalist with a hippie attitude, some rastas and
drum&bass fans that are cool people, but don't have any relevant political
culture. There are bikers and they have a NGO called Bikevolution, they're
cool people, but normal looking people with prejudices on punx with
mohawks etc."

Unfortunately, my short experience there confirm this more or less :(

[[User:Bikepunk|Bikepunk]]<small><sup>[[User talk:Bikepunk|Talk]]</sup><sup>[[:cs:Bikepunk|CS]]</sup></small> 15:32, 9 September 2009 (UTC)

* http://a-bg.net/new/ : anarchist portal

=== [[Croatia]] ===
==== [[Pula]] ====
* http://www.myspace.com/monteparadisopula http://squat.net/monteparadiso/ - squat with gigs, film screenings etc.

=== [[Czech Republic]] ===
* http://www.a-punk.cz/ : active ! punk
* http://www.periferia.cz/ : hc/punk webzine
* http://czechcore.cz : hc scene
* [http://www.punk.cz/index.asp?menu=603 www.punk.cz]
* [http://a-punk.cz/index.php?clanek=18-english-info info in english]

==== [[Praha]] ====
* http://praha.squat.net/ : squatblog

=== [[Denmark]] ===
==== [[Copenhagen]] ====
* '''[http://www.dortheavej-61.dk/ Dortheavej 61]''' the new Ungdomshuset, Overdrevet with concerts, peoples kitchen on thursdays, yoga, book cafe and other projects.
* '''[http://www.bolsjefabrikken.com/ The Candy Factory]''', workshop spaces, cinema, peoples kitchen, recording rooms, free shop. Bar and stage in basement.
* '''Bumzen'''- Old squat, now legal and with 2 collectives living there. Vegan peoples kitchen on wednesday, space for visitors, concerts. Baldersgade 20-22 nørrebro (south of nørrebro station)
* '''[http://www.folketshus.dk/english-info/ Folkets Hus]''', The peoples house with collective cafe, peoples kitchen (mondays from 630pm) Queer films on sundays, concerts and meeting spaces. Stengade 50, Nørrebro
* '''KafaX''', Peoples kitchen on tuesdays from 7pm, free shop, meeting space and food co-operative on Wednesdays. Korsgade 19, Nørrebro, close to the lakes.
* '''Solidaritetshuset''', Solidarity house, Material for sale, projects, meetings and events. Griffenfeldsgade 41, Nørrebro (close to Folkets Hus)

==== [[Aalborg]] ====
* http://www.1000fryd.dk 1000fryd is a social center @ Kattesundet 10. Concerts, peoples kitchen, meetings.. everything happens here only!

==== [[Kolding]] ====
* '''6000 DIY''' - DIY collective in Kolding. Concerts, house shows, vegan peoples kitchen (food not bombs), workshops, etc. Get in touch! http://myspace.com/6000diy (or) http://6000diy.dk

=== [[Estonia]] ===
* '''[http://www.rockiklubi.ee/ Valga Rockiklubi]''': the best DIY venue in Estonia (on the border with Latvia)

=== [[Finland]] ===
* http://www.punkinfinland.net/ : Finnish punk info site with an extensive discussion forum (gigs @ http://www.punkinfinland.net/forum/viewforum.php?f=11)
* http://www.punkinlapland.net/community/ : United punk scene in Northern Scandinavia
* http://takku.net/calendar/ : an event calendar @ an anarchist media project site
* http://kimppa.net/English/Default_eng.aspx : car-sharing

==== [[Helsinki]] ====

* '''[http://www.oranssi.net/english oranssi]'''an old squatter organization doing punk/indie shows (no age limit, no alcohol served), people's kitchen, vegan cafe and other stuff, too, whenever they have a place
* '''[http://mustankaninkolo.blogspot.com Mustan Kanin Kolo]''' : an anarchist infoshop and second-hand bookstore
* '''[http://www.fireinsidemusic.com/shop/shopinfo.php#english Combat Rock Shop]''' : a punk shop
* '''[http://lepakkomies.fi/ Lepakkomies]''' : a punk bar/venue
* '''[http://www.barloose.com/ Bar Loose]''' : a rock bar with occasional punk shows
* '''[http://www.tavastiaklubi.fi/ Tavastia]''' : the legendary rock club hosting punk shows every now and then
* '''[http://www.semifinal.fi/ Semifinal]''' : a smaller club in the courtyard of Tavastia with occasional punk shows
* '''[http://www.sture21.fi/ Ravintola Sture 21]''' : a club hosting different music events, also punk shows

==== [[Lahti]] ====
* http://www.myspace.com/roosterpub : a hardcore/punk pub

==== [[Tampere]] ====
* http://www.vastavirta.net/ : a really nice punk cafe/bar/venue
* http://www.puntala-rock.com/ : an open air punk festival held near Tampere in July
* http://www.hirvikatu10.net/ : gallery, meeting place, social center, garden, D.I.Y. and more, worth to pay a visit.

==== [[Turku]] ====
* http://www.diyturku.net/forum/ : a meeting place and information resource for people interested in sub-/countercultural activities in the Turku region (event calendar: http://diyturku.net/forum/index.php?action=calendar)
* http://vapaakulttuuri.blogspot.com/ : a blog with information about autonomous cultural action in Turku
* http://dhost.info/ooo65/viewforum.php?f=1 : a squatter forum. information and discussion about occupations and other related stuff in Turku
* http://www.myspace.com/tvoturku : the oldest d.i.y. venue in the whole country (having done shows since the 1950s), run by university students and punks; UPDATE: evicted in May 2010, still looking for a new place where to organize public events
* http://www.kirjakahvila.org/ : a student-run co-op book cafe; maybe not that "punk", but the only d.i.y. not-for-profit place in town after TVO got evicted (besides, there are a few punks as volunteers, as well). serves fair trade coffee/tea/hot chocolate and all-vegan cakes and pastries, hosts free film nights, discussions, and even some small gigs. there's a freebox for books, and some zines and anarchist literature available in the bookshop. occasional uncommercial queer parties on weekends

==== [[Oulu]] ====
* http://www.ykanpub.com/ : an old scruffy pub with punk gigs every now and then.

=== [[France]] ===
* '''[http://punxforum.net/ PunxForum.net]'''
* '''[http://razibus.net/ Razibus]''' : french punk agenda
* '''[https://www.punk-hardcore.info/ punk-hardcore.info]''' : punk hardcore, and more, in france and everywhere
* '''[https://www.punk-hardcore.info/spip.php?rubrique19 punk-hardcore.info concert page]''' : may be the biggest listing of DIY punk/hardcore concerts in france
* '''[https://www.theyliewedie.org/ TheyLieWeDie.org]''' : anarcho-punk portal
* '''[https://infokiosques.net/ Infokiosques.net]''': infoshops & stuff
* '''[http://www.pirate-punk.net PIRATE-PUNK.NET]''': info concerts, bands, etc. all around France

==== [[Amiens]] ====

* '''[https://accueilfroidnuke.blogspot.fr/ Accueil Froid]''' : a DIY/artistic venue
* '''[https://picardie.demosphere.eu/ Demosphere Picardie]''' : alternative agenda

==== [[Angers]] ====
* '''[https://etincelleangers.wordpress.com/ l'Etincelle]''' : social center
* '''[http://chezle21.blogspot.com/ 21]''' : a community library AND a lovely [http://latetedansleguidon.blogspot.com/ bike workshop]
* '''[http://troglobal.waloomaloo.com Village Troglobal]''' : a kind of self managed village around Angers...
* '''[http://la-conserverie.blogspot.com/ La Conserverie]''' : a DIY concert place with rehearsal rooms for the bands (dead)

==== [[Bordeaux]] ====
* '''[https://punkfluidbx.tumblr.com/ Punk Fluid]''' : punk agenda for Bordeaux
* '''[http://gironde.demosphere.eu/ Démosphère Gironde]''': Bordeaux activist agenda
* '''[http://www.atheneelibertaire.net/ Athenée Libertaire]''': a social center. political music welcome
* '''[https://loukaze.squat.net/ l'Oukaze]''' : A squat in Bègles (evicted)

==== [[Brest]] ====
* '''[https://lafaussecommune.noblogs.org/ La Fausse Commune]''' : a squat in Brest
* '''[http://lapoudriere.noblogs.org/ La Poudrière]''' : a squat in Brest (evicted)

==== [[Chalon-sur-Saône]] ====
* '''[http://www.tutecalmes.org/ Tu Te Calmes !]''' : c'est un agenda des trucs cool à faire à Chalon sur Saône.

==== [[Clermont-Ferrand]] ====
* '''[https://hoteldesvil-e-s.blogspot.nl/ L'hotel des Vil-e-s]''' : a squat/social center
* '''[http://www.raymondbar.net/ Le Raymond Bar]''' : Self organized concert place

==== [[Dijon]] ====
* '''[https://tanneries.squat.net/ les Tanneries]''': a huge political squat/social center, the oldest still functioning squat in France
* '''[http://malokadistro.com/ Maloka]''' : 20-year old anarcho punk collective packing a large distro and doing a lot of concerts

==== [[Grenoble]] ====
* '''[http://grenoble.indymedia.org/spip.php?page=agenda Indymedia Grenoble calendar]''' : telling you what's going on in the city
* '''[https://www.lustucrust.org/ Lustucrust]''' : Grenoble punk info site
* '''[https://www.lustucrust.org/localautogere_presentation.html le Local Autogéré]''' : an anarchist/punk infoshop
* '''[http://www.le102.net/ le 102]''' : an autonomous social/cultural center/venue
* '''[http://labaf.org/ la BAF]''' : a self organized social center
* '''[https://www.bibliothequeantigone.org/ Antigone]''': an autonomous library/cafe/infoshop/social center

==== [[Lille]] ====
* '''[http://chpunk.org chpunk.org]''' : the punk agenda for the North (of france)
* '''[https://lille.indymedia.org/ Indymedia Lille]'''
* '''[http://lille.cybertaria.org/ Lille:alternataire]''' : a libertarian portal with an event calendar
* '''[http://lille.cybertaria.org/rubrique11.html Centre Culturel Libertaire]''' : a kinda social center

==== [[Lyon]] ====
* '''[http://villemorte.fr/ Ville Morte]''' : underground agenda
* '''[http://lyonpunx.weebly.com/index.html Lyon Punx]''' : a local punk agenda
* '''[https://rebellyon.info/ rebellyon.info]''' : an event calendar with alternative radical political infos for Lyon
* '''[http://www.grrrndzero.org/ Grrrnd Zero]''': two separate venues for musical and other cultural activities
* '''[http://laluttine.wordpress.com/ La Luttine]''': a DIY punk infoshop open on Saturdays

==== [[Marseille]] ====

Le Vortex is an underground agenda, you'll find an updated paper version in most of the places below.
In Noailles you can get very cheap food, like 4€ pizzas :-p

* '''[http://crapoulet.fr/levortex/ Le Vortex]''' : punk/underground concert agenda (https://www.facebook.com/vortexfrommars/)
* '''[http://lasallegueule.free.fr/ La Salle Gueule]''' : Café-concert rock'n'roll
* '''[https://www.facebook.com/les9salopards/ Les 9 salopards]''' : a punkish venue
* '''[https://www.facebook.com/manifesten Manifesten]''' : an alternative cafe
* '''[http://polygone-etoile.com/ Le Polygone Etoilé]''' : alternative cinema
* '''[http://www.lemolotov.com/ Le Molotov]''' : a rock venue
* '''[https://mars-infos.org/ Marseille Infos Autonomes]''' : a local autonomous news site
* '''[http://www.millebabords.org/ Mille Babords]''' : an other news website and agenda

==== [[Montpelier]] ====
* '''[http://montpellier.demosphere.eu/ Démosphère Montpelier]''' : Montpelier activist agenda

==== [[Nancy]] ====
* '''[https://ccan.herbesfolles.org/ Centre Culturel Autogéré de Nancy]''' : Self managed social center

==== [[Nantes]] ====
* '''[http://pullrouge.fr/ Pull Rouge]''' : agenda / art indie : concerts & vernissages / Nantes & 44
* '''[http://bellamy17.free.fr/ B17]''' : a self-managed space
* '''[https://zad.nadir.org/ ZAD]''' : At Notre Dame des Landes (25km north of Nantes) Vinci wants to build an international airport and squatters resist

==== [[Paris]] ====
* '''[http://pariskiwi.org pariskiwi]''' : wiki about DIY scene in Paris
* '''[http://ctx-n-flrs.zikforum.com/infos-concerts-et-albums-f3/ Des couteaux et des fleurs]''' : Punk show forum
* '''[http://lamiroit.free.fr/ La miroiterie]''' : squat with concerts in Paris
* '''[http://www.cicp21ter.org/ Centre International de Culture Populaire]''' : Popular Culture International Center
* '''[https://transfo.squat.net/ Transfo]''' : a squat/social center
* '''[http://www.lamutinerie.eu/ La Mutinerie]''' : a political queer bar

==== [[Reims]] ====
* '''[http://www.ecluse-reims.org L'écluse]''' : a squat organizing concerts and stuff

==== [[Robiac]] ====
* '''[http://collectif.valette.free.fr/ la Vieille Valette]''' : Self managed village in the middle of nowhere (a big punk festival once a year)

==== [[Saint Etienne]] ====
* '''[http://lenumerozero.lautre.net/ NumeroZero] : local underground news portal with an event calendar
* '''[https://lafrancepue.org/wordpress/ la france pue]''' : DIY booker and distro
* '''[http://www.lasourcefurieuse.org/ la source furieuse]''' : punk collective
* '''[http://sainteunderground.free.fr/ Saint-Etienne Underground]''' : forum about independent music (french only)

==== [[Strasbourg]] ====
* '''[http://maison-mimir.com/ La Maison Mimir]''' : a kinda social center

==== [[Toulouse]] ====
* '''[http://concertoupizza.blogspot.com/ Concert ou Pizza ?]''' : listing of most punk related gigs in Toulouse and around there.
* '''[https://www.facebook.com/distorama Distorama]''' : Agenda garage/punk
* '''[http://toulousecrust.blogspot.fr Toulouse Crust]''' : listing of crusts concerts around Toulouse
* '''[https://iaata.info/ Information Anti Autoritaire Toulouse et Alentours]''' : local anti authoritarian info
* '''[http://toulouse.demosphere.eu/ Toulouse Demosphere]''' : Toulouse activist agenda
* '''[http://infokiosques.net/kioskarnaudben le Kiosk]''' : an infoshop with library, internet, coffee, etc.
* '''[https://tidibi.wordpress.com/ TDB]''' : a queer squat organising stuff now and then
* '''[http://la-gazette-toulouse.over-blog.com/ La gazette de l'intersquat du 31]''': a blog with info about squats in Toulouse
* '''[http://www.panx.net/ PANX.net]''': Toulouse punk network infosite
* '''[http://collectifchaussas.wix.com/les-enfants-sauvages Les enfants sauvages]''': a collective organizing gigs, with rehearsal room and other cool stuff
* '''[http://mixart-myrys.org/ Mix'art Myrys]''' : a self-organised artists collective

==== [[Troyes]] ====
* '''[https://www.facebook.com/bouchetrou666 Bouche Trou]]''' : Un agenda Culturel à Troyes

==== [[Cubjac]] ====
* '''[http://encres-noires.squat.net/ Encres Noires]''': an anarchist library

==== [[Tours]] ====
* '''[https://larotative.info/ La Rotative]''' : info site
* '''[http://mediatours.noblogs.org/ medi@tours]''' : alternative info blog

=== [[Germany]] ===
* http://knox.p-u-n-k.de/db/ : Concert database

==== [[Berlin]] ====
* http://stressfaktor.squat.net/termine.php : an extensive underground guide/program calendar for berlin listing pretty much all the d.i.y. punk shows, people's kitchens (http://stressfaktor.squat.net/vokue.php), punk film nights, demos, and other activities
* http://www.wasteofmind.de/berlin/berlin.php : punkrock/hardcore ezine
* http://koepi137.net/ : a very famous and huge punk house project in Kreuzberg/Mitte with bars, two venues (AGH and Koma F), discos, films screenings etc.
* http://www.myspace.com/scharni38/ : a political house project in Friedrichshain with a two-floor punk bar and venue
* http://squat.net/liebig34/ : a queer/anarchafeminist house project in Friedrichshain with an anarchafeminist punk bar and venue (XB-Liebig)
* http://www.schwarzerkanal.squat.net : a radical queer living project ("wagenplatz") in Treptow with shows etc., bike workshop, and a yearly d.i.y. queer film festival
* Fischladen, Rigaerstr. 83 : a popular punk bar and venue in Friedrichshain
* http://www.rigaer94.squat.net : a house project in Friedrichshain with a punk bar (Kadterschmiede)
* http://www.myspace.com/subversivberlinmitte : a punk venue in Mitte
* http://www.myspace.com/cafemorgenrot/ : a really nice punk cafe/bar in Prenzlauer Berg that holds a famous vegan/vegetarian brunch on weekends and has a venue (Kastanienkeller) in the basement
* http://so36.de/ : a more-or-less political club/venue in Kreuzberg
* M-99, Manteuffelstr. 99 : an anarchist infoshop in Kreuzberg with all kinds of punk stuff for sale
* http://erinyen.blogspot.com/ : an anarcha-feminist collective
* http://www.schicksaal.org/konzerte.php : Tommyhaus squat gigs

==== [[Flensburg]] ====
* http://www.hafermarktflensburg.de/ : punk rock's house !!

==== [[Frankfurt (Main) ]] ====
* http://copyriot.com/untergrund/ - Dates for concerts, parties in and around Frankfurt

==== [[Hamburg]] ====
* [http://www.bewegungsmelder.org Bewegungsmelder] - Shows, parties, politics
* [http://www.hamburgpunk.de/ Hamburgpunk] - Dates (mostly concerts), Forum, Gossip (not always up to date)

==== [[Kiel]] ====
* http://www.altemeierei.de/tiki-start.php : hausprojekt with cofee and venue since 1983

==== [[Leipzig Saxony]] ====
* http://www.http://sachsenpunk.de/: all shows and venues of saxony with links to most of the venues and house projects

==== [[Lübeck]] ====
* http://www.walli-bleibt.de/ : wagen burg with coffee, bar an venue

==== [[Mannheim]] ====
* http://www.juz-mannheim.de/termine.htm Youth Center with venue and bar

==== [[Munich]] ====
* http://kafemarat.blogsport.de/

=== [[Greece]] ===
* https://athens.indymedia.org/ : Indimedia is the main way of anarchist counterinformation in greece

==== [[Athens]] ====
* '''Katarameno Syndromo''' : DIY punk rock collective
* [http://maps.google.com/maps/ms?ie=UTF8&hl=en&msa=0&msid=113348295068813260285.0004816098f8d47fe0ee6&z=12 Some map locating most of the places to go in Athens]
* [https://villa-amalias.blogspot.com/ Villa Amalias], one of the most famous squats of Athens (evicted and destroyed :'-( , a lot of Punk and other Concerts and Activities, near Victoria Metro Station
* the best way to meet punks in Athens is still to hang around Exarhia in the evening. The "punk" meeting spot is Mesonligiou but it worth to check out the Parko (self managed reclaimed area where people destroyed a car park to build up a public parc) 50 meters up on Navarinou or just the Exarchia Square.

==== [[Kavala]] ====
* https://accionmutantecollective.blogspot.com/ : punk collective
* https://anarxikoikavalas.squat.gr/ : anarchist infos

==== [[Thessaloniki]] ====
* https://myspace.com/streetattacksquad: Street Attack, a punk squat
* a good way to meet punks an other "alternative" people in Thessaloniki is to go at the place called "Rotode" is a famous youth gathering where police is not welcome (outdated ?)
* there are also a few squatted venues inside the university: Steki Sto Biologiko...

==== [[Iraklio]] ====
* [https://evagelismos.squat.gr/ Evangelismou Squat] in the Center of Iraklio

=== [[Hungary]] ===
* http://www.myspace.com/dreamlongdeadbooking : booking/shows
* http://freefest.hu/ : A free DIY festival every summer

=== [[Iceland]] ===
* http://www.savingiceland.org/ Saving Iceland is an anti-capitalist direct action campaign against heavy industry in Iceland and worldwide.
* http://www.aftaka.org/ An anarchist website that was active from 2008-2010. Has a few articles on the 2008-2009 uprising in english.
* http://www.taflan.org/ A hardcore/punk/metal/etc. message board. Info about upcoming shows.

==== [[Reykjavík]] ====
* [http://kedjuverkun.org/ Keðjuverkun] (Chain Reaction) is a DIY bike collective. Not as active since they lost their space.
* [http://www.andspyrna.org/ Andspyrnu Bókasafn], Anarchist Library in Reykjavíkurakademían.
* Radical Feminist Soup Kitchen every other thursday in Grasrótarmiðstöðin(Grassrootscenter), Bratarholt 4, 101. Contact: eldhusfolksins@riseup.net

=== [[Israel]] ===
==== [[Tel Aviv]] ====
* http://rogatka.me/blog/?m=201105&cat=3 small diy-place with shows, screenings, discussions; satursday 4€-vegan lunch. only place in TA with Taybeh-beer (from Ramalah); unfortunately non-smoking inside. Yitzhak Sade-street way down; next to it is:
* "Salon Mazal", the info-shop place. focus on animal rights, antifa and anti-occupation, queer&gender issues. big but random library with books of 40 years.
* the "yellow house": squat (without legal title) by nihilist punx, might be dangerous to visit... it's down in Yaffa next to Ha-Hagana Park, follow street (Ben Yehuda?)
* ask trustworthy people about the "red house" and handle the information decently; it's a house share of punx/activists but it's not explicitly an open political project.
* chaos-punx are said to hang around in front of Diezengoff-Mall.
* in small groups it's safe to sleep on the beach, there are even containers for BBQ-fires.
--Hathova bar (the abomination)-Underground non profit punk bar,cheapest prices in Tel-Aviv.
sunday-wednesday
19:00-till the last drunk.
Hasadna 16 street,tel aviv.

==== [[Jerusalem]] ====
* uganda: artsy cafe/pub-style place with records and comics near Yaffa-street, sometimes small shows. expensive beer.
* Lifta: you wouldn't believe it: an abandoned arab village! five minutes walk from Central Bus Station. Punx and bums have been crashing in there since decades. permanent stay is impossible because of men (from the park authorities and orthodox neighbors) removing and burning furniture and belongings frequently... the village consists of appr 100 stone-houses (mostly ruins) and a clean water pool frequently visited by orthodox males (drinking water quality). it's possible to have your camp-fire; bring your hammock and keep the place clean. for the history of this village whose population fled in winter 1947/48 can be found in detail on wikipedia.

=== [[Italy]] ===
* http://www.punk4free.org/concerti.html
* http://www.sowdust.it/sd/concerti/
* http://www.myspace.com/punxmeeting

==== [[Milan]] ====
* http://milano.tonight.eu/locali/centri_sociali : Alternative venues in Milan

==== [[Torino]] ====
* http://www.tuttosquat.net/
* http://www.radioblackout.org/ : anarchist radio

=== [[Ireland]] ===
==== [[Belfast]] ====
* http://warzonecollective.com

==== [[Dublin]] ====
* [http://seomraspraoi.org/ Dublin's autonomous social centre]

=== [[Latvia]] ===
* http://www.punk.lv

==== [[Kuldiga]] ====
* [http://www.nekac.lv/ NEKAC] : d.i.y. center with shows and stuff

=== [[Lithuania]] ===
==== [[Vilnius]] ====
* http://www.hardcore.lt/
* http://www.myspace.com/XI20 : booking/shows

=== [[Macedonia]] ===
* http://www.teror13.anarhija.org/

=== [[Netherlands]] ===
* http://www.punx.nl/ - Punk listings
* http://radar.squat.net/ - Squat listings

==== [[Amsterdam]] ====
* [http://www.xs4all.nl/~binnenpr/ Binnenpret - Cultureel complex in Amsterdam-Zuid]
* [http://ot301.nl/ Overtoom301]
* [http://swomp.wordpress.com/ Freestate SWOMP]
* [http://www.vrankrijk.org/ Vrankrijk, queer squat]
* [http://www.occii.org/ OCCII, legal punk squat]
* [http://www.joesgarage.nl/ Joe’s Garage]

==== [[Den Haag]] ====
* '''[http://www.everyoneweb.com/presentation_tier/Index.aspx?WebID=piratenbar&BoomID=B1&KnooppuntID=K486&KnoopOpen=True El Lokal Pirata]''' : Pirate social center in Scheveningen

==== [[Leiden]] ====
* http://koppenhinksteeg.nl/ : Koppenhinksteeg - Bar, cafe, freeshop, offices, venue
* http://www.multipleks.org/ : Multipleks - Freespace

==== [[Rotterdam]] ====
* http://www.poortgebouw.nl/ : Poortgebouw - Cafe, gigs, living group
* http://www.wormweb.nl/ : Worm - Alternative music venue

==== [[Utrecht]] ====
* [http://www.acu.nl/ ACU] - politiek cultureel centrum (former squat which managed to keep the anarchist atmosphere in a professional setting)
* [http://www.dbstudio.nl/ Db's] - a big complex with lots of rehearsal rooms, a small concert hall and a studio. Programs a ot of underground acts
* [http://ubica.squat.net/start.html Ubica] - The last real squad in the city centre of Utrecht

=== [[Norway]] ===
==== [[Oslo]] ====
* http://www.blitz.no/ : an old squat with political activities, vegan/vegetarian cafe and punk shows

=== [[Poland]] ===
* '''[http://forum.hard-core.pl/ forum.hard-core.pl]''' : check out the forum, there you can find all gigs and what's going on in Poland

==== [[Gdansk & Gdynia]] ====
* http://www.diy3m.org : diy hardcore punk shows in Gdansk and Gdynia
* http://www.diy-fest.org : diy hardcore punk festival in Gdynia

==== [[Krakow]] ====
* [https://squatkrakow.wordpress.com/ Carandiru squat]
* [https://www.facebook.com/KawiarniaNaukowaKrakow Kawierna Naukowa] a bar booking punk gigs

==== [[Lublin]] ====
* http://tektura.wordpress.com/ : DIY cultural center in Lublin

==== [[Łódź]] ====
* http://k50squat.blogspot.com/ : squat with concerts etc. (seems dead)

==== [[Poznan]] ====
* http://www.rozbrat.org/ : the oldest squat in Poland, with concerts and more...

==== [[Toruń]] ====
* http://www.pilon.pl/ harcore punk anarcho cafe bar

==== [[Warszawa]] ====
* '''[http://syrena.tk/ Syrena]''' : a squatted social center
* '''[http://adapulawska.noblogs.org/ ADA]''' : Aktywny Dom Alternatywny a "houseproject" with concerts, screenings and stuff <strike>https://www.facebook.com/adapulawska</strike>
* '''[http://przychodnia.bzzz.net/ Przychodnia]''' : a squat with nice punk concerts <strike>https://pl-pl.facebook.com/przychodniasquat</strike>
* '''[http://reclaimthefieldspl.noblogs.org/english/ ROD]''' : squated gardens, part of Reclaim the Fields
* '''[http://www.u-f-a.pl/ UFA]''': nice place, nice people, some concerts and other "punk" activities
* '''[http://warsawpunk.pl/site/ Warsaw Punk]''': the crew promoting Warsaw DIY Punk Scene, bands, organizing concerts in different spots, making shirts http://www.facebook.com/WarsawPunk

==== [[Wrocław]] ====
* '''[http://www.crk.wroclaw.pl/ CRK]''' : alegal squat in Wrocław
* '''[https://www.facebook.com/wagenburg Wagenburg]''' : the Wrocław Wagenburg

=== [[Romania]] ===
* http://www.aro.ecobytes.net/lovekills/ : anarcho-feminist collective
* http://www.myspace.com/thrashsilvania : political hc/punk collective doing shows & stuff

==== [[Tinisoara]] ====
* http://gluganeagra.ro/ : Some DIY punk collective
* http://underground-festival.info/ : The Timisoara Underground Festival

==== [[Bucharest]] ====
* '''[http://biblioteca-alternativa.noblogs.org/ Bibilioteca Alternativa]''' : Self-managed library and more...
* '''[http://riotseeddistro.blogspot.com/ Riot Seed Distro]'' : distro

=== [[Russia]] ===
* http://pv.anho.org/forum/index.php
* '''[http://www.go-punk.ru/ go-Punk.ru]'''
* http://www.punk.ru/
* http://russia.indymedia.org/:
* '''[https://ru.squat.net/ Squatting Info]'''
* '''[https://www.avtonom.org Autonomous Action]'''
* '''[http://www.diy-zine.com/ diyzine.com]''': HUGE russian zines archive

==== [[Moscow]] ====
* http://www.myspace.com/interpretation_zine
* '''[https://edavmestobomb.info/ Food Not Bombs Russia]'''

==== [[Samara]] ====
* '''[http://www.duplo.narod.ru/ Duplo]''': cultural center & alternative movie club

==== [[St. Petersburg]] ====
* '''[http://svinokop.narod.ru/ SzSS]''': a DIY label / distro

=== [[Serbia]] ===
==== [[Belgrade]] ====
* http://www.kontra-punkt.info/
* http://eng.queerbeograd.org/ : anarchist queers

=== [[Slovakia]] ===
* http://www.hard-core.sk/
* http://www.mangelcrusties.sk/

=== [[Slovenia]] ===
* http://www.ljudmila.org/anarhiv/
* http://tovarna.org/ : squatted bike factory, with gigs and some other nice things

=== [[Spain]] ===
==== [[Bilbao]] ====
* http://www.bilbaorockcity.com/ : all rock concerts in Basque Country including underground shows
* http://www.kukutza.net/ : biggest skuat in Bilbao
* http://www.blogari.net/itzubaltzeta : other skuat/social center

==== [[Barcelona]] ====
http://usurpa.squat.net/index.html
weekly squat agenda

http://antipatiazine.wordpress.com
hardcore/punk squat gigs

==== [[Madrid]] ====
* http://cokolakondenada.blogspot.com/ : Centro de Ocio kreativo ocupado la condenada. concerts, activities. thursdays and sundays, cafe, and something to eat.

=== [[Sweden]] ===
* http://gigguide.se/ all gigs around Sweden

==== [[Göteborg]] ====
* Annual punk festival outside Göteborg: http://punkillegal.com
* Truck Stop Alaska: http://www.truckstopalaska.com/kontakt.htm
* 120an (ex Härden): http://www.facebook.com/pages/Aktivitetshuset-H%C3%A4rden/263264657037424
You need to give your e-mail address to get informations about the gigs.
* Pustervik: http://www.pusterviksbiljetter.com

==== [[Luleå]] ====
* http://profile.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=user.viewprofile&friendID=241848409
* http://foreningsgatan7.blogspot.com/ A culture house a bit outside of town. Sometimes there are some shows, vegan food servings and such.

==== [[Malmö]] ====
* http://www.myspace.com/malmopunkandhardcorecrew
* ''''Utkanten'''' is a autonomous social center. People's Kitchen, bike workshop, meetings, workshops and the likes. Industrigatan 20 http://www.utkanten.net/english.php(less updated than the swedish version)
* ''''Glassfabriken'''' Vegan café and cultural center. Kristianstadsgatan 16 http://www.glassfabriken.net/

==== [[Stockholm]] ====
* http://www.stockholmhardcore.com/home.html
* http://www.hallongrottan.com/: a queer feminist bookstore carrying zines, underground comics, curiosities and whatnot, occasionally having film screenings and other cool stuff, too.
* ''''Kafé 44an'''' A vegetarian café with info shop and venue. Tjärhovsgatan 44
* http://www.skaggigadamen.se/: an anarkafeminist tattoo shop. Small distro coming up. Coffee and tea. Open 4 days a week. Svartågatan 26, Bagarmossen.

==== [[Umeå]] ====
* http://profile.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=user.viewprofile&friendid=207371356
* http://umeadiy.wordpress.com

==== [[Uppsala]] ====
* http://profile.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=user.viewprofile&friendID=31953059

=== [[Switzerland]] ===
==== [[Bienne]] ====
* [http://fabrik9.zeblog.com/ fabrik9]
* Schrött Bar festival: every second week end of September. The festival occurs at Bienne(Bielle) at "La Coupole", in the city center.
Information very difficult to find on internet.

==== [[Lausanne]] ====
* '''[https://espaceautogere.squat.net/ espace autogéré]''' : bar, gigs, infoshop etc. in a squat

=== [[Sion]] ===
* [http://z-a-p.ch Z.A.P] Permanent Autonomous Zone

==== [[Winterthur]] ====
* [http://ggs31.arachnia.ch/ Gisi]

=== [[Turkey]] ===
==== [[Istanbul]] ====
* https://www.facebook.com/wargasmistanbul/ : '''Wargasm Istanbul - DIY Punk/HC Booking & Label''' contact: wargasmpunkrecords[at]gmail.com
* http://www.noizine.net/ : Turkish DIY Punk/Hardcore/Noize Community

=== [[Ukraine]] ===
* http://infoshop.zaraz.org/

=== [[United Kingdom]] ===
==== [[Wales]] ====
* http://pumpkinrecords.wix.com/dirtyweekend
Festival organized at the Workhouse in Llanfyllin, early September.

==== [[Birmingham]] ====
* PUNKS ALIVE organizes gigs at the public house "Adam & Eve" at least once a week if not more.
Information on Facebook.

==== [[Brighton]] ====
* http://www.brightonzinefest.co.uk/ : Brighton zinefest - Also organise monthly zine socials
* http://cowleyclub.org.uk/ : Cowley Club - A collectively run libertarian social centre. 12 London Road
* http://cranks.org.uk/ : Cranks - A DIY bicycle workshop
* http://www.bbc.co.uk/radio1/onemusic/huw/props_edgeworld.shtml : Edgeworld - Independent record shop
* http://www.infinityfoodsretail.co.uk/ : Infinity - Centrally located organic wholefoods shop run by workers' co-op
* http://www.myspace.com/punkerbunker : Punker Bunker - A punk record shop and gig organizor. 34 Sydney St. North Laines
* http://www.resourcecentre.org.uk/ : Resource Centre - Cheap equipment and printing etc
* http://www.myspace.com/tattyseasidetown : Tatty Seaside Town - Organizes gigs
* http://www.protectourwoodland.co.uk/ : Titnore Woods Protest Site

==== [[Bristol]] ====
* http://comutiny.wordpress.com/ : Bristol Co- Mutiny
* http://www.templesfestival.co.uk/lineup : Temples Fest late May every year in Bristol city center

==== [[London]] ====
* http://www.56a.org.uk/ : 56a - A radical social centre since 1991
* http://www.eroding.org.uk/ : Eroding Empire - punk/anarchy listings for London
* http://infousurpa.co.nr/ : London Infousurpa
* http://londonscn.wordpress.com/ : London social centres network
* http://www.myspace.com/queermutinylondon : Queer Mutiny - anarchist queers
* http://therampart.wordpress.com/ : Rampart social centre

==== [[Manchester]] ====
* http://www.myspace.com/fungalpunk : FungalPunk - diy punk gigs
* http://www.myspace.com/slitrecords : Slit Promotions - Ska/ punk / hardcore gigs
* http://www.myspace.com/gashcollective : Gash Collective - Underground DIY punk gigs/parties/raves
* http://www.myspace.com/sayittomyface : Say it to my face - punk/grindcore/hardcore gigs
* http://www.myspace.com/anarchisticundertones : Anarchistic Undertones - DIY punk/ska/harcore
* http://www.myspace.com/manchesterpunx : Manchester Punx
* http://www.myspace.com/mutinymanchester : Mutiny Manchester - Hardcore/Metal/Punk gigs

[[Category:Tribes]]

Guide to punk

2019-02-16T11:08:40Z

Iotrj: Reverted edits by Bikepunk (talk) to last revision by Guaka

{{tribe-header|punks}}
{| align="right"
| {{tribe|punks}} __TOC__
|}
This page was originally created by users of the CouchSurfing Punk Rock Group  to provide punk travellers an access to the local scenes. So for your convenience you find a list below that consists of links to sites where you can find out what to do or who to see at the place you're going to. If you wanna hang out with punks, you should join the [[:trtr:tribes/punks|punks on Trustroots]].

Let's keep this page as DIY as possible, remember : punk rock is not for sale!

If you can help, please do. If your country isn't yet in the list, just create a new paragraph, or even a regional sub-chapter.

A last detail, most of those links are in local language, but you can use a translator (like http://translate.google.com i.e.) it's usually enough to get the information you need.

[[File:Atoxxico Banda De Punk.jpg|right]]

== Worldwide ==
* http://www.anarcho-punk.net/
* http://www.byofl.org/ : Book your own fuckin' life
* [http://wiki.gifteconomy.org/Free_Shop A listing of freeshops]

== [[Africa]] ==

== [[North America]] ==
=== [[Canada]] ===

==== [[Montreal]] ====
* http://steemilieskillshare.com/ : A skillshare art space that has a fun workshops
* http://www.cinemapolitica.org/ : Free/by donation political movies
* [http://maps.google.com/maps/ms?ie=UTF8&hl=en&msa=0&msid=112205855090852845604.000444470b1fe51bf2b2a&t=h&ll=45.534287,-73.598614&spn=0.128832,0.117073&source=embed A map of trash in Montreal for dumpster diving]
* http://www.centresocialautogere.org : Autonomous social center website
* http://themidnightkitchen.wordpress.com/ : Free or PWYC hot vegan lunch 5 days/week at 12:30pm during the academic year at McGill University
* http://www.peoplespotato.com/ : Concordia University's free or PWYC hot vegan lunch!

=== [[USA]] ===
* http://www.houseshowdatabase.com/ : A guide to alternative venues all over the states

==== [[New York city]] ====
* http://www.abcnorio.org/ : ABC No Rio is a collectively-run center for art and activism
* http://www.abcnorio.org/affiliated/fnb.html : Food Not Bombs in Manhattan, runs out of ABC no Rio
* http://bluestockings.com/ : Activist/fair trade cafe and bookstore, there is some sort of event here almost every night
* [http://maps.google.com/maps/ms?ie=UTF8&hl=en&msa=0&msid=100574565875408827436.000460d7b0698fbea089e&ll=40.712004,-73.965969&spn=0.058423,0.11055&t=h&z=13 Trash map of NY for dumpster diving]
* http://vacantnyc.crowdmap.com/ : A map that shows vacant lots and abandoned buildings in NYC, it's helpful to street view them in google maps to see what they look like.

==== [[San Francisco]] ====
* https://www.noisebridge.net/wiki/Noisebridge : Noisebridge is an anarchist collective governed by do-ocracy. There are skill-sharing classes (mostly to do with tech) every night and free access to tools, co-working space, and an expansive library of political texts
* https://sffnb.org/list-of-san-francisco-empty-and-abandoned-buildings/ : Up-to-date list of abandoned buildings in SF, maintained by Food Not Bombs

=== [[Mexico]] ===

==== [[Mexico city]] ====
* CSO Casa Naranja - the only punk squat, some gigs

* http://www.facebook.com/chantiollinmx - Chanti Ollin, a hippy squat

* Okupa Che - a squat in the UNAM campus (philosophy faculty) - anarcho-communist ideas

* Cubiculo Emma Goldman in Economics Faculty at UNAM

* Furia de las Calles (Punk Collective that sells some anticapitalist stuff and organize gigs)

* http://multiforoalicia.blogspot.mx: Multiforo Alicia(punk, anarcho venue)

* http://www.lastfm.es/venue/8927865+El+Clandestino: El Clandestino (punk venue)

* http://www.theunder.org/under3/index.php?option=com_events&Itemid=100011: El Under (concert venue/bar)

* Gato Calavera: punk/goth bar, some gigs

=== [[Guatemala]] ===

==== [[Guatemala city]] ====
* La Maga Gitana y Genuina - alternative venue/bar, punk/metal/rockabilly gigs

== [[South America]] ==
=== [[Argentina]] ===
* http://www.sevoszine.com.ar/ : webzine about being yourself and notes about local melodic hardcore and punk bands.

== [[Asia]] ==
=== [[Indonesia]] ===
=== [[Japan]] ===
=== [[Malaysia]] ===
http://www.myspace.com/hatirecs (Based in Borneo,booking Southeast Asia tour)

=== [[Philippines]] ===
'''United By Chaos''' - http://www.chaosnet.tumblr.com

=== [[South Korea]] ===
* http://www.myspace.com/soeultari : DIY punkrock show organizer. people who run this are disorganised bigots who've burned too many bridges to be helpful.
* http://brokeinkorea.proboards.com/ : english web board on korean punk scene. people who are posting here are disgusting expats.

== [[Australia]] ==
==== [[Sydney]] ====
* '''[http://jura.org.au/ Jura Books]'''
* '''[http://shac.squat.net/ Sydney Housing Action Collective]'''
* '''[http://www.bikesarefun.org/ Critical Mass Sydney]'''

==== [[Melbourne]] ====
* '''[http://mac.anarchobase.com/ Melbourne Anarchist Club]''' venue, infoshop and events
* '''[http://irenewarehouse.org/ Irenes Community warehouse]''' Food not bombs cooking, mondays and tuesdays, from 10am and 4pm, free computer access, workshops, artspace and concerts
* '''[http://www.melbourne.foe.org.au/ Friends of the Earth]''' with cheap food, environmental shop, food co-operative, environmental projects.
* Squats are everywhere, you just need to find a person and ask, they are houses not social centers.

== [[Europe]] ==
* http://radar.squat.net/ : stuffs to do in your punk life in Europe
* http://squat.net : news about squatting in Europe

=== [[Austria]] ===
==== [[Wien]] ====
* [http://www.med-user.net/~ekh/ EKH] famous austrian squat
* [http://autonomizethecity.blogsport.eu/ a squatters' collective]
* http://www.capeet.com/gigs_list.html : Website listing gigs in Vienna
* http://www.gegendielangeweile.net : DIY Calendar for Vienna
* http://www.pankahyttn.at : Streetpunk-House/Squat
* http://pizza.noblogs.org : Squatted Pizzeria(!)
* http://www.dasbaeckerei.net : Anarchist cultural center
* http://wagenplatz.at/ : coordination site for the wagenplätze of Vienna (there are 2 at the moment)
* [http://bahoe.tk/ Bahö Magasin] anarchist (propaganda) collective, meets every Wednesday in lolligo kids cafe
* http://www.bikekitchen.net : DIY-bikeworkshop, also has a bar and events from time to time.
* http://wipplinger23.blogspot.com/ - Anarchist space in the city center. Has educational events as well as a bar and anarchist library.
* http://kaleidoskop.kukuma.org/ : Anarchist cultural center, anarch@-hippies gather here :)

==== [[Graz]] ====

(second largest town, exactly between Vienna, Zagreb and Ljubljana; 60km to Maribor No-border-Jam-Festival)

* [http://www.subsubsub.at Sub]: non-profit DIY location.

=== [[Belarus]] ===

* http://belarus.indymedia.org/ : Indymedia Belarus
* http://www.375crew.org/ : d.i.y. political punk/hardcore culture of Belarus
* http://belarus.avtonom.org/ : Autonomous action
* http://fnbminsk.noblogs.org/: FoodNotBombs Minsk
* squatthebelarus A T riseup.net : Squatters' movement of Minsk
* http://kairos.noblogs.org/: Kairos - libertarian analytic blog
* http://tryznas-kefiras.noblogs.org/ : Tryznas kefiras zine
* http://eatyourselfcrew.ucoz.ru/ : Eat Yourself Crew
* http://www.svabodny.kantakt.net/: Free Theatre - anarchist theatre from city of Brest
* http://rebels-library.org: Rebel Studies Library (Minsk)

=== [[Belgium]] ===
* '''[http://c3p0o.org/queerpunxbelgium/ QueerPunxBelgium]'''

==== [[Brussels]] ====
* '''[http://c3p0o.org/queerpunxbelgium/ Queer Punx Belgium]''' : a nice punk agenda
* '''[http://www.acrata.be/ Acrata], anarchist library''' : 32, Rue de la Grande Ile, 1000 Bruxelles / acrata(at)post.com
* '''[https://lapetroleusebxl.noblogs.org/ La Petroleuse]''', a squat

==== [[Liege]] ====
* http://www.chauvesouris.collectifs.net/ : a squat (had been destroyed)
* http://pigeoncommunal.collectifs.net/ : a squat
* http://www.myspace.com/suxtobeyoupresents : Show organisation
* http://www.carlolevi.be/ : a café that organises lot of punk shows

=== [[Bosnia & Herzegovina]] ===

=== [[Bulgaria]] ===
* http://www.diy.aresistance.net/ : d.i.y. anarchopunk webzine

According to those people :

" OK, so the situation in Bulgaria is very different than in the other
European countries.

There are no squats and autonomous centres!

There are problems with Nazis in cities like Sofia and Plovdiv, so you
have to be very aware of this, especially if you're with a mohawk and
dress like a punk.

Varna was much better, but the only DIY punk club was closed by the police
two months ago and there is nothing happening right now there.

Bulgarian and Serbian are the most intolerant to gay people societies in
Europe. 80% of Bulgarians are homophobes and some kind of nationalists.
Punk shows are two types: completely apolitical or nazi-friendly. The
hardcore scene is into tough guy macho beatdown or NYHC stuff without
political messages. Very patriotic, sexist and homophobic.

There are environmentalist with a hippie attitude, some rastas and
drum&bass fans that are cool people, but don't have any relevant political
culture. There are bikers and they have a NGO called Bikevolution, they're
cool people, but normal looking people with prejudices on punx with
mohawks etc."

Unfortunately, my short experience there confirm this more or less :(

[[User:Bikepunk|Bikepunk]]<small><sup>[[User talk:Bikepunk|Talk]]</sup><sup>[[:cs:Bikepunk|CS]]</sup></small> 15:32, 9 September 2009 (UTC)

* http://a-bg.net/new/ : anarchist portal

=== [[Croatia]] ===
==== [[Pula]] ====
* http://www.myspace.com/monteparadisopula http://squat.net/monteparadiso/ - squat with gigs, film screenings etc.

=== [[Czech Republic]] ===
* http://www.a-punk.cz/ : active ! punk
* http://www.periferia.cz/ : hc/punk webzine
* http://czechcore.cz : hc scene
* [http://www.punk.cz/index.asp?menu=603 www.punk.cz]
* [http://a-punk.cz/index.php?clanek=18-english-info info in english]

==== [[Praha]] ====
* http://praha.squat.net/ : squatblog

=== [[Denmark]] ===
==== [[Copenhagen]] ====
* '''[http://www.dortheavej-61.dk/ Dortheavej 61]''' the new Ungdomshuset, Overdrevet with concerts, peoples kitchen on thursdays, yoga, book cafe and other projects.
* '''[http://www.bolsjefabrikken.com/ The Candy Factory]''', workshop spaces, cinema, peoples kitchen, recording rooms, free shop. Bar and stage in basement.
* '''Bumzen'''- Old squat, now legal and with 2 collectives living there. Vegan peoples kitchen on wednesday, space for visitors, concerts. Baldersgade 20-22 nørrebro (south of nørrebro station)
* '''[http://www.folketshus.dk/english-info/ Folkets Hus]''', The peoples house with collective cafe, peoples kitchen (mondays from 630pm) Queer films on sundays, concerts and meeting spaces. Stengade 50, Nørrebro
* '''KafaX''', Peoples kitchen on tuesdays from 7pm, free shop, meeting space and food co-operative on Wednesdays. Korsgade 19, Nørrebro, close to the lakes.
* '''Solidaritetshuset''', Solidarity house, Material for sale, projects, meetings and events. Griffenfeldsgade 41, Nørrebro (close to Folkets Hus)

==== [[Aalborg]] ====
* http://www.1000fryd.dk 1000fryd is a social center @ Kattesundet 10. Concerts, peoples kitchen, meetings.. everything happens here only!

==== [[Kolding]] ====
* '''6000 DIY''' - DIY collective in Kolding. Concerts, house shows, vegan peoples kitchen (food not bombs), workshops, etc. Get in touch! http://myspace.com/6000diy (or) http://6000diy.dk

=== [[Estonia]] ===
* '''[http://www.rockiklubi.ee/ Valga Rockiklubi]''': the best DIY venue in Estonia (on the border with Latvia)

=== [[Finland]] ===
* http://www.punkinfinland.net/ : Finnish punk info site with an extensive discussion forum (gigs @ http://www.punkinfinland.net/forum/viewforum.php?f=11)
* http://www.punkinlapland.net/community/ : United punk scene in Northern Scandinavia
* http://takku.net/calendar/ : an event calendar @ an anarchist media project site
* http://kimppa.net/English/Default_eng.aspx : car-sharing

==== [[Helsinki]] ====

* '''[http://www.oranssi.net/english oranssi]'''an old squatter organization doing punk/indie shows (no age limit, no alcohol served), people's kitchen, vegan cafe and other stuff, too, whenever they have a place
* '''[http://mustankaninkolo.blogspot.com Mustan Kanin Kolo]''' : an anarchist infoshop and second-hand bookstore
* '''[http://www.fireinsidemusic.com/shop/shopinfo.php#english Combat Rock Shop]''' : a punk shop
* '''[http://lepakkomies.fi/ Lepakkomies]''' : a punk bar/venue
* '''[http://www.barloose.com/ Bar Loose]''' : a rock bar with occasional punk shows
* '''[http://www.tavastiaklubi.fi/ Tavastia]''' : the legendary rock club hosting punk shows every now and then
* '''[http://www.semifinal.fi/ Semifinal]''' : a smaller club in the courtyard of Tavastia with occasional punk shows
* '''[http://www.sture21.fi/ Ravintola Sture 21]''' : a club hosting different music events, also punk shows

==== [[Lahti]] ====
* http://www.myspace.com/roosterpub : a hardcore/punk pub

==== [[Tampere]] ====
* http://www.vastavirta.net/ : a really nice punk cafe/bar/venue
* http://www.puntala-rock.com/ : an open air punk festival held near Tampere in July
* http://www.hirvikatu10.net/ : gallery, meeting place, social center, garden, D.I.Y. and more, worth to pay a visit.

==== [[Turku]] ====
* http://www.diyturku.net/forum/ : a meeting place and information resource for people interested in sub-/countercultural activities in the Turku region (event calendar: http://diyturku.net/forum/index.php?action=calendar)
* http://vapaakulttuuri.blogspot.com/ : a blog with information about autonomous cultural action in Turku
* http://dhost.info/ooo65/viewforum.php?f=1 : a squatter forum. information and discussion about occupations and other related stuff in Turku
* http://www.myspace.com/tvoturku : the oldest d.i.y. venue in the whole country (having done shows since the 1950s), run by university students and punks; UPDATE: evicted in May 2010, still looking for a new place where to organize public events
* http://www.kirjakahvila.org/ : a student-run co-op book cafe; maybe not that "punk", but the only d.i.y. not-for-profit place in town after TVO got evicted (besides, there are a few punks as volunteers, as well). serves fair trade coffee/tea/hot chocolate and all-vegan cakes and pastries, hosts free film nights, discussions, and even some small gigs. there's a freebox for books, and some zines and anarchist literature available in the bookshop. occasional uncommercial queer parties on weekends

==== [[Oulu]] ====
* http://www.ykanpub.com/ : an old scruffy pub with punk gigs every now and then.

=== [[France]] ===
* '''[http://punxforum.net/ PunxForum.net]'''
* '''[http://razibus.net/ Razibus]''' : french punk agenda
* '''[https://www.punk-hardcore.info/ punk-hardcore.info]''' : punk hardcore, and more, in france and everywhere
* '''[https://www.punk-hardcore.info/spip.php?rubrique19 punk-hardcore.info concert page]''' : may be the biggest listing of DIY punk/hardcore concerts in france
* '''[https://www.theyliewedie.org/ TheyLieWeDie.org]''' : anarcho-punk portal
* '''[https://infokiosques.net/ Infokiosques.net]''': infoshops & stuff
* '''[http://www.pirate-punk.net PIRATE-PUNK.NET]''': info concerts, bands, etc. all around France

==== [[Amiens]] ====

* '''[https://accueilfroidnuke.blogspot.fr/ Accueil Froid]''' : a DIY/artistic venue
* '''[https://picardie.demosphere.eu/ Demosphere Picardie]''' : alternative agenda

==== [[Angers]] ====
* '''[https://etincelleangers.wordpress.com/ l'Etincelle]''' : social center
* '''[http://chezle21.blogspot.com/ 21]''' : a community library AND a lovely [http://latetedansleguidon.blogspot.com/ bike workshop]
* '''[http://troglobal.waloomaloo.com Village Troglobal]''' : a kind of self managed village around Angers...
* '''[http://la-conserverie.blogspot.com/ La Conserverie]''' : a DIY concert place with rehearsal rooms for the bands (dead)

==== [[Bordeaux]] ====
* '''[http://gironde.demosphere.eu/ Démosphère Gironde]''': Bordeaux activist agenda
* '''[http://www.atheneelibertaire.net/ Athenée Libertaire]''': a social center. political music welcome
* '''[https://loukaze.squat.net/ l'Oukaze]''' : A squat in Bègles (evicted)

==== [[Brest]] ====
* '''[https://lafaussecommune.noblogs.org/ La Fausse Commune]''' : a squat in Brest
* '''[http://lapoudriere.noblogs.org/ La Poudrière]''' : a squat in Brest (evicted)

==== [[Clermont-Ferrand]] ====
* '''[https://hoteldesvil-e-s.blogspot.nl/ L'hotel des Vil-e-s]''' : a squat/social center
* '''[http://www.raymondbar.net/ Le Raymond Bar]''' : Self organized concert place

==== [[Dijon]] ====
* '''[https://tanneries.squat.net/ les Tanneries]''': a huge political squat/social center, the oldest still functioning squat in France
* '''[http://malokadistro.com/ Maloka]''' : 20-year old anarcho punk collective packing a large distro and doing a lot of concerts

==== [[Grenoble]] ====
* '''[http://grenoble.indymedia.org/spip.php?page=agenda Indymedia Grenoble calendar]''' : telling you what's going on in the city
* '''[https://www.lustucrust.org/ Lustucrust]''' : Grenoble punk info site
* '''[https://www.lustucrust.org/localautogere_presentation.html le Local Autogéré]''' : an anarchist/punk infoshop
* '''[http://www.le102.net/ le 102]''' : an autonomous social/cultural center/venue
* '''[http://labaf.org/ la BAF]''' : a self organized social center
* '''[https://www.bibliothequeantigone.org/ Antigone]''': an autonomous library/cafe/infoshop/social center

==== [[Lille]] ====
* '''[http://chpunk.org chpunk.org]''' : the punk agenda for the North (of france)
* '''[https://lille.indymedia.org/ Indymedia Lille]'''
* '''[http://lille.cybertaria.org/ Lille:alternataire]''' : a libertarian portal with an event calendar
* '''[http://lille.cybertaria.org/rubrique11.html Centre Culturel Libertaire]''' : a kinda social center

==== [[Lyon]] ====
* '''[http://lyonpunx.weebly.com/index.html Lyon Punx]''' : a local punk agenda
* '''[https://rebellyon.info/ rebellyon.info]''' : an event calendar with alternative radical political infos for Lyon
* '''[http://www.grrrndzero.org/ Grrrnd Zero]''': two separate venues for musical and other cultural activities
* '''[http://laluttine.wordpress.com/ La Luttine]''': a DIY punk infoshop open on Saturdays

==== [[Marseille]] ====

Le Vortex is an underground agenda, you'll find an updated paper version in most of the places below.
In Noailles you can get very cheap food, like 4€ pizzas :-p

* '''[http://crapoulet.fr/levortex/ Le Vortex]''' : punk/underground concert agenda
* '''[http://lasallegueule.free.fr/ La Salle Gueule]''' : Café-concert rock'n'roll
* '''[https://www.facebook.com/les9salopards/ Les 9 salopards]''' : a punkish venue
* '''[https://www.facebook.com/manifesten Manifesten]''' : an alternative cafe
* '''[http://polygone-etoile.com/ Le Polygone Etoilé]''' : alternative cinema
* '''[http://www.lemolotov.com/ Le Molotov]''' : a rock venue
* '''[https://mars-infos.org/ Marseille Infos Autonomes]''' : a local autonomous news site
* '''[http://www.millebabords.org/ Mille Babords]''' : an other news website and agenda

==== [[Montpelier]] ====
* '''[http://montpellier.demosphere.eu/ Démosphère Montpelier]''' : Montpelier activist agenda

==== [[Nancy]] ====
* '''[https://ccan.herbesfolles.org/ Centre Culturel Autogéré de Nancy]''' : Self managed social center

==== [[Nantes]] ====
* '''[http://bellamy17.free.fr/ B17]''' : a self-managed space
* '''[https://zad.nadir.org/ ZAD]''' : At Notre Dame des Landes (25km north of Nantes) Vinci wants to build an international airport and squatters resist

==== [[Paris]] ====
* '''[http://pariskiwi.org pariskiwi]''' : wiki about DIY scene in Paris
* '''[http://ctx-n-flrs.zikforum.com/infos-concerts-et-albums-f3/ Des couteaux et des fleurs]''' : Punk show forum
* '''[http://lamiroit.free.fr/ La miroiterie]''' : squat with concerts in Paris
* '''[http://www.cicp21ter.org/ Centre International de Culture Populaire]''' : Popular Culture International Center
* '''[https://transfo.squat.net/ Transfo]''' : a squat/social center
* '''[http://www.lamutinerie.eu/ La Mutinerie]''' : a political queer bar

==== [[Reims]] ====
* '''[http://www.ecluse-reims.org L'écluse]''' : a squat organizing concerts and stuff

==== [[Robiac]] ====
* '''[http://collectif.valette.free.fr/ la Vieille Valette]''' : Self managed village in the middle of nowhere (a big punk festival once a year)

==== [[Saint Etienne]] ====
* '''[http://lenumerozero.lautre.net/ NumeroZero] : local underground news portal with an event calendar
* '''[https://lafrancepue.org/wordpress/ la france pue]''' : DIY booker and distro
* '''[http://www.lasourcefurieuse.org/ la source furieuse]''' : punk collective
* '''[http://sainteunderground.free.fr/ Saint-Etienne Underground]''' : forum about independent music (french only)

==== [[Strasbourg]] ====
* '''[http://maison-mimir.com/ La Maison Mimir]''' : a kinda social center

==== [[Toulouse]] ====
* '''[http://concertoupizza.blogspot.com/ Concert ou Pizza ?]''' : listing of most punk related gigs in Toulouse and around there.
* '''[http://toulousecrust.blogspot.fr Toulouse Crust]''' : listing of crusts concerts around Toulouse
* '''[https://iaata.info/ Information Anti Autoritaire Toulouse et Alentours]''' : local anti authoritarian info
* '''[http://toulouse.demosphere.eu/ Toulouse Demosphere]''' : Toulouse activist agenda
* '''[http://infokiosques.net/kioskarnaudben le Kiosk]''' : an infoshop with library, internet, coffee, etc.
* '''[https://tidibi.wordpress.com/ TDB]''' : a queer squat organising stuff now and then
* '''[http://la-gazette-toulouse.over-blog.com/ La gazette de l'intersquat du 31]''': a blog with info about squats in Toulouse
* '''[http://www.panx.net/ PANX.net]''': Toulouse punk network infosite
* '''[http://collectifchaussas.wix.com/les-enfants-sauvages Les enfants sauvages]''': a collective organizing gigs, with rehearsal room and other cool stuff
* '''[http://mixart-myrys.org/ Mix'art Myrys]''' : a self-organised artists collective

==== [[Cubjac]] ====
* '''[http://encres-noires.squat.net/ Encres Noires]''': an anarchist library

==== [[Tours]] ====
* '''[https://larotative.info/ La Rotative]''' : info site
* '''[http://mediatours.noblogs.org/ medi@tours]''' : alternative info blog

=== [[Germany]] ===
* http://knox.p-u-n-k.de/db/ : Concert database

==== [[Berlin]] ====
* http://stressfaktor.squat.net/termine.php : an extensive underground guide/program calendar for berlin listing pretty much all the d.i.y. punk shows, people's kitchens (http://stressfaktor.squat.net/vokue.php), punk film nights, demos, and other activities
* http://www.wasteofmind.de/berlin/berlin.php : punkrock/hardcore ezine
* http://koepi137.net/ : a very famous and huge punk house project in Kreuzberg/Mitte with bars, two venues (AGH and Koma F), discos, films screenings etc.
* http://www.myspace.com/scharni38/ : a political house project in Friedrichshain with a two-floor punk bar and venue
* http://squat.net/liebig34/ : a queer/anarchafeminist house project in Friedrichshain with an anarchafeminist punk bar and venue (XB-Liebig)
* http://www.schwarzerkanal.squat.net : a radical queer living project ("wagenplatz") in Treptow with shows etc., bike workshop, and a yearly d.i.y. queer film festival
* Fischladen, Rigaerstr. 83 : a popular punk bar and venue in Friedrichshain
* http://www.rigaer94.squat.net : a house project in Friedrichshain with a punk bar (Kadterschmiede)
* http://www.myspace.com/subversivberlinmitte : a punk venue in Mitte
* http://www.myspace.com/cafemorgenrot/ : a really nice punk cafe/bar in Prenzlauer Berg that holds a famous vegan/vegetarian brunch on weekends and has a venue (Kastanienkeller) in the basement
* http://so36.de/ : a more-or-less political club/venue in Kreuzberg
* M-99, Manteuffelstr. 99 : an anarchist infoshop in Kreuzberg with all kinds of punk stuff for sale
* http://erinyen.blogspot.com/ : an anarcha-feminist collective
* http://www.schicksaal.org/konzerte.php : Tommyhaus squat gigs

==== [[Flensburg]] ====
* http://www.hafermarktflensburg.de/ : punk rock's house !!

==== [[Frankfurt (Main) ]] ====
* http://copyriot.com/untergrund/ - Dates for concerts, parties in and around Frankfurt

==== [[Hamburg]] ====
* [http://www.bewegungsmelder.org Bewegungsmelder] - Shows, parties, politics
* [http://www.hamburgpunk.de/ Hamburgpunk] - Dates (mostly concerts), Forum, Gossip (not always up to date)

==== [[Kiel]] ====
* http://www.altemeierei.de/tiki-start.php : hausprojekt with cofee and venue since 1983

==== [[Leipzig Saxony]] ====
* http://www.http://sachsenpunk.de/: all shows and venues of saxony with links to most of the venues and house projects

==== [[Lübeck]] ====
* http://www.walli-bleibt.de/ : wagen burg with coffee, bar an venue

==== [[Mannheim]] ====
* http://www.juz-mannheim.de/termine.htm Youth Center with venue and bar

==== [[Munich]] ====
* http://kafemarat.blogsport.de/

=== [[Greece]] ===
* https://athens.indymedia.org/ : Indimedia is the main way of anarchist counterinformation in greece

==== [[Athens]] ====
* '''Katarameno Syndromo''' : DIY punk rock collective
* [http://maps.google.com/maps/ms?ie=UTF8&hl=en&msa=0&msid=113348295068813260285.0004816098f8d47fe0ee6&z=12 Some map locating most of the places to go in Athens]
* [https://villa-amalias.blogspot.com/ Villa Amalias], one of the most famous squats of Athens (evicted and destroyed :'-( , a lot of Punk and other Concerts and Activities, near Victoria Metro Station
* the best way to meet punks in Athens is still to hang around Exarhia in the evening. The "punk" meeting spot is Mesonligiou but it worth to check out the Parko (self managed reclaimed area where people destroyed a car park to build up a public parc) 50 meters up on Navarinou or just the Exarchia Square.

==== [[Kavala]] ====
* https://accionmutantecollective.blogspot.com/ : punk collective
* https://anarxikoikavalas.squat.gr/ : anarchist infos

==== [[Thessaloniki]] ====
* https://myspace.com/streetattacksquad: Street Attack, a punk squat
* a good way to meet punks an other "alternative" people in Thessaloniki is to go at the place called "Rotode" is a famous youth gathering where police is not welcome (outdated ?)
* there are also a few squatted venues inside the university: Steki Sto Biologiko...

==== [[Iraklio]] ====
* [https://evagelismos.squat.gr/ Evangelismou Squat] in the Center of Iraklio

=== [[Hungary]] ===
* http://www.myspace.com/dreamlongdeadbooking : booking/shows
* http://freefest.hu/ : A free DIY festival every summer

=== [[Iceland]] ===
* http://www.savingiceland.org/ Saving Iceland is an anti-capitalist direct action campaign against heavy industry in Iceland and worldwide.
* http://www.aftaka.org/ An anarchist website that was active from 2008-2010. Has a few articles on the 2008-2009 uprising in english.
* http://www.taflan.org/ A hardcore/punk/metal/etc. message board. Info about upcoming shows.

==== [[Reykjavík]] ====
* [http://kedjuverkun.org/ Keðjuverkun] (Chain Reaction) is a DIY bike collective. Not as active since they lost their space.
* [http://www.andspyrna.org/ Andspyrnu Bókasafn], Anarchist Library in Reykjavíkurakademían.
* Radical Feminist Soup Kitchen every other thursday in Grasrótarmiðstöðin(Grassrootscenter), Bratarholt 4, 101. Contact: eldhusfolksins@riseup.net

=== [[Israel]] ===
==== [[Tel Aviv]] ====
* http://rogatka.me/blog/?m=201105&cat=3 small diy-place with shows, screenings, discussions; satursday 4€-vegan lunch. only place in TA with Taybeh-beer (from Ramalah); unfortunately non-smoking inside. Yitzhak Sade-street way down; next to it is:
* "Salon Mazal", the info-shop place. focus on animal rights, antifa and anti-occupation, queer&gender issues. big but random library with books of 40 years.
* the "yellow house": squat (without legal title) by nihilist punx, might be dangerous to visit... it's down in Yaffa next to Ha-Hagana Park, follow street (Ben Yehuda?)
* ask trustworthy people about the "red house" and handle the information decently; it's a house share of punx/activists but it's not explicitly an open political project.
* chaos-punx are said to hang around in front of Diezengoff-Mall.
* in small groups it's safe to sleep on the beach, there are even containers for BBQ-fires.
--Hathova bar (the abomination)-Underground non profit punk bar,cheapest prices in Tel-Aviv.
sunday-wednesday
19:00-till the last drunk.
Hasadna 16 street,tel aviv.

==== [[Jerusalem]] ====
* uganda: artsy cafe/pub-style place with records and comics near Yaffa-street, sometimes small shows. expensive beer.
* Lifta: you wouldn't believe it: an abandoned arab village! five minutes walk from Central Bus Station. Punx and bums have been crashing in there since decades. permanent stay is impossible because of men (from the park authorities and orthodox neighbors) removing and burning furniture and belongings frequently... the village consists of appr 100 stone-houses (mostly ruins) and a clean water pool frequently visited by orthodox males (drinking water quality). it's possible to have your camp-fire; bring your hammock and keep the place clean. for the history of this village whose population fled in winter 1947/48 can be found in detail on wikipedia.

=== [[Italy]] ===
* http://www.punk4free.org/concerti.html
* http://www.sowdust.it/sd/concerti/
* http://www.myspace.com/punxmeeting

==== [[Milan]] ====
* http://milano.tonight.eu/locali/centri_sociali : Alternative venues in Milan

==== [[Torino]] ====
* http://www.tuttosquat.net/
* http://www.radioblackout.org/ : anarchist radio

=== [[Ireland]] ===
==== [[Belfast]] ====
* http://warzonecollective.com

==== [[Dublin]] ====
* [http://seomraspraoi.org/ Dublin's autonomous social centre]

=== [[Latvia]] ===
* http://www.punk.lv

==== [[Kuldiga]] ====
* [http://www.nekac.lv/ NEKAC] : d.i.y. center with shows and stuff

=== [[Lithuania]] ===
==== [[Vilnius]] ====
* http://www.hardcore.lt/
* http://www.myspace.com/XI20 : booking/shows

=== [[Macedonia]] ===
* http://www.teror13.anarhija.org/

=== [[Netherlands]] ===
* http://www.punx.nl/ - Punk listings
* http://radar.squat.net/ - Squat listings

==== [[Amsterdam]] ====
* [http://www.xs4all.nl/~binnenpr/ Binnenpret - Cultureel complex in Amsterdam-Zuid]
* [http://ot301.nl/ Overtoom301]
* [http://swomp.wordpress.com/ Freestate SWOMP]
* [http://www.vrankrijk.org/ Vrankrijk, queer squat]
* [http://www.occii.org/ OCCII, legal punk squat]
* [http://www.joesgarage.nl/ Joe’s Garage]

==== [[Den Haag]] ====
* '''[http://www.everyoneweb.com/presentation_tier/Index.aspx?WebID=piratenbar&BoomID=B1&KnooppuntID=K486&KnoopOpen=True El Lokal Pirata]''' : Pirate social center in Scheveningen

==== [[Leiden]] ====
* http://koppenhinksteeg.nl/ : Koppenhinksteeg - Bar, cafe, freeshop, offices, venue
* http://www.multipleks.org/ : Multipleks - Freespace

==== [[Rotterdam]] ====
* http://www.poortgebouw.nl/ : Poortgebouw - Cafe, gigs, living group
* http://www.wormweb.nl/ : Worm - Alternative music venue

==== [[Utrecht]] ====
* [http://www.acu.nl/ ACU] - politiek cultureel centrum (former squat which managed to keep the anarchist atmosphere in a professional setting)
* [http://www.dbstudio.nl/ Db's] - a big complex with lots of rehearsal rooms, a small concert hall and a studio. Programs a ot of underground acts
* [http://ubica.squat.net/start.html Ubica] - The last real squad in the city centre of Utrecht

=== [[Norway]] ===
==== [[Oslo]] ====
* http://www.blitz.no/ : an old squat with political activities, vegan/vegetarian cafe and punk shows

=== [[Poland]] ===
* '''[http://forum.hard-core.pl/ forum.hard-core.pl]''' : check out the forum, there you can find all gigs and what's going on in Poland

==== [[Gdansk & Gdynia]] ====
* http://www.diy3m.org : diy hardcore punk shows in Gdansk and Gdynia
* http://www.diy-fest.org : diy hardcore punk festival in Gdynia

==== [[Krakow]] ====
* [https://squatkrakow.wordpress.com/ Carandiru squat]
* [https://www.facebook.com/KawiarniaNaukowaKrakow Kawierna Naukowa] a bar booking punk gigs

==== [[Lublin]] ====
* http://tektura.wordpress.com/ : DIY cultural center in Lublin

==== [[Łódź]] ====
* http://k50squat.blogspot.com/ : squat with concerts etc. (seems dead)

==== [[Poznan]] ====
* http://www.rozbrat.org/ : the oldest squat in Poland, with concerts and more...

==== [[Toruń]] ====
* http://www.pilon.pl/ harcore punk anarcho cafe bar

==== [[Warszawa]] ====
* '''[http://syrena.tk/ Syrena]''' : a squatted social center
* '''[http://adapulawska.noblogs.org/ ADA]''' : Aktywny Dom Alternatywny a "houseproject" with concerts, screenings and stuff <strike>https://www.facebook.com/adapulawska</strike>
* '''[http://przychodnia.bzzz.net/ Przychodnia]''' : a squat with nice punk concerts <strike>https://pl-pl.facebook.com/przychodniasquat</strike>
* '''[http://reclaimthefieldspl.noblogs.org/english/ ROD]''' : squated gardens, part of Reclaim the Fields
* '''[http://www.u-f-a.pl/ UFA]''': nice place, nice people, some concerts and other "punk" activities
* '''[http://warsawpunk.pl/site/ Warsaw Punk]''': the crew promoting Warsaw DIY Punk Scene, bands, organizing concerts in different spots, making shirts http://www.facebook.com/WarsawPunk

==== [[Wrocław]] ====
* '''[http://www.crk.wroclaw.pl/ CRK]''' : alegal squat in Wrocław
* '''[https://www.facebook.com/wagenburg Wagenburg]''' : the Wrocław Wagenburg

=== [[Romania]] ===
* http://www.aro.ecobytes.net/lovekills/ : anarcho-feminist collective
* http://www.myspace.com/thrashsilvania : political hc/punk collective doing shows & stuff

==== [[Tinisoara]] ====
* http://gluganeagra.ro/ : Some DIY punk collective
* http://underground-festival.info/ : The Timisoara Underground Festival

==== [[Bucharest]] ====
* '''[http://biblioteca-alternativa.noblogs.org/ Bibilioteca Alternativa]''' : Self-managed library and more...
* '''[http://riotseeddistro.blogspot.com/ Riot Seed Distro]'' : distro

=== [[Russia]] ===
* http://pv.anho.org/forum/index.php
* '''[http://www.go-punk.ru/ go-Punk.ru]'''
* http://www.punk.ru/
* http://russia.indymedia.org/:
* '''[https://ru.squat.net/ Squatting Info]'''
* '''[https://www.avtonom.org Autonomous Action]'''
* '''[http://www.diy-zine.com/ diyzine.com]''': HUGE russian zines archive

==== [[Moscow]] ====
* http://www.myspace.com/interpretation_zine
* '''[https://edavmestobomb.info/ Food Not Bombs Russia]'''

==== [[Samara]] ====
* '''[http://www.duplo.narod.ru/ Duplo]''': cultural center & alternative movie club

==== [[St. Petersburg]] ====
* '''[http://svinokop.narod.ru/ SzSS]''': a DIY label / distro

=== [[Serbia]] ===
==== [[Belgrade]] ====
* http://www.kontra-punkt.info/
* http://eng.queerbeograd.org/ : anarchist queers

=== [[Slovakia]] ===
* http://www.hard-core.sk/
* http://www.mangelcrusties.sk/

=== [[Slovenia]] ===
* http://www.ljudmila.org/anarhiv/
* http://tovarna.org/ : squatted bike factory, with gigs and some other nice things

=== [[Spain]] ===
==== [[Bilbao]] ====
* http://www.bilbaorockcity.com/ : all rock concerts in Basque Country including underground shows
* http://www.kukutza.net/ : biggest skuat in Bilbao
* http://www.blogari.net/itzubaltzeta : other skuat/social center

==== [[Barcelona]] ====
http://usurpa.squat.net/index.html
weekly squat agenda

http://antipatiazine.wordpress.com
hardcore/punk squat gigs

==== [[Madrid]] ====
* http://cokolakondenada.blogspot.com/ : Centro de Ocio kreativo ocupado la condenada. concerts, activities. thursdays and sundays, cafe, and something to eat.

=== [[Sweden]] ===
* http://gigguide.se/ all gigs around Sweden

==== [[Göteborg]] ====
* Annual punk festival outside Göteborg: http://punkillegal.com
* Truck Stop Alaska: http://www.truckstopalaska.com/kontakt.htm
* 120an (ex Härden): http://www.facebook.com/pages/Aktivitetshuset-H%C3%A4rden/263264657037424
You need to give your e-mail address to get informations about the gigs.
* Pustervik: http://www.pusterviksbiljetter.com

==== [[Luleå]] ====
* http://profile.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=user.viewprofile&friendID=241848409
* http://foreningsgatan7.blogspot.com/ A culture house a bit outside of town. Sometimes there are some shows, vegan food servings and such.

==== [[Malmö]] ====
* http://www.myspace.com/malmopunkandhardcorecrew
* ''''Utkanten'''' is a autonomous social center. People's Kitchen, bike workshop, meetings, workshops and the likes. Industrigatan 20 http://www.utkanten.net/english.php(less updated than the swedish version)
* ''''Glassfabriken'''' Vegan café and cultural center. Kristianstadsgatan 16 http://www.glassfabriken.net/

==== [[Stockholm]] ====
* http://www.stockholmhardcore.com/home.html
* http://www.hallongrottan.com/: a queer feminist bookstore carrying zines, underground comics, curiosities and whatnot, occasionally having film screenings and other cool stuff, too.
* ''''Kafé 44an'''' A vegetarian café with info shop and venue. Tjärhovsgatan 44
* http://www.skaggigadamen.se/: an anarkafeminist tattoo shop. Small distro coming up. Coffee and tea. Open 4 days a week. Svartågatan 26, Bagarmossen.

==== [[Umeå]] ====
* http://profile.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=user.viewprofile&friendid=207371356
* http://umeadiy.wordpress.com

==== [[Uppsala]] ====
* http://profile.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=user.viewprofile&friendID=31953059

=== [[Switzerland]] ===
==== [[Bienne]] ====
* [http://fabrik9.zeblog.com/ fabrik9]
* Schrött Bar festival: every second week end of September. The festival occurs at Bienne(Bielle) at "La Coupole", in the city center.
Information very difficult to find on internet.

==== [[Lausanne]] ====
* '''[https://espaceautogere.squat.net/ espace autogéré]''' : bar, gigs, infoshop etc. in a squat

=== [[Sion]] ===
* [http://z-a-p.ch Z.A.P] Permanent Autonomous Zone

==== [[Winterthur]] ====
* [http://ggs31.arachnia.ch/ Gisi]

=== [[Turkey]] ===
==== [[Istanbul]] ====
* https://www.facebook.com/wargasmistanbul/ : '''Wargasm Istanbul - DIY Punk/HC Booking & Label''' contact: wargasmpunkrecords[at]gmail.com
* http://www.noizine.net/ : Turkish DIY Punk/Hardcore/Noize Community

=== [[Ukraine]] ===
* http://infoshop.zaraz.org/

=== [[United Kingdom]] ===
==== [[Wales]] ====
* http://pumpkinrecords.wix.com/dirtyweekend
Festival organized at the Workhouse in Llanfyllin, early September.

==== [[Birmingham]] ====
* PUNKS ALIVE organizes gigs at the public house "Adam & Eve" at least once a week if not more.
Information on Facebook.

==== [[Brighton]] ====
* http://www.brightonzinefest.co.uk/ : Brighton zinefest - Also organise monthly zine socials
* http://cowleyclub.org.uk/ : Cowley Club - A collectively run libertarian social centre. 12 London Road
* http://cranks.org.uk/ : Cranks - A DIY bicycle workshop
* http://www.bbc.co.uk/radio1/onemusic/huw/props_edgeworld.shtml : Edgeworld - Independent record shop
* http://www.infinityfoodsretail.co.uk/ : Infinity - Centrally located organic wholefoods shop run by workers' co-op
* http://www.myspace.com/punkerbunker : Punker Bunker - A punk record shop and gig organizor. 34 Sydney St. North Laines
* http://www.resourcecentre.org.uk/ : Resource Centre - Cheap equipment and printing etc
* http://www.myspace.com/tattyseasidetown : Tatty Seaside Town - Organizes gigs
* http://www.protectourwoodland.co.uk/ : Titnore Woods Protest Site

==== [[Bristol]] ====
* http://comutiny.wordpress.com/ : Bristol Co- Mutiny
* http://www.templesfestival.co.uk/lineup : Temples Fest late May every year in Bristol city center

==== [[London]] ====
* http://www.56a.org.uk/ : 56a - A radical social centre since 1991
* http://www.eroding.org.uk/ : Eroding Empire - punk/anarchy listings for London
* http://infousurpa.co.nr/ : London Infousurpa
* http://londonscn.wordpress.com/ : London social centres network
* http://www.myspace.com/queermutinylondon : Queer Mutiny - anarchist queers
* http://therampart.wordpress.com/ : Rampart social centre

==== [[Manchester]] ====
* http://www.myspace.com/fungalpunk : FungalPunk - diy punk gigs
* http://www.myspace.com/slitrecords : Slit Promotions - Ska/ punk / hardcore gigs
* http://www.myspace.com/gashcollective : Gash Collective - Underground DIY punk gigs/parties/raves
* http://www.myspace.com/sayittomyface : Say it to my face - punk/grindcore/hardcore gigs
* http://www.myspace.com/anarchisticundertones : Anarchistic Undertones - DIY punk/ska/harcore
* http://www.myspace.com/manchesterpunx : Manchester Punx
* http://www.myspace.com/mutinymanchester : Mutiny Manchester - Hardcore/Metal/Punk gigs

[[Category:Tribes]]

Bath

2019-02-06T01:46:55Z

Iotrj: Undo revision 11240 by Iotrj (talk)

{{City
|name = Bath
|country = United Kingdom
|region = Europe
|nickname =
|group = 1244
|wikipedia = Bath, Somerset
|wikivoyage = Bath (England)
|image = Baths_medium.jpg
|imagetext =
|ambassadors = [[:cs:people/geojay|Geoff]]
}}

== Overview ==

Bath is a city in the South West of England known for its Georgian architecture and its Roman Baths. For these reasons Bath has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city is small and friendly with lots of attractions, events, culture and places to eat and drink. Bath is a very popular tourist destination and gets very busy in the summer and around Christmas. Its streets contain many small small independent shops, it has a far higher proportion of such shops than the average UK city so is also a popular shopping destination.

== Tourist Information ==

[http://www.visitbath.co.uk/site/bath-tourist-information-centre Bath's Tourist Information Centre] is centrally located, next to the Abbey and Roman Baths

== Health / Emergencies ==

'''Emergency services'''

To call the emergency services (fire, police or ambulance) call 999 or 112

'''[http://www.nhsdirect.nhs.uk/ NHS Direct]

NHS Direct's website provides self-help advice or you can call 0845 4647 to speak to health advisors

'''[http://www.nhs.uk/ServiceDirectories/Pages/WalkInCentre.aspx?id=YDC98 Bath NHS Walk-In Centre]'''

The walk-in centre has now closed.

'''[http://www.ruh.nhs.uk/ Royal United Hospital]'''

The RUH is located on the outskirts of the city and has a 24 hour accident and emergency department.

'''[http://www.avonandsomerset.police.uk/contact/policestationlocator/Details.aspx?sid=10 Police station]'''

The police station is in the city centre and is open from 7am to midnight. They can deal with lost property. For non-emergencies you can call 0845 4567000.

== Couchsurfing in Bath ==

There is an active CouchSurfing 'scene' in Bath. Bath is popular with visitors so there is strong demand for couches, luckily there are also lots of hosts so if you make enough requests you shouldn't be disappointed. The [http://www.couchsurfing.com/group.html?gid=1244 Bath CouchSurfing Group] is also quite active and there are relatively regular meet-ups and activities. It's recommended that you join the group in advance of a visit to Bath, the friendly members will be able to help you get the best out of your visit.

== How to get there ==

=== Train ===

Bath is on the main railway line between Bristol (Temple Meads station) and London (Paddington Station). It is also served by trains to Wales and the South Coast (Portsmouth, Weymouth, Southampton). Bristol Temple Meads is the next station to the west (about ten minutes away) and offers connections to the South West, the Midlands, Northern England and Scotland.

Bath Spa station ([http://maps.google.co.uk/maps?q=BA1+1SU&ie=UTF8&ll=51.377614,-2.357082&spn=0.004319,0.009398&t=h&z=17 Google map]) is central to the city and is reasonably close to bus stops and the bus station.

[http://www.nationalrail.co.uk/ National Rail] (for train times and tickets)

=== Coach ===

Coaches are often the cheapest way to get to Bath.
[http://www.nationalexpress.com National Express] are the main coach operator serving Bath and their coaches arrive and depart from the bus station ([http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&source=s_q&hl=en&geocode=&q=51.377706+-2.359582&mrt=ds&sll=51.377953,-2.359647&sspn=0.008398,0.01929&g=51.377706+-2.359582&ie=UTF8&ll=51.377707,-2.359582&spn=0.002099,0.004823&t=h&z=18&iwloc=A Google map showing location of new bus station]). [http://uk.megabus.com/ Megabus] also comes to Bath and is often cheaper than National Express although it has a smaller route network.

=== Car ===

Bath is just over 10 miles south of the M4. There are a number of car parks ([http://www.bathnes.gov.uk/BathNES/transportandstreets/Parking/carparkscouncil/bath/Bathcarparking.htm Council website]) in the centre as well as a good park and ride bus service ([http://www.bathnes.gov.uk/BathNES/transportandstreets/Parking/parkandride/default.htm Council website]) with a number of sites on the outskirts of the city. Charlotte Street and Avon Street are probably the best car parks for using to visit Bath. The centre of Bath is designed to keep cars out, so it's best not to get caught up in the one way streets and 'bus gates'.

== Left luggage ==

The [http://www.bathymca.co.uk/ YMCA hostel] and [http://www.hostels.co.uk/index.php?content=bath.htm Bath Backpackers hostel] both offer a left luggage service. There are two cafes which offer a secure left luggage service on Manvers Street facing the railway station.

== Internet access ==

There are many ways to get on-line in Bath. There are many pubs, cafés and coffee shops - Starbucks and independents - with wireless hotspots with a few of them being free for customers. There are also internet cafés and the public library.

'''[http://www.bathnes.gov.uk/BathNES/leisureandculture/Libraries/computers/internetservice.htm Library]'''

:The public library offers internet terminals which are free for a set list of information web sites and chargeable for other sites.
:£3.60 / hour for adults and £1.80 / hour for childen and students (billed per 15 minutes) (July 2008)

'''[http://www.walcotstreet.com The Bell]'''

:The Bell (a pub) offers Wi-Fi access for customers as well as a PC by the bar
:£ Free

'''[http://www.theravenofbath.co.uk/index.html The Raven]'''

:The Raven (a pub) offers free Wi-Fi access for customers. This is also a good place to eat or get a coffee.
:£ Free

'''The Bridge Coffee Shop'''

:This coffee shop has free Wi-Fi for customers
:£ Free
:[http://maps.google.co.uk/maps?hl=en&client=firefox-a&rls=org.mozilla:en-US:official&hs=08y&um=1&ie=UTF-8&q=The+Bridge+Coffee+Shop&near=Bath&fb=1&view=text&latlng=1126079722766643142 Google Map]

'''[http://www.jdwetherspoon.co.uk/pubs/pub-details.php?PubNumber=2609 The King Of Wessex]'''

:The King of Wessex (a pub) offers Wi-Fi access for customers. They also do very cheap food and drinks.
:£ Free

'''[http://www.greenparkbrasserie.com/ Green Park Brasserie]'''

:The Green Park Brasserie has free Wi-Fi access for its customers. It offers coffee and snacks during the day as well as meals.
:£ Free

'''McDonalds'''

:McDonalds offer free Wi-Fi.
:£ Free
:[http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&hl=en&geocode=&q=51.37875+-2.35985&ie=UTF8&ll=51.378749,-2.35985&spn=0.002166,0.004699&t=h&z=18&iwloc=addr Google Map]

'''Click Café'''
:This internet café is almost opposite the railway station.
:£1 / 20 minutes
:[http://maps.google.co.uk/maps?q=BA1+1JH&sourceid=navclient-ff&ie=UTF-8&rlz=1B3GGGL_enGB277GB277&um=1&sa=X&oi=geocode_result&resnum=1&ct=title Google Map]

== Local transport ==

=== Buses ===

Bath is reasonably well served by buses. The main operator is First Group. The bus station is right next to the train station.

[http://www.bathnes.gov.uk/services/parking-and-travel/public-transport/buses Buses on the council website]

[http://www.firstgroup.com/ukbus/southwest/bristol/home/index.php First buses]

=== Cycling ===

Bath is on route 4 of the UK national cycle network. The very pleasant route heads west to Bristol along an old railway ([http://www.bristolbathrailwaypath.org.uk/home.shtml Bristol / Bath railway path]) and east (initially along the [http://www.waterscape.com/things-to-do/cycling/routes/33/cycling-the-kennet-and-avon-in-bath Kennet & Avon canal]) to Bradford on Avon, Devizes, Newbury, Reading and London. Both routes are picturesque and fairly flat.

There is a street bike rental scheme [http://www.bikeinbath.com/ Bike In Bath] but this is expensive and you can get a better deal with hire shops.

The most central hire shop is [http://www.greenparkbikestation.com/ Green Park Bike Station] which offers daily bike hire for £7.50 for 1/2 day, £15 per day (£20 for two days but not weekend), £50 for the week (prices correct September 2012)

Bath itself is situated amongst a number of hills so can be challenging to cycle into the suburbs. There are good bike shops and plenty of bike racks.

[http://www.sustrans.org.uk/default.asp?nZoom=2&map.x=-2.361528&map.y=51.380097 Sustrans map of Bath cycle routes]

[http://www.bikeshop.uk.com/ Avon Valley Cyclery (shop)]

[http://www.johnsbikes.co.uk/ John's Bikes (shop)]

[http://cart.totalfitnessbathltd.co.uk/ Total Fitness Bath (shop)]

== Places to stay ==

=== Hostels ===

'''[http://www.yha.org.uk/find-accommodation/south-west-england/hostels/Bath/index.aspx YHA] '''

:Youth hostel in an Italianate Mansion on Bathwick Hill, about a mile from the centre

'''[http://www.bathymca.co.uk/ YMCA] '''

:Large central hostel with gym, left luggage and many other facilities

'''[http://www.st-christophers.co.uk/bath-hostels St. Christopher's Inn] '''

:Hostel above Belushi's Bar in city centre

'''[http://www.hostels.co.uk/index.php?content=bath.htm Bath Backpackers] '''

:Central hostel with left luggage facilities

=== Camping ===

'''[http://www.campinginbath.co.uk/ Newton Mill Camping & Caravan site]'''

:This is the only campsite near Bath, it's right on the outside of the city and as such is really too far to walk into the city. It is close to the well served #5 bus route and also to the Bath & Bristol cycle track.

=== Hotels / Bed & Breakfast (B&B) / Guesthouses ===

Bath has hundreds of hotels, B&Bs and guesthouses, ranging from economy guesthouses to various 5* hotels. An easy option to find something for your budget is to use the city's tourist office to book accommodation for you. This service costs £3 (correct in October 2008) and they will also take a non-refundable deposit of 10%.

== Food, drink & nightlife ==

=== Cafes ===
=== Delis / Take-aways ===

'''Schwartz Brothers'''

:Half of Bath thinks this is the best place in the world to get a burger ...

:[http://maps.google.co.uk/maps?ie=UTF-8&oe=utf-8&rls=org.mozilla:en-US:official&client=firefox-a&um=1&q=4+Sawclose,+City+Centre,+Bath,+BA1+1EY&fb=1&cid=0,0,5735011641395173128&sa=X&oi=local_result&resnum=1&ct=image Google map for Sawclose branch (opposite Theatre Royal]

:[http://maps.google.co.uk/maps?q=102+Walcot+St,+Bath,+Avon,+BA1+5BG&ie=UTF-8&oe=utf-8&rls=org.mozilla:en-US:official&client=firefox-a&um=1&sa=X&oi=geocode_result&resnum=1&ct=image Google map for Walcot Street branch]

'''Manhattan burger bar'''

:... the other half of Bath thinks this is the best place in the world to get a burger!

:[http://maps.google.co.uk/maps?q=Manhattan%20Burger%20Bar.%2023%2C%20Claverton%20Buildings%2C%20Widcombe%20Parade%2C%20Bath%2C%20Avon%20BA2%204LD&ie=UTF-8&oe=utf-8&rls=org.mozilla:en-US:official&client=firefox-a&um=1&sa=N&tab=wl Google map]

'''[http://www.fishandchipsbath.co.uk/ Seafoods]'''

:Great fish & chips in the centre of Bath

=== Restaurants ===
=== Pubs ===

Bath has dozens of pubs and bars in and around the centre so this is only a selection of what's available. There should be something to suit most tastes in the lists below.

'''[http://www.walcotstreet.com/ The Bell]'''

:The Bell is arguably one of the best pubs in Bath. With an alternative atmosphere and equally alternative clientèle, live music three times a week, an eclectic playlist the rest of the time, a great selection of beer and other drinks, friendly staff and a lovely outside area, what's not to like? Oh, and Bath's smallest laundrette!

'''[http://www.bathales.com/pubs/salamander.html The Salamander]'''

:Another of Bath's pub highlights, The Salamander is a Bath Ales (a local Brewery) pub and as such always serves a few of their own brews as well as guest ales and continental beers. Small and friendly.

'''[http://www.theravenofbath.co.uk/ The Raven]'''

:Yet another Bath gem, the Raven is a real community pub with various groups meeting there throughout the month. Lots of good beer and equally good pies.

'''King of Wessex (Wetherspoons)'''
:A chain pub with little atmosphere but with a wide selection of beers from the UK and further afield as well as a large food menu. All at very low prices!

'''[http://www.thepigandfiddle.co.uk/ Pig & Fiddle]'''
:A very popular pub with good, reasonably priced food. A good place to watch any big matches.

'''Old Green Tree'''
:A very traditional British pub, always featuring a character or two! Small wood panelled rooms with a good selection of real ale and great food (in massive portions!).

'''Hobgoblin'''
:An alternative pub, lots of goths and rockers. Good atmosphere.

'''The Grapes'''
:City centre 'boozer' with sports usually on the TV and cheap food

'''The Boater'''
:A student favourite with a massive garden overlooking the river.

'''Mandalyns'''
:Now Bath's only Gay & Lesbian friendly bar with garish decoration and lots of fun nights.

'''[http://www.star-inn-bath.co.uk/ The Star]'''
:Another traditional old pub, supplied by Bath's only brewery, Abbey Ales. A great example of a traditional pub with numbered rooms dating from the 19th century

'''[http://www.coeur-de-lion.co.uk/ Coeur de Lion]'''
:One of Bath's smallest pubs but with a great atmosphere. Right in the city centre

'''[http://www.flanobriens.com/ Flan O'Briens]'''
:An Irish themed pub, always busy and a good place to meet

=== Bars ===

'''[http://www.bathcommonroom.com/ Common Room]'''

The Common Room is a small and friendly late night bar near the Assembly Rooms. Very stylish but also friendly. It is very compact so get there before the pubs empty to stand a chance of getting a sofa or seat.

'''Grappa'''

'''[http://www.centralbarbath.co.uk Central Bar]'''

'''[http://www.loungecocktailbar.com/ Lounge]'''

Lounge is a busy late bar with lots of cocktail options. Adorned with interesting contemporary art on the ground floor and mildly saucy photography downstairs.

'''[http://www.iguanas.co.uk/bath.asp Pulp]'''

Pulp is a stylish and vaguely Latin themed cocktail bar connected to the Las Iguanas restaurant. Pulp also offers Tapas.

'''[http://www.sub13.net/ Sub 13]'''

'''Beau Bar'''

=== Clubs ===

Bath is a small city and doesn't have large clubs. If you're into serious clubbing then a trip to Bristol is best. Bath does have a number of smaller clubs with character.

'''[http://www.moles.co.uk/ Moles]'''

'''Back To Mine'''

'''Poo Na Na'''

'''[http://www.secondbridge.co.uk Second Bridge]'''

'''[http://www.qubeclub.co.uk/ Qube]'''

'''[http://www.delfterkrug.com/ Delfter Krug]'''

'''[http://www.bluerooms.net/ Blue Rooms]'''

'''QT's'''

'''[http://www.clubxl.co.uk/ Club XL]'''

=== Live music & comedy ===

=== Theatre & cinema ===

== Attractions ==

'''[http://www.romanbaths.co.uk/ Roman Baths]'''

:The Roman Baths are probably the single 'must do' attraction in Bath. Consisting of the various original Roman Baths, remains of the Roman temple along with the Georgian Pump Rooms there is a lot to explore. A lot of the Baths are actually under the surrounding streets so there is more to it than you might realise. An audio guide (in a selection of languages) is included and you should allow 2-3 hours to see all of the complex. Although a little expensive, the Baths are generally found to be a worthwhile visit and are very well presented.
:'''Tip!''' For a quick free view of one of the Baths go into the Pump Rooms entrance, you can also sample the hot spa water for 50p.
:Adult £10.50 (£11 in July & August), student £9, child £6.80 (in July 2008)

'''[http://www.romanbaths.co.uk/index.cfm?UUID=8AC46D2A-7E5B-45A9-8359609A424E2697 Pump Rooms]'''

:The Pump Rooms are a lavish venue for morning coffee, lunch and afternoon tea. The Pump Rooms are in the same building as the Roman Baths. Food and drink prices are expensive as you're paying a premium for the location.

'''[http://www.thermaebathspa.com/ Thermae Bath Spa]'''

:The Thermae Bath Spa opened in 2006 and allows you to bathe in the same hot spring water as fills the Roman Baths. Housed in a contemporary "Glass Cube" designed by Nicholas Grimshaw the complex has two thermal baths, a steam room and various treatment rooms.
:A two hour spa session cost £22 in July 2008.

'''[http://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/main/w-vh/w-visits/w-findaplace/w-priorpark/ Prior Park Gardens]'''

:Prior Park Gardens are restored 18th century landscape gardens in a sweeping valley about a mile from the centre of Bath. The gardens feature an Ornamental Palladian bridge, one of only four in the world. The location also gives great views of the city. The gardens are best accessed by bus from the city centre otherwise it's a steep walk.
:Adult £4.50, child £2.50 (in July 2008)

'''[http://www.bathnes.gov.uk/BathNES/environmentandplanning/parksandopenspaces/Royal+Victoria+Park.htm Victoria Park]'''

:Victoria Park is a large public park close to the centre of Bath. With a botanic garden, large childrens adventure playground, skateboard park, lakes, tennis, bowling, golf & putting and many beautiful gardens there is something for everyone. The Royal Crescent sits on the edge of the park above a large open area, perfect for impromptu football and picnics. Hot air balloons launch from the north west area of the park in the summer.

'''Adventure Golf'''

:The Victoria Fall Adventure Golf course provides an entertaining way to spend an hour. Located in Victoria Park there are 18 holes around an interesting miniature golf course. <br />[http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&hl=en&q=51.38507+-2.36605&ie=UTF8&ll=51.385073,-2.366052&spn=0.004513,0.009398&t=h&z=17 Google map]
:Adult £4, student/elderly £3.50, child £3 (in August 2008)

'''View Bath from Alexandra Park'''

:One of the best things to do in Bath is trek up to Alexandra Park, high above the city, to get the best view of Bath. You can always get a bus up to Bear Flat to save your legs a little! There is only a single point where the view isn't obscured by trees. <br />[http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&hl=en&geocode=&q=51.3744+-2.358&ie=UTF8&ll=51.374399,-2.358005&spn=0.004132,0.009398&t=h&z=17&iwloc=addr Google map of the exact vantage point]

'''[http://www.bathabbey.org/ Bath Abbey]'''

:Bath Abbey is situated in the centre, next to the Roman Baths and the Pump Rooms. The Abbey was founded in the 7th century. The current building is the third on the site and was completed in 1611. The inside of the Abbey is surprisingly light and is worth a look.
:There is a Tower Tour which is very interesting, see the [[#Walks / Tours|Walks / Tours]] section for more details.
:Suggested contribution of £2.50 in July 2008.

'''[http://www.waterscape.com/canals-and-rivers/kennet-and-avon-canal Kennet & Avon Canal]'''

:The Kennet & Avon canal joins the river Avon in Bath to the river Kennet in Newbury (which in turn flows into the Thames). It runs east from Bath through glorious countryside to Bradford on Avon, Devizes and beyond. Bradford on Avon is about 10 miles along the canal so is an easy cycle or a reasonably long walk. You can catch a train back from Bradford on Avon (after stopping for refreshment at one of the many pubs!). Devizes is about 20 miles along the Canal and isn't on the rail network so it's a 40 mile round cycle. The canal's towpath from Bath to Devizes forms part of route 4 of the national cycle network and is a good hard surface with only a few puddles when it rains. For an easy walk, it's only a couple of miles out of Bath to the George at Bathampton. This popular pub is right next to the canal and serves food as well as a good range of beer. This is a popular walking destination from Bath on summer weekends.

'''[http://www.bathnes.gov.uk/BathNES/media/news/2005/April/ Georgian Garden]'''

:The Georgian Garden is authentically restored and planted with species known to have been used in Georgian town gardens. It is accessed from the Gravel Walk in Victoria Park. Ideal to relax in during a walk around the city.
:Entrance is free
:[http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&hl=en&geocode=&q=51.38545+-2.36488&ie=UTF8&ll=51.385452,-2.364882&spn=0.002256,0.004699&t=h&z=18&iwloc=addr Google map]

'''[http://www.bathaquaglass.com/theatre.html Bath Aqua Glass]'''

:You can watch glass being blown in Bath Aqua Glass' workshop in Walcot Street.
:Adult £3.50, child £2 (July 2008)

=== Culture ===

'''[http://www.theatreroyal.org.uk/ Theatre Royal]'''

:Bath's Theatre Royal is over 200 years old and has three auditoriums; the original main theatre, a studio theatre (The Ustinov Studio) and a youth theatre (The Egg). The Theatre holds a number of festivals / seasons each year and always has a full schedule. Behind the scenes tours are also available.

'''[http://www.picturehouses.co.uk/cinema_home_date.aspx?venueId=bath Little Theatre]'''

:The Little Theatre is Bath's more interesting cinema with two screens showing a mix of art-house / independent / foreign language films as well as mainstream cinema

'''[http://www.odeon.co.uk/fanatic/film_times/s65/Bath/ Odeon Cinema]'''

:The Odeon is an 8 screen multiplex featuring mostly mainstream cinema. In the same complex is a Weatherspoons pub, a Nando's chicken restaurant, Feast (an Asian buffet) and a TGI Friday's restaurant as well as a health club in the basement.

'''[http://www.janeausten.co.uk/ Jane Austen Centre]'''

:The Jane Austen Centre is a permanent exhibition which explores the relationship between Jane Austen and Bath (she visited twice and then lived here for six years). As well as the exhibition there are regency styled tea rooms and an extensive shop.

=== Architecture ===

'''[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Royal_Crescent Royal Crescent]'''

'''[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Circus_(Bath) The Circus]'''

'''[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pulteney_Bridge Pulteney Bridge]'''

'''[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Great_Pulteney_Street Great Pulteney Street]'''

'''[http://www.bath-preservation-trust.org.uk/?id=9 Beckford's tower]'''

=== Walks / Tours ===

'''[http://visitbath.co.uk/site/things-to-do/tours-and-sightseeing/mayor-of-bath-honorary-guides-p43001 Mayor of Bath Honorary Guides]'''

:Well recommended free guided walking tours of the city led by volunteers. There is at least one tour each day.
:Free!

'''[http://www.city-sightseeing.com/index.phtml?command=search&clear-search=true&destinations=Bath Bus tours]'''

:City Sightseeing offer an open top bus tour of the city and a second tour of the Bath skyline (ticket includes both). Tickets are valid for two days so the bus can be used for getting around the city as well as for the tour.
:Adult £10, student / elderly £8, children £6 (in July 2008)

'''[http://www.bathabbey.org/other_events.htm Bath Abbey Tour Tours]'''
:A fascinating tour of the Abbey's roof and tower. You get to look through the ceiling into the Abbey below, ring the bells, go behind the clock face and get the superb view from the top of the tower.
:Tours run daily (except Sundays) on the hour from 10.00 am to 4.00 pm
:Adult £5, child (5-14) £2.50 (in July 2009)

'''[http://www.bizarrebath.co.uk/ Bizarre Bath]'''

:A irreverent 90 minute comedy walking tour. A favourite with visitors, this tour promises to contain no facts about the city but instead features jokes, funny walks, teasing and an escapologist rabbit.
:Adult £8, student £5 (in July 2008)

'''[http://www.ghostwalksofbath.co.uk/ Ghost Walk]'''

:An atmospheric tour of the many haunted areas of the city
:Adult £6, student / child / elderly £5 (in July 2008)

'''Boat trips'''

=== Museums / Galleries ===

'''[http://www.bath-preservation-trust.org.uk/?id=8 Herschel Museum]'''

'''[http://www.bath-at-work.org.uk/ Museum of Bath at Work]'''

'''[http://www.bath-preservation-trust.org.uk/?id=4 Building of Bath Museum]'''

'''[http://www.americanmuseum.org/ American Museum]'''

'''[http://www.meaa.org.uk/ Museum of East Asian]'''

'''[http://www.fashionmuseum.co.uk/ Fashion Museum]'''

'''[http://www.bath.ac.uk/holburne/ Holburne Museum]'''

'''[http://www.bath-preservation-trust.org.uk/?id=3 No.1 Royal Crescent]'''

'''[http://www.victoriagal.org.uk/ Victoria Art Gallery]'''

'''[http://www.bathpostalmuseum.co.uk/ Bath Postal Museum]'''

=== Events ===

'''[http://www.illuminatebath.org/ Illuminate Bath]'''

:Illuminate Bath brings beautiful and engaging projected artworks to the city centre. Banishing the gloom of January’s long evenings, this ‘festival of light’ will include a number of original installations in public spaces, all of which will be completely free to explore.
:''Occasional event, last took place in 2015''

'''[http://www.bathbachfest.co.uk/ Bath BachFest]'''

:''Thursday 21th - Saturday 23th February 2019''

'''[http://www.clstickets.co.uk/category/cider-festivals Cider Festival]'''

:''Thursday 21th - Saturday 23th February 2019''

'''[http://www.bathcomedy.com/ Comedy Festival]'''

:''Tuesday 26th March - Sunday 14th April 2019''

'''[http://www.bathworldheritage.org.uk/events World Heritage Day]'''

:''Thursday 18th April 2019''

'''[http://bathfestivals.org.uk/literature/ The Bath Festival (Formerly the Literature Festival and International Music Festival)]'''

:''Friday 17th - Sunday 26th May 2019''

'''[http://www.bathandborderscamra.org.uk/34th-camra-bath-beer-festival/ Bath Beer Festival]'''

:''2019 dates to be announced''

'''[http://www.bathfringe.co.uk/ Fringe Festival]'''

:''Friday 24th May – Sunday 9th June 2019''

'''[http://www.bikebath.co.uk/ Bike Bath]'''

:''Sunday June 30th 2019''

'''[http://www.widcombe.net/index.php#wr Widcombe Rising]'''

:Street party / festival that takes place in Widcombe Parade. Features music, competitions, street entertainment and general randomness.

:''Possibly back in the future''

'''[https://bathfolkfestival.org/ Bath Folk Festival]'''

:''2019 dates to be announced''

'''[http://www.romanbaths.co.uk/whats_on/events/september_heritage_open_days.aspx Heritage Open Days]'''

:''Friday 13th - Sunday 22nd September 2019''

'''[http://www.janeausten.co.uk/festivalhome/ Jane Austen Festival]'''

:''Friday 13th to Sunday 22nd September 2019''

'''[http://bathfestivals.org.uk/childrens-literature/ Childrens' Literature Festival]'''

:''Friday 27th September – Sunday 6th October 2019''

'''[http://www.bathfilmfestival.org/ Film Festival]'''

:''2019 dates to be announced''

'''[http://www.bathmozartfest.org.uk/ Mozartfest]'''

:''Friday 8th - Saturday 16th November 2019''

'''[http://www.bathchristmasmarket.co.uk/ Christmas Market]'''

:An outdoor market held around the Abbey area in the centre of Bath. Over 100 stalls selling a wide selection of quirky and unique gifts as well as hot food and drinks. With a great festive atmosphere this market makes Christmas shopping a lot easier.
:''2019 dates to be announced''

'''[http://www.greatbathfeast.co.uk/ The Great Bath Feast]'''

:This festival doesn't seem to happen any more...

'''[http://www.igf.org.uk/ International Guitar Festival]'''

:This festival doesn't seem to happen any more...

'''[http://www.bathinfashion.co.uk/ Bath in Fashion]'''

:This festival doesn't seem to happen any more...

'''Shakespeare Festival'''

:This festival doesn't seem to happen any more...

'''Puppet Festival'''

:This festival doesn't seem to happen any more...

'''[http://www.bathdancefest.org.uk/ Dance Festival]'''

:This festival doesn't seem to happen any more...

'''[http://www.bathbanjofestival.com/ Banjo festival]'''

:This festival doesn't seem to happen any more...

=== Nearby destinations ===

'''Bristol'''

'''Salisbury'''

'''Cotswolds'''

'''Bradford on Avon'''

'''[http://www.english-heritage.org.uk/daysout/properties/stonehenge/ Stonehenge] & [http://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/main/w-avebury Avebury]'''

:Stonehenge is considered one of the must see sights in the UK but people are sometimes disappointed by it. After all, it is a pile of stones which you aren't allowed to touch (except on the summer and winter solstices), it's not cheap and the visitor experience isn't really up to standard. It's best to go with reasonably low expectations and then you are more likely enjoy the experience.
:Adult £6.90, student/elderly £5.90, child £3.50, English Heritage / National Trust members - free (in July 2010)

:Two companies run trips to Stonehenge:
::[http://www.scarpertours.com/ Scarper Tours]
::[http://www.madmax.abel.co.uk/ Mad Max Tours]

:You can also travel to Salisbury (see above) by train and get a bus from there:
::[http://www.thestonehengetour.info/ Salisbury - Stonehenge bus tour]

:Avebury is another set of stone circles and people often enjoy these more. Access is unrestricted so there's no charge and you are free to walk up to the stones and touch them.

::[http://www.madmax.abel.co.uk/ Mad Max Tours] offer tours which combine Stonehenge with Avebury
[[hitch:Bath]]
[[trash:Bath]]

Bath

2019-02-06T01:43:27Z

Iotrj: Reverted edits by Geojay (talk) to last revision by Robyt

{{City
|name = Bath
|country = United Kingdom
|region = Europe
|nickname =
|group = 1244
|wikipedia = Bath, Somerset
|wikivoyage = Bath (England)
|image = Baths_medium.jpg
|imagetext =
|ambassadors = [[:cs:people/geojay|Geoff]]
}}

== Overview ==

Bath is a city in the South West of England known for its Georgian architecture and its Roman Baths. For these reasons Bath has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city is small and friendly with lots of attractions, events, culture and places to eat and drink. Bath is a very popular tourist destination and gets very busy in the summer and around Christmas. Its streets contain many small small independent shops, it has a far higher proportion of such shops than the average UK city so is also a popular shopping destination.

== Tourist Information ==

[http://www.visitbath.co.uk/site/bath-tourist-information-centre Bath's Tourist Information Centre] is centrally located, next to the Abbey and Roman Baths

== Health / Emergencies ==

'''Emergency services'''

To call the emergency services (fire, police or ambulance) call 999 or 112

'''[http://www.nhsdirect.nhs.uk/ NHS Direct]

NHS Direct's website provides self-help advice or you can call 0845 4647 to speak to health advisors

'''[http://www.nhs.uk/ServiceDirectories/Pages/WalkInCentre.aspx?id=YDC98 Bath NHS Walk-In Centre]'''

The walk-in centre has now closed.

'''[http://www.ruh.nhs.uk/ Royal United Hospital]'''

The RUH is located on the outskirts of the city and has a 24 hour accident and emergency department.

'''[http://www.avonandsomerset.police.uk/contact/policestationlocator/Details.aspx?sid=10 Police station]'''

The police station is in the city centre and is open from 7am to midnight. They can deal with lost property. For non-emergencies you can call 0845 4567000.

== Couchsurfing in Bath ==

There is an active CouchSurfing 'scene' in Bath. Bath is popular with visitors so there is strong demand for couches, luckily there are also lots of hosts so if you make enough requests you shouldn't be disappointed. The [http://www.couchsurfing.com/group.html?gid=1244 Bath CouchSurfing Group] is also quite active and there are relatively regular meet-ups and activities. It's recommended that you join the group in advance of a visit to Bath, the friendly members will be able to help you get the best out of your visit.

== How to get there ==

=== Train ===

Bath is on the main railway line between Bristol (Temple Meads station) and London (Paddington Station). It is also served by trains to Wales and the South Coast (Portsmouth, Weymouth, Southampton). Bristol Temple Meads is the next station to the west (about ten minutes away) and offers connections to the South West, the Midlands, Northern England and Scotland.

Bath Spa station ([http://maps.google.co.uk/maps?q=BA1+1SU&ie=UTF8&ll=51.377614,-2.357082&spn=0.004319,0.009398&t=h&z=17 Google map]) is central to the city and is reasonably close to bus stops and the bus station.

[http://www.nationalrail.co.uk/ National Rail] (for train times and tickets)

=== Coach ===

Coaches are often the cheapest way to get to Bath.
[http://www.nationalexpress.com National Express] are the main coach operator serving Bath and their coaches arrive and depart from the bus station ([http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&source=s_q&hl=en&geocode=&q=51.377706+-2.359582&mrt=ds&sll=51.377953,-2.359647&sspn=0.008398,0.01929&g=51.377706+-2.359582&ie=UTF8&ll=51.377707,-2.359582&spn=0.002099,0.004823&t=h&z=18&iwloc=A Google map showing location of new bus station]). [http://uk.megabus.com/ Megabus] also comes to Bath and is often cheaper than National Express although it has a smaller route network.

=== Car ===

Bath is just over 10 miles south of the M4. There are a number of car parks ([http://www.bathnes.gov.uk/BathNES/transportandstreets/Parking/carparkscouncil/bath/Bathcarparking.htm Council website]) in the centre as well as a good park and ride bus service ([http://www.bathnes.gov.uk/BathNES/transportandstreets/Parking/parkandride/default.htm Council website]) with a number of sites on the outskirts of the city. Charlotte Street and Avon Street are probably the best car parks for using to visit Bath. The centre of Bath is designed to keep cars out, so it's best not to get caught up in the one way streets and 'bus gates'.

== Left luggage ==

The [http://www.bathymca.co.uk/ YMCA hostel] and [http://www.hostels.co.uk/index.php?content=bath.htm Bath Backpackers hostel] both offer a left luggage service. There are two cafes which offer a secure left luggage service on Manvers Street facing the railway station.

== Internet access ==

There are many ways to get on-line in Bath. There are many pubs, cafés and coffee shops - Starbucks and independents - with wireless hotspots with a few of them being free for customers. There are also internet cafés and the public library.

'''[http://www.bathnes.gov.uk/BathNES/leisureandculture/Libraries/computers/internetservice.htm Library]'''

:The public library offers internet terminals which are free for a set list of information web sites and chargeable for other sites.
:£3.60 / hour for adults and £1.80 / hour for childen and students (billed per 15 minutes) (July 2008)

'''[http://www.walcotstreet.com The Bell]'''

:The Bell (a pub) offers Wi-Fi access for customers as well as a PC by the bar
:£ Free

'''[http://www.theravenofbath.co.uk/index.html The Raven]'''

:The Raven (a pub) offers free Wi-Fi access for customers. This is also a good place to eat or get a coffee.
:£ Free

'''The Bridge Coffee Shop'''

:This coffee shop has free Wi-Fi for customers
:£ Free
:[http://maps.google.co.uk/maps?hl=en&client=firefox-a&rls=org.mozilla:en-US:official&hs=08y&um=1&ie=UTF-8&q=The+Bridge+Coffee+Shop&near=Bath&fb=1&view=text&latlng=1126079722766643142 Google Map]

'''[http://www.jdwetherspoon.co.uk/pubs/pub-details.php?PubNumber=2609 The King Of Wessex]'''

:The King of Wessex (a pub) offers Wi-Fi access for customers. They also do very cheap food and drinks.
:£ Free

'''[http://www.greenparkbrasserie.com/ Green Park Brasserie]'''

:The Green Park Brasserie has free Wi-Fi access for its customers. It offers coffee and snacks during the day as well as meals.
:£ Free

'''McDonalds'''

:McDonalds offer free Wi-Fi.
:£ Free
:[http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&hl=en&geocode=&q=51.37875+-2.35985&ie=UTF8&ll=51.378749,-2.35985&spn=0.002166,0.004699&t=h&z=18&iwloc=addr Google Map]

'''Click Café'''
:This internet café is almost opposite the railway station.
:£1 / 20 minutes
:[http://maps.google.co.uk/maps?q=BA1+1JH&sourceid=navclient-ff&ie=UTF-8&rlz=1B3GGGL_enGB277GB277&um=1&sa=X&oi=geocode_result&resnum=1&ct=title Google Map]

== Local transport ==

=== Buses ===

Bath is reasonably well served by buses. The main operator is First Group. The bus station is right next to the train station.

[http://www.bathnes.gov.uk/services/parking-and-travel/public-transport/buses Buses on the council website]

[http://www.firstgroup.com/ukbus/southwest/bristol/home/index.php First buses]

=== Cycling ===

Bath is on route 4 of the UK national cycle network. The very pleasant route heads west to Bristol along an old railway ([http://www.bristolbathrailwaypath.org.uk/home.shtml Bristol / Bath railway path]) and east (initially along the [http://www.waterscape.com/things-to-do/cycling/routes/33/cycling-the-kennet-and-avon-in-bath Kennet & Avon canal]) to Bradford on Avon, Devizes, Newbury, Reading and London. Both routes are picturesque and fairly flat.

There is a street bike rental scheme [http://www.bikeinbath.com/ Bike In Bath] but this is expensive and you can get a better deal with hire shops.

The most central hire shop is [http://www.greenparkbikestation.com/ Green Park Bike Station] which offers daily bike hire for £7.50 for 1/2 day, £15 per day (£20 for two days but not weekend), £50 for the week (prices correct September 2012)

Bath itself is situated amongst a number of hills so can be challenging to cycle into the suburbs. There are good bike shops and plenty of bike racks.

[http://www.sustrans.org.uk/default.asp?nZoom=2&map.x=-2.361528&map.y=51.380097 Sustrans map of Bath cycle routes]

[http://www.bikeshop.uk.com/ Avon Valley Cyclery (shop)]

[http://www.johnsbikes.co.uk/ John's Bikes (shop)]

[http://cart.totalfitnessbathltd.co.uk/ Total Fitness Bath (shop)]

== Places to stay ==

=== Hostels ===

'''[http://www.yha.org.uk/find-accommodation/south-west-england/hostels/Bath/index.aspx YHA] '''

:Youth hostel in an Italianate Mansion on Bathwick Hill, about a mile from the centre

'''[http://www.bathymca.co.uk/ YMCA] '''

:Large central hostel with gym, left luggage and many other facilities

'''[http://www.st-christophers.co.uk/bath-hostels St. Christopher's Inn] '''

:Hostel above Belushi's Bar in city centre

'''[http://www.hostels.co.uk/index.php?content=bath.htm Bath Backpackers] '''

:Central hostel with left luggage facilities

=== Camping ===

'''[http://www.campinginbath.co.uk/ Newton Mill Camping & Caravan site]'''

:This is the only campsite near Bath, it's right on the outside of the city and as such is really too far to walk into the city. It is close to the well served #5 bus route and also to the Bath & Bristol cycle track.

=== Hotels / Bed & Breakfast (B&B) / Guesthouses ===

Bath has hundreds of hotels, B&Bs and guesthouses, ranging from economy guesthouses to various 5* hotels. An easy option to find something for your budget is to use the city's tourist office to book accommodation for you. This service costs £3 (correct in October 2008) and they will also take a non-refundable deposit of 10%.

== Food, drink & nightlife ==

=== Cafes ===
=== Delis / Take-aways ===

'''Schwartz Brothers'''

:Half of Bath thinks this is the best place in the world to get a burger ...

:[http://maps.google.co.uk/maps?ie=UTF-8&oe=utf-8&rls=org.mozilla:en-US:official&client=firefox-a&um=1&q=4+Sawclose,+City+Centre,+Bath,+BA1+1EY&fb=1&cid=0,0,5735011641395173128&sa=X&oi=local_result&resnum=1&ct=image Google map for Sawclose branch (opposite Theatre Royal]

:[http://maps.google.co.uk/maps?q=102+Walcot+St,+Bath,+Avon,+BA1+5BG&ie=UTF-8&oe=utf-8&rls=org.mozilla:en-US:official&client=firefox-a&um=1&sa=X&oi=geocode_result&resnum=1&ct=image Google map for Walcot Street branch]

'''Manhattan burger bar'''

:... the other half of Bath thinks this is the best place in the world to get a burger!

:[http://maps.google.co.uk/maps?q=Manhattan%20Burger%20Bar.%2023%2C%20Claverton%20Buildings%2C%20Widcombe%20Parade%2C%20Bath%2C%20Avon%20BA2%204LD&ie=UTF-8&oe=utf-8&rls=org.mozilla:en-US:official&client=firefox-a&um=1&sa=N&tab=wl Google map]

'''[http://www.fishandchipsbath.co.uk/ Seafoods]'''

:Great fish & chips in the centre of Bath

=== Restaurants ===
=== Pubs ===

Bath has dozens of pubs and bars in and around the centre so this is only a selection of what's available. There should be something to suit most tastes in the lists below.

'''[http://www.walcotstreet.com/ The Bell]'''

:The Bell is arguably one of the best pubs in Bath. With an alternative atmosphere and equally alternative clientèle, live music three times a week, an eclectic playlist the rest of the time, a great selection of beer and other drinks, friendly staff and a lovely outside area, what's not to like? Oh, and Bath's smallest laundrette!

'''[http://www.bathales.com/pubs/salamander.html The Salamander]'''

:Another of Bath's pub highlights, The Salamander is a Bath Ales (a local Brewery) pub and as such always serves a few of their own brews as well as guest ales and continental beers. Small and friendly.

'''[http://www.theravenofbath.co.uk/ The Raven]'''

:Yet another Bath gem, the Raven is a real community pub with various groups meeting there throughout the month. Lots of good beer and equally good pies.

'''King of Wessex (Wetherspoons)'''
:A chain pub with little atmosphere but with a wide selection of beers from the UK and further afield as well as a large food menu. All at very low prices!

'''[http://www.thepigandfiddle.co.uk/ Pig & Fiddle]'''
:A very popular pub with good, reasonably priced food. A good place to watch any big matches.

'''Old Green Tree'''
:A very traditional British pub, always featuring a character or two! Small wood panelled rooms with a good selection of real ale and great food (in massive portions!).

'''Hobgoblin'''
:An alternative pub, lots of goths and rockers. Good atmosphere.

'''The Grapes'''
:City centre 'boozer' with sports usually on the TV and cheap food

'''The Boater'''
:A student favourite with a massive garden overlooking the river.

'''Mandalyns'''
:Now Bath's only Gay & Lesbian friendly bar with garish decoration and lots of fun nights.

'''[http://www.star-inn-bath.co.uk/ The Star]'''
:Another traditional old pub, supplied by Bath's only brewery, Abbey Ales. A great example of a traditional pub with numbered rooms dating from the 19th century

'''[http://www.coeur-de-lion.co.uk/ Coeur de Lion]'''
:One of Bath's smallest pubs but with a great atmosphere. Right in the city centre

'''[http://www.flanobriens.com/ Flan O'Briens]'''
:An Irish themed pub, always busy and a good place to meet

=== Bars ===

'''[http://www.bathcommonroom.com/ Common Room]'''

The Common Room is a small and friendly late night bar near the Assembly Rooms. Very stylish but also friendly. It is very compact so get there before the pubs empty to stand a chance of getting a sofa or seat.

'''Grappa'''

'''[http://www.centralbarbath.co.uk Central Bar]'''

'''[http://www.loungecocktailbar.com/ Lounge]'''

Lounge is a busy late bar with lots of cocktail options. Adorned with interesting contemporary art on the ground floor and mildly saucy photography downstairs.

'''[http://www.iguanas.co.uk/bath.asp Pulp]'''

Pulp is a stylish and vaguely Latin themed cocktail bar connected to the Las Iguanas restaurant. Pulp also offers Tapas.

'''[http://www.sub13.net/ Sub 13]'''

'''Beau Bar'''

=== Clubs ===

Bath is a small city and doesn't have large clubs. If you're into serious clubbing then a trip to Bristol is best. Bath does have a number of smaller clubs with character.

'''[http://www.moles.co.uk/ Moles]'''

'''Back To Mine'''

'''Poo Na Na'''

'''[http://www.secondbridge.co.uk Second Bridge]'''

'''[http://www.qubeclub.co.uk/ Qube]'''

'''[http://www.delfterkrug.com/ Delfter Krug]'''

'''[http://www.bluerooms.net/ Blue Rooms]'''

'''QT's'''

'''[http://www.clubxl.co.uk/ Club XL]'''

=== Live music & comedy ===

=== Theatre & cinema ===

== Attractions ==

'''[http://www.romanbaths.co.uk/ Roman Baths]'''

:The Roman Baths are probably the single 'must do' attraction in Bath. Consisting of the various original Roman Baths, remains of the Roman temple along with the Georgian Pump Rooms there is a lot to explore. A lot of the Baths are actually under the surrounding streets so there is more to it than you might realise. An audio guide (in a selection of languages) is included and you should allow 2-3 hours to see all of the complex. Although a little expensive, the Baths are generally found to be a worthwhile visit and are very well presented.
:'''Tip!''' For a quick free view of one of the Baths go into the Pump Rooms entrance, you can also sample the hot spa water for 50p.
:Adult £10.50 (£11 in July & August), student £9, child £6.80 (in July 2008)

'''[http://www.romanbaths.co.uk/index.cfm?UUID=8AC46D2A-7E5B-45A9-8359609A424E2697 Pump Rooms]'''

:The Pump Rooms are a lavish venue for morning coffee, lunch and afternoon tea. The Pump Rooms are in the same building as the Roman Baths. Food and drink prices are expensive as you're paying a premium for the location.

'''[http://www.thermaebathspa.com/ Thermae Bath Spa]'''

:The Thermae Bath Spa opened in 2006 and allows you to bathe in the same hot spring water as fills the Roman Baths. Housed in a contemporary "Glass Cube" designed by Nicholas Grimshaw the complex has two thermal baths, a steam room and various treatment rooms.
:A two hour spa session cost £22 in July 2008.

'''[http://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/main/w-vh/w-visits/w-findaplace/w-priorpark/ Prior Park Gardens]'''

:Prior Park Gardens are restored 18th century landscape gardens in a sweeping valley about a mile from the centre of Bath. The gardens feature an Ornamental Palladian bridge, one of only four in the world. The location also gives great views of the city. The gardens are best accessed by bus from the city centre otherwise it's a steep walk.
:Adult £4.50, child £2.50 (in July 2008)

'''[http://www.bathnes.gov.uk/BathNES/environmentandplanning/parksandopenspaces/Royal+Victoria+Park.htm Victoria Park]'''

:Victoria Park is a large public park close to the centre of Bath. With a botanic garden, large childrens adventure playground, skateboard park, lakes, tennis, bowling, golf & putting and many beautiful gardens there is something for everyone. The Royal Crescent sits on the edge of the park above a large open area, perfect for impromptu football and picnics. Hot air balloons launch from the north west area of the park in the summer.

'''Adventure Golf'''

:The Victoria Fall Adventure Golf course provides an entertaining way to spend an hour. Located in Victoria Park there are 18 holes around an interesting miniature golf course. <br />[http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&hl=en&q=51.38507+-2.36605&ie=UTF8&ll=51.385073,-2.366052&spn=0.004513,0.009398&t=h&z=17 Google map]
:Adult £4, student/elderly £3.50, child £3 (in August 2008)

'''View Bath from Alexandra Park'''

:One of the best things to do in Bath is trek up to Alexandra Park, high above the city, to get the best view of Bath. You can always get a bus up to Bear Flat to save your legs a little! There is only a single point where the view isn't obscured by trees. <br />[http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&hl=en&geocode=&q=51.3744+-2.358&ie=UTF8&ll=51.374399,-2.358005&spn=0.004132,0.009398&t=h&z=17&iwloc=addr Google map of the exact vantage point]

'''[http://www.bathabbey.org/ Bath Abbey]'''

:Bath Abbey is situated in the centre, next to the Roman Baths and the Pump Rooms. The Abbey was founded in the 7th century. The current building is the third on the site and was completed in 1611. The inside of the Abbey is surprisingly light and is worth a look.
:There is a Tower Tour which is very interesting, see the [[#Walks / Tours|Walks / Tours]] section for more details.
:Suggested contribution of £2.50 in July 2008.

'''[http://www.waterscape.com/canals-and-rivers/kennet-and-avon-canal Kennet & Avon Canal]'''

:The Kennet & Avon canal joins the river Avon in Bath to the river Kennet in Newbury (which in turn flows into the Thames). It runs east from Bath through glorious countryside to Bradford on Avon, Devizes and beyond. Bradford on Avon is about 10 miles along the canal so is an easy cycle or a reasonably long walk. You can catch a train back from Bradford on Avon (after stopping for refreshment at one of the many pubs!). Devizes is about 20 miles along the Canal and isn't on the rail network so it's a 40 mile round cycle. The canal's towpath from Bath to Devizes forms part of route 4 of the national cycle network and is a good hard surface with only a few puddles when it rains. For an easy walk, it's only a couple of miles out of Bath to the George at Bathampton. This popular pub is right next to the canal and serves food as well as a good range of beer. This is a popular walking destination from Bath on summer weekends.

'''[http://www.bathnes.gov.uk/BathNES/media/news/2005/April/ Georgian Garden]'''

:The Georgian Garden is authentically restored and planted with species known to have been used in Georgian town gardens. It is accessed from the Gravel Walk in Victoria Park. Ideal to relax in during a walk around the city.
:Entrance is free
:[http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&hl=en&geocode=&q=51.38545+-2.36488&ie=UTF8&ll=51.385452,-2.364882&spn=0.002256,0.004699&t=h&z=18&iwloc=addr Google map]

'''[http://www.bathaquaglass.com/theatre.html Bath Aqua Glass]'''

:You can watch glass being blown in Bath Aqua Glass' workshop in Walcot Street.
:Adult £3.50, child £2 (July 2008)

=== Culture ===

'''[http://www.theatreroyal.org.uk/ Theatre Royal]'''

:Bath's Theatre Royal is over 200 years old and has three auditoriums; the original main theatre, a studio theatre (The Ustinov Studio) and a youth theatre (The Egg). The Theatre holds a number of festivals / seasons each year and always has a full schedule. Behind the scenes tours are also available.

'''[http://www.picturehouses.co.uk/cinema_home_date.aspx?venueId=bath Little Theatre]'''

:The Little Theatre is Bath's more interesting cinema with two screens showing a mix of art-house / independent / foreign language films as well as mainstream cinema

'''[http://www.odeon.co.uk/fanatic/film_times/s65/Bath/ Odeon Cinema]'''

:The Odeon is an 8 screen multiplex featuring mostly mainstream cinema. In the same complex is a Weatherspoons pub, a Nando's chicken restaurant, Feast (an Asian buffet) and a TGI Friday's restaurant as well as a health club in the basement.

'''[http://www.janeausten.co.uk/ Jane Austen Centre]'''

:The Jane Austen Centre is a permanent exhibition which explores the relationship between Jane Austen and Bath (she visited twice and then lived here for six years). As well as the exhibition there are regency styled tea rooms and an extensive shop.

=== Architecture ===

'''[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Royal_Crescent Royal Crescent]'''

'''[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Circus_(Bath) The Circus]'''

'''[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pulteney_Bridge Pulteney Bridge]'''

'''[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Great_Pulteney_Street Great Pulteney Street]'''

'''[http://www.bath-preservation-trust.org.uk/?id=9 Beckford's tower]'''

=== Walks / Tours ===

'''[http://visitbath.co.uk/site/things-to-do/tours-and-sightseeing/mayor-of-bath-honorary-guides-p43001 Mayor of Bath Honorary Guides]'''

:Well recommended free guided walking tours of the city led by volunteers. There is at least one tour each day.
:Free!

'''[http://www.city-sightseeing.com/index.phtml?command=search&clear-search=true&destinations=Bath Bus tours]'''

:City Sightseeing offer an open top bus tour of the city and a second tour of the Bath skyline (ticket includes both). Tickets are valid for two days so the bus can be used for getting around the city as well as for the tour.
:Adult £10, student / elderly £8, children £6 (in July 2008)

'''[http://www.bathabbey.org/other_events.htm Bath Abbey Tour Tours]'''
:A fascinating tour of the Abbey's roof and tower. You get to look through the ceiling into the Abbey below, ring the bells, go behind the clock face and get the superb view from the top of the tower.
:Tours run daily (except Sundays) on the hour from 10.00 am to 4.00 pm
:Adult £5, child (5-14) £2.50 (in July 2009)

'''[http://www.bizarrebath.co.uk/ Bizarre Bath]'''

:A irreverent 90 minute comedy walking tour. A favourite with visitors, this tour promises to contain no facts about the city but instead features jokes, funny walks, teasing and an escapologist rabbit.
:Adult £8, student £5 (in July 2008)

'''[http://www.ghostwalksofbath.co.uk/ Ghost Walk]'''

:An atmospheric tour of the many haunted areas of the city
:Adult £6, student / child / elderly £5 (in July 2008)

'''Boat trips'''

=== Museums / Galleries ===

'''[http://www.bath-preservation-trust.org.uk/?id=8 Herschel Museum]'''

'''[http://www.bath-at-work.org.uk/ Museum of Bath at Work]'''

'''[http://www.bath-preservation-trust.org.uk/?id=4 Building of Bath Museum]'''

'''[http://www.americanmuseum.org/ American Museum]'''

'''[http://www.meaa.org.uk/ Museum of East Asian]'''

'''[http://www.fashionmuseum.co.uk/ Fashion Museum]'''

'''[http://www.bath.ac.uk/holburne/ Holburne Museum]'''

'''[http://www.bath-preservation-trust.org.uk/?id=3 No.1 Royal Crescent]'''

'''[http://www.victoriagal.org.uk/ Victoria Art Gallery]'''

'''[http://www.bathpostalmuseum.co.uk/ Bath Postal Museum]'''

=== Events ===

'''[http://www.illuminatebath.org/ Illuminate Bath]'''

:Illuminate Bath brings beautiful and engaging projected artworks to the city centre. Banishing the gloom of January’s long evenings, this ‘festival of light’ will include a number of original installations in public spaces, all of which will be completely free to explore.
:''Occasional event, last took place in 2015''

'''[http://www.bathbachfest.co.uk/ Bath BachFest]'''

:''Thursday 16th - Saturday 18th February 2017''

'''[http://www.clstickets.co.uk/category/cider-festivals Cider Festival]'''

:''Friday 24th - Saturday 25th April 2017''

'''[http://www.bathcomedy.com/ Comedy Festival]'''

:''Saturday 1st - Monday 17th April 2017''

'''[http://bathfestivals.org.uk/literature/ The Bath Festival (Formerly the Literature Festival and International Music Festival)]'''

:''Friday 19th – Sunday 28th May 2017''

'''[http://www.bathandborderscamra.org.uk/34th-camra-bath-beer-festival/ Bath Beer Festival]'''

:''2017 dates not yet announced''

'''[http://www.bathworldheritage.org.uk/events World Heritage Day]'''

:''Sunday 23rd April 2016''

'''[http://www.bathinfashion.co.uk/ Bath in Fashion]'''

:''Not taking place in 2017''

'''[http://www.bathfringe.co.uk/ Fringe Festival]'''

:''Friday 26th May - Sunday 11th June 2017''

'''[http://www.bikebath.co.uk/ Bike Bath]'''

:''Sunday 2nd July 2017''

'''[http://www.igf.org.uk/ International Guitar Festival]'''

:''Not sure if this will return''

'''[http://www.widcombe.net/index.php#wr Widcombe Rising]'''

:Street party / festival that takes place in Widcombe Parade. Features music, competitions, street entertainment and general randomness.
:''Possibly back in the future''

'''[http://www.romanbaths.co.uk/whats_on/events/september_heritage_open_days.aspx Heritage Open Days]'''

:''Thursday 7th - Sunday 10th September 2017''

'''[http://www.janeausten.co.uk/festivalhome/ Jane Austen Festival]'''

:''Friday 8th September - Sunday 17th September 2017''

'''[http://bathfestivals.org.uk/childrens-literature/ Childrens' Literature Festival]'''

:''Friday 29th September – Sunday 8th October 2017''

'''[http://www.greatbathfeast.co.uk/ The Great Bath Feast]'''

:''TBC 2017''

'''[http://www.bathfilmfestival.org/ Film Festival]'''

:''Thursday 2nd - Sunday 12th November 2017''

'''[http://www.bathmozartfest.org.uk/ Mozartfest]'''

:''Friday 10th to Saturday 18th November 2017''

'''[http://www.bathchristmasmarket.co.uk/ Christmas Market]'''

:An outdoor market held around the Abbey area in the centre of Bath. Over 100 stalls selling a wide selection of quirky and unique gifts as well as hot food and drinks. With a great festive atmosphere this market makes Christmas shopping a lot easier.
:''2017 dates to be announced''

'''Shakespeare Festival'''

:This festival doesn't seem to happen any more...

'''Puppet Festival'''

:This festival doesn't seem to happen any more...

'''[http://www.bathdancefest.org.uk/ Dance Festival]'''

:This festival doesn't seem to happen any more...

'''[http://www.bathbanjofestival.com/ Banjo festival]'''

:This festival doesn't seem to happen any more...

=== Nearby destinations ===

'''Bristol'''

'''Salisbury'''

'''Cotswolds'''

'''Bradford on Avon'''

'''[http://www.english-heritage.org.uk/daysout/properties/stonehenge/ Stonehenge] & [http://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/main/w-avebury Avebury]'''

:Stonehenge is considered one of the must see sights in the UK but people are sometimes disappointed by it. After all, it is a pile of stones which you aren't allowed to touch (except on the summer and winter solstices), it's not cheap and the visitor experience isn't really up to standard. It's best to go with reasonably low expectations and then you are more likely enjoy the experience.
:Adult £6.90, student/elderly £5.90, child £3.50, English Heritage / National Trust members - free (in July 2010)

:Two companies run trips to Stonehenge:
::[http://www.scarpertours.com/ Scarper Tours]
::[http://www.madmax.abel.co.uk/ Mad Max Tours]

:You can also travel to Salisbury (see above) by train and get a bus from there:
::[http://www.thestonehengetour.info/ Salisbury - Stonehenge bus tour]

:Avebury is another set of stone circles and people often enjoy these more. Access is unrestricted so there's no charge and you are free to walk up to the stones and touch them.

::[http://www.madmax.abel.co.uk/ Mad Max Tours] offer tours which combine Stonehenge with Avebury
[[hitch:Bath]]
[[trash:Bath]]

Safety

2019-01-29T12:37:22Z

Iotrj:

[[Trustroots]] takes safety seriously. We prefer implementing systems to avoid incidents. I.e. we prefer building [[trust]] features over safety features.

== Tips for women travelers ==

Especially women have to take care of safety, read more [[Tips_for_women_travelers|here]].

== What could possibly go wrong? ==

=== Unpleasant experience ===

Unpleasant experiences vary not a big deal (e.g. staying in a dirty place or loud guests or hosts at night) to much worse. We want to build features that allow people to rate their experience and later use that rating information so that similar (based on tagging) people will not have unpleasant experiences again with that person. E.g. very clean people will automatically avoid very dirty people, and party people will not easily be connected to people who prefer tranquility over Dionysian celebrations. Unless they choose otherwise of course, a conscious decision.

=== Violence ===

Violence is an extremely unpleasant experience (for most people).

We expect that most inherently violent people will cause unpleasant experiences before actual violence occurs. And that our system to prevent unpleasant experiences will also prevent violence.

There are some interesting cases, such as the famous Venetian wrestling contests - enforced by the host among various guests. A lot of people will consider this violence. We agree. But if it's obvious to potential guests that this is going to be their experience they should be free to go ahead.

=== Sexual abuse and harassment ===

This mainly affects solo traveling women, please read more [[Tips_for_women_travelers|here]].

== Safety team ==

Back in 2014 we didn't think building an extended dedicated safety team is the solution. Prevention is key. As soon as there is sign of a person showing violent behavior their trust rating should go down which leads to some kind of seclusion.

In 2018 we think it's good to start building a team of people working on this. See also https://meta.trustroots.org/c/safety

== Random ideas ==

Add functionality to let local people check in with guests at an appointed time, e.g. through phone numbers.

== More safety advices ==

There is a very good article about safety on BeWelcome, http://www.bewelcome.org/safety.

[[Category:Trustroots]]

Safety

2019-01-29T12:32:20Z

Iotrj:

[[Trustroots]] takes safety seriously. We prefer implementing systems to avoid incidents. I.e. we prefer building [[trust]] features over safety features.

== Tips for women travelers ==

Especially women have to take care of safety, read more [[Tips_for_women_travelers|here]].

== What could possibly go wrong? ==

=== Unpleasant experience ===

Unpleasant experiences vary not a big deal (e.g. staying in a dirty place or loud guests or hosts at night) to much worse. We want to build features that allow people to rate their experience and later use that rating information so that similar (based on tagging) people will not have unpleasant experiences again with that person. E.g. very clean people will automatically avoid very dirty people, and party people will not easily be connected to people who prefer tranquility over Dionysian celebrations. Unless they choose otherwise of course, a conscious decision.

=== Violence ===

Violence is an extremely unpleasant experience (for most people).

We expect that most inherently violent people will cause unpleasant experiences before actual violence occurs. And that our system to prevent unpleasant experiences will also prevent violence.

There are some interesting cases, such as the famous Venetian wrestling contests - enforced by the host among various guests. A lot of people will consider this violence. We agree. But if it's obvious to potential guests that this is going to be their experience they should be free to go ahead.

=== Sexual abuse and harassment ==

This mainly affects solo traveling women, please read more [[Tips_for_women_travelers|here]].

== Safety team ==

Back in 2014 we didn't think building an extended dedicated safety team is the solution. Prevention is key. As soon as there is sign of a person showing violent behavior their trust rating should go down which leads to some kind of seclusion.

In 2018 we think it's good to start building a team of people working on this. See also https://meta.trustroots.org/c/safety

== Random ideas ==

Add functionality to let local people check in with guests at an appointed time, e.g. through phone numbers.

== More safety advices ==

There is a very good article about safety on [[http://www.bewelcome.org/safety|BeWelcome]].

[[Category:Trustroots]]

Stockholm

2019-01-21T18:17:34Z

Iotrj: Undo revision 11228 by Iotrj (talk)

{{Sweden}}
{{City header
|city = Stockholm
|country = Sweden
|areas = '''[[Norrmalm]]''' (including Skeppsholmen) • '''[[Vasastan and Hagastaden]]''' (Vasastan, Hagastaden, Karlberg) • '''[[Östermalm]]''' (including Gärdet, Norra Djurgården, Värtahamnen) • '''[[Djurgården]]''' • '''[[Gamla Stan]]''' (including Riddarholmen, Helgeandsholmen) • '''[[Södermalm]]''' (including Reimersholme, Långholmen) • '''[[Kungsholmen]]''' (including Stora Essingen, Lilla Essingen) • '''[[Västerort, Solna and Sundbyberg]]''' (Bromma, Kista etc) • '''[[Söderort]]''' • '''[[Lidingö]]'''
|toplinks = *[[Sweden|Sweden page]]
*[[:category:Sweden|Sweden category]]
|bwgroup = 588
|csgroup =
|wikipedia = Stockholm
|hitchwiki = Stockholm
|wikivoyage = Stockholm
|image = Coat_of_arms_of_Stockholm.png
|imagetext = Flag of Stockholm Stockholm
}}

Hello CouchSurfers and welcome to Stockholm!

==CouchSurfing groups in Stockholm:==

[https://www.couchsurfing.com/groups/sweden-couchsurfing Sweden CouchSurfing]

[https://www.couchsurfing.com/groups/stockholm-emergency-couch-requests Stockholm Emergency Couch Requests]

[https://www.couchsurfing.com/groups/spanish-language-stockholm Spanish Language Stockholm]

==Emergency numbers:==
'''112''' (for emergencies)

'''1177''' (for medical advice)

'''11 414''' (for non-emergency incidents)

'''113 13''' (for information about none acute accidents and emergencies)

==Things to do in Stockholm:==

* '''Have a picnic in Djurgården.''' Grab smth to eat and go to the green oasis of Djurgården - this island has many picnic spots. You can enjoy tranquil walking, or take bicycle tour around it, enjoying some of the best views in the city.
* '''[http://www.citybikes.se/home Rent a bicycle] and see Stockholm by bike!''' they are situated in many places and all you need is to get a special card which unlocks bikes. Cards can be valid for a few days or a few months, if needed. You can buy a season (April-October) Bike Card for 250 SEK.
* '''Catch a ferry to the Stockholm Archipelago'''. It is a popular destination in the summer months. Archipelago begins just a few miles east of the capital and covers about 140 kilometres from north to south. Only very small part of the islands are inhabited, although many Stockholmers have summerhouses on islands. Some islands are pieces of forest in the sea, some are simply bare rocks. Ferries depart from the Blasieholmen peninsula.
* '''Catch a ferry from Nybroviken or Slussen to Djurgården and Hammarby Sjöstad''' - you can use your SL ticket
* '''Make a grill and feed touristic swans and ducks at Sätrastrandsbadet.''' It's the local beach with outdoor gym and beautiful lake. The swans are friendly and can get very close to you (especially if you have food to share) but don't try to catch them or make movements that could make them feel unsafe when you're right next to them.
* '''Take free guided tours''' and see [http://freetourstockholm.com/free-tours/ the main City area, Södermalm, Old Town] and [http://www.stockholmfreetour.com/the-stockholm-subway-an-underground-gallery/ Subway art] with a free guide but don't forget to give them a tip.
*'''Explore the art of Stockholm's Subway''' - Stockholm is known of its Underground Gallery and some of the stations are really impressive. So buy SL ticket and enjoy it by yourself or join in the free Subway Art guided tour!
*'''Check out CouchSurfing Events in Stockholm'''. There are a lot of events organized by local people in Stockholm.
*'''See beautiful cherry blossoms'''. The cherry blossoms are expected to peak between mid to late April. You can find them at Kungsträdgården (you will know why do they call this place The King's Garden) and Sickla Kaj.
*'''Join Hangouts on CouchSurfing''' and explore the area with other travellers or local people.
*'''Try different kind of flavours of meads and beers at [http://aifur.se/ Aifur Krog&Bar]'''. Feel like a true Viking.
*'''Visit the [https://www.tikiroomstockholm.se/ Tiki Room's bar].''' The drinks are expensive but at the same time very exotic and delicious.
*'''Take [https://oceanbus.se/ Ocean Bus]'''
*'''Have a drink at [https://www.icebarstockholm.se/ Ice Bar]''' - feel the swedish winter even in the summer!
*'''Check out flea market at Karlaplan''' - outdoor market with free admission (Saturdays, 11-3pm).
*'''Take [https://www.djurgardslinjen.se/ the antique tram no. 7N] to Djurgården.'''

==What to see in Stockholm?==

<ul style="list-style-type: circle">

<li> '''Gamla Stan''' - old town located on Stadsholmen island is the most touristic place in Stockholm, full of souvenir shops and beautiful alleys. During the rush hours, especially in the summer time there are a lot of people but if you come in the early morning you'll find it empty. </li>
<li>'''Stortorget''' is the main square at Gamla Stan known from The Stockholm's Bloodbath. There you can find those famous, old, colorful buildings so often presented on Stockholm's postcards. While wandering around Gamla Stan it’s good to know about secret places and hidden things which the most of tourists will miss: </li>

<ul style="list-style-type: circle">

  <li> '''Järnpojke''' – in the small courtyard at Slottsbacken behind the Finnish Church (Finska Kyrkan) lives ‘Iron Boy’ called by some ‘Little Boy who looks at the Moon’. During the winter time local people bring him scarfs and hats to not let him get sick. If you leave him a coin he’ll bring you luck. Järnpojke is the smallest monument in Sweden. </li>
<li> '''Upplands runinskrifter 53''' – this runestone is built into a wall in the intersection between the thoroughfares Prästgatan and Kåkbrinken. </li>
<li> '''Cannonball in the corner of Skomakargatan''' – according to the legend the cannon ball was fired at the Danish kind Christian Tyrant, back to the Stockholm Bloodbath in 1520.</li>
<li> '''Mårten Trotzigs Gränd''' – the narrowest alley in Stockholm leading from Västerlånggatan and Järntorget up to Tyska Stallplan and Prästgatan. In the narrowest place it has only 90cm.</li>
<li> '''Aifur Krog&Bar''' is a restaurant/bar named after the legendary Viking ship Aifur. Listening to hurdy-gurdy, eating from handmade plates, using handmade cutlery, drinking from handmade cups and sitting and handmade benches you can feel like a real Viking. Coming into the restaurant you’re introduced to guests that are already sitting in the dining room. Try different flavors of mead and beer, eat that what Vikings used to eat – Reindeer sausage, elk sausage, flat-smoked pork, reindeer heart, lamb steak, cheddar cheese. Does it sound yummy already? It is indeed. </li>
<li> '''Science-Fiction Bokhandeln''' – Great inside decoration, big collection of books (also in English), movies, board-games and gadgets. </li>

</ul>

<li>'''Stockholms Stadsbibliotek''' - the largest public library in Sweden with very interesting interior design and the collection of more than half a million books in over 100 languages.</li>

<li> '''Djurgården''' – is an island located in central Stockholm known of its parks, monuments, historical buildings, galleries and museums. You'll find there places such as: </li>

<ul style="list-style-type: circle">

<li> '''Gröna Lund''' – is an amusement park with many attractions. It’s a cool place to hang out with friends and have some fun but also quite expensive. A lot of concerts and events are taking place there. </li>
<li> '''Skansen''' – it’s an open-air museum and zoo. You can discover Sweden’s history, see how Swedes lived according to the changing seasons, through the customs and traditions, work, celebrations and everyday life. During the summer the program is fulfilled with activities such as singing, dancing, concerts. During the winter you can enjoy Christmas markets. </li>

</ul>

<li>'''Jordbro Gravfält''' (Jordbro Grave Field ; Gullringsvägen, 137 63 Haninge) - the largest grave field in the Nordic Countries from the Iron Age.</li>

<li>'''[http://www.tyresta.se/in-english/ Tyresta Nationalpark]''' - if you have time and willing to spend a lot of time in the nature Tyresta is a very good choice. A lot of nice camping spots and trails. The map of Tyresta costs 30SEK but in fact you don't need it.</li>

<li>'''Sigtuna''' is the oldest town in Sweden, very quiet and adorable. You can get there with SL ticket (the one you use for transport in Stockholm). There are many runes, ruins and old swedish houses. </li>

<li>'''Nice panoramic views:'''</li>
<ul style="list-style-type: circle">
<li>'''Katarinahissen''' (Statsgården 1, 116 45 Stockholm).</li>
<li>'''Skinnarviksberget''' (Skinnarviksberget, 118 23 Södermalm).</li>
<li>'''The City Hall''' (Hantverkargatan 1, 111 52 Stockholm), the view from the garden.</li>
<li>'''View from Skansen'''</li>

</ul>
</ul>

==Museums in Stockholm:==
(Last update May 2018)
<ul style="list-style-type: circle">
<li>[http://www.abbathemuseum.com/sv/ Abba The Museum] (250 SEK/Adult, open everyday)</li>
<li>[https://acceleratorsu.art/ Accelerator] - contemporary art at Stockholm University(Free admission?).</li>
<li>[http://www.kasiden.se/ Almgrens Sidenväveri & Museum] - (eng. Almgren Silk-Weaving Mill & Museum) You'll get to know the history of Jaquard's invention from year 1804 and silk production in Sweden (75 SEK/Adult, Sunday closed)</li>
<li>[https://www.aquaria.se/ Aquaria Vattenmuseum] (eng. Aquaria Water Museum, 120 SEK/Adult, Monday closed)</li>
<li>[https://arkdes.se/en/ Arkdes] - Swedish Centre for Architecture and Design (Free admission?)</li>
<li>[http://www.armemuseum.se/ Armémuseum] (eng. Army Museum) - Swedish history since 16th century to the present focusing on how people have been affected by war and conflicts (Free admission, Monday closed)</li>
<li>[https://artipelag.se/ Artipelag Konsthall] (eng. Artipelag Art Gallery, 165 SEK/Adult, Monday closed)</li>
<li>[http://www.bergianska.se/ Bergianska Trädgården] (eng. Bergius Botanic Garden, 80 SEK/Adult, open everyday)</li>
<li>[https://www.birkavikingastaden.se/ Birka Vikingstaden] (eng. Birka - The Viking City) - A visit includes a guided tour, a visit to the museum and a walk through the reconstucted urban quarter. (price depends on the place you're taking the boat from 290 SEK-545 SEK (?)) </li>
<li>[http://www.bonnierskonsthall.se/ Bonniers Konsthall] - Contemporary Swedish and international art (Youths under 26 Free, Regular price 100 SEK; Monday-Tuesday closed).</li>
<li>[http://www.eldhsatelje.se/index.php/se/#.WvqPPIiFOM8 Carl Eldhs Ateljémuseum] (eng. Carl Eldh Studio Museum) - collection of Carl's Eldh works (80SEK/Adult, is mainly open during summertime)</li>
<li>[http://www.dansmuseet.se/ Dansmuseet] (eng. Museum of Dance and Movement) - collection of costumes, objects associated with dance and theatre from around the world nad paintings (120SEK/Adult, Monday closed)</li>
<li>[https://royalpalaces.se/ Drottningsholms Slott] (eng. Drottningsholm Palace with The Chinese Pavilon) - the official home of the Swedish royal family (190SEK/Adult, 130 SEK without the Chinese Pavilion) </li>
<li>[https://dtm.se/ Drottningsholms Slottsteater] (eng. Court Theatre at Drottningholm, 100 SEK/Adult)</li>
<li>[https://www.edsvik.com/ Edsvik Konsthall] (eng. Edsvik Art Gallery, 100 SEK/Adult)</li>
<li>[http://www.varldskulturmuseerna.se/etnografiskamuseet/ Etnografiska Museet] (eng. Museum of Etnography, Free admission, Monday closed)</li>
<li>[https://fjarilshuset.se/ Fjärilshuset Haga Ocean] (eng. Butterfly House Haga Ocean, 165 SEK/Adult, open everyday)</li>
<li>[https://www.levandehistoria.se/ Forum För Levande Historia] (eng. Living History Forum) - a forum for democracy, human rights, tolerance with lessons to be learned from the history of Holocaust, crimes against humanity of communist regimes (Free admission).</li>
<li>[https://www.visitstockholm.com/sv/se--gora/sevardheter/fotografiska/ Fotografiska] (eng. Swedish Museum of Photography, 145 SEK, open everyday)</li>
<li>[https://fargfabriken.se/sv/ Färgfabriken] (eng. Contemporary Art and Architecture, 70 SEK/Adult, open only during the exhibition)</li>
<li>[https://www.kungahuset.se/besokkungligaslotten/gripsholmsslott.4.19ae4931022afdcff3800013027.html Gripsholms Slott] (eng. Gripsholm Castle) - one of Sweden's eleven royal palaces, built by king Gustav Vasa (130 SEK/Adult)</li>
<li>[https://www.kungahuset.se/besokkungligaslotten/gustaviiispaviljong.4.19ae4931022afdcff3800012915.html Gustav III:s Paviljong] (eng. Gustav III's Pavilion, 100 SEK/Adult)</li>
<li>[https://www.kungahuset.se/besokkungligaslotten/hovstallet.4.19ae4931022afdcff3800011619.html H M Konungens Hovstall] (eng. Royal Stables) - collection of 19th century carriages. Guided tours only. (Free admission?)</li>
<li>[https://www.sfv.se/sv/fastigheter/sverige/stockholms-lan-ab/museer/haga-parkmuseum/ Haga Parkmuseum] - English park in Sweden</li>
<li>[http://hallwylskamuseet.se/sv Hallwylska Museet] - The museum features preserved rooms from the late Victorian period (Free admission)</li>
<li>[http://hamnmuseum.se/ Hamn Museum] - relieve the Battle of Stäket when Swedish forces repelled a Russian invasion in 1719 (80 SEK/Adult)</li>
<li>[https://www.hemvarnet.se/om-organisationen/hemvarnsforbanden/3674/3686 Hemvärnsmuseet] (eng. National Home Guard Museum) - military museum with numerous artefacts and hands-on exhibits.</li>
<li>[http://historiska.se/home/ Historiska Museet] (Free admission)</li>
<li>[http://judiskamuseet.se/ Judiska Museet] (eng. Jewish Museum)</li>
<li>[https://www.junibacken.se/ Junibacken] - activity for children, the world of Astrid Lindgren. (179 SEK/Adult) </li>
<li>[https://konstakademien.se/ Konstakademien] (eng. Royal Academy of Fine Arts)</li>
<li>[http://www.myntkabinettet.se/ Kungliga Myntkabinettet] (eng. Royal Coin Cabinet - National Museum of Economy) - closed untill 2019.</li>
<li>[https://theroyalpalace.se/ Kungliga Slottet] (eng. The Royal Palace with The State Regalia and Riddarholmen Church, 160 SEK/Adult)</li>
<li>[http://www.varldskulturmuseerna.se/medelhavsmuseet/ Medelhavsmuseet] (eng. Museum of Mediterranean and Near Eastern Antiquities, Free admission, Monday closed)</li>
<li>[https://medeltidsmuseet.stockholm.se/ Medeltidsmuseet] (eng. Museum of Medieval Stockholm, Free admission)</li>
<li>[https://www.millesgarden.se/ Millesgården] is an art museum and sculpture garden (150 SEK/Adult) </li>
<li>[https://www.modernamuseet.se/stockholm/sv/ Moderna Museet] (the Museum of Modern Art) - Museum for modern and contemporary art (Free admission)</li>
<li>[http://mkcentrum.se/ Mångkulturellt Centrum] (Multicultural Centre, Free Admission)</li>
<li>[https://www.nationalmuseum.se/ Nationalmuseum] - Swedish museum for art and design (closed untill October 2018)</li>
<li>[http://www.nrm.se/index.html Naturhistoriska Riksmuseet] (eng. Swedish Royal Museum of Natural History and Cosmonova, Free admission)</li>
<li>[http://nobelcenter.se/sv/ Nobelmuseet] (eng. Nobel Museum, 120 SEK,Tuesday 5-8pm free admission, Monday closed)</li>
<li>[https://www.nordiskamuseet.se/ Nordiska Museet] (eng. Nordic Museum) - get to know how people have lived in the Noric countries. (120SEK/Adult, free admission on Tuesdays 1–5pm september–may)</li>
<li>[https://kultur.norrtalje.se/web/arena Norrtälje Museum & Konsthall] (eng. Norrtälje Museum & Art Gallery, Free admission)</li>
<li>[http://olleolssonhagalund.se/ Olle Olsson Hagalund-Museet] (eng. Olle Olsson Hagalund Museum) - collection of Olle's Olsson paintings, drawings, art prints and designs for the theatre. (50 SEK/Adult)</li>
<li>[http://www.polismuseet.se/ Polismuseet] (eng. Swedish Police Museum, 60 SEK/Adult)</li>
<li>[http://www.postmuseum.se/ Postmuseum] (80 SEK/Adult, Monday closed)</li>
<li>[https://www.waldemarsudde.se/ Prins Eugens Waldemarsudde] (eng. Prince Eugen's Waldemarsudde, 150 SEK/Adult, Monday closed) - art museum and former home of Prince Eugen.</li>
<li>[https://pythagorasmuseum.se/ Pythagoras Industrimuseum] (eng. Pythagoras Industrial Museum) - living workshop with motors and machine, worker's home and garden. (80 SEK/Adult, Monday closed) </li>
<li>[http://www.riksidrottsmuseet.se/ Riksidrottsmuseet] (eng. Swedish Sports Museum, Free Admission, Monday closed)</li>
<li>[https://royalpalaces.se/ Resendals Slott] (eng. Rosendal Palace)</li>
<li>[https://scenkonstmuseet.se/ Scenkonstmuseet] (eng. Swedish Museum of Performing Arts, 140 SEK/Adult, Wednesdays Free Admission, Monday closed)</li>
<li>[http://www.scouterna.se/om-scouterna/vad-ar-scouterna/scouthistoria/arkiv-och-museum/ Scoutmuseet] (eng. Museum of Guiding and Scouting, Free admission)</li>
<li>[http://sigtunamuseum.se/ Sigtuna Museum] - the history of the oldest swedish town, Sigtuna (70 SEK/Adult, October-April Free Admission, Monday closed)</li>
<li>[https://www.sjohistoriska.se/ Sjöhistoriska Museet] (eng. Maritime Museum, Free Admission, Monday closed)</li>
<li>[http://www.skansen.se/sv/ Skansen] (eng. Skansen Open-Air Museum, 125 SEK/Adult)</li>
<li>[https://skoklostersslott.se/sv Skoklosters Slott] (eng. Skoklosters Slott, 80SEK) - baroque castle, collection of crafts, paintings and armoury</li>
<li>[https://www.snusochtandsticksmuseum.se/ Snus- & Tändsticksmuseum] (eng. Snus & Match Museum) - tobacco cultivation, manufacture and design. Matchboxes and labels (Free Admission for Skansen visitors)</li>
<li>[https://spritmuseum.se/ Spritmuseum] (eng. Museum of Spirits and The Absolut Art Collection) - exibitions about art and distilled drinks. (120 SEK/Adult)</li>
<li>[https://international.stockholm.se/the-city-hall/ Stadshuset] (eng. Stockholm City Hall, 80 SEK/Adult)</li>
<li>[https://stadsmuseet.stockholm.se/ Stadsmuseet] (eng. City Museum) - opens in November 2018</li>
<li>[http://stockholmslansmuseum.se/ Stockholms Läns Museum] (eng. Stockholm Country Museum)</li>
<li>[https://www.svenskakyrkan.se/stockholmsdomkyrkoforsamling Storkyrkan] (eng. Stockholm Cathedral, 60 SEK/Adult)</li>
<li>[https://www.strindbergsmuseet.se/ Strindbergsmuseet] (eng. Strindberg Museum and Home) - August Strindberg's last home (75 SEK/Adult, Monday closed)</li>
<li>[http://www.sven-harrys.se/sv/ Sven-Harrys Konstmuseum] (eng. Sven-Harry's Art Museum, Monday-Tuesday closed, 150SEK/Adult)</li>
<li>[https://www.tekniskamuseet.se/ Tekniska Museet] (eng. Museum of Science and Technology, 150 SEK, Wednesday 5-8pm Free admission)</li>
<li>[http://www.tenstakonsthall.se/ Tensta Konsthall] (eng. Tensta Art Gallery) - contemporary art, including lectures, camps and guided-tours.(Free admission)</li>
<li>[https://www.thielskagalleriet.se/ Thielska Galleriet] (eng. Thiel Gallery) - Nordic art (130 SEK, Monday closed)</li>
<li>[https://www.tomtit.se/ Tom Tits Experiment] (190SEK-225SEK, open all week)</li>
<li>[https://www.sodertalje.se/kultur-och-fritid/torekallberget/ Torekällberget] (eng. Torekällberget Open-Air Museum)</li>
<li>[http://www.tumbabruksmuseum.se/ Tumba Bruksmuseum] (eng. Tumba Paper Mill Museum) - daily demonstrations of paper making by hand. The history of banknote papermaking and the lives of the people living and working at the mill (Free admission) </li>
<li>[https://www.kungahuset.se/besokkungligaslotten/ulriksdalsslott.4.19ae4931022afdcff3800012894.html Ulriksdals Slott] (eng. Ulriksdals Palace, 120 SEK)</li>
<li>[https://www.vasamuseet.se/ Vasamuseet] (eng. Vasa Museum) - the warship Vasa which sank in 1628. 98% original with hundreds of sculptures (130 SEK/Adult).</li>
<li>[http://www.vaxholmsfastning.se/ Vaxholms Fästnings Museum] (eng. Vaxholm Fortress Museum) - history of the fortress and coastal defences.(80 SEK/Adult) </li>
<li>[http://www.vikingaliv.se/ Vikingaliv] is The Viking Musuem (149 SEK for Adults and 130 SEK for Students)</li>
<li>[http://www.abergsmuseum.se/ Åbergs museum] (eng. Åberg's museum, 80 SEK/Adult) - display of Disney items, collection of art. </li>
<li>[http://www.varldskulturmuseerna.se/ostasiatiskamuseet/ Östasiatiska Museet] (eng. Museum of Far Eastern Antiquities, Free Admission, Monday closed)</li>

</ul>

==Public Transportation (SL Ticket)==
Arriving to Stockholm to move around need to buy SL Ticket. It works for bus, metro, light rail, rail, tram and ferry. Use [https://sl.se/en/ sl.se] to find your way or SL app (app is more useful and you can buy tickets through it but it costs more). SL Card costs 20kr but having it the prices of single tickets are lower so it's definitely worth to get one.

'''Prices of tickets''' (last update May 2018)''':'''
<ol>
<li>Single ticket (75min) - 45 SEK; 32 SEK with SL Card (you have to put at least 100kr on your card)</li>
<li>24 hours: 130 SEK</li>
<li>72 hours: 260 SEK</li>
<li>7 days: 335 SEK</li>
</ol>

'''To get a ticket with student discount you have be a student in Sweden.''' Student card from other countries doesn't work. Neither does ISIC.
You can buy tickets at the gates to metro, SL Center, all Pressbyrån (small shops, usually next to the metro station or at the metro station), by SMS (if you have swedish telefon number), SL app or at the ticket machines. '''Make sure that you have bought the ticket before entering to the bus, tram or ferry.''' You cannot buy them on board and they always check the tickets.

SL (Stockholm Lokaltrafik) is '''not''' UL (Upplands Lokaltrafik). For example for the train to Uppsala you need to pay extra.
During the night metro doesn't work. You need to take a bus then what is not the easiest, fastest and most comfortable way.

==How to get to Arlanda Airport?==
(Last update May 2018)

There are many transport possibilities to get to Arlanda.

<ol>
<li>'''Take the train no.41''' (Pendeltåg) from Stockholm City to Märsta. From Märsta take the buss no.583 to Arlanda Terminal 5. It takes about 1 hour and SL ticket works for it. During the winter time there might be problems with trains. Check the schedule [https://sl.se/sv/ here]</li>
<li>'''Take [https://www.flygbussarna.se/ Flygbuss]''' from Stockholm City/Liljeholmen/Kista/Sundbyberg or Bromma to Arlanda Airport. It takes 42/45min and costs 99SEK/person for Adult.</li>
<li>'''Take [https://www.arlandaexpress.se/ Arlanda Express]''' from Stockholm Centralstation to Arlanda. It takes 20min and costs 280SEK/person for Adult.</li>
</ol>

==How to get to Skavsta Airport?==
(Last update May 2018)
<ol>
<li>'''Take [https://www.flygbussarna.se/ Flygbuss]''' from Stockholm City to Skavsta Airport. It takes about 80min and costs 139SEK.</li>
<li>'''Take [https://www.sj.se/#/ SJ train]''' from Stockholm Centralstation to Nyköping C and from Nyköping C a buss to Skavsta Airport. The price changes dependently on day and and time and it can take from 1:30h up to 2h.</li>
</ol>

{{stub}}
[[hitch:Stockholm]]
[[trash:Stockholm]]

{{IsIn|Sweden}}
[[nomad:Stockholm]]

Berlin

2019-01-21T18:03:31Z

Iotrj: Undo revision 11227 by Iotrj (talk)

{{Germany}}
{{Berlin}}
{{TOCright|limit=1}}

== General information ==
Berlin is the capital of [[Germany]]. Berlin has a population of around 3,5 million people. It is estimated that annually 100 million people visit Berlin, of which roughly 10 million stay in a hotel, hostel, guesthouse, etc. Tourism is one of the pillars of the economy of the city.

Berlin has a relatively high unemployment rate. Around 8% of the people in Berlin is officially unemployed and almost 19% of the Berliner lives on social security benefits.

== Berlin's Couch Situation ==
To find the right host for you, please look on [https://www.couchsurfing.org/n/locals/in/place/69 Couchsurfing] or [http://www.bewelcome.org/searchmembers BeWelcome]

Berlin is a major Couchsurfing and BeWelcome city where there are events happening almost every day. Berlin is a favourite city to surf, especially around New Year's Eve and in summer. Since many people try to surf in Berlin, it can be hard to find a host. Make sure you have a filled out profile and a profile picture. Write personal requests. Hosts in Berlin are getting many copy-paste requests, so a personal one could make a difference. It's recommended to write your requests between 3 weeks and 5 days before arrival. Your chances increase if you have some references (from your local community, for example).

If you haven't found any host and still want to surf in Berlin, you can try the [https://www.couchsurfing.org/group.html?gid=7910 Last Minute Couchsearch Group] or the [http://www.bewelcome.org/groups/590 Berlin Emergency Host Group in BeWelcome]

==Stay in Berlin==
===Berlin Hostels and Guesthouses===
Hostels cost of €5 to €65 a night, depending on the season, location and type of room.

To find hostels and reviews, try these links:
*[http://www.berlin.de/hotels/adressen/hostel/ list of hostels (non-commercial)]
*[http://www.hostelworld.com/hostels/Berlin Hostelworld (commercial)]
*[http://www.hostelbookers.com/hostels/germany/berlin/ Hostelbookers (commercial)]
*[http://www.hostelz.com/hostels/Germany/Berlin Hostelz (commercial)]
*[http://www.hostels.com/berlin/germany Hostels.com (commercial)]

===Hostels and Hotels per district===

====Charlottenburg====
*[http://hotelindigoberlin.com/de/ Indigo Hotel Berlin Kurfürstendamm]

====Friedrichshain====
*[http://www.aohostels.com A&O Hostel Friedrichshain]

====Kreuzberg====
*[http://www.three-little-pigs.com/en/ Three Little Pigs Hostel]

====Lichtenberg====
====Marzahn-Hellersdorf====
====Mitte====
*[http://www.cityhostel-berlin.com/gb/default.aspx Cityhostel Berlin]
*[http://one80hostels.com/de/ One80 Hostel Berlin]
*[http://hiberlincenter.com/de/ Holiday Inn Hotel Alexanderplatz]
*[http://hotelindigoberlin.com/alex/de/ Indigo Hotel Berlin Alexanderplatz]
*[http://pangeapeople.de/de/ PangeaPeople Hostel & Hotel Berlin]

====Neukölln====
====Pankow (incl. Prenzlauer Berg)====
====Reinickendorf====
====Spandau====
*[http://www.hostel-spandau-in.berlin/ Hostel Spandau]

====Steglitz-Zehlendorf====
*[http://www.jh-wannsee.de/ DJH Jugendherberge Wannsee]

====Tempelhof-Schöneberg====
====Treptow-Köpenick====
====Wedding====
*[http://www.smarthostel-berlin.de/ Smarthostel Berlin]

If you want to stay for a longer period of time, read the [[Berlin#Settling_in_Berlin|information on settling]] at the bottom of this article.

== Getting Around ==
[[File:U-Bahn_S-Bahn_02_2013.png|400px|thumb|right|U-Bahn and S-Bahn lines of the inner city of Berlin, as of February 2013]]Public transportation generally goes almost everywhere in whole Berlin. Read more and plan a journey at the [http://www.bvg.de/index.php/en/index.html BVG Website].

=== Tickets ===
Tickets for public transport can be bought at every S- and U-Bahn station from machines, at ticket offices on the main stations. Daily tickets or tickets for short rides can be bought in buses and trams as well (vending machines in trams only accept coins, also often at stations). Tickets are valid for all ways of public transport within the chosen area (A, B and C), including interchanges between different transports.

==== Zones ====
* Zone A is central Berlin (inside circle line), Zone B everything else inside Berlin's city borders, Zone C is everything outside of Berlin (eg. Schönefeld Airport and Potsdam)
* There are no tickets for single zones, but for combinations AB, BC and ABC. For most trips inside Berlin, you'll need a '''Zone AB''' ticket, but '''ABC''' when arriving at Schönefeld Airport or planning to visit Potsdam.

==== Short term tickets ====
* '''Short trip fare''' (Kurzstrecke) is valid for either 3 stops with U- or S-Bahn (changes allowed), or 6 stops with tram or bus (changes '''not''' allowed). Costs €1.70
* '''Single tickets''' (Einzelfahrschein) is valid for 2 hours. Officially you can not travel back towards the station you started, so it's a one-way ticket. Costs €2.70 (AB), €3.00 (BC) or €3.30 (ABC).
* '''4-Trip-ticket''' (4-Fahrten-Karte) is the same as 4 single tickets, but slightly cheaper when bought in this way.
* '''Day ticket''' (Tageskarte) can be used for an entire calendar day, until 3:00am next day (note that day tickets in Berlin are '''not''' valid for 24 hours as in some other places, so don't buy in the evening!). Costs €7.00 (AB), €7.30 (BC) or €7.60 (ABC).
* '''Small group day ticket''' (Kleingruppen-Tageskarte) is a daily ticket for group of up to 5 persons. It pays itself back when traveling with 3 or more persons. Costs €17.30 (AB), €17.50 (BC) and €17.80 (ABC)

==== Long term tickets ====
* '''7-Day-ticket''' (7-Tage-Karte VBB-Umweltkarte) is valid for an entire week. With this ticket you can travel with an additional adult or 3 children between 8:00pm end 3:00am on weekdays, all day on Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays. Costs €30.00 (AB), €31.10 (BC) or €37.20 (ABC).
* '''Monthly ticket''' (Monatskarte VBB-Umweltkarte) is valid for an entire month. With this ticket you can travel with an additional adult or 3 children between 8:00pm end 3:00am on weekdays, all day on Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays. The ticket is transferable and some people offer their monthly ticket (or the part that's left) on the internet. Costs €81.00 (AB), €82.50 (BC) or €99.90 (ABC).
* '''10am Monthly ticket''' (10-Uhr-Karte) is a limited version of the monthly ticket. You can not take other people on the same ticket. Furthermore, you're only allowed to travel after 10:00am. Therefore the price is cheaper than the regular monthly ticket: €59.10 (AB), €60.20 (BC) or €62.50 (ABC).

==== Special tourist tickets ====
* '''Berlin WelcomeCard''' 24/48 hours, 4/5/6 days - Next to travelling, you can use this card to get discounts at touristic attractions, in restaurants and free entrance at some museums (with 3/5-day ticket). Can not be bought at ticket vending machines. [http://www.visitberlin.de/en/welcomecard Read more]
* '''Berlin CityTourCard''' 48/72 hours, 4/5/6 days - Next to travelling, this card provides some discount on some touristic attractions. This ticket can also be bought at ticket vending machines. [http://www.citytourcard.com/en Read more]

For more information on tickets and pricing: [http://www.bvg.de/index.php/en/17181/name/Fares+Overview.html BVG Tickets]

====Important information on public transportation tickets====

*Most of the tickets have to be validated (stamped) before use. If you forget, the fine is 60 Euro (same if you have no ticket)
*Except for Friday and Saturday night, all S-Bahn trains stop driving after approximately 1 o'clock
*Except for Friday and Saturday night, all U-Bahn trains are replaced by night buses (U1->N1; U2->N2; etc.)
*At some stations, people are selling tickets. Although they don't all look that bonafide, they resell tickets other people used. They should be still valid. If you are planning to buy those tickets, check if they are still valid. Also, it's officially forbidden to resell tickets, so you might be involved in a small crime by doing it.

=== From Airport to City ===
For the time being, Berlin has 2 major airports, 'Tegel' in the northwest and 'Schönefeld' in the southeast. They are well connected with public transport. Always make sure to check at which one you're arriving and leaving.

====Schönefeld Airport (SXF)====
[http://www.berlin-airport.de/en/travellers-sxf/to-and-from/buses-and-trains/local-public-transport/index.php transport information]

* Schönefeld Airport is directly connected with S-Bahn. Line '''S9''' connects the airport with the eastern and northern part of the city (for the center, change at Ostkreuz). Line '''S45''' connects the airport with the southern part of the inner-city. Both lines pass stations located on the S-Bahn circular railway (Ringbahn), which makes it easy to travel to other parts of the city, changing trains just once.
* Express trains '''RE7''' and '''RB14''' bring you quickly into central locations (stopping at Ostbahnhof, Alexanderplatz, Friedrichstraße, Hauptbahnhof and Zoologischer Garten), the ticket and price is the same as S-Bahn.
* There are also buses '''X7''' and 107 that connect you to '''U7''' stop Rudow, which will be easier to get to some locations.
* If you are stuck there late at night or have to be there extremely early, there's bus N7 from Schönefeld and then following the U7 line all the way to Spandau.

''Ticket:'' from Schönefeld Airport, you'll need a "Zone ABC" ticket to get to anywhere in Berlin (the ticket is valid also when changing to other S-Bahn trains, U-Bahn, Trams or Buses)

====Tegel Airport (TXL)====
[http://www.berlin-airport.de/en/travellers-txl/to-and-from/buses-and-trains/local-public-transport/index.php transport information]

Tegel Airport is accessible by bus. There are 2 express buses:
* Bus '''X9''' between Tegel and 'S+U Zoologischer Garten' (for western Berlin), or change at 'S+U Jungfernheide' to S-Bahn circle line or U7.
* Bus '''TXL''' between Tegel and 'Hauptbahnhof' (main train station) and 'S+U Alexanderplatz' (for central and eastern Berlin). Best change at Hauptbahnhof to S-Bahn, the route to Alexanderplatz is slow.
* There are also 2 normal bus lines: '''128''' in the direction of 'U Osloer Straße' and '''109''' in the direction of 'S+U Zoologischer Garten'.

''Ticket:'' from Tegel Airport, you'll need a "Zone AB" ticket to get to anywhere in Berlin (ticket is valid for the Bus and changes to S-Bahn trains, U-Bahn, Trams)

'''Taxi'''

Expected price for a [[Berlin#Taxi|taxi-ride]] from/to the airports is between €20,00 and €35,00, depending on the start/destination location.

=== Public Transportation network ===
==== Underground / U-Bahn ====
The subway/underground in Berlin is called the U-Bahn. The U-Bahn is efficient and reliable and it covers the major areas of the city.

Most U-Bahn trains drive frequent, every 5 or 10 minutes. In the late evening and night the frequency can be reduced to one train every 15 or 20 minutes. Except for Friday- and Saturday night, the U-Bahn stops working after approximately 1:00h. All lines are then replaced by night buses, which drive every 30 minutes and follow the same route as the U-Bahn (some minor exceptions).

==== Stadtbahn / S-Bahn ====
The suburban "rapid transit" network is the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Berlin_S-Bahn S-Bahn]. The main lines in the center consist of a circle line (Ringbahn, S41 clockwise, S42 counterclockwise) and the central branches from east (Ostkreuz) to west (Westkreuz) and from north (Gesundbrunnen) to south (Südkreuz), going through all the imporant central train stations (Zoologischer Garten, Hauptbahnof, Friedrichstraße, Alexanderplatz, Ostbahnhof). It connects with the U-Bahn network in many locations. The basic differences to U-Bahn (which won't matter for you in most situations) is that it's run by the German Railway company (DB) and not by the city of Berlin (BVG), and that it goes to some more remote places outside of Berlin. Tickets are always valid for both networks including Trams/Buses

====Tram (Straßenbahn/Metro)====
The tram in Berlin is called Straßenbahn (street train), or sometimes Metrotram. The tram network especially is big in the eastern part of town. The trams drive in the 'gaps' of the U- and S-Bahn net, while crossing many of their stations on the way.

====Buses====
Buses normally drive in the 'gaps' of the U- and S-Bahn net. Most people only take buses if they have to go to area's that are on the outskirts of town.
The exceptions are bus lines '''100''' and '''200'''. These bus lines are well known for the ''touristic'' route they are following. It crosses several points of interest, and therefore used by many tourists as a cheap alternative for the sightseeing buses.

=== Taxi ===

There are fixed prices for taxi's in Berlin. There's no difference between day- and night prices. The prices are calculated as follows:
*Basic price: €3,20
*Per kilometre (first 7): €1,65
*Per kilometre (after 7): €1,28

You'll pay additional if:
*''you're travelling more than 4 persons: €1,50 per extra person''
*''the taxi has to wait for you: €25,00 per hour''
*''you have big luggage: €1,00''
*''you are paying with credit card: €1,50''
*''you are coming from Tegel Airport: €0,50''
'''The common taxi companies:'''
*[http://www.taxi-berlin.de Taxi Berlin] (+49 30) 20 20 20
*[http://www.taxifunkberlin.de Taxi Funk Berlin] (+49 30) 44 33 22
*[http://www.funk-taxi-berlin.de Funk Taxi Berlin] (+49 30)26 10 26

===Bicycle===
Berlin is relatively easy for cycling and visiting Berlin by bicycle is a great option in Summer, especially for not-so-central locations like Tempelhofer Feld, Sowjetisches Ehrenmal etc. Advantages are that Berlin is 99% flat and there are many roads with separate bike paths. Disadvantages are that you can be surprised by the distances, very cold winters (cycling when there is snow gets to hardly possible as mostly bicycle paths are not cleared well), sometimes strong winds, and you should always be very careful to watch for cars and traffic even if you have the way of right (most accidents happen with cars/trucks turning right and not seeing you approaching on the bike lane).

If you're lucky, you can borrow a bike for free through [http://bikesurfberlin.blogspot.de BikeSurfBerlin] and [http://www.bewelcome.org/groups/1021 BikeSurfBerlin Group in Bewelcome].<br/>
Otherwise there are a lot of places to rent bicycles. The rental prices are unfortunately quite steep, often around 10€ per day (cheaper when renting for several days). Here's a list of all known bike-renting places, sorted [http://www.adfc-berlin.de/service/adfc-branchenbuch/fahrradverleih/fahrradverleiher-von-a-z.html alphabetically] or by [http://www.adfc-berlin.de/service/adfc-branchenbuch/fahrradverleih/fahrradverleiher-im-bezirk.html district]

== Nightlife, Dining and Entertainment ==



===Main Nightlife Areas===

The main nightlife areas of Berlin are:
*Warschauer Straße and Simon Dach Straße - pubs and clubs
*Oranienburger Tor/Oranienburger Straße - pubs and restuarants
*Kreuzberg around [[File:U1.png]]Kottbusser Tor, [[File:U1.png]]Görlitzer Bahnhof and [[File:U1.png]]Schlesisches Tor - pubs, restaurants, music stages
*Schönhauser Allee and direct surrounding - pubs, restaurants, clubs

===Magazines and Event listings===
The following websites can help bring you up to speed on the local club scene, nightlife, concerts, festivals and shows:
*[http://www.blitzgigs.de/ Blitzgigs] (English)
*[http://www.exberliner.com/ Exberliner] (English)
*[http://www.zitty.de/ Zitty] (German)
*[http://www.top10berlin.de/ Top 10 Berlin] (German)
*[http://www.bln.fm/category/termine/ BLN FM] (German)
*[http://www.nachtagenten.de/events/ Nachtagenten] (German)
*[http://www.tip-berlin.de/ Tip Berlin] (German)
*[http://www.berlin030.de/ (030) MAGAZINE] (German)
*[http://stressfaktor.squat.net/ Squats, Punk, Hardocre, Voküs] (German)
*[http://www.livegigs.de/berlin/#konzerte Livegigs Berlin] (German)
*[http://www.residentadvisor.net/events.aspx?ai=34 Resident Advisor listings] (English)

===Bars===
Some favourite local haunts include:

===Breweries and Beer===

'''Breweries'''

*[http://eschenbräu.de/ Eschenbräu] Craft brewery with 3 differnt beers on tap. Usually one is seasonal. They also distill their own Schnaps and Whiskey. You can bring your own food. Nice beergarden in summer
*[http://www.brauhaus-lemke.com/index.php/home Lemke Hackescher Markt] A bit touristy place. Decent German food. Good beer. Not the cheapest. There are three "Lemkes" all over the city.
*[http://www.schoppebraeu.de/ Schoppe Bräu/Brauhaus Südstern] Big and with a nice beer garden. They claim to have the strongest beer in Berlin.
*[http://vagabundbrauerei.com/ Vagabund Brauerei] Small brewery run by 3 Americans, mostly American style craft brews and bottled beers.
*[http://heidenpeters.de/more.html Heidepeters] Stand in the Markthalle9 in Kreuzberg, very good, very special beers on tap.
*[http://www.hopsandbarley-berlin.de/index.html Hops&Barley] Located in the a cool party area in Friedrichshain.
*[http://www.brauhaus-rixdorf.de/ Brauhaus Rixdorf] Neukolln-based brewery.

;'''Beershops'''
:Of course you can get beer at every Späti, but there some nice litte shops in the city where you can get the quality stuff....

*[http://hopfenmalz.de/ Hopfen und Malz] Huge Selection of beers. Mostly from Frankonia. But also American IPAs or Belgian brews.
*[http://www.weiss-blau-berlin.de/ Weiss Blau ] Bavarian Beers and specalities.
*[http://www.ambrosetti.de/ Ambrosetti] Huge verty of beers.
*[http://www.berlinbiershop.com/ Berlin Beer Shop] Mostly IPA and Belgium beers but also A LOT of good wine.
*[http://absinth-berlin.de/ladenenglish.html Absinth Depoth] Some Bavarian beers and the BEST collection of Absinth in Berlin.
*[http://www.getraenkefeinkost.de/filiale/berlin/ Getränkefeinkost] Good selection of German craft beers, IPAs, Belgian beers etc. in the heart of Friedrichshain

'''Beergardens'''
A selection of some more central located beergardens:
*[http://www.pratergarten.de/e/ Prater Garten] - The oldest 'Biergarten' of Berlin, located in Prenzlauer Berg
*[http://www.schoenbrunn.net/ Schoenbrunn] in Friedrichshain
*Bierhof Rüdersdorf - in Friedrichshain, next to Berghain
*Burg am See - in Kreuzberg
*[http://www.brachvogel-berlin.de/bv/ Brachvogel] - in Kreuzberg
*[http://www.cafe-am-neuen-see.de/ Cafe am neuen See] - in Charlottenburg, next to Tiergarten
*[http://www.schleusenkrug.de/ Der Schleusenkrug] - in Charlottenburg, also close to Tiergarten
*[http://schoenbrunn.net/ Restaurant Schönbrunn] - in Friedrichshain, Volkspark
*[http://www.doldenmaedel.de/ Dolden Mädel] - Kreuzberg, next to Bergmannstr. - expensive, but they have a huge selection of craft beers (usually 15-20 different ones on tap + many more in bottles)

===Clubs===
Berlin is well known for its clubs. There are numerous of them, with a wide range of music style, atmosphere and exclusivity. Some of the most famous ones:
*Berghain - on the border of Kreuzberg and Friedrichshain, hence the name. Known for rejecting people, long waiting cues and crazy parties.
*Cassiopaia
*Kater Holzig
*Yaam
*White Trash
*Matrix
*Watergate
You can find many, many [http://www.berlin.de/international/clubs/index.en.php more clubs].

===Restaurants===
There are hundreds of restaurants in Berlin. In most districts you'll find typical restaurants with foreign food, mostly Turkish, Asian and Arabic. Meals that are often consumed are Döner and Falafel. Both meals cost between €2,00 and €4,00 depending on district and quality.

On several places you can find the typical Berlin Currywurst (curry sausage)

[[Restaurants in Berlin]]

===Seasonal events===
The following events are reoccurring every year. They are listed chronologically:
====Berlinale====
In the first weeks of February, every movie loving person in the world is looking at Berlin. During the Berlinale, movies are awarded, celebrities are visiting the city and all cinemas in the city are showing quality movies. [http://www.berlinale.de/en/HomePage.html Official website] of the Berlinale.

====Karneval der Kulturen====
During the weekend of Ascension Day (end of May, beginning of June), the city explodes and everyone can be found on the streets to celebrate the carnival of cultures. Main event is the parade where different cultural groups perform, show dances or make music. Around it, everyone enjoys the spring weather and party until morning. [http://www.karneval-berlin.de/de/english.175.html Official website] of Karnaval der Kulturen.

====Fête de la Musique====
The worldwide international music day, initiated by the French minister of culture in 1981 and since 1995 a yearly day where music is celebrated. Concerts all over town. [http://www.fetedelamusique.de/en/ Official website] of Fête de la Musique.

==Sports, Activities and the Great Outdoors==
===Parks===
Berlin is said to be the greenest capital of Europe. There are many big parks, and many more small green areas. All parks have their own charms and every season they look different. In spring and summer, when the temperatures reach 20 degrees Celsius or more, you will see many people visiting parks to walk, run, cycle, play outdoor games and most of all sunbathing with a beer!

===Lakes===
In and around Berlin one can find many lakes. In most of them you could swim at your own risk, but it may not always be allowed.
*Wannsee (South West)
*Tegeler See (North West)
*Weißensee (North East)
*Müggelsee (South East)

===Outdoor sports===
Tempelhofer Feld is a great place to practice outdoor sports like kiting, rollerskating, biking or running. The former airport is the biggest open flat area of Berlin, located centrally, and provided with good asphalt roads through and around the field.

===Climbing===
*[http://www.magicmountain.de/ Magic Mountain] - Gesundbrunnen
*[http://www.bertablock.de/ Berta Block] - Pankow
*[http://www.ostbloc.de/ Ostbloc] - Ostkreuz
*[http://www.derkegel.de/ Der Kegel] - Warschauer Straße
*[http://www.diekletterhalle.de/ T-Hall Berlin] - Neukölln

===Other sports===
[http://www.pingpongmap.net/ Ping pong map] - hundreds of locations to play ping pong, both indoors and outdoors.

==Learning German==
There are lots of language exchange options available in Berlin from one on one meetups to clubs that meet regularly in person to social networks available online at your convenience. Here are some of your options:
===Free online courses===
*[http://www.dw.de/learn-german/s-2469 Deutsche Welle] is actually a news website, but offers some courses and tests online. The best feature: slowly spoken news in German with transcript.
*[http://www.goethe.de/lrn/duw/lad/deindex.htm?wt_sc=lernabenteuer App for iPhone or Android] from Goethe Institut
*[http://online-lernen.levrai.de/ Website] with all background information on the German language
*[http://www.goethe.de/lrn/duw/auf/stb/enindex.htm Exercises] from the Goethe Institut
*[http://www.deutsch-perfekt.com/deutsch-lernen Exercises] from Deutsch Perfekt
*[http://www.deutschakademie.de/online-deutschkurs/ Test] from Deutsch Akademie
*[http://www.goethe.de/lrn/lks/enindex.htm Links from the Goethe Institut] to very useful websites
*[http://www.nachrichtenleicht.de Nachrichten Leicht] German news written in easy German. Includes audio read in slow German.

===For one on one / tandem===
*[http://www.sprachenzentrum.fu-berlin.de/slz/tandem/index.html Tandem program] of the Freie Universität
*[https://www.international.hu-berlin.de/an_die_hu-en/studierende/orbis/sprachboerse Language exchange market of the Humbolt University]

===Groups that meet regularly===
[[File:Gaudy_exchange.png|200px|thumb|left‎|Gaudy Exchange]]St. Gaudy Cafe weekly language exchange
*http://www.gaudycafe.com/
*Gaudystraße 1
*[[File:U2.png]]Schönhauser Allee

===Language exchange social networks===
*[http://livemocha.com/ Live Mocha] - community of language learners that help each other

===Paid language courses===
*[http://www.berlin.de/vhs/ Volkshochschule] (probably the cheapest one, with bigger classes)
*http://www.cosmopolilingua.de (Private one to one and small group classes, individual and intense)
*http://www.speakeasy-sprachzeug.com/en/
*http://www.hartnackschule-berlin.de
*http://www.transmitter-berlin.de
*http://www.die-deutschule.de
*http://www.sprachenatelier-berlin.de
*http://www.deutschakademie.de
*http://kapitel-zwei.de/en
*http://www.deutsch-in-berlin.de
*http://www.goethe.de/lrn/enindex.htm
*https://smartergerman.com/ - Private intense lessons, including an option to get to b1 level (Goethe Institute) in 45 - 60 days

== Sightseeing ==
Berlin is extremely easy to get around by [[Berlin#Getting_Around|public transport]]. You can easily visit several locations on one day.

=== Typical touristic attractions ===
[[File:20c_German.jpg|100px|thumb|left|Brandenburger Tor on German euro-coins]]
==== Brandenburger Tor ====
The Brandenburger Tor ([http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brandenburger_gate Brandenburger gate]) is one of the most famous buildings of both Berlin and Germany. It has been build as a city gate, but is now known as a symbol of the reunion of Germany.

==== Reichstagsgebäude ====
The [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Reichstag_%28building%29 Reichstag building] is the former and present building for the German parliament. The burning of the building in 1933 was the direct cause of Hitler taking over all power. The building was not in use as a parliament between 1933 and 1999.
[[File:Fernsehturm_Berlin2.jpg|100px|thumb|left|Fernsehturm (TV-tower)]]
==== Fernsehturm ====
The 368 metres high TV-tower near Alexanderplatz that can be seen everywhere in the city. You can go up in the tower and look back at the city. Entrance fee is €12 for adults. There is a possibility to have diner in the rotating restaurant, but you have to make reservations. For more info, visit [http://www.tv-turm.de/en/index.php].

==== Museuminsel ====
Island in the city center with many museums, mostly classical and historical art and artifacts.
==== Eastside Gallery ====
1,5 kilometre long gallery of painted pieces of the Berlin Wall.
==== Checkpoint Charlie ====
The famous checkpoint where diplomats could cross the border with the DDR.
==== Gedenkstätte Berliner Mauer ====
History of the Berlin Wall, with a real life simulation of the Berlin Wall and a watchtower.
==== Gendarmenmarkt ====
Square with 2 symmetrical churches (French and German) facing each other.
==== Berliner Dom ====
Protestant cathedral
==== Nikolaiviertel ====
Origin of Berlin. Lots of old buildings, including the Nikolai-church, mixed with renovated buildings and typical DDR/communistic architecture.
==== Siegessäule ====
Victory column, built after the victories in the wars against Denmark, Austria and France in the late 19th century.

=== Less touristic attractions ===
==== Sowjetisches Ehrenmal ====
Huge and impressive memorial for the Soviet soldiers that died during World War II. Year round impressive, but extra special are the 23rd of February (day of the Red Army), 9th of May (Capitulation of Germany) and in autumn when the trees around the memorial turn red.
==== Tempelhof ====
Huge former airfield. Built in the 1920's, extended by Nazi-Germany and used to provide West-Berlin during the Cold War. The airport closed in 2008 and was opened as a park in 2010. Over the last years, people started to fill parts of the area with small gardens.

A new video published April 2014 that really shows the vibe of Templehof!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zuh1v5qwjNU#t=53

==== Teufelsberg ====
In south-western Berlin you can find an old American listening station, built upon a man made 'mountain' out of rubbish from World War II. From the station, there's a great view over the city and the dome/ball on top of the station provides a great acoustic. Since 2012, all holes in the fences are repaired and a security guy asks €7 as an entree fee. In the weekends a [http://www.berlinsightout.de/ guided tour] is possible for €15.
==== Waterfall in Viktoriapark ====
==== Eisfabrik ====
==== Pfaueninsel ====
==== Spreepark ====
Abandoned theme park in Plänterwald. Main attractions are a big ferry wheel, decorative dinosaurs and a roller coaster. Please note that entering the park is officially not allowed.
==== Olympic Stadium ====
Built in the 30's under Nazi-regime, it hosted the famous Olympic Summer Games of 1936 and was subject of Leni Riefenstahl's movie 'Olympia'. You can either walk around it, or get a [http://www.olympiastadion-berlin.de/en/stadium-visitor-centre/viewing-and-guided-tours.html guided tour]. If you are more interested, a visit to the [http://dkb-stiftung.de/web/Das_Olympische_Dorf_von_1936.32.htm Olympic Village] could be a nice addition.

==== Berliner Unterwelten ====
Visit an underground peoples bunker or the anti-aircraft towers in Volkspark Humboldthain. Tours organized by [http://berliner-unterwelten.de/home.1.1.html Berliner Unterwelten e.V.]. Entrance at U-bahnhof Gesundbrunnen. The plateau of the 'Flakturmen' with a nice view of northern Berlin can be accessed for free via the park (also accessible for wheelchairs).

=== Museums ===
If you're planning to visit many museums during your stay in Berlin, you might want to buy the '''[http://www.museumsportal-berlin.de/en/plan-your-visit/all-about-admission-fees/everything-three-days/ Museum pass]'''. It costs €19, can be bought at any participating museum and is valid for 3 days.

If you want to see both city and museums, and you're not sure how many museums you'll be visiting, you might be interested in the [[Berlin#Special_tickets|Berlin Welcome Card]] which gives you discount on museums and free use of public transport.
*[http://www.dhm.de Deutsches Historisches Museum] - German history
*[http://www.smb.museum/smb/standorte/index.php?objID=24&p=2 Altes Museum] - Ancient and classical art and artifacts
*[http://www.smb.museum/smb/standorte/index.php?p=2&objID=27&n=15 Pergamommuseum] - Ancient art and artifacts
*[http://www.mauermuseum.de Haus am Checkpoint Charlie] - Berlin Wall
*[http://www.smb.museum/smb/sammlungen/details.php?objectId=17 Alte Nationalgalerie] - 19th century sculptures and paintings
*[http://www.neues-museum.de/ Neues Museum] - Prehistory, early history, Egyptian and other classical artifacts
*[http://www.smb.museum/smb/standorte/index.php?lang=en&p=2&objID=28&n=3 Bode-Museum] Byzantine art and sculptures
*Museum für Naturkunde
*Hamburger Bahnhof Museum
*Jüdisches Museum
*Gedenkstätte Berliner Mauer
*Topographie des Terrors
*DDR-Museum
*Story of Berlin

=== Religious buildings ===

=== Flea markets and other famous markets ===
Berlin is well known for its flea markets. There are several weekly flea markets. The most famous ones:

'''Mauerpark'''<br />
The most famous flea market of Berlin, close to [[File:U2.png]]Eberswalderstraße. Has a lot of 2nd hand stalls, mixed with creative people that make jewelry, paintings, photos/cards, wallets and other stuff themselves. When the weather is right, there's a huge karaoke in the park next to the flea market. Can be very crowded, especially in spring and summer.
*[http://www.mauerparkmarkt.de/ Website]
*Bernauer Straße 63
*Sunday 7:00-17:00h

'''Boxhagener Platz'''<br />
Easy to oversee, since all stands are built around the Boxhagener square. You can take a rest on the square itself, or make a round in approximately an hour. Especially known for its records, books and posters. Other stands sell furniture and objects, but not so many clothes.
*Boxhagener Platz 1
*Sunday 10:00-18:00h

'''Schöneberg'''

'''Arkonaplatz'''

'''Straße des 17. Juni'''

'''Ostbahnhof'''

'''OBI Neukölln'''

=== Vegetable and Food Markets ===
'''Türkischer Markt am Maybachufer'''<br />
Twice weekly (Tuesdays and Fridays) from 11am. This is one of the biggest weekly markets in Berlin. Fruit and vegetables are considerably cheaper than most supermarkets, including Aldi and Lidl. Also you can find many other foods items and a mixed range of household items.

'''Boxhagener Platz'''<br />
Food market on Saturdays 10:00-18:00h on Boxhagener Platz

'''Markthalle Neun'''<br />
[http://markthalleneun.de/markets?lang=en Food market] in a historic market hall:<br />
* Tuesdays 12:00-20:00h (small)
* Fridays 12:00-20:00h (big)
* Saturdays 10:00-18:00h (big)
* International Street Food Thursdays 17:00-22:00h (popular, often extremely crowded)

== Travelling from Berlin ==
Apart from the 2 airports, several (international) trains and busses arrive at and leave from Berlin.
===Trains===
Most '''international trains''' arrive at and depart from Berlin Hauptbahnhof (main railway station).
*to the Netherlands (Berlin-Schiphol)
*to Poland (Berlin-Warsaw/Gdansk/Wrocław Główny)
*to Switzerland (Berlin-Basel)
*to Denmark (Berlin-Copenhagen/Arhus)
*to the Czech Republic (Berlin-Prague)
To find the best connections, or for booking tickets, you can check out the website of the [[http://www.bahn.de/i/view/GBR/en/index.shtml German Railway]]. Booking tickets on forehand can make a huge difference in price.

'''(inter)regional trains''' depart from every major station, such as Alexanderplatz, Ostbahnhof, Spandau and Sudkreuz. There's a difference between regional trains ('''RB''' (Regionalbahn) and'''RE''' (Regionalexpress)) and inter-regional trains ('''IC''' (Intercity) and '''ICE''' (Intercity Express)). The IC's and ICE's drive much faster and over a long distance, mostly to other big cities in Germany. The RB and RE only drive short distances and stop at many smaller stations on the way.

===Buses===
The main bus station for international and inter-regional bus lines is '''ZOB''' ("Zentraler Omnibus-Bahnhof") in western Berlin. It is near S-Bahn station "Messe Nord/ICC" (Circle lines S41/S42) and [[File:U2.png]] station "Kaiserdamm".
Depending on the line and destination, some international/inter-regional buses may also stop at one of these places:
* Ostbahnhof Bus Station (eastern side of the city, at S-Bahn Ostbahnhof)
* Südkreuz station - many buses to/from Poland and Czech Republic stop here (S2, S25, S41, S42, S45, S46, and some mainline trains)
* Hauptbahnhof (main train station) - buses run by DB (German railway) stop here
* Schönefeld Airport (near the terminals) - some buses to/from Poland and Czech Republic stop here

Try [https://www.busliniensuche.de/ BusLinienSuche] for finding buses to various places.

====International Buses====
Some major bus lines that will bring you abroad are:
*[http://www.eurolines.com/en/ Eurolines] - to almost any place in Europe
*[http://ecolines.net/en/ Ecolines] - Poland, Russia, Lithuania, Estonia, Latvia, Belarus, Ukraine
*[http://eclubreisen.de Eclubreisen] - to Ukraine
*[https://www.flixbus.de/ Flixbus]

====Inter-regional buses====
*[https://www.flixbus.de/ Flixbus]
*[http://www.eurolines.de/index.php?id=14&L=1 Eurolines]

===Car===
====Car sharing====
It's easy to find car sharing online. Cars travel from every city to every city. You can find rides or travellers at [http://www.blablacar.de/ Blablacar]
and on CouchSurfing
[https://www.couchsurfing.org/group.html?gid=10289 Group 1]
[https://www.couchsurfing.org/group.html?gid=17463 Group 2]
[https://www.couchsurfing.org/group.html?gid=2920 Group 3]

====Hitchhiking====

Naturally, [[:hitch:Berlin|Hitchwiki]] has the best and most up-to-date resources about thumbing your way out of Berlin.

==Settling in Berlin==
If you are planning to stay in Berlin for a longer time, the main concerns will be housing, visa (if necessary), work, health insurance and the necessary bureaucracy. Please note that all information written here are rough guidelines and tips and might be outdated or incomplete.
Be aware that you might get trapped in a vicious circle: to register yourself in Berlin you need an address, to find housing you need work and for work you need to be registered.

===Housing===
Some websites that can be used if you're looking for flat-share(WG)/renting a flat in Berlin:
*[http://www.wg-gesucht.de/en/ WG-Gesucht.de (German/English)] The most used website to search for accomodation/house mates
*[http://www.studenten-wg.de Studenten-wg.de (German)] Another website to find WG's
*[http://www.immobilo.de/mieten/berlin Immobilo.de (German)] Searches multiple websites that lists accomodations.
*[http://www.immobilienscout24.de/Suche/S-T/WG-Zimmer/Berlin/Berlin Immobilienscout24 (German)] For apartments, less used for flatsharing.
*[http://www.wgcompany.de/cgi-bin/seite?st=1&mi=10&li=100 WGcompany (English)] Has a glossary in english with all important terms. Used for flatsharing.
*[http://kleinanzeigen.ebay.de/anzeigen/s-immobilien/berlin/c195l3331 E-bay Kleinanzeigen (German)] Germans offer everything on E-bay.
*[http://berlin.en.craigslist.de/hhh/ Craigslist (English)] Not all very reliable, but sometimes it contains a hidden treasure.
*[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group.html?gid=19711/ CouchSurfing Group 1 (English)] Find local CSers looking for flatmates, available sublets, etc.
*[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group.html?gid=9251/ CouchSurfing Group 2 (English)] Find local CSers looking for flatmates, available sublets, etc.
*[http://www.toytowngermany.com/forum/index.php?showforum=84/ ToyTown (English)] Expat community.
*[https://www.facebook.com/groups/easy.wg/ A Facebook Group (English/German)] A good group to find housing.
*[http://www.bewelcome.org/groups/1437 BW Accommodation group] or [https://www.couchsurfing.org/group.html?gid=19711 CS Accommodation group].
*[http://www.studentenwerk-berlin.de/wohnen/woanders_wohnen/berliner_wbgs/ Berlin Apartment Corporations (German)]
*[http://www.studentenwerk-berlin.de/wohnen/woanders_wohnen/wohnraumboerse_berlin/index.html Flat Search of Studentenwerk (German)]
*[http://www.wbm.de/wbm/cms/de/wohnen/Mietwohnungen.html WBM another corporation that builds flats]
*[https://www.dreamflat.co.uk/ Dreamflat]
*[https://www.wg-cast.de/ WG-Cast]
*[http://www.airbnb.de AirBnB Apartments, Flats and Rooms for rent]

===Buying used items===
Berlin is a hot spot for exchanging/selling/buying used items. You can find many things for sale or even for free:
*[http://kleinanzeigen.ebay.de/anzeigen/s-immobilien/berlin/c195l3331 E-bay Kleinanzeigen (German)] Germans offer everything on E-bay.
*[http://berlin.en.craigslist.de/hhh/ Craigslist (English)] Good place for all sorts of items, including bikes.
*[https://www.facebook.com/groups/freeyourstuff/ A Facebook Group (English)] People offering things for FREE only.

===VISA===
General information on getting a visa for Germany can be found [http://4dayvisa.tumblr.com/ here]
====VISA Office====
[http://www.berlin.de/labo/auslaender/dienststelle/index.html Ausländerbehörde (ABH)]
[http://osm.org/go/0MZv6kuHu-- MAP]

Schedule an appointment ahead of time. The waiting times are not that bad, but it's always best to have an appointment.<br>
They really don't speak English consistently so just be prepared. Bring someone with you if at all possible. Have everything you need when you go. They don't answer emails for nearly 1 month so don't bother there. You can call and ask questions, but have someone call for you who speaks German and then you might get answers.

====Freelance VISA and Artist VISA====
(This is written from a US citizen. Different rules may apply to you, although they may be similar).
These are 2 different things. I obtained my Artist's visa while I was waiting for my Freelance visa to be approved (this will take 6-10 weeks). The Artist's visa does not allow you to work. The Freelance one does (you can list more than one profession on this visa).

====List of things that you need====
* Completed Form (http://www.berlin.de/formularserver/formular.php?72301)
* Letter stating your intentions, how you plan to support yourself, everthing you can think of
* CV
* Passport Copy
* 2 Biometric Photo (not smiling... these can be done in the bottom level of the office... leave an extra 10 minutes for this).
* Bank Statement (proving that you can support yourself without working)
* All Certificates
* All Diplomas
* All Transcripts
* Health Insurance (GERMAN) Proof and all documents
* German Address Registration (do NOT show up without this. You will be turned away. You must register your address)
* References
* €50 in cash (sometimes this is more)
* Artist portfolio (this must be hard copies of your work)
* Letter from 2 prospective employers (I fought this, but it's technically required and you should have it)

===Registering in Germany/Berlin - Bürgeramt===
'''Registering your address'''
Fill out page 3 of [https://docs.google.com/file/d/1RBnLXCEqJ-le6hyQSsyvQ2_0u7Uo7tF-tG4lUc76EPDL6r-8O6ipxGPkZt2-/edit this form] and then go to register.<br />
You must register your address within 2 weeks of coming to Germany and before you can do anything really.<br />
You need to either have a rental agreement or have the main renter to sign the paper or write a letter for you.<br />
[http://www.buergeramt.info/berlin.htm A list] of all the places you can go to register. You don't need to register in your own district.

===Health insurance===
In Germany you need to have a health insurance by law. It can be very expensive. The easiest way to become insured is to have a job. If you're an employee, the insurance is withhold from your loan (15,5%) automatically, and you can enter the 'Gesetzliche Krankenkasse' (insurance by law), where a broad variety of treatments is covered. If you earn more than €52.200 a year, or you are not an employee, you'd have to sign up for a private health insurance, which have a fixed price per month (starting at €130).

A list with [http://www.gesetzlichekrankenkassen.de/preise/berlin/berlin.html 'Gesetzliche' insurances].

Some private health insurances can be found at:
* [http://www.deutscheinsurance.com/ Compare insurances]
* [http://www.aok.de/rheinland-hamburg/mitglied-werden/international-english-89909.php AOK]
* [http://www.hansemerkur.de/ HanseMerkur]
Note that you need to go to an agency office to sign up. You would probably also need to be checked by a doctor before the insurance company will take you in.

If you want to apply to [http://www.bmkb.de/ KSK] (you must be an artist legally here, they will help you with the price of your insurance, but there are a lot of rules you must follow), you can contact this woman:
Ilka Lacherbauer
Medien und Künstler Beratung Ltd.
Tucholskystr. 35
10117 Berlin - Mitte
Fon.: +49 30 - 75 00 86 00
e-mail: info@bmkb.de or lacherbauer@bmkb.de

===SIM Cards===
(this information was gathered from forums)

* http://www.callmobile.de/
* http://www.fonic.de
* http://www.blau.de
* You can get great deals on SIM's at any Saturn store. They have T-Mobile SIM cards for only 5 euro and they come with 10 euro worth of call minutes for free.
* some Turkish phone shops, they sell Vodafone cards with credit for half-price (usually a card with 10 EUR credit for about 6 EUR, and one with 1 EUR credit for 60 cents), and what's best these are pre-activated and work right away, no need to fill out any stupid forms online.
* new SIM. For instance if you take an O2 one for 28.50E, you get 21E credit plus two months of freecalls to O2 (has a good subscrirption in Germany) numbers and to any landline. I think it is a great offer but something that you cannot renew; just comes with the new number.
*Aldi or Penny (yes, the discount stores) have easy prepaid cards for 15euro or something with the same amount of credit on it so you basically pay nothing for it. I don't know if they offer data as well, but the Aldi card uses ePlus networks so you can also charge your credit with ePlus prepaid cards if there is no Aldi around to buy new credit. adli 300mb 300 minutes = less 10 euro ;)

===Bank account===
At some point you would probably need a German bank account. You would need to find the bank of your choice, apply, and identify yourself at a post office (unless you open an account in a bank physically). Choosing your bank is not the easiest thing, since there are many banks to choose from. Criteria can be:
*Monthly fee
*Interest
*Costs of credit card
*Physical/online bank
*ATM-fee (sometimes you have to pay an extra fee if you use another bank's ATM)
*Welcoming bonus
*Ethics of the bank

There's a [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_banks_in_Germany wikipedia page] listing the banks in Germany. To compare banks, visit [http://www.girokonto-vergleich.net/vergleich.html this] and [http://www.aspect-online.de/banken/girokonto/ this] site.
If you're looking for more ethical (social-ecological) banks, check [http://blog.soziales-dorf.eu/module-news-display-sid-152.html this German blog].

==Luggage Storage==
'''Train stations'''
Berlin Hbf,
Alexanderplatz,
Ostbahnhof,
Friedrichstraße,
Potsdamer Platz,
Gesundbrunnen,
Zoologischer Garten,
Südkreuz,
Spandau

'''Other'''
Central Bus Staion ZOB,
Tegel Airport,
Schönefeld Airport,

==Cost of living==
In Berlin you have many choices on how to spend your money. Berlin is a relatively cheap city, although the prices raised over the years.

Below is a list of estimations of prices. The prices can differ a lot, depending on district, location, season, etc.

'''Renting a room''': €150-€600 per month<br />
'''Renting apartment''': €200-€1000 per month<br />

'''Restaurant''': €2 - €15 for a main dish<br />
'''Beer''': €0,70 - €4,00 for 0,5 liter<br />

==FAQs==
[[trash:Berlin]]
[[hitch:Berlin]]
[[velo:Berlin]]
[[cash:Berlin]]
[[nomad:Berlin]]

Stockholm

2019-01-21T18:01:53Z

Iotrj: Reverted edits by Couchsurferka (talk) to last revision by Kamapuaa

{{Sweden}}
{{City header
|city = Stockholm
|country = Sweden
|areas = '''[[Norrmalm]]''' (including Skeppsholmen) • '''[[Vasastan and Hagastaden]]''' (Vasastan, Hagastaden, Karlberg) • '''[[Östermalm]]''' (including Gärdet, Norra Djurgården, Värtahamnen) • '''[[Djurgården]]''' • '''[[Gamla Stan]]''' (including Riddarholmen, Helgeandsholmen) • '''[[Södermalm]]''' (including Reimersholme, Långholmen) • '''[[Kungsholmen]]''' (including Stora Essingen, Lilla Essingen) • '''[[Västerort, Solna and Sundbyberg]]''' (Bromma, Kista etc) • '''[[Söderort]]''' • '''[[Lidingö]]'''
|toplinks = *[[Sweden|Sweden page]]
*[[:category:Sweden|Sweden category]]
|bwgroup = 588
|csgroup =
|wikipedia = Stockholm
|hitchwiki = Stockholm
|wikivoyage = Stockholm
|image = Coat_of_arms_of_Stockholm.png
|imagetext = Flag of Stockholm Stockholm
}}

'''Stockholm''' is the capital of [[Sweden]].

==CouchSurfing groups in Stockholm:==

[https://www.couchsurfing.com/groups/sweden-couchsurfing Sweden CouchSurfing]

[https://www.couchsurfing.com/groups/stockholm-emergency-couch-requests Stockholm Emergency Couch Requests]

==Things to do in Stockholm:==

* '''Have a picnic in Djurgården.''' Grab smth to eat and go to the green oasis of Djurgården - this island has many picnic spots. You can enjoy tranquil walking, or take bicycle tour around it, enjoying some of the best views in the city.
* '''Rent a bicycle and see Stockholm by bike!''' Blue bikes ''Alvedon'' are situated in many places and all you need is to get a special card which unlocks bikes. Cards can be valid for a few days or a few months, if needed.
* '''Catch a ferry to the Stockholm Archipelago'''. It is a popular destination in the summer months. Archipelago begins just a few miles east of the capital and covers about 140 kilometres from north to south. Only very small part of the islands are inhabited, although many Stockholmers have summerhouses on islands. Some islands are pieces of forest in the sea, some are simply bare rocks. Ferries depart from the Blasieholmen peninsula.
* '''Catch a ferry from Nybroviken and Slussen to Djurgården and Hammarby Sjöstad''' - use your SL ticket
* '''Make a grill and feed touristic swans and ducks at Sätrastrandsbadet.''' It's the local beach with outdoor gym and beautiful lake. The swans are friendly and can get very close to you (especially if you have food to share) but don't try to catch them or make movements that could make them feel unsafe when you're right next to them.
* '''Take free guided tours''' and see [http://freetourstockholm.com/free-tours/ the main City area, Södermalm, Old Town] and [http://www.stockholmfreetour.com/the-stockholm-subway-an-underground-gallery/ Subway art] with a free guide but don't forget to give them a tip.
*'''Explore the art of Stockholm's Subway''' - Stockholm is known of its Underground Gallery and some of the stations are really impressive. So buy SL ticket and enjoy it!
*'''Check out CouchSurfing Events in Stockholm'''. There are a lot of events organized by local people in Stockholm.
*'''See beautiful cherry blossoms'''. The cherry blossoms are expected to peak between mid to late April. You can find them at Kungsträdgården (you will know why do they call this place The King's Garden) and Sickla Kaj.
*'''Join Hangouts on CouchSurfing''' and explore the area with other travellers or local people.
*'''Try different kind of flavours of meads and beers at [http://aifur.se/ Aifur Krog&Bar]'''. Feel like a true Viking.
*'''Visit the [https://www.tikiroomstockholm.se/ Tiki Room's bar].''' The drinks are expensive but at the same time very exotic and delicious.
*'''Take [https://oceanbus.se/ Ocean Bus]'''

==What to see in Stockholm?==

<ul style="list-style-type: circle">

<li> '''Gamla Stan''' - old town located on Stadsholmen island is the most touristic place in Stockholm, full of souvenir shops and beautiful alleys. During the rush hours, especially in the summer time there are a lot of people but if you come in the early morning you'll find it empty. </li>
<li>'''Stortorget''' is the main square at Gamla Stan known from The Stockholm's Bloodbath. There you can find those famous, old, colorful buildings so often presented on Stockholm's postcards. While wandering around Gamla Stan it’s good to know about secret places and hidden things which the most of tourists will miss: </li>

<ul style="list-style-type: circle">

  <li> '''Järnpojke''' – in the small courtyard at Slottsbacken behind the Finnish Church (Finska Kyrkan) lives ‘Iron Boy’ called by some ‘Little Boy who looks at the Moon’. During the winter time local people bring him scarfs and hats to not let him get sick. If you leave him a coin he’ll bring you luck. Järnpojke is the smallest monument in Sweden. </li>
<li> '''Upplands runinskrifter 53''' – this runestone is built into a wall in the intersection between the thoroughfares Prästgatan and Kåkbrinken. </li>
<li> '''Cannonball in the corner of Skomakargatan''' – according to the legend the cannon ball was fired at the Danish kind Christian Tyrant, back to the Stockholm Bloodbath in 1520.</li>
<li> '''Mårten Trotzigs Gränd''' – the narrowest alley in Stockholm leading from Västerlånggatan and Järntorget up to Tyska Stallplan and Prästgatan. In the narrowest place it has only 90cm.</li>
<li> '''Aifur Krog&Bar''' is a restaurant/bar named after the legendary Viking ship Aifur. Listening to hurdy-gurdy, eating from handmade plates, using handmade cutlery, drinking from handmade cups and sitting and handmade benches you can feel like a real Viking. Coming into the restaurant you’re introduced to guests that are already sitting in the dining room. Try different flavors of mead and beer, eat that what Vikings used to eat – Reindeer sausage, elk sausage, flat-smoked pork, reindeer heart, lamb steak, cheddar cheese. Does it sound yummy already? It is indeed. </li>
<li> '''Science-Fiction Bokhandeln''' – Great inside decoration, big collection of books (also in English), movies, board-games and gadgets. </li>

</ul>

<li>'''Stockholms Stadsbibliotek''' - the largest public library in Sweden with very interesting interior design and the collection of more than half a million books in over 100 languages.</li>

<li> '''Djurgården''' – is an island located in central Stockholm known of its parks, monuments, historical buildings, galleries and museums. You'll find there places such as: </li>

<ul style="list-style-type: circle">

<li> '''Gröna Lund''' – is an amusement park with many attractions. It’s a cool place to hang out with friends and have some fun but also quite expensive. A lot of concerts and events are taking place there. </li>
<li> '''Skansen''' – it’s an open-air museum and zoo. You can discover Sweden’s history, see how Swedes lived according to the changing seasons, through the customs and traditions, work, celebrations and everyday life. During the summer the program is fulfilled with activities such as singing, dancing, concerts. During the winter you can enjoy Christmas markets. </li>

</ul>

<li>'''Jordbro Gravfält''' (Jordbro Grave Field ; Gullringsvägen, 137 63 Haninge) - the largest grave field in the Nordic Countries from the Iron Age.</li>

<li>'''[http://www.tyresta.se/in-english/ Tyresta Nationalpark]''' - if you have time and willing to spend a lot of time in the nature Tyresta is a very good choice. A lot of nice camping spots and trails. The map of Tyresta costs 30SEK but in fact you don't need it.</li>

<li>'''Sigtuna''' is the oldest town in Sweden, very quiet and adorable. You can get there with SL ticket (the one you use for transport in Stockholm). There are many runes, ruins and old swedish houses. </li>

<li>'''Nice panoramic views:'''</li>
<ul style="list-style-type: circle">
<li>'''Katarinahissen''' (Statsgården 1, 116 45 Stockholm).</li>
<li>'''Skinnarviksberget''' (Skinnarviksberget, 118 23 Södermalm).</li>
<li>'''The City Hall''' (Hantverkargatan 1, 111 52 Stockholm), the view from the garden.</li>
<li>'''View from Skansen'''</li>

</ul>
</ul>

==Museums in Stockholm:==
(Last update May 2018)
<ul style="list-style-type: circle">
<li>[http://www.abbathemuseum.com/sv/ Abba The Museum] (250 SEK/Adult, open 7/week)</li>
<li>[https://acceleratorsu.art/ Accelerator] - contemporary art at Stockholm University(Free admission?).</li>
<li>[http://www.kasiden.se/ Almgrens Sidenväveri & Museum] - (eng. Almgren Silk-Weaving Mill & Museum) You'll get to know the history of Jaquard's invention from year 1804 and silk production in Sweden (75 SEK/Adult, Sunday closed)</li>
<li>[https://www.aquaria.se/ Aquaria Vattenmuseum] (eng. Aquaria Water Museum, 120 SEK/Adult, Monday closed)</li>
<li>[https://arkdes.se/en/ Arkdes] - Swedish Centre for Architecture and Design (Free admission?)</li>
<li>[http://www.armemuseum.se/ Armémuseum] (eng. Army Museum) - Swedish history since 16th century to the present focusing on how people have been affected by war and conflicts (Free admission, Monday closed)</li>
<li>[https://artipelag.se/ Artipelag Konsthall] (eng. Artipelag Art Gallery, 165 SEK/Adult, Monday closed)</li>
<li>[http://www.bergianska.se/ Bergianska Trädgården] (eng. Bergius Botanic Garden, 80 SEK/Adult, 7/week)</li>
<li>[https://www.birkavikingastaden.se/ Birka Vikingstaden] (eng. Birka - The Viking City) - A visit includes a guided tour, a visit to the museum and a walk through the reconstucted urban quarter. (price depends on the place you're taking the boat from 290 SEK-545 SEK (?)) </li>
<li>[http://www.bonnierskonsthall.se/ Bonniers Konsthall] - Contemporary Swedish and international art (Youths under 26 Free, Regular price 100 SEK; Monday-Tuesday closed).</li>
<li>[http://www.eldhsatelje.se/index.php/se/#.WvqPPIiFOM8 Carl Eldhs Ateljémuseum] (eng. Carl Eldh Studio Museum) - collection of Carl's Eldh works (80SEK/Adult, is mainly open during summertime)</li>
<li>[http://www.dansmuseet.se/ Dansmuseet] (eng. Museum of Dance and Movement) - collection of costumes, objects associated with dance and theatre from around the world nad paintings (120SEK/Adult, Monday closed)</li>
<li>[https://royalpalaces.se/ Drottningsholms Slott] (eng. Drottningsholm Palace with The Chinese Pavilon) - the official home of the Swedish royal family (190SEK/Adult, 130 SEK without the Chinese Pavilion) </li>
<li>[https://dtm.se/ Drottningsholms Slottsteater] (eng. Court Theatre at Drottningholm, 100 SEK/Adult)</li>
<li>[https://www.edsvik.com/ Edsvik Konsthall] (eng. Edsvik Art Gallery, 100 SEK/Adult)</li>
<li>[http://www.varldskulturmuseerna.se/etnografiskamuseet/ Etnografiska Museet] (eng. Museum of Etnography, Free admission, Monday closed)</li>
<li>[https://fjarilshuset.se/ Fjärilshuset Haga Ocean] (eng. Butterfly House Haga Ocean, 165 SEK/Adult, 7/week)</li>
<li>[https://www.levandehistoria.se/ Forum För Levande Historia] (eng. Living History Forum) - a forum for democracy, human rights, tolerance with lessons to be learned from the history of Holocaust, crimes against humanity of communist regimes (Free admission).</li>
<li>[https://www.visitstockholm.com/sv/se--gora/sevardheter/fotografiska/ Fotografiska] (eng. Swedish Museum of Photography, 145 SEK)</li>
<li>[https://fargfabriken.se/sv/ Färgfabriken] (eng. Contemporary Art and Architecture, 70 SEK/Adult, open only during the exhibition)</li>
<li>[https://www.kungahuset.se/besokkungligaslotten/gripsholmsslott.4.19ae4931022afdcff3800013027.html Gripsholms Slott] (eng. Gripsholm Castle) - one of Sweden's eleven royal palaces, built by king Gustav Vasa (130 SEK/Adult)</li>
<li>[https://www.kungahuset.se/besokkungligaslotten/gustaviiispaviljong.4.19ae4931022afdcff3800012915.html Gustav III:s Paviljong] (eng. Gustav III's Pavilion, 100 SEK/Adult)</li>
<li>[https://www.kungahuset.se/besokkungligaslotten/hovstallet.4.19ae4931022afdcff3800011619.html H M Konungens Hovstall] (eng. Royal Stables) - collection of 19th century carriages. Guided tours only. (100 SEK/Adult)</li>
<li>[https://www.sfv.se/sv/fastigheter/sverige/stockholms-lan-ab/museer/haga-parkmuseum/ Haga Parkmuseum] - English park in Sweden</li>
<li>[http://hallwylskamuseet.se/sv Hallwylska Museet] - The museum features preserved rooms from the late Victorian period (Free admission)</li>
<li>[http://hamnmuseum.se/ Hamn Museum] - relieve the Battle of Stäket when Swedish forces repelled a Russian invasion in 1719 (80 SEK/Adult)</li>
<li>[https://www.hemvarnet.se/om-organisationen/hemvarnsforbanden/3674/3686 Hemvärnsmuseet] (eng. National Home Guard Museum) - military museum with numerous artefacts and hands-on exhibits.</li>
<li>[http://historiska.se/home/ Historiska Museet] (Free admission)</li>
<li>[http://judiskamuseet.se/ Judiska Museet] (eng. Jewish Museum)</li>
<li>[https://www.junibacken.se/ Junibacken] - activity for children, the world of Astrid Lindgren. (179 SEK/Adult) </li>
<li>[https://konstakademien.se/ Konstakademien] (eng. Royal Academy of Fine Arts)</li>
<li>[http://www.myntkabinettet.se/ Kungliga Myntkabinettet] (eng. Royal Coin Cabinet - National Museum of Economy) - closed untill 2019.</li>
<li>[https://theroyalpalace.se/ Kungliga Slottet] (eng. The Royal Palace with The State Regalia and Riddarholmen Church, 160 SEK/Adult)</li>
<li>[http://www.varldskulturmuseerna.se/medelhavsmuseet/ Medelhavsmuseet] (eng. Museum of Mediterranean and Near Eastern Antiquities, Free admission, Monday closed)</li>
<li>[https://medeltidsmuseet.stockholm.se/ Medeltidsmuseet] (eng. Museum of Medieval Stockholm, Free admission)</li>
<li>[https://www.millesgarden.se/ Millesgården] is an art museum and sculpture garden (150 SEK/Adult) </li>
<li>[https://www.modernamuseet.se/stockholm/sv/ Moderna Museet] (the Museum of Modern Art) - Museum for modern and contemporary art (Free admission)</li>
<li>[http://mkcentrum.se/ Mångkulturellt Centrum] (Multicultural Centre, Free Admission)</li>
<li>[https://www.nationalmuseum.se/ Nationalmuseum] - Swedish museum for art and design (closed untill October 2018)</li>
<li>[http://www.nrm.se/index.html Naturhistoriska Riksmuseet] (eng. Swedish Royal Museum of Natural History and Cosmonova, Free admission)</li>
<li>[http://nobelcenter.se/sv/ Nobelmuseet] (eng. Nobel Museum, 120 SEK,Tuesday 5-8pm free admission, Monday closed)</li>
<li>[https://www.nordiskamuseet.se/ Nordiska Museet] (eng. Nordic Museum) - get to know how people have lived in the Noric countries. (120SEK/Adult, free admission on Tuesdays 1–5pm september–may)</li>
<li>[https://kultur.norrtalje.se/web/arena Norrtälje Museum & Konsthall] (eng. Norrtälje Museum & Art Gallery, Free admission)</li>
<li>[http://olleolssonhagalund.se/ Olle Olsson Hagalund-Museet] (eng. Olle Olsson Hagalund Museum) - collection of Olle's Olsson paintings, drawings, art prints and designs for the theatre. (50 SEK/Adult)</li>
<li>[http://www.polismuseet.se/ Polismuseet] (eng. Swedish Police Museum, 60 SEK/Adult)</li>
<li>[http://www.postmuseum.se/ Postmuseum] (80 SEK/Adult, Monday closed)</li>
<li>[https://www.waldemarsudde.se/ Prins Eugens Waldemarsudde] (eng. Prince Eugen's Waldemarsudde, 150 SEK/Adult, Monday closed) - art museum and former home of Prince Eugen.</li>
<li>[https://pythagorasmuseum.se/ Pythagoras Industrimuseum] (eng. Pythagoras Industrial Museum) - living workshop with motors and machine, worker's home and garden. (80 SEK/Adult, Monday closed) </li>
<li>[http://www.riksidrottsmuseet.se/ Riksidrottsmuseet] (eng. Swedish Sports Museum, Free Admission, Monday closed)</li>
<li>[https://royalpalaces.se/ Resendals Slott] (eng. Rosendal Palace)</li>
<li>[https://scenkonstmuseet.se/ Scenkonstmuseet] (eng. Swedish Museum of Performing Arts, 140 SEK/Adult, Wednesdays Free Admission, Monday closed)</li>
<li>[http://www.scouterna.se/om-scouterna/vad-ar-scouterna/scouthistoria/arkiv-och-museum/ Scoutmuseet] (eng. Museum of Guiding and Scouting, Free admission)</li>
<li>[http://sigtunamuseum.se/ Sigtuna Museum] - the history of the oldest swedish town, Sigtuna (70 SEK/Adult, October-April Free Admission, Monday closed)</li>
<li>[https://www.sjohistoriska.se/ Sjöhistoriska Museet] (eng. Maritime Museum, Free Admission, Monday closed)</li>
<li>[http://www.skansen.se/sv/ Skansen] (eng. Skansen Open-Air Museum, 125 SEK/Adult)</li>
<li>[https://skoklostersslott.se/sv Skoklosters Slott] (eng. Skoklosters Slott, 80SEK) - baroque castle, collection of crafts, paintings and armoury</li>
<li>[https://www.snusochtandsticksmuseum.se/ Snus- & Tändsticksmuseum] (eng. Snus & Match Museum) - tobacco cultivation, manufacture and design. Matchboxes and labels (Free Admission for Skansen visitors)</li>
<li>[https://spritmuseum.se/ Spritmuseum] (eng. Museum of Spirits and The Absolut Art Collection) - exibitions about art and distilled drinks. (120 SEK/Adult)</li>
<li>[https://international.stockholm.se/the-city-hall/ Stadshuset] (eng. Stockholm City Hall, 80 SEK/Adult)</li>
<li>[https://stadsmuseet.stockholm.se/ Stadsmuseet] (eng. City Museum) - opens in November 2018</li>
<li>[http://stockholmslansmuseum.se/ Stockholms Läns Museum] (eng. Stockholm Country Museum)</li>
<li>[https://www.svenskakyrkan.se/stockholmsdomkyrkoforsamling Storkyrkan] (eng. Stockholm Cathedral, 60 SEK/Adult)</li>
<li>[https://www.strindbergsmuseet.se/ Strindbergsmuseet] (eng. Strindberg Museum and Home) - August Strindberg's last home (75 SEK/Adult, Monday closed)</li>
<li>[http://www.sven-harrys.se/sv/ Sven-Harrys Konstmuseum] (eng. Sven-Harry's Art Museum, Monday-Tuesday closed, 150SEK/Adult)</li>
<li>[https://www.tekniskamuseet.se/ Tekniska Museet] (eng. Museum of Science and Technology, 150 SEK, Wednesday 5-8pm Free admission)</li>
<li>[http://www.tenstakonsthall.se/ Tensta Konsthall] (eng. Tensta Art Gallery) - contemporary art, including lectures, camps and guided-tours.(Free admission)</li>
<li>[https://www.thielskagalleriet.se/ Thielska Galleriet] (eng. Thiel Gallery) - Nordic art (130 SEK, Monday closed)</li>
<li>[https://www.tomtit.se/ Tom Tits Experiment] (190SEK-225SEK, open all week)</li>
<li>[https://www.sodertalje.se/kultur-och-fritid/torekallberget/ Torekällberget] (eng. Torekällberget Open-Air Museum)</li>
<li>[http://www.tumbabruksmuseum.se/ Tumba Bruksmuseum] (eng. Tumba Paper Mill Museum) - daily demonstrations of paper making by hand. The history of banknote papermaking and the lives of the people living and working at the mill (Free admission) </li>
<li>[https://www.kungahuset.se/besokkungligaslotten/ulriksdalsslott.4.19ae4931022afdcff3800012894.html Ulriksdals Slott] (eng. Ulriksdals Palace, 120 SEK)</li>
<li>[https://www.vasamuseet.se/ Vasamuseet] (eng. Vasa Museum) - the warship Vasa which sank in 1628. 98% original with hundreds of sculptures (130 SEK/Adult).</li>
<li>[http://www.vaxholmsfastning.se/ Vaxholms Fästnings Museum] (eng. Vaxholm Fortress Museum) - history of the fortress and coastal defences.(80 SEK/Adult) </li>
<li>[http://www.vikingaliv.se/ Vikingaliv] is The Viking Musuem (149 SEK for Adults and 130 SEK for Students)</li>
<li>[http://www.abergsmuseum.se/ Åbergs museum] (eng. Åberg's museum, 80 SEK/Adult) - display of Disney items, collection of art. </li>
<li>[http://www.varldskulturmuseerna.se/ostasiatiskamuseet/ Östasiatiska Museet] (eng. Museum of Far Eastern Antiquities, Free Admission, Monday closed)</li>

</ul>

==Public Transportation (SL Ticket)==
Arriving to Stockholm to move around need to buy SL Ticket. It works for bus, metro, light rail, rail, tram and ferry. Use [https://sl.se/en/ sl.se] to find your way or SL app (app is more useful and you can buy tickets through it but it costs more). SL Card costs 20kr but having it the prices of single tickets are lower so it's definitely worth to get one.

'''Prices of tickets''' (last update May 2018)''':'''
<ol>
<li>Single ticket (75min) - 44 SEK; 31 SEK with SL Card</li>
<li>24 hours: 125 SEK</li>
<li>72 hours: 250 SEK</li>
<li>7 days: 325 SEK</li>
</ol>

'''To get a ticket with student discount you have to study in Sweden.''' Student card from other countries doesn't work. Neither ISIC.
You can buy tickets at the gates to metro, SL Center, all Pressbyrån (small shops, usually next to the metro station or at the metro station), by SMS (if you have swedish telefon number), SL app or at the ticket machines. '''Make sure that you have bought the ticket before entering to the bus, tram or ferry.''' You cannot buy them on board and they always check the tickets.

SL (Stockholm Lokaltrafik) is '''not''' UL (Upplands Lokaltrafik). For example for the train to Uppsala you need to pay extra.
During the night metro doesn't work. You need to take a bus then what is not the easiest, fastest and most comfortable way.

==How to get to Arlanda Airport?==
(Last update May 2018)

There are many transport possibilities to get to Arlanda.

<ol>
<li>'''Take the train no.41''' (Pendeltåg) from Stockholm City to Märsta. From Märsta take the buss no.583 to Arlanda Terminal 5. It takes about 1 hour and SL ticket works for it. During the winter time there might be problems with trains. Check the schedule [https://sl.se/sv/ here]</li>
<li>'''Take [https://www.flygbussarna.se/ Flygbuss]''' from Stockholm City/Liljeholmen/Kista/Sundbyberg or Bromma to Arlanda Airport. It takes 42/45min and costs 99SEK/person for Adult.</li>
<li>'''Take [https://www.arlandaexpress.se/ Arlanda Express]''' from Stockholm Centralstation to Arlanda. It takes 20min and costs 280SEK/person for Adult.</li>
</ol>

==How to get to Skavsta Airport?==
(Last update May 2018)
<ol>
<li>'''Take [https://www.flygbussarna.se/ Flygbuss]''' from Stockholm City to Skavsta Airport. It takes about 80min and costs 139SEK.</li>
<li>'''Take [https://www.sj.se/#/ SJ train]''' from Stockholm Centralstation to Nyköping C and from Nyköping C a buss to Skavsta Airport. The price changes dependently on day and and time and it can take from 1:30h up to 2h.</li>
</ol>

{{stub}}
[[hitch:Stockholm]]
[[trash:Stockholm]]

{{IsIn|Sweden}}
[[nomad:Stockholm]]

Berlin

2019-01-21T17:59:37Z

Iotrj: Reverted edits by Iotrj (talk) to last revision by Guaka

{{Germany}}
{{Berlin}}
{{TOCright|limit=1}}

== Background of this wiki ==
This Wiki is independent from Couchsurfing. It is related to all (formerly) uncommercial traveller websites; all these websites have a strong focus on the community between the members and aim to make real life meetings between persons that got to know in virtual reality. [http://www.globalfreeloaders.com Global Freeloaders], [http://www.hospitalityclub.org Hospitality Club], [http://www.couchsurfing.com Couchsurfing], [http://www.bewelcome.org BeWelcome]. The Couchwiki is also connected to hitch-hiking [http://www.hitchbase.com/orte.php?LANG=ger&l_id=73 Hitchbase] and [http://hitchwiki.org/en/Berlin HitchWiki]. The Wiki inside Couchsurfing is disabled, but other Wikis are still working [http://secure.hospitalityclub.org/hc/hcworld.php?city=3609 Hospitality Club], [http://www.bewelcome.org/groups/77/wiki BeWelcome].

== General information ==
Berlin is the capital of [[Germany]]. Berlin has a population of around 3,5 million people. It is estimated that annually 100 million people visit Berlin, of which roughly 10 million stay in a hotel, hostel, guesthouse, etc. Tourism is one of the pillars of the economy of the city.

Berlin has a relatively high unemployment rate. Around 12% of the people in Berlin is officially unemployed and almost 19% of the Berliner lives on social security benefits.

== Berlin's Couch Situation ==
To find the right host for you, please look on [https://www.couchsurfing.org/n/locals/in/place/69 Couchsurfing] or [http://www.bewelcome.org/searchmembers BeWelcome]

Berlin is a major Couchsurfing and BeWelcome city where there are events happening almost every day. Berlin is a favourite city to surf, especially around New Year's Eve and in summer. Since many people try to surf in Berlin, it can be hard to find a host. Make sure you have a filled out profile and a profile picture. Write personal requests. Hosts in Berlin are getting many copy-paste requests, so a personal one could make a difference. It's recommended to write your requests between 3 weeks and 5 days before arrival. Your chances increase if you have some references (from your local community, for example).

If you haven't found any host and still want to surf in Berlin, you can try the [https://www.couchsurfing.org/group.html?gid=7910 Last Minute Couchsearch Group] or the [http://www.bewelcome.org/groups/590 Berlin Emergency Host Group in BeWelcome]

==Stay in Berlin==
===Berlin Hostels and Guesthouses===
Hostels cost of €5 to €65 a night, depending on the season, location and type of room.

To find hostels and reviews, try these links:
*[http://www.berlin.de/hotels/adressen/hostel/ list of hostels (non-commercial)]
*[http://www.hostelworld.com/hostels/Berlin Hostelworld (commercial)]
*[http://www.hostelbookers.com/hostels/germany/berlin/ Hostelbookers (commercial)]
*[http://www.hostelz.com/hostels/Germany/Berlin Hostelz (commercial)]
*[http://www.hostels.com/berlin/germany Hostels.com (commercial)]

===Hostels and Hotels per district===

====Charlottenburg====
*[http://hotelindigoberlin.com/de/ Indigo Hotel Berlin Kurfürstendamm]

====Friedrichshain====
*[http://www.aohostels.com A&O Hostel Friedrichshain]

====Kreuzberg====
*[http://www.three-little-pigs.com/en/ Three Little Pigs Hostel]

====Lichtenberg====
====Marzahn-Hellersdorf====
====Mitte====
*[http://www.cityhostel-berlin.com/gb/default.aspx Cityhostel Berlin]
*[http://one80hostels.com/de/ One80 Hostel Berlin]
*[http://hiberlincenter.com/de/ Holiday Inn Hotel Alexanderplatz]
*[http://hotelindigoberlin.com/alex/de/ Indigo Hotel Berlin Alexanderplatz]
*[http://pangeapeople.de/de/ PangeaPeople Hostel & Hotel Berlin]

====Neukölln====
====Pankow (incl. Prenzlauer Berg)====
====Reinickendorf====
====Spandau====
*[http://www.hostel-spandau-in.berlin/ Hostel Spandau]

====Steglitz-Zehlendorf====
*[http://www.jh-wannsee.de/ DJH Jugendherberge Wannsee]

====Tempelhof-Schöneberg====
====Treptow-Köpenick====
====Wedding====
*[http://www.smarthostel-berlin.de/ Smarthostel Berlin]

If you want to stay for a longer period of time, read the [[Berlin#Settling_in_Berlin|information on settling]] at the bottom of this article.

== Getting Around ==
[[File:U-Bahn_S-Bahn_02_2013.png|400px|thumb|right|U-Bahn and S-Bahn lines of the inner city of Berlin, as of February 2013]]Public transportation generally goes almost everywhere in whole Berlin. Read more and plan a journey at the [http://www.bvg.de/index.php/en/index.html BVG Website].

=== Tickets ===
Tickets for public transport can be bought at every S- and U-Bahn station from machines, at ticket offices on the main stations. Daily tickets or tickets for short rides can be bought in buses and trams as well (vending machines in trams only accept coins, also often at stations). Tickets are valid for all ways of public transport within the chosen area (A, B and C), including interchanges between different transports.

==== Zones ====
* Zone A is central Berlin (inside circle line), Zone B everything else inside Berlin's city borders, Zone C is everything outside of Berlin (eg. Schönefeld Airport and Potsdam)
* There are no tickets for single zones, but for combinations AB, BC and ABC. For most trips inside Berlin, you'll need a '''Zone AB''' ticket, but '''ABC''' when arriving at Schönefeld Airport or planning to visit Potsdam.

==== Short term tickets ====
* '''Short trip fare''' (Kurzstrecke) is valid for either 3 stops with U- or S-Bahn (changes allowed), or 6 stops with tram or bus (changes '''not''' allowed). Costs €1.70
* '''Single tickets''' (Einzelfahrschein) is valid for 2 hours. Officially you can not travel back towards the station you started, so it's a one-way ticket. Costs €2.70 (AB), €3.00 (BC) or €3.30 (ABC).
* '''4-Trip-ticket''' (4-Fahrten-Karte) is the same as 4 single tickets, but slightly cheaper when bought in this way.
* '''Day ticket''' (Tageskarte) can be used for an entire calendar day, until 3:00am next day (note that day tickets in Berlin are '''not''' valid for 24 hours as in some other places, so don't buy in the evening!). Costs €7.00 (AB), €7.30 (BC) or €7.60 (ABC).
* '''Small group day ticket''' (Kleingruppen-Tageskarte) is a daily ticket for group of up to 5 persons. It pays itself back when traveling with 3 or more persons. Costs €17.30 (AB), €17.50 (BC) and €17.80 (ABC)

==== Long term tickets ====
* '''7-Day-ticket''' (7-Tage-Karte VBB-Umweltkarte) is valid for an entire week. With this ticket you can travel with an additional adult or 3 children between 8:00pm end 3:00am on weekdays, all day on Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays. Costs €30.00 (AB), €31.10 (BC) or €37.20 (ABC).
* '''Monthly ticket''' (Monatskarte VBB-Umweltkarte) is valid for an entire month. With this ticket you can travel with an additional adult or 3 children between 8:00pm end 3:00am on weekdays, all day on Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays. The ticket is transferable and some people offer their monthly ticket (or the part that's left) on the internet. Costs €81.00 (AB), €82.50 (BC) or €99.90 (ABC).
* '''10am Monthly ticket''' (10-Uhr-Karte) is a limited version of the monthly ticket. You can not take other people on the same ticket. Furthermore, you're only allowed to travel after 10:00am. Therefore the price is cheaper than the regular monthly ticket: €59.10 (AB), €60.20 (BC) or €62.50 (ABC).

==== Special tourist tickets ====
* '''Berlin WelcomeCard''' 24/48 hours, 4/5/6 days - Next to travelling, you can use this card to get discounts at touristic attractions, in restaurants and free entrance at some museums (with 3/5-day ticket). Can not be bought at ticket vending machines. [http://www.visitberlin.de/en/welcomecard Read more]
* '''Berlin CityTourCard''' 48/72 hours, 4/5/6 days - Next to travelling, this card provides some discount on some touristic attractions. This ticket can also be bought at ticket vending machines. [http://www.citytourcard.com/en Read more]

For more information on tickets and pricing: [http://www.bvg.de/index.php/en/17181/name/Fares+Overview.html BVG Tickets]

====Important information on public transportation tickets====

*Most of the tickets have to be validated (stamped) before use. If you forget, the fine is 60 Euro (same if you have no ticket)
*Except for Friday and Saturday night, all S-Bahn trains stop driving after approximately 1 o'clock
*Except for Friday and Saturday night, all U-Bahn trains are replaced by night buses (U1->N1; U2->N2; etc.)
*At some stations, people are selling tickets. Although they don't all look that bonafide, they resell tickets other people used. They should be still valid. If you are planning to buy those tickets, check if they are still valid. Also, it's officially forbidden to resell tickets, so you might be involved in a small crime by doing it.

=== From Airport to City ===
For the time being, Berlin has 2 major airports, 'Tegel' in the northwest and 'Schönefeld' in the southeast. They are well connected with public transport. Always make sure to check at which one you're arriving and leaving.

====Schönefeld Airport (SXF)====
[http://www.berlin-airport.de/en/travellers-sxf/to-and-from/buses-and-trains/local-public-transport/index.php transport information]

* Schönefeld Airport is directly connected with S-Bahn. Line '''S9''' connects the airport with the eastern and northern part of the city (for the center, change at Ostkreuz). Line '''S45''' connects the airport with the southern part of the inner-city. Both lines pass stations located on the S-Bahn circular railway (Ringbahn), which makes it easy to travel to other parts of the city, changing trains just once.
* Express trains '''RE7''' and '''RB14''' bring you quickly into central locations (stopping at Ostbahnhof, Alexanderplatz, Friedrichstraße, Hauptbahnhof and Zoologischer Garten), the ticket and price is the same as S-Bahn.
* There are also buses '''X7''' and 107 that connect you to '''U7''' stop Rudow, which will be easier to get to some locations.
* If you are stuck there late at night or have to be there extremely early, there's bus N7 from Schönefeld and then following the U7 line all the way to Spandau.

''Ticket:'' from Schönefeld Airport, you'll need a "Zone ABC" ticket to get to anywhere in Berlin (the ticket is valid also when changing to other S-Bahn trains, U-Bahn, Trams or Buses)

====Tegel Airport (TXL)====
[http://www.berlin-airport.de/en/travellers-txl/to-and-from/buses-and-trains/local-public-transport/index.php transport information]

Tegel Airport is accessible by bus. There are 2 express buses:
* Bus '''X9''' between Tegel and 'S+U Zoologischer Garten' (for western Berlin), or change at 'S+U Jungfernheide' to S-Bahn circle line or U7.
* Bus '''TXL''' between Tegel and 'Hauptbahnhof' (main train station) and 'S+U Alexanderplatz' (for central and eastern Berlin). Best change at Hauptbahnhof to S-Bahn, the route to Alexanderplatz is slow.
* There are also 2 normal bus lines: '''128''' in the direction of 'U Osloer Straße' and '''109''' in the direction of 'S+U Zoologischer Garten'.

''Ticket:'' from Tegel Airport, you'll need a "Zone AB" ticket to get to anywhere in Berlin (ticket is valid for the Bus and changes to S-Bahn trains, U-Bahn, Trams)

'''Taxi'''

Expected price for a [[Berlin#Taxi|taxi-ride]] from/to the airports is between €20,00 and €35,00, depending on the start/destination location.

=== Public Transportation network ===
==== Underground / U-Bahn ====
The subway/underground in Berlin is called the U-Bahn. The U-Bahn is efficient and reliable and it covers the major areas of the city.

Most U-Bahn trains drive frequent, every 5 or 10 minutes. In the late evening and night the frequency can be reduced to one train every 15 or 20 minutes. Except for Friday- and Saturday night, the U-Bahn stops working after approximately 1:00h. All lines are then replaced by night buses, which drive every 30 minutes and follow the same route as the U-Bahn (some minor exceptions).

==== Stadtbahn / S-Bahn ====
The suburban "rapid transit" network is the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Berlin_S-Bahn S-Bahn]. The main lines in the center consist of a circle line (Ringbahn, S41 clockwise, S42 counterclockwise) and the central branches from east (Ostkreuz) to west (Westkreuz) and from north (Gesundbrunnen) to south (Südkreuz), going through all the imporant central train stations (Zoologischer Garten, Hauptbahnof, Friedrichstraße, Alexanderplatz, Ostbahnhof). It connects with the U-Bahn network in many locations. The basic differences to U-Bahn (which won't matter for you in most situations) is that it's run by the German Railway company (DB) and not by the city of Berlin (BVG), and that it goes to some more remote places outside of Berlin. Tickets are always valid for both networks including Trams/Buses

====Tram (Straßenbahn/Metro)====
The tram in Berlin is called Straßenbahn (street train), or sometimes Metrotram. The tram network especially is big in the eastern part of town. The trams drive in the 'gaps' of the U- and S-Bahn net, while crossing many of their stations on the way.

====Buses====
Buses normally drive in the 'gaps' of the U- and S-Bahn net. Most people only take buses if they have to go to area's that are on the outskirts of town.
The exceptions are bus lines '''100''' and '''200'''. These bus lines are well known for the ''touristic'' route they are following. It crosses several points of interest, and therefore used by many tourists as a cheap alternative for the sightseeing buses.

=== Taxi ===

There are fixed prices for taxi's in Berlin. There's no difference between day- and night prices. The prices are calculated as follows:
*Basic price: €3,20
*Per kilometre (first 7): €1,65
*Per kilometre (after 7): €1,28

You'll pay additional if:
*''you're travelling more than 4 persons: €1,50 per extra person''
*''the taxi has to wait for you: €25,00 per hour''
*''you have big luggage: €1,00''
*''you are paying with credit card: €1,50''
*''you are coming from Tegel Airport: €0,50''
'''The common taxi companies:'''
*[http://www.taxi-berlin.de Taxi Berlin] (+49 30) 20 20 20
*[http://www.taxifunkberlin.de Taxi Funk Berlin] (+49 30) 44 33 22
*[http://www.funk-taxi-berlin.de Funk Taxi Berlin] (+49 30)26 10 26

===Bicycle===
Berlin is relatively easy for cycling and visiting Berlin by bicycle is a great option in Summer, especially for not-so-central locations like Tempelhofer Feld, Sowjetisches Ehrenmal etc. Advantages are that Berlin is 99% flat and there are many roads with separate bike paths. Disadvantages are that you can be surprised by the distances, very cold winters (cycling when there is snow gets to hardly possible as mostly bicycle paths are not cleared well), sometimes strong winds, and you should always be very careful to watch for cars and traffic even if you have the way of right (most accidents happen with cars/trucks turning right and not seeing you approaching on the bike lane).

If you're lucky, you can borrow a bike for free through [http://bikesurfberlin.blogspot.de BikeSurfBerlin] and [http://www.bewelcome.org/groups/1021 BikeSurfBerlin Group in Bewelcome].<br/>
Otherwise there are a lot of places to rent bicycles. The rental prices are unfortunately quite steep, often around 10€ per day (cheaper when renting for several days). Here's a list of all known bike-renting places, sorted [http://www.adfc-berlin.de/service/adfc-branchenbuch/fahrradverleih/fahrradverleiher-von-a-z.html alphabetically] or by [http://www.adfc-berlin.de/service/adfc-branchenbuch/fahrradverleih/fahrradverleiher-im-bezirk.html district]

== Nightlife, Dining and Entertainment ==



===Main Nightlife Areas===

The main nightlife areas of Berlin are:
*Warschauer Straße and Simon Dach Straße - pubs and clubs
*Oranienburger Tor/Oranienburger Straße - pubs and restuarants
*Kreuzberg around [[File:U1.png]]Kottbusser Tor, [[File:U1.png]]Görlitzer Bahnhof and [[File:U1.png]]Schlesisches Tor - pubs, restaurants, music stages
*Schönhauser Allee and direct surrounding - pubs, restaurants, clubs

===Magazines and Event listings===
The following websites can help bring you up to speed on the local club scene, nightlife, concerts, festivals and shows:
*[http://www.blitzgigs.de/ Blitzgigs] (English)
*[http://www.exberliner.com/ Exberliner] (English)
*[http://www.zitty.de/ Zitty] (German)
*[http://www.top10berlin.de/ Top 10 Berlin] (German)
*[http://www.bln.fm/category/termine/ BLN FM] (German)
*[http://www.nachtagenten.de/events/ Nachtagenten] (German)
*[http://www.tip-berlin.de/ Tip Berlin] (German)
*[http://www.berlin030.de/ (030) MAGAZINE] (German)
*[http://stressfaktor.squat.net/ Squats, Punk, Hardocre, Voküs] (German)
*[http://www.livegigs.de/berlin/#konzerte Livegigs Berlin] (German)
*[http://www.residentadvisor.net/events.aspx?ai=34 Resident Advisor listings] (English)

===Bars===
Some favourite local haunts include:

===Breweries and Beer===

'''Breweries'''

*[http://eschenbräu.de/ Eschenbräu] Craft brewery with 3 differnt beers on tap. Usually one is seasonal. They also distill their own Schnaps and Whiskey. You can bring your own food. Nice beergarden in summer
*[http://www.brauhaus-lemke.com/index.php/home Lemke Hackescher Markt] A bit touristy place. Decent German food. Good beer. Not the cheapest. There are three "Lemkes" all over the city.
*[http://www.schoppebraeu.de/ Schoppe Bräu/Brauhaus Südstern] Big and with a nice beer garden. They claim to have the strongest beer in Berlin.
*[http://vagabundbrauerei.com/ Vagabund Brauerei] Small brewery run by 3 Americans, mostly American style craft brews and bottled beers.
*[http://heidenpeters.de/more.html Heidepeters] Stand in the Markthalle9 in Kreuzberg, very good, very special beers on tap.
*[http://www.hopsandbarley-berlin.de/index.html Hops&Barley] Located in the a cool party area in Friedrichshain.
*[http://www.brauhaus-rixdorf.de/ Brauhaus Rixdorf] Neukolln-based brewery.

;'''Beershops'''
:Of course you can get beer at every Späti, but there some nice litte shops in the city where you can get the quality stuff....

*[http://hopfenmalz.de/ Hopfen und Malz] Huge Selection of beers. Mostly from Frankonia. But also American IPAs or Belgian brews.
*[http://www.weiss-blau-berlin.de/ Weiss Blau ] Bavarian Beers and specalities.
*[http://www.ambrosetti.de/ Ambrosetti] Huge verty of beers.
*[http://www.berlinbiershop.com/ Berlin Beer Shop] Mostly IPA and Belgium beers but also A LOT of good wine.
*[http://absinth-berlin.de/ladenenglish.html Absinth Depoth] Some Bavarian beers and the BEST collection of Absinth in Berlin.
*[http://www.getraenkefeinkost.de/filiale/berlin/ Getränkefeinkost] Good selection of German craft beers, IPAs, Belgian beers etc. in the heart of Friedrichshain

'''Beergardens'''
A selection of some more central located beergardens:
*[http://www.pratergarten.de/e/ Prater Garten] - The oldest 'Biergarten' of Berlin, located in Prenzlauer Berg
*[http://www.schoenbrunn.net/ Schoenbrunn] in Friedrichshain
*Bierhof Rüdersdorf - in Friedrichshain, next to Berghain
*Burg am See - in Kreuzberg
*[http://www.brachvogel-berlin.de/bv/ Brachvogel] - in Kreuzberg
*[http://www.cafe-am-neuen-see.de/ Cafe am neuen See] - in Charlottenburg, next to Tiergarten
*[http://www.schleusenkrug.de/ Der Schleusenkrug] - in Charlottenburg, also close to Tiergarten
*[http://schoenbrunn.net/ Restaurant Schönbrunn] - in Friedrichshain, Volkspark
*[http://www.doldenmaedel.de/ Dolden Mädel] - Kreuzberg, next to Bergmannstr. - expensive, but they have a huge selection of craft beers (usually 15-20 different ones on tap + many more in bottles)

===Clubs===
Berlin is well known for its clubs. There are numerous of them, with a wide range of music style, atmosphere and exclusivity. Some of the most famous ones:
*Berghain - on the border of Kreuzberg and Friedrichshain, hence the name. Known for rejecting people, long waiting cues and crazy parties.
*Cassiopaia
*Kater Holzig
*Yaam
*White Trash
*Matrix
*Watergate
You can find many, many [http://www.berlin.de/international/clubs/index.en.php more clubs].

===Restaurants===
There are hundreds of restaurants in Berlin. In most districts you'll find typical restaurants with foreign food, mostly Turkish, Asian and Arabic. Meals that are often consumed are Döner and Falafel. Both meals cost between €2,00 and €4,00 depending on district and quality.

On several places you can find the typical Berlin Currywurst (curry sausage)

[[Restaurants in Berlin]]

===Seasonal events===
The following events are reoccurring every year. They are listed chronologically:
====Berlinale====
In the first weeks of February, every movie loving person in the world is looking at Berlin. During the Berlinale, movies are awarded, celebrities are visiting the city and all cinemas in the city are showing quality movies. [http://www.berlinale.de/en/HomePage.html Official website] of the Berlinale.

====Karneval der Kulturen====
During the weekend of Ascension Day (end of May, beginning of June), the city explodes and everyone can be found on the streets to celebrate the carnival of cultures. Main event is the parade where different cultural groups perform, show dances or make music. Around it, everyone enjoys the spring weather and party until morning. [http://www.karneval-berlin.de/de/english.175.html Official website] of Karnaval der Kulturen.

====Fête de la Musique====
The worldwide international music day, initiated by the French minister of culture in 1981 and since 1995 a yearly day where music is celebrated. Concerts all over town. [http://www.fetedelamusique.de/en/ Official website] of Fête de la Musique.

==Sports, Activities and the Great Outdoors==
===Parks===
Berlin is said to be the greenest capital of Europe. There are many big parks, and many more small green areas. All parks have their own charms and every season they look different. In spring and summer, when the temperatures reach 20 degrees Celsius or more, you will see many people visiting parks to walk, run, cycle, play outdoor games and most of all sunbathing with a beer!

===Lakes===
In and around Berlin one can find many lakes. In most of them you could swim at your own risk, but it may not always be allowed.
*Wannsee (South West)
*Tegeler See (North West)
*Weißensee (North East)
*Müggelsee (South East)

===Outdoor sports===
Tempelhofer Feld is a great place to practice outdoor sports like kiting, rollerskating, biking or running. The former airport is the biggest open flat area of Berlin, located centrally, and provided with good asphalt roads through and around the field.

===Climbing===
*[http://www.magicmountain.de/ Magic Mountain] - Gesundbrunnen
*[http://www.bertablock.de/ Berta Block] - Pankow
*[http://www.ostbloc.de/ Ostbloc] - Ostkreuz
*[http://www.derkegel.de/ Der Kegel] - Warschauer Straße
*[http://www.diekletterhalle.de/ T-Hall Berlin] - Neukölln

===Other sports===
[http://www.pingpongmap.net/ Ping pong map] - hundreds of locations to play ping pong, both indoors and outdoors.

==Learning German==
There are lots of language exchange options available in Berlin from one on one meetups to clubs that meet regularly in person to social networks available online at your convenience. Here are some of your options:
===Free online courses===
*[http://www.dw.de/learn-german/s-2469 Deutsche Welle] is actually a news website, but offers some courses and tests online. The best feature: slowly spoken news in German with transcript.
*[http://www.goethe.de/lrn/duw/lad/deindex.htm?wt_sc=lernabenteuer App for iPhone or Android] from Goethe Institut
*[http://online-lernen.levrai.de/ Website] with all background information on the German language
*[http://www.goethe.de/lrn/duw/auf/stb/enindex.htm Exercises] from the Goethe Institut
*[http://www.deutsch-perfekt.com/deutsch-lernen Exercises] from Deutsch Perfekt
*[http://www.deutschakademie.de/online-deutschkurs/ Test] from Deutsch Akademie
*[http://www.goethe.de/lrn/lks/enindex.htm Links from the Goethe Institut] to very useful websites
*[http://www.nachrichtenleicht.de Nachrichten Leicht] German news written in easy German. Includes audio read in slow German.

===For one on one / tandem===
*[http://www.sprachenzentrum.fu-berlin.de/slz/tandem/index.html Tandem program] of the Freie Universität
*[https://www.international.hu-berlin.de/an_die_hu-en/studierende/orbis/sprachboerse Language exchange market of the Humbolt University]

===Groups that meet regularly===
[[File:Gaudy_exchange.png|200px|thumb|left‎|Gaudy Exchange]]St. Gaudy Cafe weekly language exchange
*http://www.gaudycafe.com/
*Gaudystraße 1
*[[File:U2.png]]Schönhauser Allee

===Language exchange social networks===
*[http://livemocha.com/ Live Mocha] - community of language learners that help each other

===Paid language courses===
*[http://www.berlin.de/vhs/ Volkshochschule] (probably the cheapest one, with bigger classes)
*http://www.cosmopolilingua.de (Private one to one and small group classes, individual and intense)
*http://www.speakeasy-sprachzeug.com/en/
*http://www.hartnackschule-berlin.de
*http://www.transmitter-berlin.de
*http://www.die-deutschule.de
*http://www.sprachenatelier-berlin.de
*http://www.deutschakademie.de
*http://kapitel-zwei.de/en
*http://www.deutsch-in-berlin.de
*http://www.goethe.de/lrn/enindex.htm
*https://smartergerman.com/ - Private intense lessons, including an option to get to b1 level (Goethe Institute) in 45 - 60 days

== Sightseeing ==
Berlin is extremely easy to get around by [[Berlin#Getting_Around|public transport]]. You can easily visit several locations on one day.

=== Typical touristic attractions ===
[[File:20c_German.jpg|100px|thumb|left|Brandenburger Tor on German euro-coins]]
==== Brandenburger Tor ====
The Brandenburger Tor ([http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brandenburger_gate Brandenburger gate]) is one of the most famous buildings of both Berlin and Germany. It has been build as a city gate, but is now known as a symbol of the reunion of Germany.

==== Reichstagsgebäude ====
The [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Reichstag_%28building%29 Reichstag building] is the former and present building for the German parliament. The burning of the building in 1933 was the direct cause of Hitler taking over all power. The building was not in use as a parliament between 1933 and 1999.
[[File:Fernsehturm_Berlin2.jpg|100px|thumb|left|Fernsehturm (TV-tower)]]
==== Fernsehturm ====
The 368 metres high TV-tower near Alexanderplatz that can be seen everywhere in the city. You can go up in the tower and look back at the city. Entrance fee is €12 for adults. There is a possibility to have diner in the rotating restaurant, but you have to make reservations. For more info, visit [http://www.tv-turm.de/en/index.php].

==== Museuminsel ====
Island in the city center with many museums, mostly classical and historical art and artifacts.
==== Eastside Gallery ====
1,5 kilometre long gallery of painted pieces of the Berlin Wall.
==== Checkpoint Charlie ====
The famous checkpoint where diplomats could cross the border with the DDR.
==== Gedenkstätte Berliner Mauer ====
History of the Berlin Wall, with a real life simulation of the Berlin Wall and a watchtower.
==== Gendarmenmarkt ====
Square with 2 symmetrical churches (French and German) facing each other.
==== Berliner Dom ====
Protestant cathedral
==== Nikolaiviertel ====
Origin of Berlin. Lots of old buildings, including the Nikolai-church, mixed with renovated buildings and typical DDR/communistic architecture.
==== Siegessäule ====
Victory column, built after the victories in the wars against Denmark, Austria and France in the late 19th century.

=== Less touristic attractions ===
==== Sowjetisches Ehrenmal ====
Huge and impressive memorial for the Soviet soldiers that died during World War II. Year round impressive, but extra special are the 23rd of February (day of the Red Army), 9th of May (Capitulation of Germany) and in autumn when the trees around the memorial turn red.
==== Tempelhof ====
Huge former airfield. Built in the 1920's, extended by Nazi-Germany and used to provide West-Berlin during the Cold War. The airport closed in 2008 and was opened as a park in 2010. Over the last years, people started to fill parts of the area with small gardens.

A new video published April 2014 that really shows the vibe of Templehof!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zuh1v5qwjNU#t=53

==== Teufelsberg ====
In south-western Berlin you can find an old American listening station, built upon a man made 'mountain' out of rubbish from World War II. From the station, there's a great view over the city and the dome/ball on top of the station provides a great acoustic. Since 2012, all holes in the fences are repaired and a security guy asks €7 as an entree fee. In the weekends a [http://www.berlinsightout.de/ guided tour] is possible for €15.
==== Waterfall in Viktoriapark ====
==== Eisfabrik ====
==== Pfaueninsel ====
==== Spreepark ====
Abandoned theme park in Plänterwald. Main attractions are a big ferry wheel, decorative dinosaurs and a roller coaster. Please note that entering the park is officially not allowed.
==== Olympic Stadium ====
Built in the 30's under Nazi-regime, it hosted the famous Olympic Summer Games of 1936 and was subject of Leni Riefenstahl's movie 'Olympia'. You can either walk around it, or get a [http://www.olympiastadion-berlin.de/en/stadium-visitor-centre/viewing-and-guided-tours.html guided tour]. If you are more interested, a visit to the [http://dkb-stiftung.de/web/Das_Olympische_Dorf_von_1936.32.htm Olympic Village] could be a nice addition.

==== Berliner Unterwelten ====
Visit an underground peoples bunker or the anti-aircraft towers in Volkspark Humboldthain. Tours organized by [http://berliner-unterwelten.de/home.1.1.html Berliner Unterwelten e.V.]. Entrance at U-bahnhof Gesundbrunnen. The plateau of the 'Flakturmen' with a nice view of northern Berlin can be accessed for free via the park (also accessible for wheelchairs).

=== Museums ===
If you're planning to visit many museums during your stay in Berlin, you might want to buy the '''[http://www.museumsportal-berlin.de/en/plan-your-visit/all-about-admission-fees/everything-three-days/ Museum pass]'''. It costs €19, can be bought at any participating museum and is valid for 3 days.

If you want to see both city and museums, and you're not sure how many museums you'll be visiting, you might be interested in the [[Berlin#Special_tickets|Berlin Welcome Card]] which gives you discount on museums and free use of public transport.
*[http://www.dhm.de Deutsches Historisches Museum] - German history
*[http://www.smb.museum/smb/standorte/index.php?objID=24&p=2 Altes Museum] - Ancient and classical art and artifacts
*[http://www.smb.museum/smb/standorte/index.php?p=2&objID=27&n=15 Pergamommuseum] - Ancient art and artifacts
*[http://www.mauermuseum.de Haus am Checkpoint Charlie] - Berlin Wall
*[http://www.smb.museum/smb/sammlungen/details.php?objectId=17 Alte Nationalgalerie] - 19th century sculptures and paintings
*[http://www.neues-museum.de/ Neues Museum] - Prehistory, early history, Egyptian and other classical artifacts
*[http://www.smb.museum/smb/standorte/index.php?lang=en&p=2&objID=28&n=3 Bode-Museum] Byzantine art and sculptures
*Museum für Naturkunde
*Hamburger Bahnhof Museum
*Jüdisches Museum
*Gedenkstätte Berliner Mauer
*Topographie des Terrors
*DDR-Museum
*Story of Berlin

=== Religious buildings ===

=== Flea markets and other famous markets ===
Berlin is well known for its flea markets. There are several weekly flea markets. The most famous ones:

'''Mauerpark'''<br />
The most famous flea market of Berlin, close to [[File:U2.png]]Eberswalderstraße. Has a lot of 2nd hand stalls, mixed with creative people that make jewelry, paintings, photos/cards, wallets and other stuff themselves. When the weather is right, there's a huge karaoke in the park next to the flea market. Can be very crowded, especially in spring and summer.
*[http://www.mauerparkmarkt.de/ Website]
*Bernauer Straße 63
*Sunday 7:00-17:00h

'''Boxhagener Platz'''<br />
Easy to oversee, since all stands are built around the Boxhagener square. You can take a rest on the square itself, or make a round in approximately an hour. Especially known for its records, books and posters. Other stands sell furniture and objects, but not so many clothes.
*Boxhagener Platz 1
*Sunday 10:00-18:00h

'''Schöneberg'''

'''Arkonaplatz'''

'''Straße des 17. Juni'''

'''Ostbahnhof'''

'''OBI Neukölln'''

=== Vegetable and Food Markets ===
'''Türkischer Markt am Maybachufer'''<br />
Twice weekly (Tuesdays and Fridays) from 11am. This is one of the biggest weekly markets in Berlin. Fruit and vegetables are considerably cheaper than most supermarkets, including Aldi and Lidl. Also you can find many other foods items and a mixed range of household items.

'''Boxhagener Platz'''<br />
Food market on Saturdays 10:00-18:00h on Boxhagener Platz

'''Markthalle Neun'''<br />
[http://markthalleneun.de/markets?lang=en Food market] in a historic market hall:<br />
* Tuesdays 12:00-20:00h (small)
* Fridays 12:00-20:00h (big)
* Saturdays 10:00-18:00h (big)
* International Street Food Thursdays 17:00-22:00h (popular, often extremely crowded)

== Travelling from Berlin ==
Apart from the 2 airports, several (international) trains and busses arrive at and leave from Berlin.
===Trains===
Most '''international trains''' arrive at and depart from Berlin Hauptbahnhof (main railway station).
*to the Netherlands (Berlin-Schiphol)
*to Poland (Berlin-Warsaw/Gdansk/Wrocław Główny)
*to Switzerland (Berlin-Basel)
*to Denmark (Berlin-Copenhagen/Arhus)
*to the Czech Republic (Berlin-Prague)
To find the best connections, or for booking tickets, you can check out the website of the [[http://www.bahn.de/i/view/GBR/en/index.shtml German Railway]]. Booking tickets on forehand can make a huge difference in price.

'''(inter)regional trains''' depart from every major station, such as Alexanderplatz, Ostbahnhof, Spandau and Sudkreuz. There's a difference between regional trains ('''RB''' (Regionalbahn) and'''RE''' (Regionalexpress)) and inter-regional trains ('''IC''' (Intercity) and '''ICE''' (Intercity Express)). The IC's and ICE's drive much faster and over a long distance, mostly to other big cities in Germany. The RB and RE only drive short distances and stop at many smaller stations on the way.

===Buses===
The main bus station for international and inter-regional bus lines is '''ZOB''' ("Zentraler Omnibus-Bahnhof") in western Berlin. It is near S-Bahn station "Messe Nord/ICC" (Circle lines S41/S42) and [[File:U2.png]] station "Kaiserdamm".
Depending on the line and destination, some international/inter-regional buses may also stop at one of these places:
* Ostbahnhof Bus Station (eastern side of the city, at S-Bahn Ostbahnhof)
* Südkreuz station - many buses to/from Poland and Czech Republic stop here (S2, S25, S41, S42, S45, S46, and some mainline trains)
* Hauptbahnhof (main train station) - buses run by DB (German railway) stop here
* Schönefeld Airport (near the terminals) - some buses to/from Poland and Czech Republic stop here

Try [https://www.busliniensuche.de/ BusLinienSuche] for finding buses to various places.

====International Buses====
Some major bus lines that will bring you abroad are:
*[http://www.eurolines.com/en/ Eurolines] - to almost any place in Europe
*[http://ecolines.net/en/ Ecolines] - Poland, Russia, Lithuania, Estonia, Latvia, Belarus, Ukraine
*[http://eclubreisen.de Eclubreisen] - to Ukraine

====Inter-regional buses====
*[https://www.berlinlinienbus.de/index.php?lang=en BerlinLinienBus]
*[http://www.eurolines.de/index.php?id=14&L=1 Eurolines]

===Car===
====Car sharing====
It's easy to find car sharing online. Cars travel from every city to every city. You can find rides or travellers at [http://www.mitfahrgelegenheit.de Mitfahrgelegenheit.de] or [http://www.mitfahrzentrale.de Mitfahrzentrale.de]. There's a great, cheaper alternative to Mitfahrgelegenheit: [http://www.blablacar.de/ BLAH BLAH CAR]
and on CouchSurfing
[https://www.couchsurfing.org/group.html?gid=10289 Group 1]
[https://www.couchsurfing.org/group.html?gid=17463 Group 2]
[https://www.couchsurfing.org/group.html?gid=2920 Group 3]

====Hitchhiking====

Naturally, [[:hitch:Berlin|Hitchwiki]] has the best and most up-to-date resources about thumbing your way out of Berlin. The old fashioned and not-updated any more [http://www.hitchbase.com/orte.php?LANG=ger&l_id=73 Hitchbase] might be an alternative in some cases.

==Settling in Berlin==
If you are planning to stay in Berlin for a longer time, the main concerns will be housing, visa (if necessary), work, health insurance and the necessary bureaucracy. Please note that all information written here are rough guidelines and tips and might be outdated or incomplete.
Be aware that you might get trapped in a vicious circle: to register yourself in Berlin you need an address, to find housing you need work and for work you need to be registered.

===Housing===
Some websites that can be used if you're looking for flat-share(WG)/renting a flat in Berlin:
*[http://www.wg-gesucht.de/en/ WG-Gesucht.de (German/English)] The most used website to search for accomodation/house mates
*[http://www.studenten-wg.de Studenten-wg.de (German)] Another website to find WG's
*[http://www.immobilo.de/mieten/berlin Immobilo.de (German)] Searches multiple websites that lists accomodations.
*[http://www.immobilienscout24.de/Suche/S-T/WG-Zimmer/Berlin/Berlin Immobilienscout24 (German)] For apartments, less used for flatsharing.
*[http://www.wgcompany.de/cgi-bin/seite?st=1&mi=10&li=100 WGcompany (English)] Has a glossary in english with all important terms. Used for flatsharing.
*[http://kleinanzeigen.ebay.de/anzeigen/s-immobilien/berlin/c195l3331 E-bay Kleinanzeigen (German)] Germans offer everything on E-bay.
*[http://berlin.en.craigslist.de/hhh/ Craigslist (English)] Not all very reliable, but sometimes it contains a hidden treasure.
*[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group.html?gid=19711/ CouchSurfing Group 1 (English)] Find local CSers looking for flatmates, available sublets, etc.
*[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group.html?gid=9251/ CouchSurfing Group 2 (English)] Find local CSers looking for flatmates, available sublets, etc.
*[http://www.toytowngermany.com/forum/index.php?showforum=84/ ToyTown (English)] Expat community.
*[https://www.facebook.com/groups/easy.wg/ A Facebook Group (English/German)] A good group to find housing.
*[http://www.bewelcome.org/groups/1437 BW Accommodation group] or [https://www.couchsurfing.org/group.html?gid=19711 CS Accommodation group].
*[http://www.studentenwerk-berlin.de/wohnen/woanders_wohnen/berliner_wbgs/ Berlin Apartment Corporations (German)]
*[http://www.studentenwerk-berlin.de/wohnen/woanders_wohnen/wohnraumboerse_berlin/index.html Flat Search of Studentenwerk (German)]
*[http://www.wbm.de/wbm/cms/de/wohnen/Mietwohnungen.html WBM another corporation that builds flats]
*[https://www.dreamflat.co.uk/ Dreamflat]
*[https://www.wg-cast.de/ WG-Cast]
*[http://www.airbnb.de AirBnB Apartments, Flats and Rooms for rent]

===Buying used items===
Berlin is a hot spot for exchanging/selling/buying used items. You can find many things for sale or even for free:
*[http://kleinanzeigen.ebay.de/anzeigen/s-immobilien/berlin/c195l3331 E-bay Kleinanzeigen (German)] Germans offer everything on E-bay.
*[http://berlin.en.craigslist.de/hhh/ Craigslist (English)] Good place for all sorts of items, including bikes.
*[https://www.facebook.com/groups/freeyourstuff/ A Facebook Group (English)] People offering things for FREE only.

===VISA===
General information on getting a visa for Germany can be found [http://4dayvisa.tumblr.com/ here]
====VISA Office====
[http://www.berlin.de/labo/auslaender/dienststelle/index.html Ausländerbehörde (ABH)]
[http://osm.org/go/0MZv6kuHu-- MAP]

Schedule an appointment ahead of time. The waiting times are not that bad, but it's always best to have an appointment.<br>
They really don't speak English consistently so just be prepared. Bring someone with you if at all possible. Have everything you need when you go. They don't answer emails for nearly 1 month so don't bother there. You can call and ask questions, but have someone call for you who speaks German and then you might get answers.

====Freelance VISA and Artist VISA====
(This is written from a US citizen. Different rules may apply to you, although they may be similar).
These are 2 different things. I obtained my Artist's visa while I was waiting for my Freelance visa to be approved (this will take 6-10 weeks). The Artist's visa does not allow you to work. The Freelance one does (you can list more than one profession on this visa).

====List of things that you need====
* Completed Form (http://www.berlin.de/formularserver/formular.php?72301)
* Letter stating your intentions, how you plan to support yourself, everthing you can think of
* CV
* Passport Copy
* 2 Biometric Photo (not smiling... these can be done in the bottom level of the office... leave an extra 10 minutes for this).
* Bank Statement (proving that you can support yourself without working)
* All Certificates
* All Diplomas
* All Transcripts
* Health Insurance (GERMAN) Proof and all documents
* German Address Registration (do NOT show up without this. You will be turned away. You must register your address)
* References
* €50 in cash (sometimes this is more)
* Artist portfolio (this must be hard copies of your work)
* Letter from 2 prospective employers (I fought this, but it's technically required and you should have it)

===Registering in Germany/Berlin - Bürgeramt===
'''Registering your address'''
Fill out page 3 of [https://docs.google.com/file/d/1RBnLXCEqJ-le6hyQSsyvQ2_0u7Uo7tF-tG4lUc76EPDL6r-8O6ipxGPkZt2-/edit this form] and then go to register.<br />
You must register your address within 2 weeks of coming to Germany and before you can do anything really.<br />
You need to either have a rental agreement or have the main renter to sign the paper or write a letter for you.<br />
[http://www.buergeramt.info/berlin.htm A list] of all the places you can go to register. You don't need to register in your own district.

===Health insurance===
In Germany you need to have a health insurance by law. It can be very expensive. The easiest way to become insured is to have a job. If you're an employee, the insurance is withhold from your loan (15,5%) automatically, and you can enter the 'Gesetzliche Krankenkasse' (insurance by law), where a broad variety of treatments is covered. If you earn more than €52.200 a year, or you are not an employee, you'd have to sign up for a private health insurance, which have a fixed price per month (starting at €130).

A list with [http://www.gesetzlichekrankenkassen.de/preise/berlin/berlin.html 'Gesetzliche' insurances].

Some private health insurances can be found at:
* [http://www.deutscheinsurance.com/ Compare insurances]
* [http://www.aok.de/rheinland-hamburg/mitglied-werden/international-english-89909.php AOK]
* [http://www.hansemerkur.de/ HanseMerkur]
Note that you need to go to an agency office to sign up. You would probably also need to be checked by a doctor before the insurance company will take you in.

If you want to apply to [http://www.bmkb.de/ KSK] (you must be an artist legally here, they will help you with the price of your insurance, but there are a lot of rules you must follow), you can contact this woman:
Ilka Lacherbauer
Medien und Künstler Beratung Ltd.
Tucholskystr. 35
10117 Berlin - Mitte
Fon.: +49 30 - 75 00 86 00
e-mail: info@bmkb.de or lacherbauer@bmkb.de

===SIM Cards===
(this information was gathered from forums)

* http://www.callmobile.de/
* http://www.fonic.de
* http://www.blau.de
* You can get great deals on SIM's at any Saturn store. They have T-Mobile SIM cards for only 5 euro and they come with 10 euro worth of call minutes for free.
* some Turkish phone shops, they sell Vodafone cards with credit for half-price (usually a card with 10 EUR credit for about 6 EUR, and one with 1 EUR credit for 60 cents), and what's best these are pre-activated and work right away, no need to fill out any stupid forms online.
* new SIM. For instance if you take an O2 one for 28.50E, you get 21E credit plus two months of freecalls to O2 (has a good subscrirption in Germany) numbers and to any landline. I think it is a great offer but something that you cannot renew; just comes with the new number.
*Aldi or Penny (yes, the discount stores) have easy prepaid cards for 15euro or something with the same amount of credit on it so you basically pay nothing for it. I don't know if they offer data as well, but the Aldi card uses ePlus networks so you can also charge your credit with ePlus prepaid cards if there is no Aldi around to buy new credit. adli 300mb 300 minutes = less 10 euro ;)

===Bank account===
At some point you would probably need a German bank account. You would need to find the bank of your choice, apply, and identify yourself at a post office (unless you open an account in a bank physically). Choosing your bank is not the easiest thing, since there are many banks to choose from. Criteria can be:
*Monthly fee
*Interest
*Costs of credit card
*Physical/online bank
*ATM-fee (sometimes you have to pay an extra fee if you use another bank's ATM)
*Welcoming bonus
*Ethics of the bank

There's a [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_banks_in_Germany wikipedia page] listing the banks in Germany. To compare banks, visit [http://www.girokonto-vergleich.net/vergleich.html this] and [http://www.aspect-online.de/banken/girokonto/ this] site.
If you're looking for more ethical (social-ecological) banks, check [http://blog.soziales-dorf.eu/module-news-display-sid-152.html this German blog].

==Luggage Storage==
'''Train stations'''
Berlin Hbf,
Alexanderplatz,
Ostbahnhof,
Friedrichstraße,
Potsdamer Platz,
Gesundbrunnen,
Zoologischer Garten,
Südkreuz,
Spandau

'''Other'''
Central Bus Staion ZOB,
Tegel Airport,
Schönefeld Airport,

==Cost of living==
In Berlin you have many choices on how to spend your money. Berlin is a relatively cheap city, although the prices raised over the years.

Below is a list of estimations of prices. The prices can differ a lot, depending on district, location, season, etc.

'''Renting a room''': €150-€600 per month<br />
'''Renting apartment''': €200-€1000 per month<br />

'''Restaurant''': €2 - €15 for a main dish<br />
'''Beer''': €0,70 - €4,00 for 0,5 liter<br />

==FAQs==
[[trash:Berlin]]
[[hitch:Berlin]]
[[velo:Berlin]]
[[cash:Berlin]]
[[nomad:Berlin]]

Berlin

2019-01-21T17:59:10Z

Iotrj: /* General information */

Berlin

2019-01-21T17:57:23Z

Iotrj:

{{Germany}}
{{Berlin}}
{{TOCright|limit=1}}

== General information ==
Berlin is the capital of [[Germany]]. Berlin has a population of around 3,5 million people. It is estimated that annually 100 million people visit Berlin, of which roughly 10 million stay in a hotel, hostel, guesthouse, etc. Tourism is one of the pillars of the economy of the city.

Berlin has a relatively high unemployment rate. Around 12% of the people in Berlin is officially unemployed and almost 19% of the Berliner lives on social security benefits.

== Berlin's Couch Situation ==
To find the right host for you, please look on [https://www.couchsurfing.org/n/locals/in/place/69 Couchsurfing] or [http://www.bewelcome.org/searchmembers BeWelcome]

Berlin is a major Couchsurfing and BeWelcome city where there are events happening almost every day. Berlin is a favourite city to surf, especially around New Year's Eve and in summer. Since many people try to surf in Berlin, it can be hard to find a host. Make sure you have a filled out profile and a profile picture. Write personal requests. Hosts in Berlin are getting many copy-paste requests, so a personal one could make a difference. It's recommended to write your requests between 3 weeks and 5 days before arrival. Your chances increase if you have some references (from your local community, for example).

If you haven't found any host and still want to surf in Berlin, you can try the [https://www.couchsurfing.org/group.html?gid=7910 Last Minute Couchsearch Group] or the [http://www.bewelcome.org/groups/590 Berlin Emergency Host Group in BeWelcome]

==Stay in Berlin==
===Berlin Hostels and Guesthouses===
Hostels cost of €5 to €65 a night, depending on the season, location and type of room.

To find hostels and reviews, try these links:
*[http://www.berlin.de/hotels/adressen/hostel/ list of hostels (non-commercial)]
*[http://www.hostelworld.com/hostels/Berlin Hostelworld (commercial)]
*[http://www.hostelbookers.com/hostels/germany/berlin/ Hostelbookers (commercial)]
*[http://www.hostelz.com/hostels/Germany/Berlin Hostelz (commercial)]
*[http://www.hostels.com/berlin/germany Hostels.com (commercial)]

===Hostels and Hotels per district===

====Charlottenburg====
*[http://hotelindigoberlin.com/de/ Indigo Hotel Berlin Kurfürstendamm]

====Friedrichshain====
*[http://www.aohostels.com A&O Hostel Friedrichshain]

====Kreuzberg====
*[http://www.three-little-pigs.com/en/ Three Little Pigs Hostel]

====Lichtenberg====
====Marzahn-Hellersdorf====
====Mitte====
*[http://www.cityhostel-berlin.com/gb/default.aspx Cityhostel Berlin]
*[http://one80hostels.com/de/ One80 Hostel Berlin]
*[http://hiberlincenter.com/de/ Holiday Inn Hotel Alexanderplatz]
*[http://hotelindigoberlin.com/alex/de/ Indigo Hotel Berlin Alexanderplatz]
*[http://pangeapeople.de/de/ PangeaPeople Hostel & Hotel Berlin]

====Neukölln====
====Pankow (incl. Prenzlauer Berg)====
====Reinickendorf====
====Spandau====
*[http://www.hostel-spandau-in.berlin/ Hostel Spandau]

====Steglitz-Zehlendorf====
*[http://www.jh-wannsee.de/ DJH Jugendherberge Wannsee]

====Tempelhof-Schöneberg====
====Treptow-Köpenick====
====Wedding====
*[http://www.smarthostel-berlin.de/ Smarthostel Berlin]

If you want to stay for a longer period of time, read the [[Berlin#Settling_in_Berlin|information on settling]] at the bottom of this article.

== Getting Around ==
[[File:U-Bahn_S-Bahn_02_2013.png|400px|thumb|right|U-Bahn and S-Bahn lines of the inner city of Berlin, as of February 2013]]Public transportation generally goes almost everywhere in whole Berlin. Read more and plan a journey at the [http://www.bvg.de/index.php/en/index.html BVG Website].

=== Tickets ===
Tickets for public transport can be bought at every S- and U-Bahn station from machines, at ticket offices on the main stations. Daily tickets or tickets for short rides can be bought in buses and trams as well (vending machines in trams only accept coins, also often at stations). Tickets are valid for all ways of public transport within the chosen area (A, B and C), including interchanges between different transports.

==== Zones ====
* Zone A is central Berlin (inside circle line), Zone B everything else inside Berlin's city borders, Zone C is everything outside of Berlin (eg. Schönefeld Airport and Potsdam)
* There are no tickets for single zones, but for combinations AB, BC and ABC. For most trips inside Berlin, you'll need a '''Zone AB''' ticket, but '''ABC''' when arriving at Schönefeld Airport or planning to visit Potsdam.

==== Short term tickets ====
* '''Short trip fare''' (Kurzstrecke) is valid for either 3 stops with U- or S-Bahn (changes allowed), or 6 stops with tram or bus (changes '''not''' allowed). Costs €1.70
* '''Single tickets''' (Einzelfahrschein) is valid for 2 hours. Officially you can not travel back towards the station you started, so it's a one-way ticket. Costs €2.70 (AB), €3.00 (BC) or €3.30 (ABC).
* '''4-Trip-ticket''' (4-Fahrten-Karte) is the same as 4 single tickets, but slightly cheaper when bought in this way.
* '''Day ticket''' (Tageskarte) can be used for an entire calendar day, until 3:00am next day (note that day tickets in Berlin are '''not''' valid for 24 hours as in some other places, so don't buy in the evening!). Costs €7.00 (AB), €7.30 (BC) or €7.60 (ABC).
* '''Small group day ticket''' (Kleingruppen-Tageskarte) is a daily ticket for group of up to 5 persons. It pays itself back when traveling with 3 or more persons. Costs €17.30 (AB), €17.50 (BC) and €17.80 (ABC)

==== Long term tickets ====
* '''7-Day-ticket''' (7-Tage-Karte VBB-Umweltkarte) is valid for an entire week. With this ticket you can travel with an additional adult or 3 children between 8:00pm end 3:00am on weekdays, all day on Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays. Costs €30.00 (AB), €31.10 (BC) or €37.20 (ABC).
* '''Monthly ticket''' (Monatskarte VBB-Umweltkarte) is valid for an entire month. With this ticket you can travel with an additional adult or 3 children between 8:00pm end 3:00am on weekdays, all day on Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays. The ticket is transferable and some people offer their monthly ticket (or the part that's left) on the internet. Costs €81.00 (AB), €82.50 (BC) or €99.90 (ABC).
* '''10am Monthly ticket''' (10-Uhr-Karte) is a limited version of the monthly ticket. You can not take other people on the same ticket. Furthermore, you're only allowed to travel after 10:00am. Therefore the price is cheaper than the regular monthly ticket: €59.10 (AB), €60.20 (BC) or €62.50 (ABC).

==== Special tourist tickets ====
* '''Berlin WelcomeCard''' 24/48 hours, 4/5/6 days - Next to travelling, you can use this card to get discounts at touristic attractions, in restaurants and free entrance at some museums (with 3/5-day ticket). Can not be bought at ticket vending machines. [http://www.visitberlin.de/en/welcomecard Read more]
* '''Berlin CityTourCard''' 48/72 hours, 4/5/6 days - Next to travelling, this card provides some discount on some touristic attractions. This ticket can also be bought at ticket vending machines. [http://www.citytourcard.com/en Read more]

For more information on tickets and pricing: [http://www.bvg.de/index.php/en/17181/name/Fares+Overview.html BVG Tickets]

====Important information on public transportation tickets====

*Most of the tickets have to be validated (stamped) before use. If you forget, the fine is 60 Euro (same if you have no ticket)
*Except for Friday and Saturday night, all S-Bahn trains stop driving after approximately 1 o'clock
*Except for Friday and Saturday night, all U-Bahn trains are replaced by night buses (U1->N1; U2->N2; etc.)
*At some stations, people are selling tickets. Although they don't all look that bonafide, they resell tickets other people used. They should be still valid. If you are planning to buy those tickets, check if they are still valid. Also, it's officially forbidden to resell tickets, so you might be involved in a small crime by doing it.

=== From Airport to City ===
For the time being, Berlin has 2 major airports, 'Tegel' in the northwest and 'Schönefeld' in the southeast. They are well connected with public transport. Always make sure to check at which one you're arriving and leaving.

====Schönefeld Airport (SXF)====
[http://www.berlin-airport.de/en/travellers-sxf/to-and-from/buses-and-trains/local-public-transport/index.php transport information]

* Schönefeld Airport is directly connected with S-Bahn. Line '''S9''' connects the airport with the eastern and northern part of the city (for the center, change at Ostkreuz). Line '''S45''' connects the airport with the southern part of the inner-city. Both lines pass stations located on the S-Bahn circular railway (Ringbahn), which makes it easy to travel to other parts of the city, changing trains just once.
* Express trains '''RE7''' and '''RB14''' bring you quickly into central locations (stopping at Ostbahnhof, Alexanderplatz, Friedrichstraße, Hauptbahnhof and Zoologischer Garten), the ticket and price is the same as S-Bahn.
* There are also buses '''X7''' and 107 that connect you to '''U7''' stop Rudow, which will be easier to get to some locations.
* If you are stuck there late at night or have to be there extremely early, there's bus N7 from Schönefeld and then following the U7 line all the way to Spandau.

''Ticket:'' from Schönefeld Airport, you'll need a "Zone ABC" ticket to get to anywhere in Berlin (the ticket is valid also when changing to other S-Bahn trains, U-Bahn, Trams or Buses)

====Tegel Airport (TXL)====
[http://www.berlin-airport.de/en/travellers-txl/to-and-from/buses-and-trains/local-public-transport/index.php transport information]

Tegel Airport is accessible by bus. There are 2 express buses:
* Bus '''X9''' between Tegel and 'S+U Zoologischer Garten' (for western Berlin), or change at 'S+U Jungfernheide' to S-Bahn circle line or U7.
* Bus '''TXL''' between Tegel and 'Hauptbahnhof' (main train station) and 'S+U Alexanderplatz' (for central and eastern Berlin). Best change at Hauptbahnhof to S-Bahn, the route to Alexanderplatz is slow.
* There are also 2 normal bus lines: '''128''' in the direction of 'U Osloer Straße' and '''109''' in the direction of 'S+U Zoologischer Garten'.

''Ticket:'' from Tegel Airport, you'll need a "Zone AB" ticket to get to anywhere in Berlin (ticket is valid for the Bus and changes to S-Bahn trains, U-Bahn, Trams)

'''Taxi'''

Expected price for a [[Berlin#Taxi|taxi-ride]] from/to the airports is between €20,00 and €35,00, depending on the start/destination location.

=== Public Transportation network ===
==== Underground / U-Bahn ====
The subway/underground in Berlin is called the U-Bahn. The U-Bahn is efficient and reliable and it covers the major areas of the city.

Most U-Bahn trains drive frequent, every 5 or 10 minutes. In the late evening and night the frequency can be reduced to one train every 15 or 20 minutes. Except for Friday- and Saturday night, the U-Bahn stops working after approximately 1:00h. All lines are then replaced by night buses, which drive every 30 minutes and follow the same route as the U-Bahn (some minor exceptions).

==== Stadtbahn / S-Bahn ====
The suburban "rapid transit" network is the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Berlin_S-Bahn S-Bahn]. The main lines in the center consist of a circle line (Ringbahn, S41 clockwise, S42 counterclockwise) and the central branches from east (Ostkreuz) to west (Westkreuz) and from north (Gesundbrunnen) to south (Südkreuz), going through all the imporant central train stations (Zoologischer Garten, Hauptbahnof, Friedrichstraße, Alexanderplatz, Ostbahnhof). It connects with the U-Bahn network in many locations. The basic differences to U-Bahn (which won't matter for you in most situations) is that it's run by the German Railway company (DB) and not by the city of Berlin (BVG), and that it goes to some more remote places outside of Berlin. Tickets are always valid for both networks including Trams/Buses

====Tram (Straßenbahn/Metro)====
The tram in Berlin is called Straßenbahn (street train), or sometimes Metrotram. The tram network especially is big in the eastern part of town. The trams drive in the 'gaps' of the U- and S-Bahn net, while crossing many of their stations on the way.

====Buses====
Buses normally drive in the 'gaps' of the U- and S-Bahn net. Most people only take buses if they have to go to area's that are on the outskirts of town.
The exceptions are bus lines '''100''' and '''200'''. These bus lines are well known for the ''touristic'' route they are following. It crosses several points of interest, and therefore used by many tourists as a cheap alternative for the sightseeing buses.

=== Taxi ===

There are fixed prices for taxi's in Berlin. There's no difference between day- and night prices. The prices are calculated as follows:
*Basic price: €3,20
*Per kilometre (first 7): €1,65
*Per kilometre (after 7): €1,28

You'll pay additional if:
*''you're travelling more than 4 persons: €1,50 per extra person''
*''the taxi has to wait for you: €25,00 per hour''
*''you have big luggage: €1,00''
*''you are paying with credit card: €1,50''
*''you are coming from Tegel Airport: €0,50''
'''The common taxi companies:'''
*[http://www.taxi-berlin.de Taxi Berlin] (+49 30) 20 20 20
*[http://www.taxifunkberlin.de Taxi Funk Berlin] (+49 30) 44 33 22
*[http://www.funk-taxi-berlin.de Funk Taxi Berlin] (+49 30)26 10 26

===Bicycle===
Berlin is relatively easy for cycling and visiting Berlin by bicycle is a great option in Summer, especially for not-so-central locations like Tempelhofer Feld, Sowjetisches Ehrenmal etc. Advantages are that Berlin is 99% flat and there are many roads with separate bike paths. Disadvantages are that you can be surprised by the distances, very cold winters (cycling when there is snow gets to hardly possible as mostly bicycle paths are not cleared well), sometimes strong winds, and you should always be very careful to watch for cars and traffic even if you have the way of right (most accidents happen with cars/trucks turning right and not seeing you approaching on the bike lane).

If you're lucky, you can borrow a bike for free through [http://bikesurfberlin.blogspot.de BikeSurfBerlin] and [http://www.bewelcome.org/groups/1021 BikeSurfBerlin Group in Bewelcome].<br/>
Otherwise there are a lot of places to rent bicycles. The rental prices are unfortunately quite steep, often around 10€ per day (cheaper when renting for several days). Here's a list of all known bike-renting places, sorted [http://www.adfc-berlin.de/service/adfc-branchenbuch/fahrradverleih/fahrradverleiher-von-a-z.html alphabetically] or by [http://www.adfc-berlin.de/service/adfc-branchenbuch/fahrradverleih/fahrradverleiher-im-bezirk.html district]

== Nightlife, Dining and Entertainment ==



===Main Nightlife Areas===

The main nightlife areas of Berlin are:
*Warschauer Straße and Simon Dach Straße - pubs and clubs
*Oranienburger Tor/Oranienburger Straße - pubs and restuarants
*Kreuzberg around [[File:U1.png]]Kottbusser Tor, [[File:U1.png]]Görlitzer Bahnhof and [[File:U1.png]]Schlesisches Tor - pubs, restaurants, music stages
*Schönhauser Allee and direct surrounding - pubs, restaurants, clubs

===Magazines and Event listings===
The following websites can help bring you up to speed on the local club scene, nightlife, concerts, festivals and shows:
*[http://www.blitzgigs.de/ Blitzgigs] (English)
*[http://www.exberliner.com/ Exberliner] (English)
*[http://www.zitty.de/ Zitty] (German)
*[http://www.top10berlin.de/ Top 10 Berlin] (German)
*[http://www.bln.fm/category/termine/ BLN FM] (German)
*[http://www.nachtagenten.de/events/ Nachtagenten] (German)
*[http://www.tip-berlin.de/ Tip Berlin] (German)
*[http://www.berlin030.de/ (030) MAGAZINE] (German)
*[http://stressfaktor.squat.net/ Squats, Punk, Hardocre, Voküs] (German)
*[http://www.livegigs.de/berlin/#konzerte Livegigs Berlin] (German)
*[http://www.residentadvisor.net/events.aspx?ai=34 Resident Advisor listings] (English)

===Bars===
Some favourite local haunts include:

===Breweries and Beer===

'''Breweries'''

*[http://eschenbräu.de/ Eschenbräu] Craft brewery with 3 differnt beers on tap. Usually one is seasonal. They also distill their own Schnaps and Whiskey. You can bring your own food. Nice beergarden in summer
*[http://www.brauhaus-lemke.com/index.php/home Lemke Hackescher Markt] A bit touristy place. Decent German food. Good beer. Not the cheapest. There are three "Lemkes" all over the city.
*[http://www.schoppebraeu.de/ Schoppe Bräu/Brauhaus Südstern] Big and with a nice beer garden. They claim to have the strongest beer in Berlin.
*[http://vagabundbrauerei.com/ Vagabund Brauerei] Small brewery run by 3 Americans, mostly American style craft brews and bottled beers.
*[http://heidenpeters.de/more.html Heidepeters] Stand in the Markthalle9 in Kreuzberg, very good, very special beers on tap.
*[http://www.hopsandbarley-berlin.de/index.html Hops&Barley] Located in the a cool party area in Friedrichshain.
*[http://www.brauhaus-rixdorf.de/ Brauhaus Rixdorf] Neukolln-based brewery.

;'''Beershops'''
:Of course you can get beer at every Späti, but there some nice litte shops in the city where you can get the quality stuff....

*[http://hopfenmalz.de/ Hopfen und Malz] Huge Selection of beers. Mostly from Frankonia. But also American IPAs or Belgian brews.
*[http://www.weiss-blau-berlin.de/ Weiss Blau ] Bavarian Beers and specalities.
*[http://www.ambrosetti.de/ Ambrosetti] Huge verty of beers.
*[http://www.berlinbiershop.com/ Berlin Beer Shop] Mostly IPA and Belgium beers but also A LOT of good wine.
*[http://absinth-berlin.de/ladenenglish.html Absinth Depoth] Some Bavarian beers and the BEST collection of Absinth in Berlin.
*[http://www.getraenkefeinkost.de/filiale/berlin/ Getränkefeinkost] Good selection of German craft beers, IPAs, Belgian beers etc. in the heart of Friedrichshain

'''Beergardens'''
A selection of some more central located beergardens:
*[http://www.pratergarten.de/e/ Prater Garten] - The oldest 'Biergarten' of Berlin, located in Prenzlauer Berg
*[http://www.schoenbrunn.net/ Schoenbrunn] in Friedrichshain
*Bierhof Rüdersdorf - in Friedrichshain, next to Berghain
*Burg am See - in Kreuzberg
*[http://www.brachvogel-berlin.de/bv/ Brachvogel] - in Kreuzberg
*[http://www.cafe-am-neuen-see.de/ Cafe am neuen See] - in Charlottenburg, next to Tiergarten
*[http://www.schleusenkrug.de/ Der Schleusenkrug] - in Charlottenburg, also close to Tiergarten
*[http://schoenbrunn.net/ Restaurant Schönbrunn] - in Friedrichshain, Volkspark
*[http://www.doldenmaedel.de/ Dolden Mädel] - Kreuzberg, next to Bergmannstr. - expensive, but they have a huge selection of craft beers (usually 15-20 different ones on tap + many more in bottles)

===Clubs===
Berlin is well known for its clubs. There are numerous of them, with a wide range of music style, atmosphere and exclusivity. Some of the most famous ones:
*Berghain - on the border of Kreuzberg and Friedrichshain, hence the name. Known for rejecting people, long waiting cues and crazy parties.
*Cassiopaia
*Kater Holzig
*Yaam
*White Trash
*Matrix
*Watergate
You can find many, many [http://www.berlin.de/international/clubs/index.en.php more clubs].

===Restaurants===
There are hundreds of restaurants in Berlin. In most districts you'll find typical restaurants with foreign food, mostly Turkish, Asian and Arabic. Meals that are often consumed are Döner and Falafel. Both meals cost between €2,00 and €4,00 depending on district and quality.

On several places you can find the typical Berlin Currywurst (curry sausage)

[[Restaurants in Berlin]]

===Seasonal events===
The following events are reoccurring every year. They are listed chronologically:
====Berlinale====
In the first weeks of February, every movie loving person in the world is looking at Berlin. During the Berlinale, movies are awarded, celebrities are visiting the city and all cinemas in the city are showing quality movies. [http://www.berlinale.de/en/HomePage.html Official website] of the Berlinale.

====Karneval der Kulturen====
During the weekend of Ascension Day (end of May, beginning of June), the city explodes and everyone can be found on the streets to celebrate the carnival of cultures. Main event is the parade where different cultural groups perform, show dances or make music. Around it, everyone enjoys the spring weather and party until morning. [http://www.karneval-berlin.de/de/english.175.html Official website] of Karnaval der Kulturen.

====Fête de la Musique====
The worldwide international music day, initiated by the French minister of culture in 1981 and since 1995 a yearly day where music is celebrated. Concerts all over town. [http://www.fetedelamusique.de/en/ Official website] of Fête de la Musique.

==Sports, Activities and the Great Outdoors==
===Parks===
Berlin is said to be the greenest capital of Europe. There are many big parks, and many more small green areas. All parks have their own charms and every season they look different. In spring and summer, when the temperatures reach 20 degrees Celsius or more, you will see many people visiting parks to walk, run, cycle, play outdoor games and most of all sunbathing with a beer!

===Lakes===
In and around Berlin one can find many lakes. In most of them you could swim at your own risk, but it may not always be allowed.
*Wannsee (South West)
*Tegeler See (North West)
*Weißensee (North East)
*Müggelsee (South East)

===Outdoor sports===
Tempelhofer Feld is a great place to practice outdoor sports like kiting, rollerskating, biking or running. The former airport is the biggest open flat area of Berlin, located centrally, and provided with good asphalt roads through and around the field.

===Climbing===
*[http://www.magicmountain.de/ Magic Mountain] - Gesundbrunnen
*[http://www.bertablock.de/ Berta Block] - Pankow
*[http://www.ostbloc.de/ Ostbloc] - Ostkreuz
*[http://www.derkegel.de/ Der Kegel] - Warschauer Straße
*[http://www.diekletterhalle.de/ T-Hall Berlin] - Neukölln

===Other sports===
[http://www.pingpongmap.net/ Ping pong map] - hundreds of locations to play ping pong, both indoors and outdoors.

==Learning German==
There are lots of language exchange options available in Berlin from one on one meetups to clubs that meet regularly in person to social networks available online at your convenience. Here are some of your options:
===Free online courses===
*[http://www.dw.de/learn-german/s-2469 Deutsche Welle] is actually a news website, but offers some courses and tests online. The best feature: slowly spoken news in German with transcript.
*[http://www.goethe.de/lrn/duw/lad/deindex.htm?wt_sc=lernabenteuer App for iPhone or Android] from Goethe Institut
*[http://online-lernen.levrai.de/ Website] with all background information on the German language
*[http://www.goethe.de/lrn/duw/auf/stb/enindex.htm Exercises] from the Goethe Institut
*[http://www.deutsch-perfekt.com/deutsch-lernen Exercises] from Deutsch Perfekt
*[http://www.deutschakademie.de/online-deutschkurs/ Test] from Deutsch Akademie
*[http://www.goethe.de/lrn/lks/enindex.htm Links from the Goethe Institut] to very useful websites
*[http://www.nachrichtenleicht.de Nachrichten Leicht] German news written in easy German. Includes audio read in slow German.

===For one on one / tandem===
*[http://www.sprachenzentrum.fu-berlin.de/slz/tandem/index.html Tandem program] of the Freie Universität
*[https://www.international.hu-berlin.de/an_die_hu-en/studierende/orbis/sprachboerse Language exchange market of the Humbolt University]

===Groups that meet regularly===
[[File:Gaudy_exchange.png|200px|thumb|left‎|Gaudy Exchange]]St. Gaudy Cafe weekly language exchange
*http://www.gaudycafe.com/
*Gaudystraße 1
*[[File:U2.png]]Schönhauser Allee

===Language exchange social networks===
*[http://livemocha.com/ Live Mocha] - community of language learners that help each other

===Paid language courses===
*[http://www.berlin.de/vhs/ Volkshochschule] (probably the cheapest one, with bigger classes)
*http://www.cosmopolilingua.de (Private one to one and small group classes, individual and intense)
*http://www.speakeasy-sprachzeug.com/en/
*http://www.hartnackschule-berlin.de
*http://www.transmitter-berlin.de
*http://www.die-deutschule.de
*http://www.sprachenatelier-berlin.de
*http://www.deutschakademie.de
*http://kapitel-zwei.de/en
*http://www.deutsch-in-berlin.de
*http://www.goethe.de/lrn/enindex.htm
*https://smartergerman.com/ - Private intense lessons, including an option to get to b1 level (Goethe Institute) in 45 - 60 days

== Sightseeing ==
Berlin is extremely easy to get around by [[Berlin#Getting_Around|public transport]]. You can easily visit several locations on one day.

=== Typical touristic attractions ===
[[File:20c_German.jpg|100px|thumb|left|Brandenburger Tor on German euro-coins]]
==== Brandenburger Tor ====
The Brandenburger Tor ([http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brandenburger_gate Brandenburger gate]) is one of the most famous buildings of both Berlin and Germany. It has been build as a city gate, but is now known as a symbol of the reunion of Germany.

==== Reichstagsgebäude ====
The [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Reichstag_%28building%29 Reichstag building] is the former and present building for the German parliament. The burning of the building in 1933 was the direct cause of Hitler taking over all power. The building was not in use as a parliament between 1933 and 1999.
[[File:Fernsehturm_Berlin2.jpg|100px|thumb|left|Fernsehturm (TV-tower)]]
==== Fernsehturm ====
The 368 metres high TV-tower near Alexanderplatz that can be seen everywhere in the city. You can go up in the tower and look back at the city. Entrance fee is €12 for adults. There is a possibility to have diner in the rotating restaurant, but you have to make reservations. For more info, visit [http://www.tv-turm.de/en/index.php].

==== Museuminsel ====
Island in the city center with many museums, mostly classical and historical art and artifacts.
==== Eastside Gallery ====
1,5 kilometre long gallery of painted pieces of the Berlin Wall.
==== Checkpoint Charlie ====
The famous checkpoint where diplomats could cross the border with the DDR.
==== Gedenkstätte Berliner Mauer ====
History of the Berlin Wall, with a real life simulation of the Berlin Wall and a watchtower.
==== Gendarmenmarkt ====
Square with 2 symmetrical churches (French and German) facing each other.
==== Berliner Dom ====
Protestant cathedral
==== Nikolaiviertel ====
Origin of Berlin. Lots of old buildings, including the Nikolai-church, mixed with renovated buildings and typical DDR/communistic architecture.
==== Siegessäule ====
Victory column, built after the victories in the wars against Denmark, Austria and France in the late 19th century.

=== Less touristic attractions ===
==== Sowjetisches Ehrenmal ====
Huge and impressive memorial for the Soviet soldiers that died during World War II. Year round impressive, but extra special are the 23rd of February (day of the Red Army), 9th of May (Capitulation of Germany) and in autumn when the trees around the memorial turn red.
==== Tempelhof ====
Huge former airfield. Built in the 1920's, extended by Nazi-Germany and used to provide West-Berlin during the Cold War. The airport closed in 2008 and was opened as a park in 2010. Over the last years, people started to fill parts of the area with small gardens.

A new video published April 2014 that really shows the vibe of Templehof!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zuh1v5qwjNU#t=53

==== Teufelsberg ====
In south-western Berlin you can find an old American listening station, built upon a man made 'mountain' out of rubbish from World War II. From the station, there's a great view over the city and the dome/ball on top of the station provides a great acoustic. Since 2012, all holes in the fences are repaired and a security guy asks €7 as an entree fee. In the weekends a [http://www.berlinsightout.de/ guided tour] is possible for €15.
==== Waterfall in Viktoriapark ====
==== Eisfabrik ====
==== Pfaueninsel ====
==== Spreepark ====
Abandoned theme park in Plänterwald. Main attractions are a big ferry wheel, decorative dinosaurs and a roller coaster. Please note that entering the park is officially not allowed.
==== Olympic Stadium ====
Built in the 30's under Nazi-regime, it hosted the famous Olympic Summer Games of 1936 and was subject of Leni Riefenstahl's movie 'Olympia'. You can either walk around it, or get a [http://www.olympiastadion-berlin.de/en/stadium-visitor-centre/viewing-and-guided-tours.html guided tour]. If you are more interested, a visit to the [http://dkb-stiftung.de/web/Das_Olympische_Dorf_von_1936.32.htm Olympic Village] could be a nice addition.

==== Berliner Unterwelten ====
Visit an underground peoples bunker or the anti-aircraft towers in Volkspark Humboldthain. Tours organized by [http://berliner-unterwelten.de/home.1.1.html Berliner Unterwelten e.V.]. Entrance at U-bahnhof Gesundbrunnen. The plateau of the 'Flakturmen' with a nice view of northern Berlin can be accessed for free via the park (also accessible for wheelchairs).

=== Museums ===
If you're planning to visit many museums during your stay in Berlin, you might want to buy the '''[http://www.museumsportal-berlin.de/en/plan-your-visit/all-about-admission-fees/everything-three-days/ Museum pass]'''. It costs €19, can be bought at any participating museum and is valid for 3 days.

If you want to see both city and museums, and you're not sure how many museums you'll be visiting, you might be interested in the [[Berlin#Special_tickets|Berlin Welcome Card]] which gives you discount on museums and free use of public transport.
*[http://www.dhm.de Deutsches Historisches Museum] - German history
*[http://www.smb.museum/smb/standorte/index.php?objID=24&p=2 Altes Museum] - Ancient and classical art and artifacts
*[http://www.smb.museum/smb/standorte/index.php?p=2&objID=27&n=15 Pergamommuseum] - Ancient art and artifacts
*[http://www.mauermuseum.de Haus am Checkpoint Charlie] - Berlin Wall
*[http://www.smb.museum/smb/sammlungen/details.php?objectId=17 Alte Nationalgalerie] - 19th century sculptures and paintings
*[http://www.neues-museum.de/ Neues Museum] - Prehistory, early history, Egyptian and other classical artifacts
*[http://www.smb.museum/smb/standorte/index.php?lang=en&p=2&objID=28&n=3 Bode-Museum] Byzantine art and sculptures
*Museum für Naturkunde
*Hamburger Bahnhof Museum
*Jüdisches Museum
*Gedenkstätte Berliner Mauer
*Topographie des Terrors
*DDR-Museum
*Story of Berlin

=== Religious buildings ===

=== Flea markets and other famous markets ===
Berlin is well known for its flea markets. There are several weekly flea markets. The most famous ones:

'''Mauerpark'''<br />
The most famous flea market of Berlin, close to [[File:U2.png]]Eberswalderstraße. Has a lot of 2nd hand stalls, mixed with creative people that make jewelry, paintings, photos/cards, wallets and other stuff themselves. When the weather is right, there's a huge karaoke in the park next to the flea market. Can be very crowded, especially in spring and summer.
*[http://www.mauerparkmarkt.de/ Website]
*Bernauer Straße 63
*Sunday 7:00-17:00h

'''Boxhagener Platz'''<br />
Easy to oversee, since all stands are built around the Boxhagener square. You can take a rest on the square itself, or make a round in approximately an hour. Especially known for its records, books and posters. Other stands sell furniture and objects, but not so many clothes.
*Boxhagener Platz 1
*Sunday 10:00-18:00h

'''Schöneberg'''

'''Arkonaplatz'''

'''Straße des 17. Juni'''

'''Ostbahnhof'''

'''OBI Neukölln'''

=== Vegetable and Food Markets ===
'''Türkischer Markt am Maybachufer'''<br />
Twice weekly (Tuesdays and Fridays) from 11am. This is one of the biggest weekly markets in Berlin. Fruit and vegetables are considerably cheaper than most supermarkets, including Aldi and Lidl. Also you can find many other foods items and a mixed range of household items.

'''Boxhagener Platz'''<br />
Food market on Saturdays 10:00-18:00h on Boxhagener Platz

'''Markthalle Neun'''<br />
[http://markthalleneun.de/markets?lang=en Food market] in a historic market hall:<br />
* Tuesdays 12:00-20:00h (small)
* Fridays 12:00-20:00h (big)
* Saturdays 10:00-18:00h (big)
* International Street Food Thursdays 17:00-22:00h (popular, often extremely crowded)

== Travelling from Berlin ==
Apart from the 2 airports, several (international) trains and busses arrive at and leave from Berlin.
===Trains===
Most '''international trains''' arrive at and depart from Berlin Hauptbahnhof (main railway station).
*to the Netherlands (Berlin-Schiphol)
*to Poland (Berlin-Warsaw/Gdansk/Wrocław Główny)
*to Switzerland (Berlin-Basel)
*to Denmark (Berlin-Copenhagen/Arhus)
*to the Czech Republic (Berlin-Prague)
To find the best connections, or for booking tickets, you can check out the website of the [[http://www.bahn.de/i/view/GBR/en/index.shtml German Railway]]. Booking tickets on forehand can make a huge difference in price.

'''(inter)regional trains''' depart from every major station, such as Alexanderplatz, Ostbahnhof, Spandau and Sudkreuz. There's a difference between regional trains ('''RB''' (Regionalbahn) and'''RE''' (Regionalexpress)) and inter-regional trains ('''IC''' (Intercity) and '''ICE''' (Intercity Express)). The IC's and ICE's drive much faster and over a long distance, mostly to other big cities in Germany. The RB and RE only drive short distances and stop at many smaller stations on the way.

===Buses===
The main bus station for international and inter-regional bus lines is '''ZOB''' ("Zentraler Omnibus-Bahnhof") in western Berlin. It is near S-Bahn station "Messe Nord/ICC" (Circle lines S41/S42) and [[File:U2.png]] station "Kaiserdamm".
Depending on the line and destination, some international/inter-regional buses may also stop at one of these places:
* Ostbahnhof Bus Station (eastern side of the city, at S-Bahn Ostbahnhof)
* Südkreuz station - many buses to/from Poland and Czech Republic stop here (S2, S25, S41, S42, S45, S46, and some mainline trains)
* Hauptbahnhof (main train station) - buses run by DB (German railway) stop here
* Schönefeld Airport (near the terminals) - some buses to/from Poland and Czech Republic stop here

Try [https://www.busliniensuche.de/ BusLinienSuche] for finding buses to various places.

====International Buses====
Some major bus lines that will bring you abroad are:
*[http://www.eurolines.com/en/ Eurolines] - to almost any place in Europe
*[http://ecolines.net/en/ Ecolines] - Poland, Russia, Lithuania, Estonia, Latvia, Belarus, Ukraine
*[http://eclubreisen.de Eclubreisen] - to Ukraine
*[https://www.flixbus.de/ Flixbus]

====Inter-regional buses====
*[https://www.flixbus.de/ Flixbus]
*[http://www.eurolines.de/index.php?id=14&L=1 Eurolines]

===Car===
====Car sharing====
It's easy to find car sharing online. Cars travel from every city to every city. You can find rides or travellers at [http://www.blablacar.de/ Blablacar]
and on CouchSurfing
[https://www.couchsurfing.org/group.html?gid=10289 Group 1]
[https://www.couchsurfing.org/group.html?gid=17463 Group 2]
[https://www.couchsurfing.org/group.html?gid=2920 Group 3]

====Hitchhiking====

Naturally, [[:hitch:Berlin|Hitchwiki]] has the best and most up-to-date resources about thumbing your way out of Berlin.

==Settling in Berlin==
If you are planning to stay in Berlin for a longer time, the main concerns will be housing, visa (if necessary), work, health insurance and the necessary bureaucracy. Please note that all information written here are rough guidelines and tips and might be outdated or incomplete.
Be aware that you might get trapped in a vicious circle: to register yourself in Berlin you need an address, to find housing you need work and for work you need to be registered.

===Housing===
Some websites that can be used if you're looking for flat-share(WG)/renting a flat in Berlin:
*[http://www.wg-gesucht.de/en/ WG-Gesucht.de (German/English)] The most used website to search for accomodation/house mates
*[http://www.studenten-wg.de Studenten-wg.de (German)] Another website to find WG's
*[http://www.immobilo.de/mieten/berlin Immobilo.de (German)] Searches multiple websites that lists accomodations.
*[http://www.immobilienscout24.de/Suche/S-T/WG-Zimmer/Berlin/Berlin Immobilienscout24 (German)] For apartments, less used for flatsharing.
*[http://www.wgcompany.de/cgi-bin/seite?st=1&mi=10&li=100 WGcompany (English)] Has a glossary in english with all important terms. Used for flatsharing.
*[http://kleinanzeigen.ebay.de/anzeigen/s-immobilien/berlin/c195l3331 E-bay Kleinanzeigen (German)] Germans offer everything on E-bay.
*[http://berlin.en.craigslist.de/hhh/ Craigslist (English)] Not all very reliable, but sometimes it contains a hidden treasure.
*[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group.html?gid=19711/ CouchSurfing Group 1 (English)] Find local CSers looking for flatmates, available sublets, etc.
*[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group.html?gid=9251/ CouchSurfing Group 2 (English)] Find local CSers looking for flatmates, available sublets, etc.
*[http://www.toytowngermany.com/forum/index.php?showforum=84/ ToyTown (English)] Expat community.
*[https://www.facebook.com/groups/easy.wg/ A Facebook Group (English/German)] A good group to find housing.
*[http://www.bewelcome.org/groups/1437 BW Accommodation group] or [https://www.couchsurfing.org/group.html?gid=19711 CS Accommodation group].
*[http://www.studentenwerk-berlin.de/wohnen/woanders_wohnen/berliner_wbgs/ Berlin Apartment Corporations (German)]
*[http://www.studentenwerk-berlin.de/wohnen/woanders_wohnen/wohnraumboerse_berlin/index.html Flat Search of Studentenwerk (German)]
*[http://www.wbm.de/wbm/cms/de/wohnen/Mietwohnungen.html WBM another corporation that builds flats]
*[https://www.dreamflat.co.uk/ Dreamflat]
*[https://www.wg-cast.de/ WG-Cast]
*[http://www.airbnb.de AirBnB Apartments, Flats and Rooms for rent]

===Buying used items===
Berlin is a hot spot for exchanging/selling/buying used items. You can find many things for sale or even for free:
*[http://kleinanzeigen.ebay.de/anzeigen/s-immobilien/berlin/c195l3331 E-bay Kleinanzeigen (German)] Germans offer everything on E-bay.
*[http://berlin.en.craigslist.de/hhh/ Craigslist (English)] Good place for all sorts of items, including bikes.
*[https://www.facebook.com/groups/freeyourstuff/ A Facebook Group (English)] People offering things for FREE only.

===VISA===
General information on getting a visa for Germany can be found [http://4dayvisa.tumblr.com/ here]
====VISA Office====
[http://www.berlin.de/labo/auslaender/dienststelle/index.html Ausländerbehörde (ABH)]
[http://osm.org/go/0MZv6kuHu-- MAP]

Schedule an appointment ahead of time. The waiting times are not that bad, but it's always best to have an appointment.<br>
They really don't speak English consistently so just be prepared. Bring someone with you if at all possible. Have everything you need when you go. They don't answer emails for nearly 1 month so don't bother there. You can call and ask questions, but have someone call for you who speaks German and then you might get answers.

====Freelance VISA and Artist VISA====
(This is written from a US citizen. Different rules may apply to you, although they may be similar).
These are 2 different things. I obtained my Artist's visa while I was waiting for my Freelance visa to be approved (this will take 6-10 weeks). The Artist's visa does not allow you to work. The Freelance one does (you can list more than one profession on this visa).

====List of things that you need====
* Completed Form (http://www.berlin.de/formularserver/formular.php?72301)
* Letter stating your intentions, how you plan to support yourself, everthing you can think of
* CV
* Passport Copy
* 2 Biometric Photo (not smiling... these can be done in the bottom level of the office... leave an extra 10 minutes for this).
* Bank Statement (proving that you can support yourself without working)
* All Certificates
* All Diplomas
* All Transcripts
* Health Insurance (GERMAN) Proof and all documents
* German Address Registration (do NOT show up without this. You will be turned away. You must register your address)
* References
* €50 in cash (sometimes this is more)
* Artist portfolio (this must be hard copies of your work)
* Letter from 2 prospective employers (I fought this, but it's technically required and you should have it)

===Registering in Germany/Berlin - Bürgeramt===
'''Registering your address'''
Fill out page 3 of [https://docs.google.com/file/d/1RBnLXCEqJ-le6hyQSsyvQ2_0u7Uo7tF-tG4lUc76EPDL6r-8O6ipxGPkZt2-/edit this form] and then go to register.<br />
You must register your address within 2 weeks of coming to Germany and before you can do anything really.<br />
You need to either have a rental agreement or have the main renter to sign the paper or write a letter for you.<br />
[http://www.buergeramt.info/berlin.htm A list] of all the places you can go to register. You don't need to register in your own district.

===Health insurance===
In Germany you need to have a health insurance by law. It can be very expensive. The easiest way to become insured is to have a job. If you're an employee, the insurance is withhold from your loan (15,5%) automatically, and you can enter the 'Gesetzliche Krankenkasse' (insurance by law), where a broad variety of treatments is covered. If you earn more than €52.200 a year, or you are not an employee, you'd have to sign up for a private health insurance, which have a fixed price per month (starting at €130).

A list with [http://www.gesetzlichekrankenkassen.de/preise/berlin/berlin.html 'Gesetzliche' insurances].

Some private health insurances can be found at:
* [http://www.deutscheinsurance.com/ Compare insurances]
* [http://www.aok.de/rheinland-hamburg/mitglied-werden/international-english-89909.php AOK]
* [http://www.hansemerkur.de/ HanseMerkur]
Note that you need to go to an agency office to sign up. You would probably also need to be checked by a doctor before the insurance company will take you in.

If you want to apply to [http://www.bmkb.de/ KSK] (you must be an artist legally here, they will help you with the price of your insurance, but there are a lot of rules you must follow), you can contact this woman:
Ilka Lacherbauer
Medien und Künstler Beratung Ltd.
Tucholskystr. 35
10117 Berlin - Mitte
Fon.: +49 30 - 75 00 86 00
e-mail: info@bmkb.de or lacherbauer@bmkb.de

===SIM Cards===
(this information was gathered from forums)

* http://www.callmobile.de/
* http://www.fonic.de
* http://www.blau.de
* You can get great deals on SIM's at any Saturn store. They have T-Mobile SIM cards for only 5 euro and they come with 10 euro worth of call minutes for free.
* some Turkish phone shops, they sell Vodafone cards with credit for half-price (usually a card with 10 EUR credit for about 6 EUR, and one with 1 EUR credit for 60 cents), and what's best these are pre-activated and work right away, no need to fill out any stupid forms online.
* new SIM. For instance if you take an O2 one for 28.50E, you get 21E credit plus two months of freecalls to O2 (has a good subscrirption in Germany) numbers and to any landline. I think it is a great offer but something that you cannot renew; just comes with the new number.
*Aldi or Penny (yes, the discount stores) have easy prepaid cards for 15euro or something with the same amount of credit on it so you basically pay nothing for it. I don't know if they offer data as well, but the Aldi card uses ePlus networks so you can also charge your credit with ePlus prepaid cards if there is no Aldi around to buy new credit. adli 300mb 300 minutes = less 10 euro ;)

===Bank account===
At some point you would probably need a German bank account. You would need to find the bank of your choice, apply, and identify yourself at a post office (unless you open an account in a bank physically). Choosing your bank is not the easiest thing, since there are many banks to choose from. Criteria can be:
*Monthly fee
*Interest
*Costs of credit card
*Physical/online bank
*ATM-fee (sometimes you have to pay an extra fee if you use another bank's ATM)
*Welcoming bonus
*Ethics of the bank

There's a [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_banks_in_Germany wikipedia page] listing the banks in Germany. To compare banks, visit [http://www.girokonto-vergleich.net/vergleich.html this] and [http://www.aspect-online.de/banken/girokonto/ this] site.
If you're looking for more ethical (social-ecological) banks, check [http://blog.soziales-dorf.eu/module-news-display-sid-152.html this German blog].

==Luggage Storage==
'''Train stations'''
Berlin Hbf,
Alexanderplatz,
Ostbahnhof,
Friedrichstraße,
Potsdamer Platz,
Gesundbrunnen,
Zoologischer Garten,
Südkreuz,
Spandau

'''Other'''
Central Bus Staion ZOB,
Tegel Airport,
Schönefeld Airport,

==Cost of living==
In Berlin you have many choices on how to spend your money. Berlin is a relatively cheap city, although the prices raised over the years.

Below is a list of estimations of prices. The prices can differ a lot, depending on district, location, season, etc.

'''Renting a room''': €150-€600 per month<br />
'''Renting apartment''': €200-€1000 per month<br />

'''Restaurant''': €2 - €15 for a main dish<br />
'''Beer''': €0,70 - €4,00 for 0,5 liter<br />

==FAQs==
[[trash:Berlin]]
[[hitch:Berlin]]
[[velo:Berlin]]
[[cash:Berlin]]
[[nomad:Berlin]]

Berlin

2019-01-21T17:55:26Z

Iotrj: /* Hitchhiking */

{{Germany}}
{{Berlin}}
{{TOCright|limit=1}}

== Background of this wiki ==
This Wiki is independent from Couchsurfing. It is related to all (formerly) uncommercial traveller websites; all these websites have a strong focus on the community between the members and aim to make real life meetings between persons that got to know in virtual reality. [http://www.globalfreeloaders.com Global Freeloaders], [http://www.hospitalityclub.org Hospitality Club], [http://www.couchsurfing.com Couchsurfing], [http://www.bewelcome.org BeWelcome]. The Couchwiki is also connected to hitch-hiking [http://www.hitchbase.com/orte.php?LANG=ger&l_id=73 Hitchbase] and [http://hitchwiki.org/en/Berlin HitchWiki]. The Wiki inside Couchsurfing is disabled, but other Wikis are still working [http://secure.hospitalityclub.org/hc/hcworld.php?city=3609 Hospitality Club], [http://www.bewelcome.org/groups/77/wiki BeWelcome].

== General information ==
Berlin is the capital of [[Germany]]. Berlin has a population of around 3,5 million people. It is estimated that annually 100 million people visit Berlin, of which roughly 10 million stay in a hotel, hostel, guesthouse, etc. Tourism is one of the pillars of the economy of the city.

Berlin has a relatively high unemployment rate. Around 12% of the people in Berlin is officially unemployed and almost 19% of the Berliner lives on social security benefits.

== Berlin's Couch Situation ==
To find the right host for you, please look on [https://www.couchsurfing.org/n/locals/in/place/69 Couchsurfing] or [http://www.bewelcome.org/searchmembers BeWelcome]

Berlin is a major Couchsurfing and BeWelcome city where there are events happening almost every day. Berlin is a favourite city to surf, especially around New Year's Eve and in summer. Since many people try to surf in Berlin, it can be hard to find a host. Make sure you have a filled out profile and a profile picture. Write personal requests. Hosts in Berlin are getting many copy-paste requests, so a personal one could make a difference. It's recommended to write your requests between 3 weeks and 5 days before arrival. Your chances increase if you have some references (from your local community, for example).

If you haven't found any host and still want to surf in Berlin, you can try the [https://www.couchsurfing.org/group.html?gid=7910 Last Minute Couchsearch Group] or the [http://www.bewelcome.org/groups/590 Berlin Emergency Host Group in BeWelcome]

==Stay in Berlin==
===Berlin Hostels and Guesthouses===
Hostels cost of €5 to €65 a night, depending on the season, location and type of room.

To find hostels and reviews, try these links:
*[http://www.berlin.de/hotels/adressen/hostel/ list of hostels (non-commercial)]
*[http://www.hostelworld.com/hostels/Berlin Hostelworld (commercial)]
*[http://www.hostelbookers.com/hostels/germany/berlin/ Hostelbookers (commercial)]
*[http://www.hostelz.com/hostels/Germany/Berlin Hostelz (commercial)]
*[http://www.hostels.com/berlin/germany Hostels.com (commercial)]

===Hostels and Hotels per district===

====Charlottenburg====
*[http://hotelindigoberlin.com/de/ Indigo Hotel Berlin Kurfürstendamm]

====Friedrichshain====
*[http://www.aohostels.com A&O Hostel Friedrichshain]

====Kreuzberg====
*[http://www.three-little-pigs.com/en/ Three Little Pigs Hostel]

====Lichtenberg====
====Marzahn-Hellersdorf====
====Mitte====
*[http://www.cityhostel-berlin.com/gb/default.aspx Cityhostel Berlin]
*[http://one80hostels.com/de/ One80 Hostel Berlin]
*[http://hiberlincenter.com/de/ Holiday Inn Hotel Alexanderplatz]
*[http://hotelindigoberlin.com/alex/de/ Indigo Hotel Berlin Alexanderplatz]
*[http://pangeapeople.de/de/ PangeaPeople Hostel & Hotel Berlin]

====Neukölln====
====Pankow (incl. Prenzlauer Berg)====
====Reinickendorf====
====Spandau====
*[http://www.hostel-spandau-in.berlin/ Hostel Spandau]

====Steglitz-Zehlendorf====
*[http://www.jh-wannsee.de/ DJH Jugendherberge Wannsee]

====Tempelhof-Schöneberg====
====Treptow-Köpenick====
====Wedding====
*[http://www.smarthostel-berlin.de/ Smarthostel Berlin]

If you want to stay for a longer period of time, read the [[Berlin#Settling_in_Berlin|information on settling]] at the bottom of this article.

== Getting Around ==
[[File:U-Bahn_S-Bahn_02_2013.png|400px|thumb|right|U-Bahn and S-Bahn lines of the inner city of Berlin, as of February 2013]]Public transportation generally goes almost everywhere in whole Berlin. Read more and plan a journey at the [http://www.bvg.de/index.php/en/index.html BVG Website].

=== Tickets ===
Tickets for public transport can be bought at every S- and U-Bahn station from machines, at ticket offices on the main stations. Daily tickets or tickets for short rides can be bought in buses and trams as well (vending machines in trams only accept coins, also often at stations). Tickets are valid for all ways of public transport within the chosen area (A, B and C), including interchanges between different transports.

==== Zones ====
* Zone A is central Berlin (inside circle line), Zone B everything else inside Berlin's city borders, Zone C is everything outside of Berlin (eg. Schönefeld Airport and Potsdam)
* There are no tickets for single zones, but for combinations AB, BC and ABC. For most trips inside Berlin, you'll need a '''Zone AB''' ticket, but '''ABC''' when arriving at Schönefeld Airport or planning to visit Potsdam.

==== Short term tickets ====
* '''Short trip fare''' (Kurzstrecke) is valid for either 3 stops with U- or S-Bahn (changes allowed), or 6 stops with tram or bus (changes '''not''' allowed). Costs €1.70
* '''Single tickets''' (Einzelfahrschein) is valid for 2 hours. Officially you can not travel back towards the station you started, so it's a one-way ticket. Costs €2.70 (AB), €3.00 (BC) or €3.30 (ABC).
* '''4-Trip-ticket''' (4-Fahrten-Karte) is the same as 4 single tickets, but slightly cheaper when bought in this way.
* '''Day ticket''' (Tageskarte) can be used for an entire calendar day, until 3:00am next day (note that day tickets in Berlin are '''not''' valid for 24 hours as in some other places, so don't buy in the evening!). Costs €7.00 (AB), €7.30 (BC) or €7.60 (ABC).
* '''Small group day ticket''' (Kleingruppen-Tageskarte) is a daily ticket for group of up to 5 persons. It pays itself back when traveling with 3 or more persons. Costs €17.30 (AB), €17.50 (BC) and €17.80 (ABC)

==== Long term tickets ====
* '''7-Day-ticket''' (7-Tage-Karte VBB-Umweltkarte) is valid for an entire week. With this ticket you can travel with an additional adult or 3 children between 8:00pm end 3:00am on weekdays, all day on Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays. Costs €30.00 (AB), €31.10 (BC) or €37.20 (ABC).
* '''Monthly ticket''' (Monatskarte VBB-Umweltkarte) is valid for an entire month. With this ticket you can travel with an additional adult or 3 children between 8:00pm end 3:00am on weekdays, all day on Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays. The ticket is transferable and some people offer their monthly ticket (or the part that's left) on the internet. Costs €81.00 (AB), €82.50 (BC) or €99.90 (ABC).
* '''10am Monthly ticket''' (10-Uhr-Karte) is a limited version of the monthly ticket. You can not take other people on the same ticket. Furthermore, you're only allowed to travel after 10:00am. Therefore the price is cheaper than the regular monthly ticket: €59.10 (AB), €60.20 (BC) or €62.50 (ABC).

==== Special tourist tickets ====
* '''Berlin WelcomeCard''' 24/48 hours, 4/5/6 days - Next to travelling, you can use this card to get discounts at touristic attractions, in restaurants and free entrance at some museums (with 3/5-day ticket). Can not be bought at ticket vending machines. [http://www.visitberlin.de/en/welcomecard Read more]
* '''Berlin CityTourCard''' 48/72 hours, 4/5/6 days - Next to travelling, this card provides some discount on some touristic attractions. This ticket can also be bought at ticket vending machines. [http://www.citytourcard.com/en Read more]

For more information on tickets and pricing: [http://www.bvg.de/index.php/en/17181/name/Fares+Overview.html BVG Tickets]

====Important information on public transportation tickets====

*Most of the tickets have to be validated (stamped) before use. If you forget, the fine is 60 Euro (same if you have no ticket)
*Except for Friday and Saturday night, all S-Bahn trains stop driving after approximately 1 o'clock
*Except for Friday and Saturday night, all U-Bahn trains are replaced by night buses (U1->N1; U2->N2; etc.)
*At some stations, people are selling tickets. Although they don't all look that bonafide, they resell tickets other people used. They should be still valid. If you are planning to buy those tickets, check if they are still valid. Also, it's officially forbidden to resell tickets, so you might be involved in a small crime by doing it.

=== From Airport to City ===
For the time being, Berlin has 2 major airports, 'Tegel' in the northwest and 'Schönefeld' in the southeast. They are well connected with public transport. Always make sure to check at which one you're arriving and leaving.

====Schönefeld Airport (SXF)====
[http://www.berlin-airport.de/en/travellers-sxf/to-and-from/buses-and-trains/local-public-transport/index.php transport information]

* Schönefeld Airport is directly connected with S-Bahn. Line '''S9''' connects the airport with the eastern and northern part of the city (for the center, change at Ostkreuz). Line '''S45''' connects the airport with the southern part of the inner-city. Both lines pass stations located on the S-Bahn circular railway (Ringbahn), which makes it easy to travel to other parts of the city, changing trains just once.
* Express trains '''RE7''' and '''RB14''' bring you quickly into central locations (stopping at Ostbahnhof, Alexanderplatz, Friedrichstraße, Hauptbahnhof and Zoologischer Garten), the ticket and price is the same as S-Bahn.
* There are also buses '''X7''' and 107 that connect you to '''U7''' stop Rudow, which will be easier to get to some locations.
* If you are stuck there late at night or have to be there extremely early, there's bus N7 from Schönefeld and then following the U7 line all the way to Spandau.

''Ticket:'' from Schönefeld Airport, you'll need a "Zone ABC" ticket to get to anywhere in Berlin (the ticket is valid also when changing to other S-Bahn trains, U-Bahn, Trams or Buses)

====Tegel Airport (TXL)====
[http://www.berlin-airport.de/en/travellers-txl/to-and-from/buses-and-trains/local-public-transport/index.php transport information]

Tegel Airport is accessible by bus. There are 2 express buses:
* Bus '''X9''' between Tegel and 'S+U Zoologischer Garten' (for western Berlin), or change at 'S+U Jungfernheide' to S-Bahn circle line or U7.
* Bus '''TXL''' between Tegel and 'Hauptbahnhof' (main train station) and 'S+U Alexanderplatz' (for central and eastern Berlin). Best change at Hauptbahnhof to S-Bahn, the route to Alexanderplatz is slow.
* There are also 2 normal bus lines: '''128''' in the direction of 'U Osloer Straße' and '''109''' in the direction of 'S+U Zoologischer Garten'.

''Ticket:'' from Tegel Airport, you'll need a "Zone AB" ticket to get to anywhere in Berlin (ticket is valid for the Bus and changes to S-Bahn trains, U-Bahn, Trams)

'''Taxi'''

Expected price for a [[Berlin#Taxi|taxi-ride]] from/to the airports is between €20,00 and €35,00, depending on the start/destination location.

=== Public Transportation network ===
==== Underground / U-Bahn ====
The subway/underground in Berlin is called the U-Bahn. The U-Bahn is efficient and reliable and it covers the major areas of the city.

Most U-Bahn trains drive frequent, every 5 or 10 minutes. In the late evening and night the frequency can be reduced to one train every 15 or 20 minutes. Except for Friday- and Saturday night, the U-Bahn stops working after approximately 1:00h. All lines are then replaced by night buses, which drive every 30 minutes and follow the same route as the U-Bahn (some minor exceptions).

==== Stadtbahn / S-Bahn ====
The suburban "rapid transit" network is the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Berlin_S-Bahn S-Bahn]. The main lines in the center consist of a circle line (Ringbahn, S41 clockwise, S42 counterclockwise) and the central branches from east (Ostkreuz) to west (Westkreuz) and from north (Gesundbrunnen) to south (Südkreuz), going through all the imporant central train stations (Zoologischer Garten, Hauptbahnof, Friedrichstraße, Alexanderplatz, Ostbahnhof). It connects with the U-Bahn network in many locations. The basic differences to U-Bahn (which won't matter for you in most situations) is that it's run by the German Railway company (DB) and not by the city of Berlin (BVG), and that it goes to some more remote places outside of Berlin. Tickets are always valid for both networks including Trams/Buses

====Tram (Straßenbahn/Metro)====
The tram in Berlin is called Straßenbahn (street train), or sometimes Metrotram. The tram network especially is big in the eastern part of town. The trams drive in the 'gaps' of the U- and S-Bahn net, while crossing many of their stations on the way.

====Buses====
Buses normally drive in the 'gaps' of the U- and S-Bahn net. Most people only take buses if they have to go to area's that are on the outskirts of town.
The exceptions are bus lines '''100''' and '''200'''. These bus lines are well known for the ''touristic'' route they are following. It crosses several points of interest, and therefore used by many tourists as a cheap alternative for the sightseeing buses.

=== Taxi ===

There are fixed prices for taxi's in Berlin. There's no difference between day- and night prices. The prices are calculated as follows:
*Basic price: €3,20
*Per kilometre (first 7): €1,65
*Per kilometre (after 7): €1,28

You'll pay additional if:
*''you're travelling more than 4 persons: €1,50 per extra person''
*''the taxi has to wait for you: €25,00 per hour''
*''you have big luggage: €1,00''
*''you are paying with credit card: €1,50''
*''you are coming from Tegel Airport: €0,50''
'''The common taxi companies:'''
*[http://www.taxi-berlin.de Taxi Berlin] (+49 30) 20 20 20
*[http://www.taxifunkberlin.de Taxi Funk Berlin] (+49 30) 44 33 22
*[http://www.funk-taxi-berlin.de Funk Taxi Berlin] (+49 30)26 10 26

===Bicycle===
Berlin is relatively easy for cycling and visiting Berlin by bicycle is a great option in Summer, especially for not-so-central locations like Tempelhofer Feld, Sowjetisches Ehrenmal etc. Advantages are that Berlin is 99% flat and there are many roads with separate bike paths. Disadvantages are that you can be surprised by the distances, very cold winters (cycling when there is snow gets to hardly possible as mostly bicycle paths are not cleared well), sometimes strong winds, and you should always be very careful to watch for cars and traffic even if you have the way of right (most accidents happen with cars/trucks turning right and not seeing you approaching on the bike lane).

If you're lucky, you can borrow a bike for free through [http://bikesurfberlin.blogspot.de BikeSurfBerlin] and [http://www.bewelcome.org/groups/1021 BikeSurfBerlin Group in Bewelcome].<br/>
Otherwise there are a lot of places to rent bicycles. The rental prices are unfortunately quite steep, often around 10€ per day (cheaper when renting for several days). Here's a list of all known bike-renting places, sorted [http://www.adfc-berlin.de/service/adfc-branchenbuch/fahrradverleih/fahrradverleiher-von-a-z.html alphabetically] or by [http://www.adfc-berlin.de/service/adfc-branchenbuch/fahrradverleih/fahrradverleiher-im-bezirk.html district]

== Nightlife, Dining and Entertainment ==



===Main Nightlife Areas===

The main nightlife areas of Berlin are:
*Warschauer Straße and Simon Dach Straße - pubs and clubs
*Oranienburger Tor/Oranienburger Straße - pubs and restuarants
*Kreuzberg around [[File:U1.png]]Kottbusser Tor, [[File:U1.png]]Görlitzer Bahnhof and [[File:U1.png]]Schlesisches Tor - pubs, restaurants, music stages
*Schönhauser Allee and direct surrounding - pubs, restaurants, clubs

===Magazines and Event listings===
The following websites can help bring you up to speed on the local club scene, nightlife, concerts, festivals and shows:
*[http://www.blitzgigs.de/ Blitzgigs] (English)
*[http://www.exberliner.com/ Exberliner] (English)
*[http://www.zitty.de/ Zitty] (German)
*[http://www.top10berlin.de/ Top 10 Berlin] (German)
*[http://www.bln.fm/category/termine/ BLN FM] (German)
*[http://www.nachtagenten.de/events/ Nachtagenten] (German)
*[http://www.tip-berlin.de/ Tip Berlin] (German)
*[http://www.berlin030.de/ (030) MAGAZINE] (German)
*[http://stressfaktor.squat.net/ Squats, Punk, Hardocre, Voküs] (German)
*[http://www.livegigs.de/berlin/#konzerte Livegigs Berlin] (German)
*[http://www.residentadvisor.net/events.aspx?ai=34 Resident Advisor listings] (English)

===Bars===
Some favourite local haunts include:

===Breweries and Beer===

'''Breweries'''

*[http://eschenbräu.de/ Eschenbräu] Craft brewery with 3 differnt beers on tap. Usually one is seasonal. They also distill their own Schnaps and Whiskey. You can bring your own food. Nice beergarden in summer
*[http://www.brauhaus-lemke.com/index.php/home Lemke Hackescher Markt] A bit touristy place. Decent German food. Good beer. Not the cheapest. There are three "Lemkes" all over the city.
*[http://www.schoppebraeu.de/ Schoppe Bräu/Brauhaus Südstern] Big and with a nice beer garden. They claim to have the strongest beer in Berlin.
*[http://vagabundbrauerei.com/ Vagabund Brauerei] Small brewery run by 3 Americans, mostly American style craft brews and bottled beers.
*[http://heidenpeters.de/more.html Heidepeters] Stand in the Markthalle9 in Kreuzberg, very good, very special beers on tap.
*[http://www.hopsandbarley-berlin.de/index.html Hops&Barley] Located in the a cool party area in Friedrichshain.
*[http://www.brauhaus-rixdorf.de/ Brauhaus Rixdorf] Neukolln-based brewery.

;'''Beershops'''
:Of course you can get beer at every Späti, but there some nice litte shops in the city where you can get the quality stuff....

*[http://hopfenmalz.de/ Hopfen und Malz] Huge Selection of beers. Mostly from Frankonia. But also American IPAs or Belgian brews.
*[http://www.weiss-blau-berlin.de/ Weiss Blau ] Bavarian Beers and specalities.
*[http://www.ambrosetti.de/ Ambrosetti] Huge verty of beers.
*[http://www.berlinbiershop.com/ Berlin Beer Shop] Mostly IPA and Belgium beers but also A LOT of good wine.
*[http://absinth-berlin.de/ladenenglish.html Absinth Depoth] Some Bavarian beers and the BEST collection of Absinth in Berlin.
*[http://www.getraenkefeinkost.de/filiale/berlin/ Getränkefeinkost] Good selection of German craft beers, IPAs, Belgian beers etc. in the heart of Friedrichshain

'''Beergardens'''
A selection of some more central located beergardens:
*[http://www.pratergarten.de/e/ Prater Garten] - The oldest 'Biergarten' of Berlin, located in Prenzlauer Berg
*[http://www.schoenbrunn.net/ Schoenbrunn] in Friedrichshain
*Bierhof Rüdersdorf - in Friedrichshain, next to Berghain
*Burg am See - in Kreuzberg
*[http://www.brachvogel-berlin.de/bv/ Brachvogel] - in Kreuzberg
*[http://www.cafe-am-neuen-see.de/ Cafe am neuen See] - in Charlottenburg, next to Tiergarten
*[http://www.schleusenkrug.de/ Der Schleusenkrug] - in Charlottenburg, also close to Tiergarten
*[http://schoenbrunn.net/ Restaurant Schönbrunn] - in Friedrichshain, Volkspark
*[http://www.doldenmaedel.de/ Dolden Mädel] - Kreuzberg, next to Bergmannstr. - expensive, but they have a huge selection of craft beers (usually 15-20 different ones on tap + many more in bottles)

===Clubs===
Berlin is well known for its clubs. There are numerous of them, with a wide range of music style, atmosphere and exclusivity. Some of the most famous ones:
*Berghain - on the border of Kreuzberg and Friedrichshain, hence the name. Known for rejecting people, long waiting cues and crazy parties.
*Cassiopaia
*Kater Holzig
*Yaam
*White Trash
*Matrix
*Watergate
You can find many, many [http://www.berlin.de/international/clubs/index.en.php more clubs].

===Restaurants===
There are hundreds of restaurants in Berlin. In most districts you'll find typical restaurants with foreign food, mostly Turkish, Asian and Arabic. Meals that are often consumed are Döner and Falafel. Both meals cost between €2,00 and €4,00 depending on district and quality.

On several places you can find the typical Berlin Currywurst (curry sausage)

[[Restaurants in Berlin]]

===Seasonal events===
The following events are reoccurring every year. They are listed chronologically:
====Berlinale====
In the first weeks of February, every movie loving person in the world is looking at Berlin. During the Berlinale, movies are awarded, celebrities are visiting the city and all cinemas in the city are showing quality movies. [http://www.berlinale.de/en/HomePage.html Official website] of the Berlinale.

====Karneval der Kulturen====
During the weekend of Ascension Day (end of May, beginning of June), the city explodes and everyone can be found on the streets to celebrate the carnival of cultures. Main event is the parade where different cultural groups perform, show dances or make music. Around it, everyone enjoys the spring weather and party until morning. [http://www.karneval-berlin.de/de/english.175.html Official website] of Karnaval der Kulturen.

====Fête de la Musique====
The worldwide international music day, initiated by the French minister of culture in 1981 and since 1995 a yearly day where music is celebrated. Concerts all over town. [http://www.fetedelamusique.de/en/ Official website] of Fête de la Musique.

==Sports, Activities and the Great Outdoors==
===Parks===
Berlin is said to be the greenest capital of Europe. There are many big parks, and many more small green areas. All parks have their own charms and every season they look different. In spring and summer, when the temperatures reach 20 degrees Celsius or more, you will see many people visiting parks to walk, run, cycle, play outdoor games and most of all sunbathing with a beer!

===Lakes===
In and around Berlin one can find many lakes. In most of them you could swim at your own risk, but it may not always be allowed.
*Wannsee (South West)
*Tegeler See (North West)
*Weißensee (North East)
*Müggelsee (South East)

===Outdoor sports===
Tempelhofer Feld is a great place to practice outdoor sports like kiting, rollerskating, biking or running. The former airport is the biggest open flat area of Berlin, located centrally, and provided with good asphalt roads through and around the field.

===Climbing===
*[http://www.magicmountain.de/ Magic Mountain] - Gesundbrunnen
*[http://www.bertablock.de/ Berta Block] - Pankow
*[http://www.ostbloc.de/ Ostbloc] - Ostkreuz
*[http://www.derkegel.de/ Der Kegel] - Warschauer Straße
*[http://www.diekletterhalle.de/ T-Hall Berlin] - Neukölln

===Other sports===
[http://www.pingpongmap.net/ Ping pong map] - hundreds of locations to play ping pong, both indoors and outdoors.

==Learning German==
There are lots of language exchange options available in Berlin from one on one meetups to clubs that meet regularly in person to social networks available online at your convenience. Here are some of your options:
===Free online courses===
*[http://www.dw.de/learn-german/s-2469 Deutsche Welle] is actually a news website, but offers some courses and tests online. The best feature: slowly spoken news in German with transcript.
*[http://www.goethe.de/lrn/duw/lad/deindex.htm?wt_sc=lernabenteuer App for iPhone or Android] from Goethe Institut
*[http://online-lernen.levrai.de/ Website] with all background information on the German language
*[http://www.goethe.de/lrn/duw/auf/stb/enindex.htm Exercises] from the Goethe Institut
*[http://www.deutsch-perfekt.com/deutsch-lernen Exercises] from Deutsch Perfekt
*[http://www.deutschakademie.de/online-deutschkurs/ Test] from Deutsch Akademie
*[http://www.goethe.de/lrn/lks/enindex.htm Links from the Goethe Institut] to very useful websites
*[http://www.nachrichtenleicht.de Nachrichten Leicht] German news written in easy German. Includes audio read in slow German.

===For one on one / tandem===
*[http://www.sprachenzentrum.fu-berlin.de/slz/tandem/index.html Tandem program] of the Freie Universität
*[https://www.international.hu-berlin.de/an_die_hu-en/studierende/orbis/sprachboerse Language exchange market of the Humbolt University]

===Groups that meet regularly===
[[File:Gaudy_exchange.png|200px|thumb|left‎|Gaudy Exchange]]St. Gaudy Cafe weekly language exchange
*http://www.gaudycafe.com/
*Gaudystraße 1
*[[File:U2.png]]Schönhauser Allee

===Language exchange social networks===
*[http://livemocha.com/ Live Mocha] - community of language learners that help each other

===Paid language courses===
*[http://www.berlin.de/vhs/ Volkshochschule] (probably the cheapest one, with bigger classes)
*http://www.cosmopolilingua.de (Private one to one and small group classes, individual and intense)
*http://www.speakeasy-sprachzeug.com/en/
*http://www.hartnackschule-berlin.de
*http://www.transmitter-berlin.de
*http://www.die-deutschule.de
*http://www.sprachenatelier-berlin.de
*http://www.deutschakademie.de
*http://kapitel-zwei.de/en
*http://www.deutsch-in-berlin.de
*http://www.goethe.de/lrn/enindex.htm
*https://smartergerman.com/ - Private intense lessons, including an option to get to b1 level (Goethe Institute) in 45 - 60 days

== Sightseeing ==
Berlin is extremely easy to get around by [[Berlin#Getting_Around|public transport]]. You can easily visit several locations on one day.

=== Typical touristic attractions ===
[[File:20c_German.jpg|100px|thumb|left|Brandenburger Tor on German euro-coins]]
==== Brandenburger Tor ====
The Brandenburger Tor ([http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brandenburger_gate Brandenburger gate]) is one of the most famous buildings of both Berlin and Germany. It has been build as a city gate, but is now known as a symbol of the reunion of Germany.

==== Reichstagsgebäude ====
The [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Reichstag_%28building%29 Reichstag building] is the former and present building for the German parliament. The burning of the building in 1933 was the direct cause of Hitler taking over all power. The building was not in use as a parliament between 1933 and 1999.
[[File:Fernsehturm_Berlin2.jpg|100px|thumb|left|Fernsehturm (TV-tower)]]
==== Fernsehturm ====
The 368 metres high TV-tower near Alexanderplatz that can be seen everywhere in the city. You can go up in the tower and look back at the city. Entrance fee is €12 for adults. There is a possibility to have diner in the rotating restaurant, but you have to make reservations. For more info, visit [http://www.tv-turm.de/en/index.php].

==== Museuminsel ====
Island in the city center with many museums, mostly classical and historical art and artifacts.
==== Eastside Gallery ====
1,5 kilometre long gallery of painted pieces of the Berlin Wall.
==== Checkpoint Charlie ====
The famous checkpoint where diplomats could cross the border with the DDR.
==== Gedenkstätte Berliner Mauer ====
History of the Berlin Wall, with a real life simulation of the Berlin Wall and a watchtower.
==== Gendarmenmarkt ====
Square with 2 symmetrical churches (French and German) facing each other.
==== Berliner Dom ====
Protestant cathedral
==== Nikolaiviertel ====
Origin of Berlin. Lots of old buildings, including the Nikolai-church, mixed with renovated buildings and typical DDR/communistic architecture.
==== Siegessäule ====
Victory column, built after the victories in the wars against Denmark, Austria and France in the late 19th century.

=== Less touristic attractions ===
==== Sowjetisches Ehrenmal ====
Huge and impressive memorial for the Soviet soldiers that died during World War II. Year round impressive, but extra special are the 23rd of February (day of the Red Army), 9th of May (Capitulation of Germany) and in autumn when the trees around the memorial turn red.
==== Tempelhof ====
Huge former airfield. Built in the 1920's, extended by Nazi-Germany and used to provide West-Berlin during the Cold War. The airport closed in 2008 and was opened as a park in 2010. Over the last years, people started to fill parts of the area with small gardens.

A new video published April 2014 that really shows the vibe of Templehof!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zuh1v5qwjNU#t=53

==== Teufelsberg ====
In south-western Berlin you can find an old American listening station, built upon a man made 'mountain' out of rubbish from World War II. From the station, there's a great view over the city and the dome/ball on top of the station provides a great acoustic. Since 2012, all holes in the fences are repaired and a security guy asks €7 as an entree fee. In the weekends a [http://www.berlinsightout.de/ guided tour] is possible for €15.
==== Waterfall in Viktoriapark ====
==== Eisfabrik ====
==== Pfaueninsel ====
==== Spreepark ====
Abandoned theme park in Plänterwald. Main attractions are a big ferry wheel, decorative dinosaurs and a roller coaster. Please note that entering the park is officially not allowed.
==== Olympic Stadium ====
Built in the 30's under Nazi-regime, it hosted the famous Olympic Summer Games of 1936 and was subject of Leni Riefenstahl's movie 'Olympia'. You can either walk around it, or get a [http://www.olympiastadion-berlin.de/en/stadium-visitor-centre/viewing-and-guided-tours.html guided tour]. If you are more interested, a visit to the [http://dkb-stiftung.de/web/Das_Olympische_Dorf_von_1936.32.htm Olympic Village] could be a nice addition.

==== Berliner Unterwelten ====
Visit an underground peoples bunker or the anti-aircraft towers in Volkspark Humboldthain. Tours organized by [http://berliner-unterwelten.de/home.1.1.html Berliner Unterwelten e.V.]. Entrance at U-bahnhof Gesundbrunnen. The plateau of the 'Flakturmen' with a nice view of northern Berlin can be accessed for free via the park (also accessible for wheelchairs).

=== Museums ===
If you're planning to visit many museums during your stay in Berlin, you might want to buy the '''[http://www.museumsportal-berlin.de/en/plan-your-visit/all-about-admission-fees/everything-three-days/ Museum pass]'''. It costs €19, can be bought at any participating museum and is valid for 3 days.

If you want to see both city and museums, and you're not sure how many museums you'll be visiting, you might be interested in the [[Berlin#Special_tickets|Berlin Welcome Card]] which gives you discount on museums and free use of public transport.
*[http://www.dhm.de Deutsches Historisches Museum] - German history
*[http://www.smb.museum/smb/standorte/index.php?objID=24&p=2 Altes Museum] - Ancient and classical art and artifacts
*[http://www.smb.museum/smb/standorte/index.php?p=2&objID=27&n=15 Pergamommuseum] - Ancient art and artifacts
*[http://www.mauermuseum.de Haus am Checkpoint Charlie] - Berlin Wall
*[http://www.smb.museum/smb/sammlungen/details.php?objectId=17 Alte Nationalgalerie] - 19th century sculptures and paintings
*[http://www.neues-museum.de/ Neues Museum] - Prehistory, early history, Egyptian and other classical artifacts
*[http://www.smb.museum/smb/standorte/index.php?lang=en&p=2&objID=28&n=3 Bode-Museum] Byzantine art and sculptures
*Museum für Naturkunde
*Hamburger Bahnhof Museum
*Jüdisches Museum
*Gedenkstätte Berliner Mauer
*Topographie des Terrors
*DDR-Museum
*Story of Berlin

=== Religious buildings ===

=== Flea markets and other famous markets ===
Berlin is well known for its flea markets. There are several weekly flea markets. The most famous ones:

'''Mauerpark'''<br />
The most famous flea market of Berlin, close to [[File:U2.png]]Eberswalderstraße. Has a lot of 2nd hand stalls, mixed with creative people that make jewelry, paintings, photos/cards, wallets and other stuff themselves. When the weather is right, there's a huge karaoke in the park next to the flea market. Can be very crowded, especially in spring and summer.
*[http://www.mauerparkmarkt.de/ Website]
*Bernauer Straße 63
*Sunday 7:00-17:00h

'''Boxhagener Platz'''<br />
Easy to oversee, since all stands are built around the Boxhagener square. You can take a rest on the square itself, or make a round in approximately an hour. Especially known for its records, books and posters. Other stands sell furniture and objects, but not so many clothes.
*Boxhagener Platz 1
*Sunday 10:00-18:00h

'''Schöneberg'''

'''Arkonaplatz'''

'''Straße des 17. Juni'''

'''Ostbahnhof'''

'''OBI Neukölln'''

=== Vegetable and Food Markets ===
'''Türkischer Markt am Maybachufer'''<br />
Twice weekly (Tuesdays and Fridays) from 11am. This is one of the biggest weekly markets in Berlin. Fruit and vegetables are considerably cheaper than most supermarkets, including Aldi and Lidl. Also you can find many other foods items and a mixed range of household items.

'''Boxhagener Platz'''<br />
Food market on Saturdays 10:00-18:00h on Boxhagener Platz

'''Markthalle Neun'''<br />
[http://markthalleneun.de/markets?lang=en Food market] in a historic market hall:<br />
* Tuesdays 12:00-20:00h (small)
* Fridays 12:00-20:00h (big)
* Saturdays 10:00-18:00h (big)
* International Street Food Thursdays 17:00-22:00h (popular, often extremely crowded)

== Travelling from Berlin ==
Apart from the 2 airports, several (international) trains and busses arrive at and leave from Berlin.
===Trains===
Most '''international trains''' arrive at and depart from Berlin Hauptbahnhof (main railway station).
*to the Netherlands (Berlin-Schiphol)
*to Poland (Berlin-Warsaw/Gdansk/Wrocław Główny)
*to Switzerland (Berlin-Basel)
*to Denmark (Berlin-Copenhagen/Arhus)
*to the Czech Republic (Berlin-Prague)
To find the best connections, or for booking tickets, you can check out the website of the [[http://www.bahn.de/i/view/GBR/en/index.shtml German Railway]]. Booking tickets on forehand can make a huge difference in price.

'''(inter)regional trains''' depart from every major station, such as Alexanderplatz, Ostbahnhof, Spandau and Sudkreuz. There's a difference between regional trains ('''RB''' (Regionalbahn) and'''RE''' (Regionalexpress)) and inter-regional trains ('''IC''' (Intercity) and '''ICE''' (Intercity Express)). The IC's and ICE's drive much faster and over a long distance, mostly to other big cities in Germany. The RB and RE only drive short distances and stop at many smaller stations on the way.

===Buses===
The main bus station for international and inter-regional bus lines is '''ZOB''' ("Zentraler Omnibus-Bahnhof") in western Berlin. It is near S-Bahn station "Messe Nord/ICC" (Circle lines S41/S42) and [[File:U2.png]] station "Kaiserdamm".
Depending on the line and destination, some international/inter-regional buses may also stop at one of these places:
* Ostbahnhof Bus Station (eastern side of the city, at S-Bahn Ostbahnhof)
* Südkreuz station - many buses to/from Poland and Czech Republic stop here (S2, S25, S41, S42, S45, S46, and some mainline trains)
* Hauptbahnhof (main train station) - buses run by DB (German railway) stop here
* Schönefeld Airport (near the terminals) - some buses to/from Poland and Czech Republic stop here

Try [https://www.busliniensuche.de/ BusLinienSuche] for finding buses to various places.

====International Buses====
Some major bus lines that will bring you abroad are:
*[http://www.eurolines.com/en/ Eurolines] - to almost any place in Europe
*[http://ecolines.net/en/ Ecolines] - Poland, Russia, Lithuania, Estonia, Latvia, Belarus, Ukraine
*[http://eclubreisen.de Eclubreisen] - to Ukraine
*[https://www.flixbus.de/ Flixbus]

====Inter-regional buses====
*[https://www.flixbus.de/ Flixbus]
*[http://www.eurolines.de/index.php?id=14&L=1 Eurolines]

===Car===
====Car sharing====
It's easy to find car sharing online. Cars travel from every city to every city. You can find rides or travellers at [http://www.blablacar.de/ Blablacar]
and on CouchSurfing
[https://www.couchsurfing.org/group.html?gid=10289 Group 1]
[https://www.couchsurfing.org/group.html?gid=17463 Group 2]
[https://www.couchsurfing.org/group.html?gid=2920 Group 3]

====Hitchhiking====

Naturally, [[:hitch:Berlin|Hitchwiki]] has the best and most up-to-date resources about thumbing your way out of Berlin.

==Settling in Berlin==
If you are planning to stay in Berlin for a longer time, the main concerns will be housing, visa (if necessary), work, health insurance and the necessary bureaucracy. Please note that all information written here are rough guidelines and tips and might be outdated or incomplete.
Be aware that you might get trapped in a vicious circle: to register yourself in Berlin you need an address, to find housing you need work and for work you need to be registered.

===Housing===
Some websites that can be used if you're looking for flat-share(WG)/renting a flat in Berlin:
*[http://www.wg-gesucht.de/en/ WG-Gesucht.de (German/English)] The most used website to search for accomodation/house mates
*[http://www.studenten-wg.de Studenten-wg.de (German)] Another website to find WG's
*[http://www.immobilo.de/mieten/berlin Immobilo.de (German)] Searches multiple websites that lists accomodations.
*[http://www.immobilienscout24.de/Suche/S-T/WG-Zimmer/Berlin/Berlin Immobilienscout24 (German)] For apartments, less used for flatsharing.
*[http://www.wgcompany.de/cgi-bin/seite?st=1&mi=10&li=100 WGcompany (English)] Has a glossary in english with all important terms. Used for flatsharing.
*[http://kleinanzeigen.ebay.de/anzeigen/s-immobilien/berlin/c195l3331 E-bay Kleinanzeigen (German)] Germans offer everything on E-bay.
*[http://berlin.en.craigslist.de/hhh/ Craigslist (English)] Not all very reliable, but sometimes it contains a hidden treasure.
*[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group.html?gid=19711/ CouchSurfing Group 1 (English)] Find local CSers looking for flatmates, available sublets, etc.
*[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group.html?gid=9251/ CouchSurfing Group 2 (English)] Find local CSers looking for flatmates, available sublets, etc.
*[http://www.toytowngermany.com/forum/index.php?showforum=84/ ToyTown (English)] Expat community.
*[https://www.facebook.com/groups/easy.wg/ A Facebook Group (English/German)] A good group to find housing.
*[http://www.bewelcome.org/groups/1437 BW Accommodation group] or [https://www.couchsurfing.org/group.html?gid=19711 CS Accommodation group].
*[http://www.studentenwerk-berlin.de/wohnen/woanders_wohnen/berliner_wbgs/ Berlin Apartment Corporations (German)]
*[http://www.studentenwerk-berlin.de/wohnen/woanders_wohnen/wohnraumboerse_berlin/index.html Flat Search of Studentenwerk (German)]
*[http://www.wbm.de/wbm/cms/de/wohnen/Mietwohnungen.html WBM another corporation that builds flats]
*[https://www.dreamflat.co.uk/ Dreamflat]
*[https://www.wg-cast.de/ WG-Cast]
*[http://www.airbnb.de AirBnB Apartments, Flats and Rooms for rent]

===Buying used items===
Berlin is a hot spot for exchanging/selling/buying used items. You can find many things for sale or even for free:
*[http://kleinanzeigen.ebay.de/anzeigen/s-immobilien/berlin/c195l3331 E-bay Kleinanzeigen (German)] Germans offer everything on E-bay.
*[http://berlin.en.craigslist.de/hhh/ Craigslist (English)] Good place for all sorts of items, including bikes.
*[https://www.facebook.com/groups/freeyourstuff/ A Facebook Group (English)] People offering things for FREE only.

===VISA===
General information on getting a visa for Germany can be found [http://4dayvisa.tumblr.com/ here]
====VISA Office====
[http://www.berlin.de/labo/auslaender/dienststelle/index.html Ausländerbehörde (ABH)]
[http://osm.org/go/0MZv6kuHu-- MAP]

Schedule an appointment ahead of time. The waiting times are not that bad, but it's always best to have an appointment.<br>
They really don't speak English consistently so just be prepared. Bring someone with you if at all possible. Have everything you need when you go. They don't answer emails for nearly 1 month so don't bother there. You can call and ask questions, but have someone call for you who speaks German and then you might get answers.

====Freelance VISA and Artist VISA====
(This is written from a US citizen. Different rules may apply to you, although they may be similar).
These are 2 different things. I obtained my Artist's visa while I was waiting for my Freelance visa to be approved (this will take 6-10 weeks). The Artist's visa does not allow you to work. The Freelance one does (you can list more than one profession on this visa).

====List of things that you need====
* Completed Form (http://www.berlin.de/formularserver/formular.php?72301)
* Letter stating your intentions, how you plan to support yourself, everthing you can think of
* CV
* Passport Copy
* 2 Biometric Photo (not smiling... these can be done in the bottom level of the office... leave an extra 10 minutes for this).
* Bank Statement (proving that you can support yourself without working)
* All Certificates
* All Diplomas
* All Transcripts
* Health Insurance (GERMAN) Proof and all documents
* German Address Registration (do NOT show up without this. You will be turned away. You must register your address)
* References
* €50 in cash (sometimes this is more)
* Artist portfolio (this must be hard copies of your work)
* Letter from 2 prospective employers (I fought this, but it's technically required and you should have it)

===Registering in Germany/Berlin - Bürgeramt===
'''Registering your address'''
Fill out page 3 of [https://docs.google.com/file/d/1RBnLXCEqJ-le6hyQSsyvQ2_0u7Uo7tF-tG4lUc76EPDL6r-8O6ipxGPkZt2-/edit this form] and then go to register.<br />
You must register your address within 2 weeks of coming to Germany and before you can do anything really.<br />
You need to either have a rental agreement or have the main renter to sign the paper or write a letter for you.<br />
[http://www.buergeramt.info/berlin.htm A list] of all the places you can go to register. You don't need to register in your own district.

===Health insurance===
In Germany you need to have a health insurance by law. It can be very expensive. The easiest way to become insured is to have a job. If you're an employee, the insurance is withhold from your loan (15,5%) automatically, and you can enter the 'Gesetzliche Krankenkasse' (insurance by law), where a broad variety of treatments is covered. If you earn more than €52.200 a year, or you are not an employee, you'd have to sign up for a private health insurance, which have a fixed price per month (starting at €130).

A list with [http://www.gesetzlichekrankenkassen.de/preise/berlin/berlin.html 'Gesetzliche' insurances].

Some private health insurances can be found at:
* [http://www.deutscheinsurance.com/ Compare insurances]
* [http://www.aok.de/rheinland-hamburg/mitglied-werden/international-english-89909.php AOK]
* [http://www.hansemerkur.de/ HanseMerkur]
Note that you need to go to an agency office to sign up. You would probably also need to be checked by a doctor before the insurance company will take you in.

If you want to apply to [http://www.bmkb.de/ KSK] (you must be an artist legally here, they will help you with the price of your insurance, but there are a lot of rules you must follow), you can contact this woman:
Ilka Lacherbauer
Medien und Künstler Beratung Ltd.
Tucholskystr. 35
10117 Berlin - Mitte
Fon.: +49 30 - 75 00 86 00
e-mail: info@bmkb.de or lacherbauer@bmkb.de

===SIM Cards===
(this information was gathered from forums)

* http://www.callmobile.de/
* http://www.fonic.de
* http://www.blau.de
* You can get great deals on SIM's at any Saturn store. They have T-Mobile SIM cards for only 5 euro and they come with 10 euro worth of call minutes for free.
* some Turkish phone shops, they sell Vodafone cards with credit for half-price (usually a card with 10 EUR credit for about 6 EUR, and one with 1 EUR credit for 60 cents), and what's best these are pre-activated and work right away, no need to fill out any stupid forms online.
* new SIM. For instance if you take an O2 one for 28.50E, you get 21E credit plus two months of freecalls to O2 (has a good subscrirption in Germany) numbers and to any landline. I think it is a great offer but something that you cannot renew; just comes with the new number.
*Aldi or Penny (yes, the discount stores) have easy prepaid cards for 15euro or something with the same amount of credit on it so you basically pay nothing for it. I don't know if they offer data as well, but the Aldi card uses ePlus networks so you can also charge your credit with ePlus prepaid cards if there is no Aldi around to buy new credit. adli 300mb 300 minutes = less 10 euro ;)

===Bank account===
At some point you would probably need a German bank account. You would need to find the bank of your choice, apply, and identify yourself at a post office (unless you open an account in a bank physically). Choosing your bank is not the easiest thing, since there are many banks to choose from. Criteria can be:
*Monthly fee
*Interest
*Costs of credit card
*Physical/online bank
*ATM-fee (sometimes you have to pay an extra fee if you use another bank's ATM)
*Welcoming bonus
*Ethics of the bank

There's a [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_banks_in_Germany wikipedia page] listing the banks in Germany. To compare banks, visit [http://www.girokonto-vergleich.net/vergleich.html this] and [http://www.aspect-online.de/banken/girokonto/ this] site.
If you're looking for more ethical (social-ecological) banks, check [http://blog.soziales-dorf.eu/module-news-display-sid-152.html this German blog].

==Luggage Storage==
'''Train stations'''
Berlin Hbf,
Alexanderplatz,
Ostbahnhof,
Friedrichstraße,
Potsdamer Platz,
Gesundbrunnen,
Zoologischer Garten,
Südkreuz,
Spandau

'''Other'''
Central Bus Staion ZOB,
Tegel Airport,
Schönefeld Airport,

==Cost of living==
In Berlin you have many choices on how to spend your money. Berlin is a relatively cheap city, although the prices raised over the years.

Below is a list of estimations of prices. The prices can differ a lot, depending on district, location, season, etc.

'''Renting a room''': €150-€600 per month<br />
'''Renting apartment''': €200-€1000 per month<br />

'''Restaurant''': €2 - €15 for a main dish<br />
'''Beer''': €0,70 - €4,00 for 0,5 liter<br />

==FAQs==
[[trash:Berlin]]
[[hitch:Berlin]]
[[velo:Berlin]]
[[cash:Berlin]]
[[nomad:Berlin]]

Berlin

2019-01-21T17:54:48Z

Iotrj: /* Car sharing */

{{Germany}}
{{Berlin}}
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== Background of this wiki ==
This Wiki is independent from Couchsurfing. It is related to all (formerly) uncommercial traveller websites; all these websites have a strong focus on the community between the members and aim to make real life meetings between persons that got to know in virtual reality. [http://www.globalfreeloaders.com Global Freeloaders], [http://www.hospitalityclub.org Hospitality Club], [http://www.couchsurfing.com Couchsurfing], [http://www.bewelcome.org BeWelcome]. The Couchwiki is also connected to hitch-hiking [http://www.hitchbase.com/orte.php?LANG=ger&l_id=73 Hitchbase] and [http://hitchwiki.org/en/Berlin HitchWiki]. The Wiki inside Couchsurfing is disabled, but other Wikis are still working [http://secure.hospitalityclub.org/hc/hcworld.php?city=3609 Hospitality Club], [http://www.bewelcome.org/groups/77/wiki BeWelcome].

== General information ==
Berlin is the capital of [[Germany]]. Berlin has a population of around 3,5 million people. It is estimated that annually 100 million people visit Berlin, of which roughly 10 million stay in a hotel, hostel, guesthouse, etc. Tourism is one of the pillars of the economy of the city.

Berlin has a relatively high unemployment rate. Around 12% of the people in Berlin is officially unemployed and almost 19% of the Berliner lives on social security benefits.

== Berlin's Couch Situation ==
To find the right host for you, please look on [https://www.couchsurfing.org/n/locals/in/place/69 Couchsurfing] or [http://www.bewelcome.org/searchmembers BeWelcome]

Berlin is a major Couchsurfing and BeWelcome city where there are events happening almost every day. Berlin is a favourite city to surf, especially around New Year's Eve and in summer. Since many people try to surf in Berlin, it can be hard to find a host. Make sure you have a filled out profile and a profile picture. Write personal requests. Hosts in Berlin are getting many copy-paste requests, so a personal one could make a difference. It's recommended to write your requests between 3 weeks and 5 days before arrival. Your chances increase if you have some references (from your local community, for example).

If you haven't found any host and still want to surf in Berlin, you can try the [https://www.couchsurfing.org/group.html?gid=7910 Last Minute Couchsearch Group] or the [http://www.bewelcome.org/groups/590 Berlin Emergency Host Group in BeWelcome]

==Stay in Berlin==
===Berlin Hostels and Guesthouses===
Hostels cost of €5 to €65 a night, depending on the season, location and type of room.

To find hostels and reviews, try these links:
*[http://www.berlin.de/hotels/adressen/hostel/ list of hostels (non-commercial)]
*[http://www.hostelworld.com/hostels/Berlin Hostelworld (commercial)]
*[http://www.hostelbookers.com/hostels/germany/berlin/ Hostelbookers (commercial)]
*[http://www.hostelz.com/hostels/Germany/Berlin Hostelz (commercial)]
*[http://www.hostels.com/berlin/germany Hostels.com (commercial)]

===Hostels and Hotels per district===

====Charlottenburg====
*[http://hotelindigoberlin.com/de/ Indigo Hotel Berlin Kurfürstendamm]

====Friedrichshain====
*[http://www.aohostels.com A&O Hostel Friedrichshain]

====Kreuzberg====
*[http://www.three-little-pigs.com/en/ Three Little Pigs Hostel]

====Lichtenberg====
====Marzahn-Hellersdorf====
====Mitte====
*[http://www.cityhostel-berlin.com/gb/default.aspx Cityhostel Berlin]
*[http://one80hostels.com/de/ One80 Hostel Berlin]
*[http://hiberlincenter.com/de/ Holiday Inn Hotel Alexanderplatz]
*[http://hotelindigoberlin.com/alex/de/ Indigo Hotel Berlin Alexanderplatz]
*[http://pangeapeople.de/de/ PangeaPeople Hostel & Hotel Berlin]

====Neukölln====
====Pankow (incl. Prenzlauer Berg)====
====Reinickendorf====
====Spandau====
*[http://www.hostel-spandau-in.berlin/ Hostel Spandau]

====Steglitz-Zehlendorf====
*[http://www.jh-wannsee.de/ DJH Jugendherberge Wannsee]

====Tempelhof-Schöneberg====
====Treptow-Köpenick====
====Wedding====
*[http://www.smarthostel-berlin.de/ Smarthostel Berlin]

If you want to stay for a longer period of time, read the [[Berlin#Settling_in_Berlin|information on settling]] at the bottom of this article.

== Getting Around ==
[[File:U-Bahn_S-Bahn_02_2013.png|400px|thumb|right|U-Bahn and S-Bahn lines of the inner city of Berlin, as of February 2013]]Public transportation generally goes almost everywhere in whole Berlin. Read more and plan a journey at the [http://www.bvg.de/index.php/en/index.html BVG Website].

=== Tickets ===
Tickets for public transport can be bought at every S- and U-Bahn station from machines, at ticket offices on the main stations. Daily tickets or tickets for short rides can be bought in buses and trams as well (vending machines in trams only accept coins, also often at stations). Tickets are valid for all ways of public transport within the chosen area (A, B and C), including interchanges between different transports.

==== Zones ====
* Zone A is central Berlin (inside circle line), Zone B everything else inside Berlin's city borders, Zone C is everything outside of Berlin (eg. Schönefeld Airport and Potsdam)
* There are no tickets for single zones, but for combinations AB, BC and ABC. For most trips inside Berlin, you'll need a '''Zone AB''' ticket, but '''ABC''' when arriving at Schönefeld Airport or planning to visit Potsdam.

==== Short term tickets ====
* '''Short trip fare''' (Kurzstrecke) is valid for either 3 stops with U- or S-Bahn (changes allowed), or 6 stops with tram or bus (changes '''not''' allowed). Costs €1.70
* '''Single tickets''' (Einzelfahrschein) is valid for 2 hours. Officially you can not travel back towards the station you started, so it's a one-way ticket. Costs €2.70 (AB), €3.00 (BC) or €3.30 (ABC).
* '''4-Trip-ticket''' (4-Fahrten-Karte) is the same as 4 single tickets, but slightly cheaper when bought in this way.
* '''Day ticket''' (Tageskarte) can be used for an entire calendar day, until 3:00am next day (note that day tickets in Berlin are '''not''' valid for 24 hours as in some other places, so don't buy in the evening!). Costs €7.00 (AB), €7.30 (BC) or €7.60 (ABC).
* '''Small group day ticket''' (Kleingruppen-Tageskarte) is a daily ticket for group of up to 5 persons. It pays itself back when traveling with 3 or more persons. Costs €17.30 (AB), €17.50 (BC) and €17.80 (ABC)

==== Long term tickets ====
* '''7-Day-ticket''' (7-Tage-Karte VBB-Umweltkarte) is valid for an entire week. With this ticket you can travel with an additional adult or 3 children between 8:00pm end 3:00am on weekdays, all day on Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays. Costs €30.00 (AB), €31.10 (BC) or €37.20 (ABC).
* '''Monthly ticket''' (Monatskarte VBB-Umweltkarte) is valid for an entire month. With this ticket you can travel with an additional adult or 3 children between 8:00pm end 3:00am on weekdays, all day on Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays. The ticket is transferable and some people offer their monthly ticket (or the part that's left) on the internet. Costs €81.00 (AB), €82.50 (BC) or €99.90 (ABC).
* '''10am Monthly ticket''' (10-Uhr-Karte) is a limited version of the monthly ticket. You can not take other people on the same ticket. Furthermore, you're only allowed to travel after 10:00am. Therefore the price is cheaper than the regular monthly ticket: €59.10 (AB), €60.20 (BC) or €62.50 (ABC).

==== Special tourist tickets ====
* '''Berlin WelcomeCard''' 24/48 hours, 4/5/6 days - Next to travelling, you can use this card to get discounts at touristic attractions, in restaurants and free entrance at some museums (with 3/5-day ticket). Can not be bought at ticket vending machines. [http://www.visitberlin.de/en/welcomecard Read more]
* '''Berlin CityTourCard''' 48/72 hours, 4/5/6 days - Next to travelling, this card provides some discount on some touristic attractions. This ticket can also be bought at ticket vending machines. [http://www.citytourcard.com/en Read more]

For more information on tickets and pricing: [http://www.bvg.de/index.php/en/17181/name/Fares+Overview.html BVG Tickets]

====Important information on public transportation tickets====

*Most of the tickets have to be validated (stamped) before use. If you forget, the fine is 60 Euro (same if you have no ticket)
*Except for Friday and Saturday night, all S-Bahn trains stop driving after approximately 1 o'clock
*Except for Friday and Saturday night, all U-Bahn trains are replaced by night buses (U1->N1; U2->N2; etc.)
*At some stations, people are selling tickets. Although they don't all look that bonafide, they resell tickets other people used. They should be still valid. If you are planning to buy those tickets, check if they are still valid. Also, it's officially forbidden to resell tickets, so you might be involved in a small crime by doing it.

=== From Airport to City ===
For the time being, Berlin has 2 major airports, 'Tegel' in the northwest and 'Schönefeld' in the southeast. They are well connected with public transport. Always make sure to check at which one you're arriving and leaving.

====Schönefeld Airport (SXF)====
[http://www.berlin-airport.de/en/travellers-sxf/to-and-from/buses-and-trains/local-public-transport/index.php transport information]

* Schönefeld Airport is directly connected with S-Bahn. Line '''S9''' connects the airport with the eastern and northern part of the city (for the center, change at Ostkreuz). Line '''S45''' connects the airport with the southern part of the inner-city. Both lines pass stations located on the S-Bahn circular railway (Ringbahn), which makes it easy to travel to other parts of the city, changing trains just once.
* Express trains '''RE7''' and '''RB14''' bring you quickly into central locations (stopping at Ostbahnhof, Alexanderplatz, Friedrichstraße, Hauptbahnhof and Zoologischer Garten), the ticket and price is the same as S-Bahn.
* There are also buses '''X7''' and 107 that connect you to '''U7''' stop Rudow, which will be easier to get to some locations.
* If you are stuck there late at night or have to be there extremely early, there's bus N7 from Schönefeld and then following the U7 line all the way to Spandau.

''Ticket:'' from Schönefeld Airport, you'll need a "Zone ABC" ticket to get to anywhere in Berlin (the ticket is valid also when changing to other S-Bahn trains, U-Bahn, Trams or Buses)

====Tegel Airport (TXL)====
[http://www.berlin-airport.de/en/travellers-txl/to-and-from/buses-and-trains/local-public-transport/index.php transport information]

Tegel Airport is accessible by bus. There are 2 express buses:
* Bus '''X9''' between Tegel and 'S+U Zoologischer Garten' (for western Berlin), or change at 'S+U Jungfernheide' to S-Bahn circle line or U7.
* Bus '''TXL''' between Tegel and 'Hauptbahnhof' (main train station) and 'S+U Alexanderplatz' (for central and eastern Berlin). Best change at Hauptbahnhof to S-Bahn, the route to Alexanderplatz is slow.
* There are also 2 normal bus lines: '''128''' in the direction of 'U Osloer Straße' and '''109''' in the direction of 'S+U Zoologischer Garten'.

''Ticket:'' from Tegel Airport, you'll need a "Zone AB" ticket to get to anywhere in Berlin (ticket is valid for the Bus and changes to S-Bahn trains, U-Bahn, Trams)

'''Taxi'''

Expected price for a [[Berlin#Taxi|taxi-ride]] from/to the airports is between €20,00 and €35,00, depending on the start/destination location.

=== Public Transportation network ===
==== Underground / U-Bahn ====
The subway/underground in Berlin is called the U-Bahn. The U-Bahn is efficient and reliable and it covers the major areas of the city.

Most U-Bahn trains drive frequent, every 5 or 10 minutes. In the late evening and night the frequency can be reduced to one train every 15 or 20 minutes. Except for Friday- and Saturday night, the U-Bahn stops working after approximately 1:00h. All lines are then replaced by night buses, which drive every 30 minutes and follow the same route as the U-Bahn (some minor exceptions).

==== Stadtbahn / S-Bahn ====
The suburban "rapid transit" network is the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Berlin_S-Bahn S-Bahn]. The main lines in the center consist of a circle line (Ringbahn, S41 clockwise, S42 counterclockwise) and the central branches from east (Ostkreuz) to west (Westkreuz) and from north (Gesundbrunnen) to south (Südkreuz), going through all the imporant central train stations (Zoologischer Garten, Hauptbahnof, Friedrichstraße, Alexanderplatz, Ostbahnhof). It connects with the U-Bahn network in many locations. The basic differences to U-Bahn (which won't matter for you in most situations) is that it's run by the German Railway company (DB) and not by the city of Berlin (BVG), and that it goes to some more remote places outside of Berlin. Tickets are always valid for both networks including Trams/Buses

====Tram (Straßenbahn/Metro)====
The tram in Berlin is called Straßenbahn (street train), or sometimes Metrotram. The tram network especially is big in the eastern part of town. The trams drive in the 'gaps' of the U- and S-Bahn net, while crossing many of their stations on the way.

====Buses====
Buses normally drive in the 'gaps' of the U- and S-Bahn net. Most people only take buses if they have to go to area's that are on the outskirts of town.
The exceptions are bus lines '''100''' and '''200'''. These bus lines are well known for the ''touristic'' route they are following. It crosses several points of interest, and therefore used by many tourists as a cheap alternative for the sightseeing buses.

=== Taxi ===

There are fixed prices for taxi's in Berlin. There's no difference between day- and night prices. The prices are calculated as follows:
*Basic price: €3,20
*Per kilometre (first 7): €1,65
*Per kilometre (after 7): €1,28

You'll pay additional if:
*''you're travelling more than 4 persons: €1,50 per extra person''
*''the taxi has to wait for you: €25,00 per hour''
*''you have big luggage: €1,00''
*''you are paying with credit card: €1,50''
*''you are coming from Tegel Airport: €0,50''
'''The common taxi companies:'''
*[http://www.taxi-berlin.de Taxi Berlin] (+49 30) 20 20 20
*[http://www.taxifunkberlin.de Taxi Funk Berlin] (+49 30) 44 33 22
*[http://www.funk-taxi-berlin.de Funk Taxi Berlin] (+49 30)26 10 26

===Bicycle===
Berlin is relatively easy for cycling and visiting Berlin by bicycle is a great option in Summer, especially for not-so-central locations like Tempelhofer Feld, Sowjetisches Ehrenmal etc. Advantages are that Berlin is 99% flat and there are many roads with separate bike paths. Disadvantages are that you can be surprised by the distances, very cold winters (cycling when there is snow gets to hardly possible as mostly bicycle paths are not cleared well), sometimes strong winds, and you should always be very careful to watch for cars and traffic even if you have the way of right (most accidents happen with cars/trucks turning right and not seeing you approaching on the bike lane).

If you're lucky, you can borrow a bike for free through [http://bikesurfberlin.blogspot.de BikeSurfBerlin] and [http://www.bewelcome.org/groups/1021 BikeSurfBerlin Group in Bewelcome].<br/>
Otherwise there are a lot of places to rent bicycles. The rental prices are unfortunately quite steep, often around 10€ per day (cheaper when renting for several days). Here's a list of all known bike-renting places, sorted [http://www.adfc-berlin.de/service/adfc-branchenbuch/fahrradverleih/fahrradverleiher-von-a-z.html alphabetically] or by [http://www.adfc-berlin.de/service/adfc-branchenbuch/fahrradverleih/fahrradverleiher-im-bezirk.html district]

== Nightlife, Dining and Entertainment ==



===Main Nightlife Areas===

The main nightlife areas of Berlin are:
*Warschauer Straße and Simon Dach Straße - pubs and clubs
*Oranienburger Tor/Oranienburger Straße - pubs and restuarants
*Kreuzberg around [[File:U1.png]]Kottbusser Tor, [[File:U1.png]]Görlitzer Bahnhof and [[File:U1.png]]Schlesisches Tor - pubs, restaurants, music stages
*Schönhauser Allee and direct surrounding - pubs, restaurants, clubs

===Magazines and Event listings===
The following websites can help bring you up to speed on the local club scene, nightlife, concerts, festivals and shows:
*[http://www.blitzgigs.de/ Blitzgigs] (English)
*[http://www.exberliner.com/ Exberliner] (English)
*[http://www.zitty.de/ Zitty] (German)
*[http://www.top10berlin.de/ Top 10 Berlin] (German)
*[http://www.bln.fm/category/termine/ BLN FM] (German)
*[http://www.nachtagenten.de/events/ Nachtagenten] (German)
*[http://www.tip-berlin.de/ Tip Berlin] (German)
*[http://www.berlin030.de/ (030) MAGAZINE] (German)
*[http://stressfaktor.squat.net/ Squats, Punk, Hardocre, Voküs] (German)
*[http://www.livegigs.de/berlin/#konzerte Livegigs Berlin] (German)
*[http://www.residentadvisor.net/events.aspx?ai=34 Resident Advisor listings] (English)

===Bars===
Some favourite local haunts include:

===Breweries and Beer===

'''Breweries'''

*[http://eschenbräu.de/ Eschenbräu] Craft brewery with 3 differnt beers on tap. Usually one is seasonal. They also distill their own Schnaps and Whiskey. You can bring your own food. Nice beergarden in summer
*[http://www.brauhaus-lemke.com/index.php/home Lemke Hackescher Markt] A bit touristy place. Decent German food. Good beer. Not the cheapest. There are three "Lemkes" all over the city.
*[http://www.schoppebraeu.de/ Schoppe Bräu/Brauhaus Südstern] Big and with a nice beer garden. They claim to have the strongest beer in Berlin.
*[http://vagabundbrauerei.com/ Vagabund Brauerei] Small brewery run by 3 Americans, mostly American style craft brews and bottled beers.
*[http://heidenpeters.de/more.html Heidepeters] Stand in the Markthalle9 in Kreuzberg, very good, very special beers on tap.
*[http://www.hopsandbarley-berlin.de/index.html Hops&Barley] Located in the a cool party area in Friedrichshain.
*[http://www.brauhaus-rixdorf.de/ Brauhaus Rixdorf] Neukolln-based brewery.

;'''Beershops'''
:Of course you can get beer at every Späti, but there some nice litte shops in the city where you can get the quality stuff....

*[http://hopfenmalz.de/ Hopfen und Malz] Huge Selection of beers. Mostly from Frankonia. But also American IPAs or Belgian brews.
*[http://www.weiss-blau-berlin.de/ Weiss Blau ] Bavarian Beers and specalities.
*[http://www.ambrosetti.de/ Ambrosetti] Huge verty of beers.
*[http://www.berlinbiershop.com/ Berlin Beer Shop] Mostly IPA and Belgium beers but also A LOT of good wine.
*[http://absinth-berlin.de/ladenenglish.html Absinth Depoth] Some Bavarian beers and the BEST collection of Absinth in Berlin.
*[http://www.getraenkefeinkost.de/filiale/berlin/ Getränkefeinkost] Good selection of German craft beers, IPAs, Belgian beers etc. in the heart of Friedrichshain

'''Beergardens'''
A selection of some more central located beergardens:
*[http://www.pratergarten.de/e/ Prater Garten] - The oldest 'Biergarten' of Berlin, located in Prenzlauer Berg
*[http://www.schoenbrunn.net/ Schoenbrunn] in Friedrichshain
*Bierhof Rüdersdorf - in Friedrichshain, next to Berghain
*Burg am See - in Kreuzberg
*[http://www.brachvogel-berlin.de/bv/ Brachvogel] - in Kreuzberg
*[http://www.cafe-am-neuen-see.de/ Cafe am neuen See] - in Charlottenburg, next to Tiergarten
*[http://www.schleusenkrug.de/ Der Schleusenkrug] - in Charlottenburg, also close to Tiergarten
*[http://schoenbrunn.net/ Restaurant Schönbrunn] - in Friedrichshain, Volkspark
*[http://www.doldenmaedel.de/ Dolden Mädel] - Kreuzberg, next to Bergmannstr. - expensive, but they have a huge selection of craft beers (usually 15-20 different ones on tap + many more in bottles)

===Clubs===
Berlin is well known for its clubs. There are numerous of them, with a wide range of music style, atmosphere and exclusivity. Some of the most famous ones:
*Berghain - on the border of Kreuzberg and Friedrichshain, hence the name. Known for rejecting people, long waiting cues and crazy parties.
*Cassiopaia
*Kater Holzig
*Yaam
*White Trash
*Matrix
*Watergate
You can find many, many [http://www.berlin.de/international/clubs/index.en.php more clubs].

===Restaurants===
There are hundreds of restaurants in Berlin. In most districts you'll find typical restaurants with foreign food, mostly Turkish, Asian and Arabic. Meals that are often consumed are Döner and Falafel. Both meals cost between €2,00 and €4,00 depending on district and quality.

On several places you can find the typical Berlin Currywurst (curry sausage)

[[Restaurants in Berlin]]

===Seasonal events===
The following events are reoccurring every year. They are listed chronologically:
====Berlinale====
In the first weeks of February, every movie loving person in the world is looking at Berlin. During the Berlinale, movies are awarded, celebrities are visiting the city and all cinemas in the city are showing quality movies. [http://www.berlinale.de/en/HomePage.html Official website] of the Berlinale.

====Karneval der Kulturen====
During the weekend of Ascension Day (end of May, beginning of June), the city explodes and everyone can be found on the streets to celebrate the carnival of cultures. Main event is the parade where different cultural groups perform, show dances or make music. Around it, everyone enjoys the spring weather and party until morning. [http://www.karneval-berlin.de/de/english.175.html Official website] of Karnaval der Kulturen.

====Fête de la Musique====
The worldwide international music day, initiated by the French minister of culture in 1981 and since 1995 a yearly day where music is celebrated. Concerts all over town. [http://www.fetedelamusique.de/en/ Official website] of Fête de la Musique.

==Sports, Activities and the Great Outdoors==
===Parks===
Berlin is said to be the greenest capital of Europe. There are many big parks, and many more small green areas. All parks have their own charms and every season they look different. In spring and summer, when the temperatures reach 20 degrees Celsius or more, you will see many people visiting parks to walk, run, cycle, play outdoor games and most of all sunbathing with a beer!

===Lakes===
In and around Berlin one can find many lakes. In most of them you could swim at your own risk, but it may not always be allowed.
*Wannsee (South West)
*Tegeler See (North West)
*Weißensee (North East)
*Müggelsee (South East)

===Outdoor sports===
Tempelhofer Feld is a great place to practice outdoor sports like kiting, rollerskating, biking or running. The former airport is the biggest open flat area of Berlin, located centrally, and provided with good asphalt roads through and around the field.

===Climbing===
*[http://www.magicmountain.de/ Magic Mountain] - Gesundbrunnen
*[http://www.bertablock.de/ Berta Block] - Pankow
*[http://www.ostbloc.de/ Ostbloc] - Ostkreuz
*[http://www.derkegel.de/ Der Kegel] - Warschauer Straße
*[http://www.diekletterhalle.de/ T-Hall Berlin] - Neukölln

===Other sports===
[http://www.pingpongmap.net/ Ping pong map] - hundreds of locations to play ping pong, both indoors and outdoors.

==Learning German==
There are lots of language exchange options available in Berlin from one on one meetups to clubs that meet regularly in person to social networks available online at your convenience. Here are some of your options:
===Free online courses===
*[http://www.dw.de/learn-german/s-2469 Deutsche Welle] is actually a news website, but offers some courses and tests online. The best feature: slowly spoken news in German with transcript.
*[http://www.goethe.de/lrn/duw/lad/deindex.htm?wt_sc=lernabenteuer App for iPhone or Android] from Goethe Institut
*[http://online-lernen.levrai.de/ Website] with all background information on the German language
*[http://www.goethe.de/lrn/duw/auf/stb/enindex.htm Exercises] from the Goethe Institut
*[http://www.deutsch-perfekt.com/deutsch-lernen Exercises] from Deutsch Perfekt
*[http://www.deutschakademie.de/online-deutschkurs/ Test] from Deutsch Akademie
*[http://www.goethe.de/lrn/lks/enindex.htm Links from the Goethe Institut] to very useful websites
*[http://www.nachrichtenleicht.de Nachrichten Leicht] German news written in easy German. Includes audio read in slow German.

===For one on one / tandem===
*[http://www.sprachenzentrum.fu-berlin.de/slz/tandem/index.html Tandem program] of the Freie Universität
*[https://www.international.hu-berlin.de/an_die_hu-en/studierende/orbis/sprachboerse Language exchange market of the Humbolt University]

===Groups that meet regularly===
[[File:Gaudy_exchange.png|200px|thumb|left‎|Gaudy Exchange]]St. Gaudy Cafe weekly language exchange
*http://www.gaudycafe.com/
*Gaudystraße 1
*[[File:U2.png]]Schönhauser Allee

===Language exchange social networks===
*[http://livemocha.com/ Live Mocha] - community of language learners that help each other

===Paid language courses===
*[http://www.berlin.de/vhs/ Volkshochschule] (probably the cheapest one, with bigger classes)
*http://www.cosmopolilingua.de (Private one to one and small group classes, individual and intense)
*http://www.speakeasy-sprachzeug.com/en/
*http://www.hartnackschule-berlin.de
*http://www.transmitter-berlin.de
*http://www.die-deutschule.de
*http://www.sprachenatelier-berlin.de
*http://www.deutschakademie.de
*http://kapitel-zwei.de/en
*http://www.deutsch-in-berlin.de
*http://www.goethe.de/lrn/enindex.htm
*https://smartergerman.com/ - Private intense lessons, including an option to get to b1 level (Goethe Institute) in 45 - 60 days

== Sightseeing ==
Berlin is extremely easy to get around by [[Berlin#Getting_Around|public transport]]. You can easily visit several locations on one day.

=== Typical touristic attractions ===
[[File:20c_German.jpg|100px|thumb|left|Brandenburger Tor on German euro-coins]]
==== Brandenburger Tor ====
The Brandenburger Tor ([http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brandenburger_gate Brandenburger gate]) is one of the most famous buildings of both Berlin and Germany. It has been build as a city gate, but is now known as a symbol of the reunion of Germany.

==== Reichstagsgebäude ====
The [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Reichstag_%28building%29 Reichstag building] is the former and present building for the German parliament. The burning of the building in 1933 was the direct cause of Hitler taking over all power. The building was not in use as a parliament between 1933 and 1999.
[[File:Fernsehturm_Berlin2.jpg|100px|thumb|left|Fernsehturm (TV-tower)]]
==== Fernsehturm ====
The 368 metres high TV-tower near Alexanderplatz that can be seen everywhere in the city. You can go up in the tower and look back at the city. Entrance fee is €12 for adults. There is a possibility to have diner in the rotating restaurant, but you have to make reservations. For more info, visit [http://www.tv-turm.de/en/index.php].

==== Museuminsel ====
Island in the city center with many museums, mostly classical and historical art and artifacts.
==== Eastside Gallery ====
1,5 kilometre long gallery of painted pieces of the Berlin Wall.
==== Checkpoint Charlie ====
The famous checkpoint where diplomats could cross the border with the DDR.
==== Gedenkstätte Berliner Mauer ====
History of the Berlin Wall, with a real life simulation of the Berlin Wall and a watchtower.
==== Gendarmenmarkt ====
Square with 2 symmetrical churches (French and German) facing each other.
==== Berliner Dom ====
Protestant cathedral
==== Nikolaiviertel ====
Origin of Berlin. Lots of old buildings, including the Nikolai-church, mixed with renovated buildings and typical DDR/communistic architecture.
==== Siegessäule ====
Victory column, built after the victories in the wars against Denmark, Austria and France in the late 19th century.

=== Less touristic attractions ===
==== Sowjetisches Ehrenmal ====
Huge and impressive memorial for the Soviet soldiers that died during World War II. Year round impressive, but extra special are the 23rd of February (day of the Red Army), 9th of May (Capitulation of Germany) and in autumn when the trees around the memorial turn red.
==== Tempelhof ====
Huge former airfield. Built in the 1920's, extended by Nazi-Germany and used to provide West-Berlin during the Cold War. The airport closed in 2008 and was opened as a park in 2010. Over the last years, people started to fill parts of the area with small gardens.

A new video published April 2014 that really shows the vibe of Templehof!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zuh1v5qwjNU#t=53

==== Teufelsberg ====
In south-western Berlin you can find an old American listening station, built upon a man made 'mountain' out of rubbish from World War II. From the station, there's a great view over the city and the dome/ball on top of the station provides a great acoustic. Since 2012, all holes in the fences are repaired and a security guy asks €7 as an entree fee. In the weekends a [http://www.berlinsightout.de/ guided tour] is possible for €15.
==== Waterfall in Viktoriapark ====
==== Eisfabrik ====
==== Pfaueninsel ====
==== Spreepark ====
Abandoned theme park in Plänterwald. Main attractions are a big ferry wheel, decorative dinosaurs and a roller coaster. Please note that entering the park is officially not allowed.
==== Olympic Stadium ====
Built in the 30's under Nazi-regime, it hosted the famous Olympic Summer Games of 1936 and was subject of Leni Riefenstahl's movie 'Olympia'. You can either walk around it, or get a [http://www.olympiastadion-berlin.de/en/stadium-visitor-centre/viewing-and-guided-tours.html guided tour]. If you are more interested, a visit to the [http://dkb-stiftung.de/web/Das_Olympische_Dorf_von_1936.32.htm Olympic Village] could be a nice addition.

==== Berliner Unterwelten ====
Visit an underground peoples bunker or the anti-aircraft towers in Volkspark Humboldthain. Tours organized by [http://berliner-unterwelten.de/home.1.1.html Berliner Unterwelten e.V.]. Entrance at U-bahnhof Gesundbrunnen. The plateau of the 'Flakturmen' with a nice view of northern Berlin can be accessed for free via the park (also accessible for wheelchairs).

=== Museums ===
If you're planning to visit many museums during your stay in Berlin, you might want to buy the '''[http://www.museumsportal-berlin.de/en/plan-your-visit/all-about-admission-fees/everything-three-days/ Museum pass]'''. It costs €19, can be bought at any participating museum and is valid for 3 days.

If you want to see both city and museums, and you're not sure how many museums you'll be visiting, you might be interested in the [[Berlin#Special_tickets|Berlin Welcome Card]] which gives you discount on museums and free use of public transport.
*[http://www.dhm.de Deutsches Historisches Museum] - German history
*[http://www.smb.museum/smb/standorte/index.php?objID=24&p=2 Altes Museum] - Ancient and classical art and artifacts
*[http://www.smb.museum/smb/standorte/index.php?p=2&objID=27&n=15 Pergamommuseum] - Ancient art and artifacts
*[http://www.mauermuseum.de Haus am Checkpoint Charlie] - Berlin Wall
*[http://www.smb.museum/smb/sammlungen/details.php?objectId=17 Alte Nationalgalerie] - 19th century sculptures and paintings
*[http://www.neues-museum.de/ Neues Museum] - Prehistory, early history, Egyptian and other classical artifacts
*[http://www.smb.museum/smb/standorte/index.php?lang=en&p=2&objID=28&n=3 Bode-Museum] Byzantine art and sculptures
*Museum für Naturkunde
*Hamburger Bahnhof Museum
*Jüdisches Museum
*Gedenkstätte Berliner Mauer
*Topographie des Terrors
*DDR-Museum
*Story of Berlin

=== Religious buildings ===

=== Flea markets and other famous markets ===
Berlin is well known for its flea markets. There are several weekly flea markets. The most famous ones:

'''Mauerpark'''<br />
The most famous flea market of Berlin, close to [[File:U2.png]]Eberswalderstraße. Has a lot of 2nd hand stalls, mixed with creative people that make jewelry, paintings, photos/cards, wallets and other stuff themselves. When the weather is right, there's a huge karaoke in the park next to the flea market. Can be very crowded, especially in spring and summer.
*[http://www.mauerparkmarkt.de/ Website]
*Bernauer Straße 63
*Sunday 7:00-17:00h

'''Boxhagener Platz'''<br />
Easy to oversee, since all stands are built around the Boxhagener square. You can take a rest on the square itself, or make a round in approximately an hour. Especially known for its records, books and posters. Other stands sell furniture and objects, but not so many clothes.
*Boxhagener Platz 1
*Sunday 10:00-18:00h

'''Schöneberg'''

'''Arkonaplatz'''

'''Straße des 17. Juni'''

'''Ostbahnhof'''

'''OBI Neukölln'''

=== Vegetable and Food Markets ===
'''Türkischer Markt am Maybachufer'''<br />
Twice weekly (Tuesdays and Fridays) from 11am. This is one of the biggest weekly markets in Berlin. Fruit and vegetables are considerably cheaper than most supermarkets, including Aldi and Lidl. Also you can find many other foods items and a mixed range of household items.

'''Boxhagener Platz'''<br />
Food market on Saturdays 10:00-18:00h on Boxhagener Platz

'''Markthalle Neun'''<br />
[http://markthalleneun.de/markets?lang=en Food market] in a historic market hall:<br />
* Tuesdays 12:00-20:00h (small)
* Fridays 12:00-20:00h (big)
* Saturdays 10:00-18:00h (big)
* International Street Food Thursdays 17:00-22:00h (popular, often extremely crowded)

== Travelling from Berlin ==
Apart from the 2 airports, several (international) trains and busses arrive at and leave from Berlin.
===Trains===
Most '''international trains''' arrive at and depart from Berlin Hauptbahnhof (main railway station).
*to the Netherlands (Berlin-Schiphol)
*to Poland (Berlin-Warsaw/Gdansk/Wrocław Główny)
*to Switzerland (Berlin-Basel)
*to Denmark (Berlin-Copenhagen/Arhus)
*to the Czech Republic (Berlin-Prague)
To find the best connections, or for booking tickets, you can check out the website of the [[http://www.bahn.de/i/view/GBR/en/index.shtml German Railway]]. Booking tickets on forehand can make a huge difference in price.

'''(inter)regional trains''' depart from every major station, such as Alexanderplatz, Ostbahnhof, Spandau and Sudkreuz. There's a difference between regional trains ('''RB''' (Regionalbahn) and'''RE''' (Regionalexpress)) and inter-regional trains ('''IC''' (Intercity) and '''ICE''' (Intercity Express)). The IC's and ICE's drive much faster and over a long distance, mostly to other big cities in Germany. The RB and RE only drive short distances and stop at many smaller stations on the way.

===Buses===
The main bus station for international and inter-regional bus lines is '''ZOB''' ("Zentraler Omnibus-Bahnhof") in western Berlin. It is near S-Bahn station "Messe Nord/ICC" (Circle lines S41/S42) and [[File:U2.png]] station "Kaiserdamm".
Depending on the line and destination, some international/inter-regional buses may also stop at one of these places:
* Ostbahnhof Bus Station (eastern side of the city, at S-Bahn Ostbahnhof)
* Südkreuz station - many buses to/from Poland and Czech Republic stop here (S2, S25, S41, S42, S45, S46, and some mainline trains)
* Hauptbahnhof (main train station) - buses run by DB (German railway) stop here
* Schönefeld Airport (near the terminals) - some buses to/from Poland and Czech Republic stop here

Try [https://www.busliniensuche.de/ BusLinienSuche] for finding buses to various places.

====International Buses====
Some major bus lines that will bring you abroad are:
*[http://www.eurolines.com/en/ Eurolines] - to almost any place in Europe
*[http://ecolines.net/en/ Ecolines] - Poland, Russia, Lithuania, Estonia, Latvia, Belarus, Ukraine
*[http://eclubreisen.de Eclubreisen] - to Ukraine
*[https://www.flixbus.de/ Flixbus]

====Inter-regional buses====
*[https://www.flixbus.de/ Flixbus]
*[http://www.eurolines.de/index.php?id=14&L=1 Eurolines]

===Car===
====Car sharing====
It's easy to find car sharing online. Cars travel from every city to every city. You can find rides or travellers at [http://www.blablacar.de/ Blablacar]
and on CouchSurfing
[https://www.couchsurfing.org/group.html?gid=10289 Group 1]
[https://www.couchsurfing.org/group.html?gid=17463 Group 2]
[https://www.couchsurfing.org/group.html?gid=2920 Group 3]

====Hitchhiking====

Naturally, [[:hitch:Berlin|Hitchwiki]] has the best and most up-to-date resources about thumbing your way out of Berlin. The old fashioned and not-updated any more [http://www.hitchbase.com/orte.php?LANG=ger&l_id=73 Hitchbase] might be an alternative in some cases.

==Settling in Berlin==
If you are planning to stay in Berlin for a longer time, the main concerns will be housing, visa (if necessary), work, health insurance and the necessary bureaucracy. Please note that all information written here are rough guidelines and tips and might be outdated or incomplete.
Be aware that you might get trapped in a vicious circle: to register yourself in Berlin you need an address, to find housing you need work and for work you need to be registered.

===Housing===
Some websites that can be used if you're looking for flat-share(WG)/renting a flat in Berlin:
*[http://www.wg-gesucht.de/en/ WG-Gesucht.de (German/English)] The most used website to search for accomodation/house mates
*[http://www.studenten-wg.de Studenten-wg.de (German)] Another website to find WG's
*[http://www.immobilo.de/mieten/berlin Immobilo.de (German)] Searches multiple websites that lists accomodations.
*[http://www.immobilienscout24.de/Suche/S-T/WG-Zimmer/Berlin/Berlin Immobilienscout24 (German)] For apartments, less used for flatsharing.
*[http://www.wgcompany.de/cgi-bin/seite?st=1&mi=10&li=100 WGcompany (English)] Has a glossary in english with all important terms. Used for flatsharing.
*[http://kleinanzeigen.ebay.de/anzeigen/s-immobilien/berlin/c195l3331 E-bay Kleinanzeigen (German)] Germans offer everything on E-bay.
*[http://berlin.en.craigslist.de/hhh/ Craigslist (English)] Not all very reliable, but sometimes it contains a hidden treasure.
*[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group.html?gid=19711/ CouchSurfing Group 1 (English)] Find local CSers looking for flatmates, available sublets, etc.
*[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group.html?gid=9251/ CouchSurfing Group 2 (English)] Find local CSers looking for flatmates, available sublets, etc.
*[http://www.toytowngermany.com/forum/index.php?showforum=84/ ToyTown (English)] Expat community.
*[https://www.facebook.com/groups/easy.wg/ A Facebook Group (English/German)] A good group to find housing.
*[http://www.bewelcome.org/groups/1437 BW Accommodation group] or [https://www.couchsurfing.org/group.html?gid=19711 CS Accommodation group].
*[http://www.studentenwerk-berlin.de/wohnen/woanders_wohnen/berliner_wbgs/ Berlin Apartment Corporations (German)]
*[http://www.studentenwerk-berlin.de/wohnen/woanders_wohnen/wohnraumboerse_berlin/index.html Flat Search of Studentenwerk (German)]
*[http://www.wbm.de/wbm/cms/de/wohnen/Mietwohnungen.html WBM another corporation that builds flats]
*[https://www.dreamflat.co.uk/ Dreamflat]
*[https://www.wg-cast.de/ WG-Cast]
*[http://www.airbnb.de AirBnB Apartments, Flats and Rooms for rent]

===Buying used items===
Berlin is a hot spot for exchanging/selling/buying used items. You can find many things for sale or even for free:
*[http://kleinanzeigen.ebay.de/anzeigen/s-immobilien/berlin/c195l3331 E-bay Kleinanzeigen (German)] Germans offer everything on E-bay.
*[http://berlin.en.craigslist.de/hhh/ Craigslist (English)] Good place for all sorts of items, including bikes.
*[https://www.facebook.com/groups/freeyourstuff/ A Facebook Group (English)] People offering things for FREE only.

===VISA===
General information on getting a visa for Germany can be found [http://4dayvisa.tumblr.com/ here]
====VISA Office====
[http://www.berlin.de/labo/auslaender/dienststelle/index.html Ausländerbehörde (ABH)]
[http://osm.org/go/0MZv6kuHu-- MAP]

Schedule an appointment ahead of time. The waiting times are not that bad, but it's always best to have an appointment.<br>
They really don't speak English consistently so just be prepared. Bring someone with you if at all possible. Have everything you need when you go. They don't answer emails for nearly 1 month so don't bother there. You can call and ask questions, but have someone call for you who speaks German and then you might get answers.

====Freelance VISA and Artist VISA====
(This is written from a US citizen. Different rules may apply to you, although they may be similar).
These are 2 different things. I obtained my Artist's visa while I was waiting for my Freelance visa to be approved (this will take 6-10 weeks). The Artist's visa does not allow you to work. The Freelance one does (you can list more than one profession on this visa).

====List of things that you need====
* Completed Form (http://www.berlin.de/formularserver/formular.php?72301)
* Letter stating your intentions, how you plan to support yourself, everthing you can think of
* CV
* Passport Copy
* 2 Biometric Photo (not smiling... these can be done in the bottom level of the office... leave an extra 10 minutes for this).
* Bank Statement (proving that you can support yourself without working)
* All Certificates
* All Diplomas
* All Transcripts
* Health Insurance (GERMAN) Proof and all documents
* German Address Registration (do NOT show up without this. You will be turned away. You must register your address)
* References
* €50 in cash (sometimes this is more)
* Artist portfolio (this must be hard copies of your work)
* Letter from 2 prospective employers (I fought this, but it's technically required and you should have it)

===Registering in Germany/Berlin - Bürgeramt===
'''Registering your address'''
Fill out page 3 of [https://docs.google.com/file/d/1RBnLXCEqJ-le6hyQSsyvQ2_0u7Uo7tF-tG4lUc76EPDL6r-8O6ipxGPkZt2-/edit this form] and then go to register.<br />
You must register your address within 2 weeks of coming to Germany and before you can do anything really.<br />
You need to either have a rental agreement or have the main renter to sign the paper or write a letter for you.<br />
[http://www.buergeramt.info/berlin.htm A list] of all the places you can go to register. You don't need to register in your own district.

===Health insurance===
In Germany you need to have a health insurance by law. It can be very expensive. The easiest way to become insured is to have a job. If you're an employee, the insurance is withhold from your loan (15,5%) automatically, and you can enter the 'Gesetzliche Krankenkasse' (insurance by law), where a broad variety of treatments is covered. If you earn more than €52.200 a year, or you are not an employee, you'd have to sign up for a private health insurance, which have a fixed price per month (starting at €130).

A list with [http://www.gesetzlichekrankenkassen.de/preise/berlin/berlin.html 'Gesetzliche' insurances].

Some private health insurances can be found at:
* [http://www.deutscheinsurance.com/ Compare insurances]
* [http://www.aok.de/rheinland-hamburg/mitglied-werden/international-english-89909.php AOK]
* [http://www.hansemerkur.de/ HanseMerkur]
Note that you need to go to an agency office to sign up. You would probably also need to be checked by a doctor before the insurance company will take you in.

If you want to apply to [http://www.bmkb.de/ KSK] (you must be an artist legally here, they will help you with the price of your insurance, but there are a lot of rules you must follow), you can contact this woman:
Ilka Lacherbauer
Medien und Künstler Beratung Ltd.
Tucholskystr. 35
10117 Berlin - Mitte
Fon.: +49 30 - 75 00 86 00
e-mail: info@bmkb.de or lacherbauer@bmkb.de

===SIM Cards===
(this information was gathered from forums)

* http://www.callmobile.de/
* http://www.fonic.de
* http://www.blau.de
* You can get great deals on SIM's at any Saturn store. They have T-Mobile SIM cards for only 5 euro and they come with 10 euro worth of call minutes for free.
* some Turkish phone shops, they sell Vodafone cards with credit for half-price (usually a card with 10 EUR credit for about 6 EUR, and one with 1 EUR credit for 60 cents), and what's best these are pre-activated and work right away, no need to fill out any stupid forms online.
* new SIM. For instance if you take an O2 one for 28.50E, you get 21E credit plus two months of freecalls to O2 (has a good subscrirption in Germany) numbers and to any landline. I think it is a great offer but something that you cannot renew; just comes with the new number.
*Aldi or Penny (yes, the discount stores) have easy prepaid cards for 15euro or something with the same amount of credit on it so you basically pay nothing for it. I don't know if they offer data as well, but the Aldi card uses ePlus networks so you can also charge your credit with ePlus prepaid cards if there is no Aldi around to buy new credit. adli 300mb 300 minutes = less 10 euro ;)

===Bank account===
At some point you would probably need a German bank account. You would need to find the bank of your choice, apply, and identify yourself at a post office (unless you open an account in a bank physically). Choosing your bank is not the easiest thing, since there are many banks to choose from. Criteria can be:
*Monthly fee
*Interest
*Costs of credit card
*Physical/online bank
*ATM-fee (sometimes you have to pay an extra fee if you use another bank's ATM)
*Welcoming bonus
*Ethics of the bank

There's a [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_banks_in_Germany wikipedia page] listing the banks in Germany. To compare banks, visit [http://www.girokonto-vergleich.net/vergleich.html this] and [http://www.aspect-online.de/banken/girokonto/ this] site.
If you're looking for more ethical (social-ecological) banks, check [http://blog.soziales-dorf.eu/module-news-display-sid-152.html this German blog].

==Luggage Storage==
'''Train stations'''
Berlin Hbf,
Alexanderplatz,
Ostbahnhof,
Friedrichstraße,
Potsdamer Platz,
Gesundbrunnen,
Zoologischer Garten,
Südkreuz,
Spandau

'''Other'''
Central Bus Staion ZOB,
Tegel Airport,
Schönefeld Airport,

==Cost of living==
In Berlin you have many choices on how to spend your money. Berlin is a relatively cheap city, although the prices raised over the years.

Below is a list of estimations of prices. The prices can differ a lot, depending on district, location, season, etc.

'''Renting a room''': €150-€600 per month<br />
'''Renting apartment''': €200-€1000 per month<br />

'''Restaurant''': €2 - €15 for a main dish<br />
'''Beer''': €0,70 - €4,00 for 0,5 liter<br />

==FAQs==
[[trash:Berlin]]
[[hitch:Berlin]]
[[velo:Berlin]]
[[cash:Berlin]]
[[nomad:Berlin]]

Berlin

2019-01-21T17:53:27Z

Iotrj: /* Inter-regional buses */

{{Germany}}
{{Berlin}}
{{TOCright|limit=1}}

== Background of this wiki ==
This Wiki is independent from Couchsurfing. It is related to all (formerly) uncommercial traveller websites; all these websites have a strong focus on the community between the members and aim to make real life meetings between persons that got to know in virtual reality. [http://www.globalfreeloaders.com Global Freeloaders], [http://www.hospitalityclub.org Hospitality Club], [http://www.couchsurfing.com Couchsurfing], [http://www.bewelcome.org BeWelcome]. The Couchwiki is also connected to hitch-hiking [http://www.hitchbase.com/orte.php?LANG=ger&l_id=73 Hitchbase] and [http://hitchwiki.org/en/Berlin HitchWiki]. The Wiki inside Couchsurfing is disabled, but other Wikis are still working [http://secure.hospitalityclub.org/hc/hcworld.php?city=3609 Hospitality Club], [http://www.bewelcome.org/groups/77/wiki BeWelcome].

== General information ==
Berlin is the capital of [[Germany]]. Berlin has a population of around 3,5 million people. It is estimated that annually 100 million people visit Berlin, of which roughly 10 million stay in a hotel, hostel, guesthouse, etc. Tourism is one of the pillars of the economy of the city.

Berlin has a relatively high unemployment rate. Around 12% of the people in Berlin is officially unemployed and almost 19% of the Berliner lives on social security benefits.

== Berlin's Couch Situation ==
To find the right host for you, please look on [https://www.couchsurfing.org/n/locals/in/place/69 Couchsurfing] or [http://www.bewelcome.org/searchmembers BeWelcome]

Berlin is a major Couchsurfing and BeWelcome city where there are events happening almost every day. Berlin is a favourite city to surf, especially around New Year's Eve and in summer. Since many people try to surf in Berlin, it can be hard to find a host. Make sure you have a filled out profile and a profile picture. Write personal requests. Hosts in Berlin are getting many copy-paste requests, so a personal one could make a difference. It's recommended to write your requests between 3 weeks and 5 days before arrival. Your chances increase if you have some references (from your local community, for example).

If you haven't found any host and still want to surf in Berlin, you can try the [https://www.couchsurfing.org/group.html?gid=7910 Last Minute Couchsearch Group] or the [http://www.bewelcome.org/groups/590 Berlin Emergency Host Group in BeWelcome]

==Stay in Berlin==
===Berlin Hostels and Guesthouses===
Hostels cost of €5 to €65 a night, depending on the season, location and type of room.

To find hostels and reviews, try these links:
*[http://www.berlin.de/hotels/adressen/hostel/ list of hostels (non-commercial)]
*[http://www.hostelworld.com/hostels/Berlin Hostelworld (commercial)]
*[http://www.hostelbookers.com/hostels/germany/berlin/ Hostelbookers (commercial)]
*[http://www.hostelz.com/hostels/Germany/Berlin Hostelz (commercial)]
*[http://www.hostels.com/berlin/germany Hostels.com (commercial)]

===Hostels and Hotels per district===

====Charlottenburg====
*[http://hotelindigoberlin.com/de/ Indigo Hotel Berlin Kurfürstendamm]

====Friedrichshain====
*[http://www.aohostels.com A&O Hostel Friedrichshain]

====Kreuzberg====
*[http://www.three-little-pigs.com/en/ Three Little Pigs Hostel]

====Lichtenberg====
====Marzahn-Hellersdorf====
====Mitte====
*[http://www.cityhostel-berlin.com/gb/default.aspx Cityhostel Berlin]
*[http://one80hostels.com/de/ One80 Hostel Berlin]
*[http://hiberlincenter.com/de/ Holiday Inn Hotel Alexanderplatz]
*[http://hotelindigoberlin.com/alex/de/ Indigo Hotel Berlin Alexanderplatz]
*[http://pangeapeople.de/de/ PangeaPeople Hostel & Hotel Berlin]

====Neukölln====
====Pankow (incl. Prenzlauer Berg)====
====Reinickendorf====
====Spandau====
*[http://www.hostel-spandau-in.berlin/ Hostel Spandau]

====Steglitz-Zehlendorf====
*[http://www.jh-wannsee.de/ DJH Jugendherberge Wannsee]

====Tempelhof-Schöneberg====
====Treptow-Köpenick====
====Wedding====
*[http://www.smarthostel-berlin.de/ Smarthostel Berlin]

If you want to stay for a longer period of time, read the [[Berlin#Settling_in_Berlin|information on settling]] at the bottom of this article.

== Getting Around ==
[[File:U-Bahn_S-Bahn_02_2013.png|400px|thumb|right|U-Bahn and S-Bahn lines of the inner city of Berlin, as of February 2013]]Public transportation generally goes almost everywhere in whole Berlin. Read more and plan a journey at the [http://www.bvg.de/index.php/en/index.html BVG Website].

=== Tickets ===
Tickets for public transport can be bought at every S- and U-Bahn station from machines, at ticket offices on the main stations. Daily tickets or tickets for short rides can be bought in buses and trams as well (vending machines in trams only accept coins, also often at stations). Tickets are valid for all ways of public transport within the chosen area (A, B and C), including interchanges between different transports.

==== Zones ====
* Zone A is central Berlin (inside circle line), Zone B everything else inside Berlin's city borders, Zone C is everything outside of Berlin (eg. Schönefeld Airport and Potsdam)
* There are no tickets for single zones, but for combinations AB, BC and ABC. For most trips inside Berlin, you'll need a '''Zone AB''' ticket, but '''ABC''' when arriving at Schönefeld Airport or planning to visit Potsdam.

==== Short term tickets ====
* '''Short trip fare''' (Kurzstrecke) is valid for either 3 stops with U- or S-Bahn (changes allowed), or 6 stops with tram or bus (changes '''not''' allowed). Costs €1.70
* '''Single tickets''' (Einzelfahrschein) is valid for 2 hours. Officially you can not travel back towards the station you started, so it's a one-way ticket. Costs €2.70 (AB), €3.00 (BC) or €3.30 (ABC).
* '''4-Trip-ticket''' (4-Fahrten-Karte) is the same as 4 single tickets, but slightly cheaper when bought in this way.
* '''Day ticket''' (Tageskarte) can be used for an entire calendar day, until 3:00am next day (note that day tickets in Berlin are '''not''' valid for 24 hours as in some other places, so don't buy in the evening!). Costs €7.00 (AB), €7.30 (BC) or €7.60 (ABC).
* '''Small group day ticket''' (Kleingruppen-Tageskarte) is a daily ticket for group of up to 5 persons. It pays itself back when traveling with 3 or more persons. Costs €17.30 (AB), €17.50 (BC) and €17.80 (ABC)

==== Long term tickets ====
* '''7-Day-ticket''' (7-Tage-Karte VBB-Umweltkarte) is valid for an entire week. With this ticket you can travel with an additional adult or 3 children between 8:00pm end 3:00am on weekdays, all day on Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays. Costs €30.00 (AB), €31.10 (BC) or €37.20 (ABC).
* '''Monthly ticket''' (Monatskarte VBB-Umweltkarte) is valid for an entire month. With this ticket you can travel with an additional adult or 3 children between 8:00pm end 3:00am on weekdays, all day on Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays. The ticket is transferable and some people offer their monthly ticket (or the part that's left) on the internet. Costs €81.00 (AB), €82.50 (BC) or €99.90 (ABC).
* '''10am Monthly ticket''' (10-Uhr-Karte) is a limited version of the monthly ticket. You can not take other people on the same ticket. Furthermore, you're only allowed to travel after 10:00am. Therefore the price is cheaper than the regular monthly ticket: €59.10 (AB), €60.20 (BC) or €62.50 (ABC).

==== Special tourist tickets ====
* '''Berlin WelcomeCard''' 24/48 hours, 4/5/6 days - Next to travelling, you can use this card to get discounts at touristic attractions, in restaurants and free entrance at some museums (with 3/5-day ticket). Can not be bought at ticket vending machines. [http://www.visitberlin.de/en/welcomecard Read more]
* '''Berlin CityTourCard''' 48/72 hours, 4/5/6 days - Next to travelling, this card provides some discount on some touristic attractions. This ticket can also be bought at ticket vending machines. [http://www.citytourcard.com/en Read more]

For more information on tickets and pricing: [http://www.bvg.de/index.php/en/17181/name/Fares+Overview.html BVG Tickets]

====Important information on public transportation tickets====

*Most of the tickets have to be validated (stamped) before use. If you forget, the fine is 60 Euro (same if you have no ticket)
*Except for Friday and Saturday night, all S-Bahn trains stop driving after approximately 1 o'clock
*Except for Friday and Saturday night, all U-Bahn trains are replaced by night buses (U1->N1; U2->N2; etc.)
*At some stations, people are selling tickets. Although they don't all look that bonafide, they resell tickets other people used. They should be still valid. If you are planning to buy those tickets, check if they are still valid. Also, it's officially forbidden to resell tickets, so you might be involved in a small crime by doing it.

=== From Airport to City ===
For the time being, Berlin has 2 major airports, 'Tegel' in the northwest and 'Schönefeld' in the southeast. They are well connected with public transport. Always make sure to check at which one you're arriving and leaving.

====Schönefeld Airport (SXF)====
[http://www.berlin-airport.de/en/travellers-sxf/to-and-from/buses-and-trains/local-public-transport/index.php transport information]

* Schönefeld Airport is directly connected with S-Bahn. Line '''S9''' connects the airport with the eastern and northern part of the city (for the center, change at Ostkreuz). Line '''S45''' connects the airport with the southern part of the inner-city. Both lines pass stations located on the S-Bahn circular railway (Ringbahn), which makes it easy to travel to other parts of the city, changing trains just once.
* Express trains '''RE7''' and '''RB14''' bring you quickly into central locations (stopping at Ostbahnhof, Alexanderplatz, Friedrichstraße, Hauptbahnhof and Zoologischer Garten), the ticket and price is the same as S-Bahn.
* There are also buses '''X7''' and 107 that connect you to '''U7''' stop Rudow, which will be easier to get to some locations.
* If you are stuck there late at night or have to be there extremely early, there's bus N7 from Schönefeld and then following the U7 line all the way to Spandau.

''Ticket:'' from Schönefeld Airport, you'll need a "Zone ABC" ticket to get to anywhere in Berlin (the ticket is valid also when changing to other S-Bahn trains, U-Bahn, Trams or Buses)

====Tegel Airport (TXL)====
[http://www.berlin-airport.de/en/travellers-txl/to-and-from/buses-and-trains/local-public-transport/index.php transport information]

Tegel Airport is accessible by bus. There are 2 express buses:
* Bus '''X9''' between Tegel and 'S+U Zoologischer Garten' (for western Berlin), or change at 'S+U Jungfernheide' to S-Bahn circle line or U7.
* Bus '''TXL''' between Tegel and 'Hauptbahnhof' (main train station) and 'S+U Alexanderplatz' (for central and eastern Berlin). Best change at Hauptbahnhof to S-Bahn, the route to Alexanderplatz is slow.
* There are also 2 normal bus lines: '''128''' in the direction of 'U Osloer Straße' and '''109''' in the direction of 'S+U Zoologischer Garten'.

''Ticket:'' from Tegel Airport, you'll need a "Zone AB" ticket to get to anywhere in Berlin (ticket is valid for the Bus and changes to S-Bahn trains, U-Bahn, Trams)

'''Taxi'''

Expected price for a [[Berlin#Taxi|taxi-ride]] from/to the airports is between €20,00 and €35,00, depending on the start/destination location.

=== Public Transportation network ===
==== Underground / U-Bahn ====
The subway/underground in Berlin is called the U-Bahn. The U-Bahn is efficient and reliable and it covers the major areas of the city.

Most U-Bahn trains drive frequent, every 5 or 10 minutes. In the late evening and night the frequency can be reduced to one train every 15 or 20 minutes. Except for Friday- and Saturday night, the U-Bahn stops working after approximately 1:00h. All lines are then replaced by night buses, which drive every 30 minutes and follow the same route as the U-Bahn (some minor exceptions).

==== Stadtbahn / S-Bahn ====
The suburban "rapid transit" network is the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Berlin_S-Bahn S-Bahn]. The main lines in the center consist of a circle line (Ringbahn, S41 clockwise, S42 counterclockwise) and the central branches from east (Ostkreuz) to west (Westkreuz) and from north (Gesundbrunnen) to south (Südkreuz), going through all the imporant central train stations (Zoologischer Garten, Hauptbahnof, Friedrichstraße, Alexanderplatz, Ostbahnhof). It connects with the U-Bahn network in many locations. The basic differences to U-Bahn (which won't matter for you in most situations) is that it's run by the German Railway company (DB) and not by the city of Berlin (BVG), and that it goes to some more remote places outside of Berlin. Tickets are always valid for both networks including Trams/Buses

====Tram (Straßenbahn/Metro)====
The tram in Berlin is called Straßenbahn (street train), or sometimes Metrotram. The tram network especially is big in the eastern part of town. The trams drive in the 'gaps' of the U- and S-Bahn net, while crossing many of their stations on the way.

====Buses====
Buses normally drive in the 'gaps' of the U- and S-Bahn net. Most people only take buses if they have to go to area's that are on the outskirts of town.
The exceptions are bus lines '''100''' and '''200'''. These bus lines are well known for the ''touristic'' route they are following. It crosses several points of interest, and therefore used by many tourists as a cheap alternative for the sightseeing buses.

=== Taxi ===

There are fixed prices for taxi's in Berlin. There's no difference between day- and night prices. The prices are calculated as follows:
*Basic price: €3,20
*Per kilometre (first 7): €1,65
*Per kilometre (after 7): €1,28

You'll pay additional if:
*''you're travelling more than 4 persons: €1,50 per extra person''
*''the taxi has to wait for you: €25,00 per hour''
*''you have big luggage: €1,00''
*''you are paying with credit card: €1,50''
*''you are coming from Tegel Airport: €0,50''
'''The common taxi companies:'''
*[http://www.taxi-berlin.de Taxi Berlin] (+49 30) 20 20 20
*[http://www.taxifunkberlin.de Taxi Funk Berlin] (+49 30) 44 33 22
*[http://www.funk-taxi-berlin.de Funk Taxi Berlin] (+49 30)26 10 26

===Bicycle===
Berlin is relatively easy for cycling and visiting Berlin by bicycle is a great option in Summer, especially for not-so-central locations like Tempelhofer Feld, Sowjetisches Ehrenmal etc. Advantages are that Berlin is 99% flat and there are many roads with separate bike paths. Disadvantages are that you can be surprised by the distances, very cold winters (cycling when there is snow gets to hardly possible as mostly bicycle paths are not cleared well), sometimes strong winds, and you should always be very careful to watch for cars and traffic even if you have the way of right (most accidents happen with cars/trucks turning right and not seeing you approaching on the bike lane).

If you're lucky, you can borrow a bike for free through [http://bikesurfberlin.blogspot.de BikeSurfBerlin] and [http://www.bewelcome.org/groups/1021 BikeSurfBerlin Group in Bewelcome].<br/>
Otherwise there are a lot of places to rent bicycles. The rental prices are unfortunately quite steep, often around 10€ per day (cheaper when renting for several days). Here's a list of all known bike-renting places, sorted [http://www.adfc-berlin.de/service/adfc-branchenbuch/fahrradverleih/fahrradverleiher-von-a-z.html alphabetically] or by [http://www.adfc-berlin.de/service/adfc-branchenbuch/fahrradverleih/fahrradverleiher-im-bezirk.html district]

== Nightlife, Dining and Entertainment ==



===Main Nightlife Areas===

The main nightlife areas of Berlin are:
*Warschauer Straße and Simon Dach Straße - pubs and clubs
*Oranienburger Tor/Oranienburger Straße - pubs and restuarants
*Kreuzberg around [[File:U1.png]]Kottbusser Tor, [[File:U1.png]]Görlitzer Bahnhof and [[File:U1.png]]Schlesisches Tor - pubs, restaurants, music stages
*Schönhauser Allee and direct surrounding - pubs, restaurants, clubs

===Magazines and Event listings===
The following websites can help bring you up to speed on the local club scene, nightlife, concerts, festivals and shows:
*[http://www.blitzgigs.de/ Blitzgigs] (English)
*[http://www.exberliner.com/ Exberliner] (English)
*[http://www.zitty.de/ Zitty] (German)
*[http://www.top10berlin.de/ Top 10 Berlin] (German)
*[http://www.bln.fm/category/termine/ BLN FM] (German)
*[http://www.nachtagenten.de/events/ Nachtagenten] (German)
*[http://www.tip-berlin.de/ Tip Berlin] (German)
*[http://www.berlin030.de/ (030) MAGAZINE] (German)
*[http://stressfaktor.squat.net/ Squats, Punk, Hardocre, Voküs] (German)
*[http://www.livegigs.de/berlin/#konzerte Livegigs Berlin] (German)
*[http://www.residentadvisor.net/events.aspx?ai=34 Resident Advisor listings] (English)

===Bars===
Some favourite local haunts include:

===Breweries and Beer===

'''Breweries'''

*[http://eschenbräu.de/ Eschenbräu] Craft brewery with 3 differnt beers on tap. Usually one is seasonal. They also distill their own Schnaps and Whiskey. You can bring your own food. Nice beergarden in summer
*[http://www.brauhaus-lemke.com/index.php/home Lemke Hackescher Markt] A bit touristy place. Decent German food. Good beer. Not the cheapest. There are three "Lemkes" all over the city.
*[http://www.schoppebraeu.de/ Schoppe Bräu/Brauhaus Südstern] Big and with a nice beer garden. They claim to have the strongest beer in Berlin.
*[http://vagabundbrauerei.com/ Vagabund Brauerei] Small brewery run by 3 Americans, mostly American style craft brews and bottled beers.
*[http://heidenpeters.de/more.html Heidepeters] Stand in the Markthalle9 in Kreuzberg, very good, very special beers on tap.
*[http://www.hopsandbarley-berlin.de/index.html Hops&Barley] Located in the a cool party area in Friedrichshain.
*[http://www.brauhaus-rixdorf.de/ Brauhaus Rixdorf] Neukolln-based brewery.

;'''Beershops'''
:Of course you can get beer at every Späti, but there some nice litte shops in the city where you can get the quality stuff....

*[http://hopfenmalz.de/ Hopfen und Malz] Huge Selection of beers. Mostly from Frankonia. But also American IPAs or Belgian brews.
*[http://www.weiss-blau-berlin.de/ Weiss Blau ] Bavarian Beers and specalities.
*[http://www.ambrosetti.de/ Ambrosetti] Huge verty of beers.
*[http://www.berlinbiershop.com/ Berlin Beer Shop] Mostly IPA and Belgium beers but also A LOT of good wine.
*[http://absinth-berlin.de/ladenenglish.html Absinth Depoth] Some Bavarian beers and the BEST collection of Absinth in Berlin.
*[http://www.getraenkefeinkost.de/filiale/berlin/ Getränkefeinkost] Good selection of German craft beers, IPAs, Belgian beers etc. in the heart of Friedrichshain

'''Beergardens'''
A selection of some more central located beergardens:
*[http://www.pratergarten.de/e/ Prater Garten] - The oldest 'Biergarten' of Berlin, located in Prenzlauer Berg
*[http://www.schoenbrunn.net/ Schoenbrunn] in Friedrichshain
*Bierhof Rüdersdorf - in Friedrichshain, next to Berghain
*Burg am See - in Kreuzberg
*[http://www.brachvogel-berlin.de/bv/ Brachvogel] - in Kreuzberg
*[http://www.cafe-am-neuen-see.de/ Cafe am neuen See] - in Charlottenburg, next to Tiergarten
*[http://www.schleusenkrug.de/ Der Schleusenkrug] - in Charlottenburg, also close to Tiergarten
*[http://schoenbrunn.net/ Restaurant Schönbrunn] - in Friedrichshain, Volkspark
*[http://www.doldenmaedel.de/ Dolden Mädel] - Kreuzberg, next to Bergmannstr. - expensive, but they have a huge selection of craft beers (usually 15-20 different ones on tap + many more in bottles)

===Clubs===
Berlin is well known for its clubs. There are numerous of them, with a wide range of music style, atmosphere and exclusivity. Some of the most famous ones:
*Berghain - on the border of Kreuzberg and Friedrichshain, hence the name. Known for rejecting people, long waiting cues and crazy parties.
*Cassiopaia
*Kater Holzig
*Yaam
*White Trash
*Matrix
*Watergate
You can find many, many [http://www.berlin.de/international/clubs/index.en.php more clubs].

===Restaurants===
There are hundreds of restaurants in Berlin. In most districts you'll find typical restaurants with foreign food, mostly Turkish, Asian and Arabic. Meals that are often consumed are Döner and Falafel. Both meals cost between €2,00 and €4,00 depending on district and quality.

On several places you can find the typical Berlin Currywurst (curry sausage)

[[Restaurants in Berlin]]

===Seasonal events===
The following events are reoccurring every year. They are listed chronologically:
====Berlinale====
In the first weeks of February, every movie loving person in the world is looking at Berlin. During the Berlinale, movies are awarded, celebrities are visiting the city and all cinemas in the city are showing quality movies. [http://www.berlinale.de/en/HomePage.html Official website] of the Berlinale.

====Karneval der Kulturen====
During the weekend of Ascension Day (end of May, beginning of June), the city explodes and everyone can be found on the streets to celebrate the carnival of cultures. Main event is the parade where different cultural groups perform, show dances or make music. Around it, everyone enjoys the spring weather and party until morning. [http://www.karneval-berlin.de/de/english.175.html Official website] of Karnaval der Kulturen.

====Fête de la Musique====
The worldwide international music day, initiated by the French minister of culture in 1981 and since 1995 a yearly day where music is celebrated. Concerts all over town. [http://www.fetedelamusique.de/en/ Official website] of Fête de la Musique.

==Sports, Activities and the Great Outdoors==
===Parks===
Berlin is said to be the greenest capital of Europe. There are many big parks, and many more small green areas. All parks have their own charms and every season they look different. In spring and summer, when the temperatures reach 20 degrees Celsius or more, you will see many people visiting parks to walk, run, cycle, play outdoor games and most of all sunbathing with a beer!

===Lakes===
In and around Berlin one can find many lakes. In most of them you could swim at your own risk, but it may not always be allowed.
*Wannsee (South West)
*Tegeler See (North West)
*Weißensee (North East)
*Müggelsee (South East)

===Outdoor sports===
Tempelhofer Feld is a great place to practice outdoor sports like kiting, rollerskating, biking or running. The former airport is the biggest open flat area of Berlin, located centrally, and provided with good asphalt roads through and around the field.

===Climbing===
*[http://www.magicmountain.de/ Magic Mountain] - Gesundbrunnen
*[http://www.bertablock.de/ Berta Block] - Pankow
*[http://www.ostbloc.de/ Ostbloc] - Ostkreuz
*[http://www.derkegel.de/ Der Kegel] - Warschauer Straße
*[http://www.diekletterhalle.de/ T-Hall Berlin] - Neukölln

===Other sports===
[http://www.pingpongmap.net/ Ping pong map] - hundreds of locations to play ping pong, both indoors and outdoors.

==Learning German==
There are lots of language exchange options available in Berlin from one on one meetups to clubs that meet regularly in person to social networks available online at your convenience. Here are some of your options:
===Free online courses===
*[http://www.dw.de/learn-german/s-2469 Deutsche Welle] is actually a news website, but offers some courses and tests online. The best feature: slowly spoken news in German with transcript.
*[http://www.goethe.de/lrn/duw/lad/deindex.htm?wt_sc=lernabenteuer App for iPhone or Android] from Goethe Institut
*[http://online-lernen.levrai.de/ Website] with all background information on the German language
*[http://www.goethe.de/lrn/duw/auf/stb/enindex.htm Exercises] from the Goethe Institut
*[http://www.deutsch-perfekt.com/deutsch-lernen Exercises] from Deutsch Perfekt
*[http://www.deutschakademie.de/online-deutschkurs/ Test] from Deutsch Akademie
*[http://www.goethe.de/lrn/lks/enindex.htm Links from the Goethe Institut] to very useful websites
*[http://www.nachrichtenleicht.de Nachrichten Leicht] German news written in easy German. Includes audio read in slow German.

===For one on one / tandem===
*[http://www.sprachenzentrum.fu-berlin.de/slz/tandem/index.html Tandem program] of the Freie Universität
*[https://www.international.hu-berlin.de/an_die_hu-en/studierende/orbis/sprachboerse Language exchange market of the Humbolt University]

===Groups that meet regularly===
[[File:Gaudy_exchange.png|200px|thumb|left‎|Gaudy Exchange]]St. Gaudy Cafe weekly language exchange
*http://www.gaudycafe.com/
*Gaudystraße 1
*[[File:U2.png]]Schönhauser Allee

===Language exchange social networks===
*[http://livemocha.com/ Live Mocha] - community of language learners that help each other

===Paid language courses===
*[http://www.berlin.de/vhs/ Volkshochschule] (probably the cheapest one, with bigger classes)
*http://www.cosmopolilingua.de (Private one to one and small group classes, individual and intense)
*http://www.speakeasy-sprachzeug.com/en/
*http://www.hartnackschule-berlin.de
*http://www.transmitter-berlin.de
*http://www.die-deutschule.de
*http://www.sprachenatelier-berlin.de
*http://www.deutschakademie.de
*http://kapitel-zwei.de/en
*http://www.deutsch-in-berlin.de
*http://www.goethe.de/lrn/enindex.htm
*https://smartergerman.com/ - Private intense lessons, including an option to get to b1 level (Goethe Institute) in 45 - 60 days

== Sightseeing ==
Berlin is extremely easy to get around by [[Berlin#Getting_Around|public transport]]. You can easily visit several locations on one day.

=== Typical touristic attractions ===
[[File:20c_German.jpg|100px|thumb|left|Brandenburger Tor on German euro-coins]]
==== Brandenburger Tor ====
The Brandenburger Tor ([http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brandenburger_gate Brandenburger gate]) is one of the most famous buildings of both Berlin and Germany. It has been build as a city gate, but is now known as a symbol of the reunion of Germany.

==== Reichstagsgebäude ====
The [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Reichstag_%28building%29 Reichstag building] is the former and present building for the German parliament. The burning of the building in 1933 was the direct cause of Hitler taking over all power. The building was not in use as a parliament between 1933 and 1999.
[[File:Fernsehturm_Berlin2.jpg|100px|thumb|left|Fernsehturm (TV-tower)]]
==== Fernsehturm ====
The 368 metres high TV-tower near Alexanderplatz that can be seen everywhere in the city. You can go up in the tower and look back at the city. Entrance fee is €12 for adults. There is a possibility to have diner in the rotating restaurant, but you have to make reservations. For more info, visit [http://www.tv-turm.de/en/index.php].

==== Museuminsel ====
Island in the city center with many museums, mostly classical and historical art and artifacts.
==== Eastside Gallery ====
1,5 kilometre long gallery of painted pieces of the Berlin Wall.
==== Checkpoint Charlie ====
The famous checkpoint where diplomats could cross the border with the DDR.
==== Gedenkstätte Berliner Mauer ====
History of the Berlin Wall, with a real life simulation of the Berlin Wall and a watchtower.
==== Gendarmenmarkt ====
Square with 2 symmetrical churches (French and German) facing each other.
==== Berliner Dom ====
Protestant cathedral
==== Nikolaiviertel ====
Origin of Berlin. Lots of old buildings, including the Nikolai-church, mixed with renovated buildings and typical DDR/communistic architecture.
==== Siegessäule ====
Victory column, built after the victories in the wars against Denmark, Austria and France in the late 19th century.

=== Less touristic attractions ===
==== Sowjetisches Ehrenmal ====
Huge and impressive memorial for the Soviet soldiers that died during World War II. Year round impressive, but extra special are the 23rd of February (day of the Red Army), 9th of May (Capitulation of Germany) and in autumn when the trees around the memorial turn red.
==== Tempelhof ====
Huge former airfield. Built in the 1920's, extended by Nazi-Germany and used to provide West-Berlin during the Cold War. The airport closed in 2008 and was opened as a park in 2010. Over the last years, people started to fill parts of the area with small gardens.

A new video published April 2014 that really shows the vibe of Templehof!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zuh1v5qwjNU#t=53

==== Teufelsberg ====
In south-western Berlin you can find an old American listening station, built upon a man made 'mountain' out of rubbish from World War II. From the station, there's a great view over the city and the dome/ball on top of the station provides a great acoustic. Since 2012, all holes in the fences are repaired and a security guy asks €7 as an entree fee. In the weekends a [http://www.berlinsightout.de/ guided tour] is possible for €15.
==== Waterfall in Viktoriapark ====
==== Eisfabrik ====
==== Pfaueninsel ====
==== Spreepark ====
Abandoned theme park in Plänterwald. Main attractions are a big ferry wheel, decorative dinosaurs and a roller coaster. Please note that entering the park is officially not allowed.
==== Olympic Stadium ====
Built in the 30's under Nazi-regime, it hosted the famous Olympic Summer Games of 1936 and was subject of Leni Riefenstahl's movie 'Olympia'. You can either walk around it, or get a [http://www.olympiastadion-berlin.de/en/stadium-visitor-centre/viewing-and-guided-tours.html guided tour]. If you are more interested, a visit to the [http://dkb-stiftung.de/web/Das_Olympische_Dorf_von_1936.32.htm Olympic Village] could be a nice addition.

==== Berliner Unterwelten ====
Visit an underground peoples bunker or the anti-aircraft towers in Volkspark Humboldthain. Tours organized by [http://berliner-unterwelten.de/home.1.1.html Berliner Unterwelten e.V.]. Entrance at U-bahnhof Gesundbrunnen. The plateau of the 'Flakturmen' with a nice view of northern Berlin can be accessed for free via the park (also accessible for wheelchairs).

=== Museums ===
If you're planning to visit many museums during your stay in Berlin, you might want to buy the '''[http://www.museumsportal-berlin.de/en/plan-your-visit/all-about-admission-fees/everything-three-days/ Museum pass]'''. It costs €19, can be bought at any participating museum and is valid for 3 days.

If you want to see both city and museums, and you're not sure how many museums you'll be visiting, you might be interested in the [[Berlin#Special_tickets|Berlin Welcome Card]] which gives you discount on museums and free use of public transport.
*[http://www.dhm.de Deutsches Historisches Museum] - German history
*[http://www.smb.museum/smb/standorte/index.php?objID=24&p=2 Altes Museum] - Ancient and classical art and artifacts
*[http://www.smb.museum/smb/standorte/index.php?p=2&objID=27&n=15 Pergamommuseum] - Ancient art and artifacts
*[http://www.mauermuseum.de Haus am Checkpoint Charlie] - Berlin Wall
*[http://www.smb.museum/smb/sammlungen/details.php?objectId=17 Alte Nationalgalerie] - 19th century sculptures and paintings
*[http://www.neues-museum.de/ Neues Museum] - Prehistory, early history, Egyptian and other classical artifacts
*[http://www.smb.museum/smb/standorte/index.php?lang=en&p=2&objID=28&n=3 Bode-Museum] Byzantine art and sculptures
*Museum für Naturkunde
*Hamburger Bahnhof Museum
*Jüdisches Museum
*Gedenkstätte Berliner Mauer
*Topographie des Terrors
*DDR-Museum
*Story of Berlin

=== Religious buildings ===

=== Flea markets and other famous markets ===
Berlin is well known for its flea markets. There are several weekly flea markets. The most famous ones:

'''Mauerpark'''<br />
The most famous flea market of Berlin, close to [[File:U2.png]]Eberswalderstraße. Has a lot of 2nd hand stalls, mixed with creative people that make jewelry, paintings, photos/cards, wallets and other stuff themselves. When the weather is right, there's a huge karaoke in the park next to the flea market. Can be very crowded, especially in spring and summer.
*[http://www.mauerparkmarkt.de/ Website]
*Bernauer Straße 63
*Sunday 7:00-17:00h

'''Boxhagener Platz'''<br />
Easy to oversee, since all stands are built around the Boxhagener square. You can take a rest on the square itself, or make a round in approximately an hour. Especially known for its records, books and posters. Other stands sell furniture and objects, but not so many clothes.
*Boxhagener Platz 1
*Sunday 10:00-18:00h

'''Schöneberg'''

'''Arkonaplatz'''

'''Straße des 17. Juni'''

'''Ostbahnhof'''

'''OBI Neukölln'''

=== Vegetable and Food Markets ===
'''Türkischer Markt am Maybachufer'''<br />
Twice weekly (Tuesdays and Fridays) from 11am. This is one of the biggest weekly markets in Berlin. Fruit and vegetables are considerably cheaper than most supermarkets, including Aldi and Lidl. Also you can find many other foods items and a mixed range of household items.

'''Boxhagener Platz'''<br />
Food market on Saturdays 10:00-18:00h on Boxhagener Platz

'''Markthalle Neun'''<br />
[http://markthalleneun.de/markets?lang=en Food market] in a historic market hall:<br />
* Tuesdays 12:00-20:00h (small)
* Fridays 12:00-20:00h (big)
* Saturdays 10:00-18:00h (big)
* International Street Food Thursdays 17:00-22:00h (popular, often extremely crowded)

== Travelling from Berlin ==
Apart from the 2 airports, several (international) trains and busses arrive at and leave from Berlin.
===Trains===
Most '''international trains''' arrive at and depart from Berlin Hauptbahnhof (main railway station).
*to the Netherlands (Berlin-Schiphol)
*to Poland (Berlin-Warsaw/Gdansk/Wrocław Główny)
*to Switzerland (Berlin-Basel)
*to Denmark (Berlin-Copenhagen/Arhus)
*to the Czech Republic (Berlin-Prague)
To find the best connections, or for booking tickets, you can check out the website of the [[http://www.bahn.de/i/view/GBR/en/index.shtml German Railway]]. Booking tickets on forehand can make a huge difference in price.

'''(inter)regional trains''' depart from every major station, such as Alexanderplatz, Ostbahnhof, Spandau and Sudkreuz. There's a difference between regional trains ('''RB''' (Regionalbahn) and'''RE''' (Regionalexpress)) and inter-regional trains ('''IC''' (Intercity) and '''ICE''' (Intercity Express)). The IC's and ICE's drive much faster and over a long distance, mostly to other big cities in Germany. The RB and RE only drive short distances and stop at many smaller stations on the way.

===Buses===
The main bus station for international and inter-regional bus lines is '''ZOB''' ("Zentraler Omnibus-Bahnhof") in western Berlin. It is near S-Bahn station "Messe Nord/ICC" (Circle lines S41/S42) and [[File:U2.png]] station "Kaiserdamm".
Depending on the line and destination, some international/inter-regional buses may also stop at one of these places:
* Ostbahnhof Bus Station (eastern side of the city, at S-Bahn Ostbahnhof)
* Südkreuz station - many buses to/from Poland and Czech Republic stop here (S2, S25, S41, S42, S45, S46, and some mainline trains)
* Hauptbahnhof (main train station) - buses run by DB (German railway) stop here
* Schönefeld Airport (near the terminals) - some buses to/from Poland and Czech Republic stop here

Try [https://www.busliniensuche.de/ BusLinienSuche] for finding buses to various places.

====International Buses====
Some major bus lines that will bring you abroad are:
*[http://www.eurolines.com/en/ Eurolines] - to almost any place in Europe
*[http://ecolines.net/en/ Ecolines] - Poland, Russia, Lithuania, Estonia, Latvia, Belarus, Ukraine
*[http://eclubreisen.de Eclubreisen] - to Ukraine
*[https://www.flixbus.de/ Flixbus]

====Inter-regional buses====
*[https://www.flixbus.de/ Flixbus]
*[http://www.eurolines.de/index.php?id=14&L=1 Eurolines]

===Car===
====Car sharing====
It's easy to find car sharing online. Cars travel from every city to every city. You can find rides or travellers at [http://www.mitfahrgelegenheit.de Mitfahrgelegenheit.de] or [http://www.mitfahrzentrale.de Mitfahrzentrale.de]. There's a great, cheaper alternative to Mitfahrgelegenheit: [http://www.blablacar.de/ BLAH BLAH CAR]
and on CouchSurfing
[https://www.couchsurfing.org/group.html?gid=10289 Group 1]
[https://www.couchsurfing.org/group.html?gid=17463 Group 2]
[https://www.couchsurfing.org/group.html?gid=2920 Group 3]

====Hitchhiking====

Naturally, [[:hitch:Berlin|Hitchwiki]] has the best and most up-to-date resources about thumbing your way out of Berlin. The old fashioned and not-updated any more [http://www.hitchbase.com/orte.php?LANG=ger&l_id=73 Hitchbase] might be an alternative in some cases.

==Settling in Berlin==
If you are planning to stay in Berlin for a longer time, the main concerns will be housing, visa (if necessary), work, health insurance and the necessary bureaucracy. Please note that all information written here are rough guidelines and tips and might be outdated or incomplete.
Be aware that you might get trapped in a vicious circle: to register yourself in Berlin you need an address, to find housing you need work and for work you need to be registered.

===Housing===
Some websites that can be used if you're looking for flat-share(WG)/renting a flat in Berlin:
*[http://www.wg-gesucht.de/en/ WG-Gesucht.de (German/English)] The most used website to search for accomodation/house mates
*[http://www.studenten-wg.de Studenten-wg.de (German)] Another website to find WG's
*[http://www.immobilo.de/mieten/berlin Immobilo.de (German)] Searches multiple websites that lists accomodations.
*[http://www.immobilienscout24.de/Suche/S-T/WG-Zimmer/Berlin/Berlin Immobilienscout24 (German)] For apartments, less used for flatsharing.
*[http://www.wgcompany.de/cgi-bin/seite?st=1&mi=10&li=100 WGcompany (English)] Has a glossary in english with all important terms. Used for flatsharing.
*[http://kleinanzeigen.ebay.de/anzeigen/s-immobilien/berlin/c195l3331 E-bay Kleinanzeigen (German)] Germans offer everything on E-bay.
*[http://berlin.en.craigslist.de/hhh/ Craigslist (English)] Not all very reliable, but sometimes it contains a hidden treasure.
*[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group.html?gid=19711/ CouchSurfing Group 1 (English)] Find local CSers looking for flatmates, available sublets, etc.
*[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group.html?gid=9251/ CouchSurfing Group 2 (English)] Find local CSers looking for flatmates, available sublets, etc.
*[http://www.toytowngermany.com/forum/index.php?showforum=84/ ToyTown (English)] Expat community.
*[https://www.facebook.com/groups/easy.wg/ A Facebook Group (English/German)] A good group to find housing.
*[http://www.bewelcome.org/groups/1437 BW Accommodation group] or [https://www.couchsurfing.org/group.html?gid=19711 CS Accommodation group].
*[http://www.studentenwerk-berlin.de/wohnen/woanders_wohnen/berliner_wbgs/ Berlin Apartment Corporations (German)]
*[http://www.studentenwerk-berlin.de/wohnen/woanders_wohnen/wohnraumboerse_berlin/index.html Flat Search of Studentenwerk (German)]
*[http://www.wbm.de/wbm/cms/de/wohnen/Mietwohnungen.html WBM another corporation that builds flats]
*[https://www.dreamflat.co.uk/ Dreamflat]
*[https://www.wg-cast.de/ WG-Cast]
*[http://www.airbnb.de AirBnB Apartments, Flats and Rooms for rent]

===Buying used items===
Berlin is a hot spot for exchanging/selling/buying used items. You can find many things for sale or even for free:
*[http://kleinanzeigen.ebay.de/anzeigen/s-immobilien/berlin/c195l3331 E-bay Kleinanzeigen (German)] Germans offer everything on E-bay.
*[http://berlin.en.craigslist.de/hhh/ Craigslist (English)] Good place for all sorts of items, including bikes.
*[https://www.facebook.com/groups/freeyourstuff/ A Facebook Group (English)] People offering things for FREE only.

===VISA===
General information on getting a visa for Germany can be found [http://4dayvisa.tumblr.com/ here]
====VISA Office====
[http://www.berlin.de/labo/auslaender/dienststelle/index.html Ausländerbehörde (ABH)]
[http://osm.org/go/0MZv6kuHu-- MAP]

Schedule an appointment ahead of time. The waiting times are not that bad, but it's always best to have an appointment.<br>
They really don't speak English consistently so just be prepared. Bring someone with you if at all possible. Have everything you need when you go. They don't answer emails for nearly 1 month so don't bother there. You can call and ask questions, but have someone call for you who speaks German and then you might get answers.

====Freelance VISA and Artist VISA====
(This is written from a US citizen. Different rules may apply to you, although they may be similar).
These are 2 different things. I obtained my Artist's visa while I was waiting for my Freelance visa to be approved (this will take 6-10 weeks). The Artist's visa does not allow you to work. The Freelance one does (you can list more than one profession on this visa).

====List of things that you need====
* Completed Form (http://www.berlin.de/formularserver/formular.php?72301)
* Letter stating your intentions, how you plan to support yourself, everthing you can think of
* CV
* Passport Copy
* 2 Biometric Photo (not smiling... these can be done in the bottom level of the office... leave an extra 10 minutes for this).
* Bank Statement (proving that you can support yourself without working)
* All Certificates
* All Diplomas
* All Transcripts
* Health Insurance (GERMAN) Proof and all documents
* German Address Registration (do NOT show up without this. You will be turned away. You must register your address)
* References
* €50 in cash (sometimes this is more)
* Artist portfolio (this must be hard copies of your work)
* Letter from 2 prospective employers (I fought this, but it's technically required and you should have it)

===Registering in Germany/Berlin - Bürgeramt===
'''Registering your address'''
Fill out page 3 of [https://docs.google.com/file/d/1RBnLXCEqJ-le6hyQSsyvQ2_0u7Uo7tF-tG4lUc76EPDL6r-8O6ipxGPkZt2-/edit this form] and then go to register.<br />
You must register your address within 2 weeks of coming to Germany and before you can do anything really.<br />
You need to either have a rental agreement or have the main renter to sign the paper or write a letter for you.<br />
[http://www.buergeramt.info/berlin.htm A list] of all the places you can go to register. You don't need to register in your own district.

===Health insurance===
In Germany you need to have a health insurance by law. It can be very expensive. The easiest way to become insured is to have a job. If you're an employee, the insurance is withhold from your loan (15,5%) automatically, and you can enter the 'Gesetzliche Krankenkasse' (insurance by law), where a broad variety of treatments is covered. If you earn more than €52.200 a year, or you are not an employee, you'd have to sign up for a private health insurance, which have a fixed price per month (starting at €130).

A list with [http://www.gesetzlichekrankenkassen.de/preise/berlin/berlin.html 'Gesetzliche' insurances].

Some private health insurances can be found at:
* [http://www.deutscheinsurance.com/ Compare insurances]
* [http://www.aok.de/rheinland-hamburg/mitglied-werden/international-english-89909.php AOK]
* [http://www.hansemerkur.de/ HanseMerkur]
Note that you need to go to an agency office to sign up. You would probably also need to be checked by a doctor before the insurance company will take you in.

If you want to apply to [http://www.bmkb.de/ KSK] (you must be an artist legally here, they will help you with the price of your insurance, but there are a lot of rules you must follow), you can contact this woman:
Ilka Lacherbauer
Medien und Künstler Beratung Ltd.
Tucholskystr. 35
10117 Berlin - Mitte
Fon.: +49 30 - 75 00 86 00
e-mail: info@bmkb.de or lacherbauer@bmkb.de

===SIM Cards===
(this information was gathered from forums)

* http://www.callmobile.de/
* http://www.fonic.de
* http://www.blau.de
* You can get great deals on SIM's at any Saturn store. They have T-Mobile SIM cards for only 5 euro and they come with 10 euro worth of call minutes for free.
* some Turkish phone shops, they sell Vodafone cards with credit for half-price (usually a card with 10 EUR credit for about 6 EUR, and one with 1 EUR credit for 60 cents), and what's best these are pre-activated and work right away, no need to fill out any stupid forms online.
* new SIM. For instance if you take an O2 one for 28.50E, you get 21E credit plus two months of freecalls to O2 (has a good subscrirption in Germany) numbers and to any landline. I think it is a great offer but something that you cannot renew; just comes with the new number.
*Aldi or Penny (yes, the discount stores) have easy prepaid cards for 15euro or something with the same amount of credit on it so you basically pay nothing for it. I don't know if they offer data as well, but the Aldi card uses ePlus networks so you can also charge your credit with ePlus prepaid cards if there is no Aldi around to buy new credit. adli 300mb 300 minutes = less 10 euro ;)

===Bank account===
At some point you would probably need a German bank account. You would need to find the bank of your choice, apply, and identify yourself at a post office (unless you open an account in a bank physically). Choosing your bank is not the easiest thing, since there are many banks to choose from. Criteria can be:
*Monthly fee
*Interest
*Costs of credit card
*Physical/online bank
*ATM-fee (sometimes you have to pay an extra fee if you use another bank's ATM)
*Welcoming bonus
*Ethics of the bank

There's a [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_banks_in_Germany wikipedia page] listing the banks in Germany. To compare banks, visit [http://www.girokonto-vergleich.net/vergleich.html this] and [http://www.aspect-online.de/banken/girokonto/ this] site.
If you're looking for more ethical (social-ecological) banks, check [http://blog.soziales-dorf.eu/module-news-display-sid-152.html this German blog].

==Luggage Storage==
'''Train stations'''
Berlin Hbf,
Alexanderplatz,
Ostbahnhof,
Friedrichstraße,
Potsdamer Platz,
Gesundbrunnen,
Zoologischer Garten,
Südkreuz,
Spandau

'''Other'''
Central Bus Staion ZOB,
Tegel Airport,
Schönefeld Airport,

==Cost of living==
In Berlin you have many choices on how to spend your money. Berlin is a relatively cheap city, although the prices raised over the years.

Below is a list of estimations of prices. The prices can differ a lot, depending on district, location, season, etc.

'''Renting a room''': €150-€600 per month<br />
'''Renting apartment''': €200-€1000 per month<br />

'''Restaurant''': €2 - €15 for a main dish<br />
'''Beer''': €0,70 - €4,00 for 0,5 liter<br />

==FAQs==
[[trash:Berlin]]
[[hitch:Berlin]]
[[velo:Berlin]]
[[cash:Berlin]]
[[nomad:Berlin]]

Berlin

2019-01-21T17:52:30Z

Iotrj: /* International Buses */

{{Germany}}
{{Berlin}}
{{TOCright|limit=1}}

== Background of this wiki ==
This Wiki is independent from Couchsurfing. It is related to all (formerly) uncommercial traveller websites; all these websites have a strong focus on the community between the members and aim to make real life meetings between persons that got to know in virtual reality. [http://www.globalfreeloaders.com Global Freeloaders], [http://www.hospitalityclub.org Hospitality Club], [http://www.couchsurfing.com Couchsurfing], [http://www.bewelcome.org BeWelcome]. The Couchwiki is also connected to hitch-hiking [http://www.hitchbase.com/orte.php?LANG=ger&l_id=73 Hitchbase] and [http://hitchwiki.org/en/Berlin HitchWiki]. The Wiki inside Couchsurfing is disabled, but other Wikis are still working [http://secure.hospitalityclub.org/hc/hcworld.php?city=3609 Hospitality Club], [http://www.bewelcome.org/groups/77/wiki BeWelcome].

== General information ==
Berlin is the capital of [[Germany]]. Berlin has a population of around 3,5 million people. It is estimated that annually 100 million people visit Berlin, of which roughly 10 million stay in a hotel, hostel, guesthouse, etc. Tourism is one of the pillars of the economy of the city.

Berlin has a relatively high unemployment rate. Around 12% of the people in Berlin is officially unemployed and almost 19% of the Berliner lives on social security benefits.

== Berlin's Couch Situation ==
To find the right host for you, please look on [https://www.couchsurfing.org/n/locals/in/place/69 Couchsurfing] or [http://www.bewelcome.org/searchmembers BeWelcome]

Berlin is a major Couchsurfing and BeWelcome city where there are events happening almost every day. Berlin is a favourite city to surf, especially around New Year's Eve and in summer. Since many people try to surf in Berlin, it can be hard to find a host. Make sure you have a filled out profile and a profile picture. Write personal requests. Hosts in Berlin are getting many copy-paste requests, so a personal one could make a difference. It's recommended to write your requests between 3 weeks and 5 days before arrival. Your chances increase if you have some references (from your local community, for example).

If you haven't found any host and still want to surf in Berlin, you can try the [https://www.couchsurfing.org/group.html?gid=7910 Last Minute Couchsearch Group] or the [http://www.bewelcome.org/groups/590 Berlin Emergency Host Group in BeWelcome]

==Stay in Berlin==
===Berlin Hostels and Guesthouses===
Hostels cost of €5 to €65 a night, depending on the season, location and type of room.

To find hostels and reviews, try these links:
*[http://www.berlin.de/hotels/adressen/hostel/ list of hostels (non-commercial)]
*[http://www.hostelworld.com/hostels/Berlin Hostelworld (commercial)]
*[http://www.hostelbookers.com/hostels/germany/berlin/ Hostelbookers (commercial)]
*[http://www.hostelz.com/hostels/Germany/Berlin Hostelz (commercial)]
*[http://www.hostels.com/berlin/germany Hostels.com (commercial)]

===Hostels and Hotels per district===

====Charlottenburg====
*[http://hotelindigoberlin.com/de/ Indigo Hotel Berlin Kurfürstendamm]

====Friedrichshain====
*[http://www.aohostels.com A&O Hostel Friedrichshain]

====Kreuzberg====
*[http://www.three-little-pigs.com/en/ Three Little Pigs Hostel]

====Lichtenberg====
====Marzahn-Hellersdorf====
====Mitte====
*[http://www.cityhostel-berlin.com/gb/default.aspx Cityhostel Berlin]
*[http://one80hostels.com/de/ One80 Hostel Berlin]
*[http://hiberlincenter.com/de/ Holiday Inn Hotel Alexanderplatz]
*[http://hotelindigoberlin.com/alex/de/ Indigo Hotel Berlin Alexanderplatz]
*[http://pangeapeople.de/de/ PangeaPeople Hostel & Hotel Berlin]

====Neukölln====
====Pankow (incl. Prenzlauer Berg)====
====Reinickendorf====
====Spandau====
*[http://www.hostel-spandau-in.berlin/ Hostel Spandau]

====Steglitz-Zehlendorf====
*[http://www.jh-wannsee.de/ DJH Jugendherberge Wannsee]

====Tempelhof-Schöneberg====
====Treptow-Köpenick====
====Wedding====
*[http://www.smarthostel-berlin.de/ Smarthostel Berlin]

If you want to stay for a longer period of time, read the [[Berlin#Settling_in_Berlin|information on settling]] at the bottom of this article.

== Getting Around ==
[[File:U-Bahn_S-Bahn_02_2013.png|400px|thumb|right|U-Bahn and S-Bahn lines of the inner city of Berlin, as of February 2013]]Public transportation generally goes almost everywhere in whole Berlin. Read more and plan a journey at the [http://www.bvg.de/index.php/en/index.html BVG Website].

=== Tickets ===
Tickets for public transport can be bought at every S- and U-Bahn station from machines, at ticket offices on the main stations. Daily tickets or tickets for short rides can be bought in buses and trams as well (vending machines in trams only accept coins, also often at stations). Tickets are valid for all ways of public transport within the chosen area (A, B and C), including interchanges between different transports.

==== Zones ====
* Zone A is central Berlin (inside circle line), Zone B everything else inside Berlin's city borders, Zone C is everything outside of Berlin (eg. Schönefeld Airport and Potsdam)
* There are no tickets for single zones, but for combinations AB, BC and ABC. For most trips inside Berlin, you'll need a '''Zone AB''' ticket, but '''ABC''' when arriving at Schönefeld Airport or planning to visit Potsdam.

==== Short term tickets ====
* '''Short trip fare''' (Kurzstrecke) is valid for either 3 stops with U- or S-Bahn (changes allowed), or 6 stops with tram or bus (changes '''not''' allowed). Costs €1.70
* '''Single tickets''' (Einzelfahrschein) is valid for 2 hours. Officially you can not travel back towards the station you started, so it's a one-way ticket. Costs €2.70 (AB), €3.00 (BC) or €3.30 (ABC).
* '''4-Trip-ticket''' (4-Fahrten-Karte) is the same as 4 single tickets, but slightly cheaper when bought in this way.
* '''Day ticket''' (Tageskarte) can be used for an entire calendar day, until 3:00am next day (note that day tickets in Berlin are '''not''' valid for 24 hours as in some other places, so don't buy in the evening!). Costs €7.00 (AB), €7.30 (BC) or €7.60 (ABC).
* '''Small group day ticket''' (Kleingruppen-Tageskarte) is a daily ticket for group of up to 5 persons. It pays itself back when traveling with 3 or more persons. Costs €17.30 (AB), €17.50 (BC) and €17.80 (ABC)

==== Long term tickets ====
* '''7-Day-ticket''' (7-Tage-Karte VBB-Umweltkarte) is valid for an entire week. With this ticket you can travel with an additional adult or 3 children between 8:00pm end 3:00am on weekdays, all day on Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays. Costs €30.00 (AB), €31.10 (BC) or €37.20 (ABC).
* '''Monthly ticket''' (Monatskarte VBB-Umweltkarte) is valid for an entire month. With this ticket you can travel with an additional adult or 3 children between 8:00pm end 3:00am on weekdays, all day on Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays. The ticket is transferable and some people offer their monthly ticket (or the part that's left) on the internet. Costs €81.00 (AB), €82.50 (BC) or €99.90 (ABC).
* '''10am Monthly ticket''' (10-Uhr-Karte) is a limited version of the monthly ticket. You can not take other people on the same ticket. Furthermore, you're only allowed to travel after 10:00am. Therefore the price is cheaper than the regular monthly ticket: €59.10 (AB), €60.20 (BC) or €62.50 (ABC).

==== Special tourist tickets ====
* '''Berlin WelcomeCard''' 24/48 hours, 4/5/6 days - Next to travelling, you can use this card to get discounts at touristic attractions, in restaurants and free entrance at some museums (with 3/5-day ticket). Can not be bought at ticket vending machines. [http://www.visitberlin.de/en/welcomecard Read more]
* '''Berlin CityTourCard''' 48/72 hours, 4/5/6 days - Next to travelling, this card provides some discount on some touristic attractions. This ticket can also be bought at ticket vending machines. [http://www.citytourcard.com/en Read more]

For more information on tickets and pricing: [http://www.bvg.de/index.php/en/17181/name/Fares+Overview.html BVG Tickets]

====Important information on public transportation tickets====

*Most of the tickets have to be validated (stamped) before use. If you forget, the fine is 60 Euro (same if you have no ticket)
*Except for Friday and Saturday night, all S-Bahn trains stop driving after approximately 1 o'clock
*Except for Friday and Saturday night, all U-Bahn trains are replaced by night buses (U1->N1; U2->N2; etc.)
*At some stations, people are selling tickets. Although they don't all look that bonafide, they resell tickets other people used. They should be still valid. If you are planning to buy those tickets, check if they are still valid. Also, it's officially forbidden to resell tickets, so you might be involved in a small crime by doing it.

=== From Airport to City ===
For the time being, Berlin has 2 major airports, 'Tegel' in the northwest and 'Schönefeld' in the southeast. They are well connected with public transport. Always make sure to check at which one you're arriving and leaving.

====Schönefeld Airport (SXF)====
[http://www.berlin-airport.de/en/travellers-sxf/to-and-from/buses-and-trains/local-public-transport/index.php transport information]

* Schönefeld Airport is directly connected with S-Bahn. Line '''S9''' connects the airport with the eastern and northern part of the city (for the center, change at Ostkreuz). Line '''S45''' connects the airport with the southern part of the inner-city. Both lines pass stations located on the S-Bahn circular railway (Ringbahn), which makes it easy to travel to other parts of the city, changing trains just once.
* Express trains '''RE7''' and '''RB14''' bring you quickly into central locations (stopping at Ostbahnhof, Alexanderplatz, Friedrichstraße, Hauptbahnhof and Zoologischer Garten), the ticket and price is the same as S-Bahn.
* There are also buses '''X7''' and 107 that connect you to '''U7''' stop Rudow, which will be easier to get to some locations.
* If you are stuck there late at night or have to be there extremely early, there's bus N7 from Schönefeld and then following the U7 line all the way to Spandau.

''Ticket:'' from Schönefeld Airport, you'll need a "Zone ABC" ticket to get to anywhere in Berlin (the ticket is valid also when changing to other S-Bahn trains, U-Bahn, Trams or Buses)

====Tegel Airport (TXL)====
[http://www.berlin-airport.de/en/travellers-txl/to-and-from/buses-and-trains/local-public-transport/index.php transport information]

Tegel Airport is accessible by bus. There are 2 express buses:
* Bus '''X9''' between Tegel and 'S+U Zoologischer Garten' (for western Berlin), or change at 'S+U Jungfernheide' to S-Bahn circle line or U7.
* Bus '''TXL''' between Tegel and 'Hauptbahnhof' (main train station) and 'S+U Alexanderplatz' (for central and eastern Berlin). Best change at Hauptbahnhof to S-Bahn, the route to Alexanderplatz is slow.
* There are also 2 normal bus lines: '''128''' in the direction of 'U Osloer Straße' and '''109''' in the direction of 'S+U Zoologischer Garten'.

''Ticket:'' from Tegel Airport, you'll need a "Zone AB" ticket to get to anywhere in Berlin (ticket is valid for the Bus and changes to S-Bahn trains, U-Bahn, Trams)

'''Taxi'''

Expected price for a [[Berlin#Taxi|taxi-ride]] from/to the airports is between €20,00 and €35,00, depending on the start/destination location.

=== Public Transportation network ===
==== Underground / U-Bahn ====
The subway/underground in Berlin is called the U-Bahn. The U-Bahn is efficient and reliable and it covers the major areas of the city.

Most U-Bahn trains drive frequent, every 5 or 10 minutes. In the late evening and night the frequency can be reduced to one train every 15 or 20 minutes. Except for Friday- and Saturday night, the U-Bahn stops working after approximately 1:00h. All lines are then replaced by night buses, which drive every 30 minutes and follow the same route as the U-Bahn (some minor exceptions).

==== Stadtbahn / S-Bahn ====
The suburban "rapid transit" network is the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Berlin_S-Bahn S-Bahn]. The main lines in the center consist of a circle line (Ringbahn, S41 clockwise, S42 counterclockwise) and the central branches from east (Ostkreuz) to west (Westkreuz) and from north (Gesundbrunnen) to south (Südkreuz), going through all the imporant central train stations (Zoologischer Garten, Hauptbahnof, Friedrichstraße, Alexanderplatz, Ostbahnhof). It connects with the U-Bahn network in many locations. The basic differences to U-Bahn (which won't matter for you in most situations) is that it's run by the German Railway company (DB) and not by the city of Berlin (BVG), and that it goes to some more remote places outside of Berlin. Tickets are always valid for both networks including Trams/Buses

====Tram (Straßenbahn/Metro)====
The tram in Berlin is called Straßenbahn (street train), or sometimes Metrotram. The tram network especially is big in the eastern part of town. The trams drive in the 'gaps' of the U- and S-Bahn net, while crossing many of their stations on the way.

====Buses====
Buses normally drive in the 'gaps' of the U- and S-Bahn net. Most people only take buses if they have to go to area's that are on the outskirts of town.
The exceptions are bus lines '''100''' and '''200'''. These bus lines are well known for the ''touristic'' route they are following. It crosses several points of interest, and therefore used by many tourists as a cheap alternative for the sightseeing buses.

=== Taxi ===

There are fixed prices for taxi's in Berlin. There's no difference between day- and night prices. The prices are calculated as follows:
*Basic price: €3,20
*Per kilometre (first 7): €1,65
*Per kilometre (after 7): €1,28

You'll pay additional if:
*''you're travelling more than 4 persons: €1,50 per extra person''
*''the taxi has to wait for you: €25,00 per hour''
*''you have big luggage: €1,00''
*''you are paying with credit card: €1,50''
*''you are coming from Tegel Airport: €0,50''
'''The common taxi companies:'''
*[http://www.taxi-berlin.de Taxi Berlin] (+49 30) 20 20 20
*[http://www.taxifunkberlin.de Taxi Funk Berlin] (+49 30) 44 33 22
*[http://www.funk-taxi-berlin.de Funk Taxi Berlin] (+49 30)26 10 26

===Bicycle===
Berlin is relatively easy for cycling and visiting Berlin by bicycle is a great option in Summer, especially for not-so-central locations like Tempelhofer Feld, Sowjetisches Ehrenmal etc. Advantages are that Berlin is 99% flat and there are many roads with separate bike paths. Disadvantages are that you can be surprised by the distances, very cold winters (cycling when there is snow gets to hardly possible as mostly bicycle paths are not cleared well), sometimes strong winds, and you should always be very careful to watch for cars and traffic even if you have the way of right (most accidents happen with cars/trucks turning right and not seeing you approaching on the bike lane).

If you're lucky, you can borrow a bike for free through [http://bikesurfberlin.blogspot.de BikeSurfBerlin] and [http://www.bewelcome.org/groups/1021 BikeSurfBerlin Group in Bewelcome].<br/>
Otherwise there are a lot of places to rent bicycles. The rental prices are unfortunately quite steep, often around 10€ per day (cheaper when renting for several days). Here's a list of all known bike-renting places, sorted [http://www.adfc-berlin.de/service/adfc-branchenbuch/fahrradverleih/fahrradverleiher-von-a-z.html alphabetically] or by [http://www.adfc-berlin.de/service/adfc-branchenbuch/fahrradverleih/fahrradverleiher-im-bezirk.html district]

== Nightlife, Dining and Entertainment ==



===Main Nightlife Areas===

The main nightlife areas of Berlin are:
*Warschauer Straße and Simon Dach Straße - pubs and clubs
*Oranienburger Tor/Oranienburger Straße - pubs and restuarants
*Kreuzberg around [[File:U1.png]]Kottbusser Tor, [[File:U1.png]]Görlitzer Bahnhof and [[File:U1.png]]Schlesisches Tor - pubs, restaurants, music stages
*Schönhauser Allee and direct surrounding - pubs, restaurants, clubs

===Magazines and Event listings===
The following websites can help bring you up to speed on the local club scene, nightlife, concerts, festivals and shows:
*[http://www.blitzgigs.de/ Blitzgigs] (English)
*[http://www.exberliner.com/ Exberliner] (English)
*[http://www.zitty.de/ Zitty] (German)
*[http://www.top10berlin.de/ Top 10 Berlin] (German)
*[http://www.bln.fm/category/termine/ BLN FM] (German)
*[http://www.nachtagenten.de/events/ Nachtagenten] (German)
*[http://www.tip-berlin.de/ Tip Berlin] (German)
*[http://www.berlin030.de/ (030) MAGAZINE] (German)
*[http://stressfaktor.squat.net/ Squats, Punk, Hardocre, Voküs] (German)
*[http://www.livegigs.de/berlin/#konzerte Livegigs Berlin] (German)
*[http://www.residentadvisor.net/events.aspx?ai=34 Resident Advisor listings] (English)

===Bars===
Some favourite local haunts include:

===Breweries and Beer===

'''Breweries'''

*[http://eschenbräu.de/ Eschenbräu] Craft brewery with 3 differnt beers on tap. Usually one is seasonal. They also distill their own Schnaps and Whiskey. You can bring your own food. Nice beergarden in summer
*[http://www.brauhaus-lemke.com/index.php/home Lemke Hackescher Markt] A bit touristy place. Decent German food. Good beer. Not the cheapest. There are three "Lemkes" all over the city.
*[http://www.schoppebraeu.de/ Schoppe Bräu/Brauhaus Südstern] Big and with a nice beer garden. They claim to have the strongest beer in Berlin.
*[http://vagabundbrauerei.com/ Vagabund Brauerei] Small brewery run by 3 Americans, mostly American style craft brews and bottled beers.
*[http://heidenpeters.de/more.html Heidepeters] Stand in the Markthalle9 in Kreuzberg, very good, very special beers on tap.
*[http://www.hopsandbarley-berlin.de/index.html Hops&Barley] Located in the a cool party area in Friedrichshain.
*[http://www.brauhaus-rixdorf.de/ Brauhaus Rixdorf] Neukolln-based brewery.

;'''Beershops'''
:Of course you can get beer at every Späti, but there some nice litte shops in the city where you can get the quality stuff....

*[http://hopfenmalz.de/ Hopfen und Malz] Huge Selection of beers. Mostly from Frankonia. But also American IPAs or Belgian brews.
*[http://www.weiss-blau-berlin.de/ Weiss Blau ] Bavarian Beers and specalities.
*[http://www.ambrosetti.de/ Ambrosetti] Huge verty of beers.
*[http://www.berlinbiershop.com/ Berlin Beer Shop] Mostly IPA and Belgium beers but also A LOT of good wine.
*[http://absinth-berlin.de/ladenenglish.html Absinth Depoth] Some Bavarian beers and the BEST collection of Absinth in Berlin.
*[http://www.getraenkefeinkost.de/filiale/berlin/ Getränkefeinkost] Good selection of German craft beers, IPAs, Belgian beers etc. in the heart of Friedrichshain

'''Beergardens'''
A selection of some more central located beergardens:
*[http://www.pratergarten.de/e/ Prater Garten] - The oldest 'Biergarten' of Berlin, located in Prenzlauer Berg
*[http://www.schoenbrunn.net/ Schoenbrunn] in Friedrichshain
*Bierhof Rüdersdorf - in Friedrichshain, next to Berghain
*Burg am See - in Kreuzberg
*[http://www.brachvogel-berlin.de/bv/ Brachvogel] - in Kreuzberg
*[http://www.cafe-am-neuen-see.de/ Cafe am neuen See] - in Charlottenburg, next to Tiergarten
*[http://www.schleusenkrug.de/ Der Schleusenkrug] - in Charlottenburg, also close to Tiergarten
*[http://schoenbrunn.net/ Restaurant Schönbrunn] - in Friedrichshain, Volkspark
*[http://www.doldenmaedel.de/ Dolden Mädel] - Kreuzberg, next to Bergmannstr. - expensive, but they have a huge selection of craft beers (usually 15-20 different ones on tap + many more in bottles)

===Clubs===
Berlin is well known for its clubs. There are numerous of them, with a wide range of music style, atmosphere and exclusivity. Some of the most famous ones:
*Berghain - on the border of Kreuzberg and Friedrichshain, hence the name. Known for rejecting people, long waiting cues and crazy parties.
*Cassiopaia
*Kater Holzig
*Yaam
*White Trash
*Matrix
*Watergate
You can find many, many [http://www.berlin.de/international/clubs/index.en.php more clubs].

===Restaurants===
There are hundreds of restaurants in Berlin. In most districts you'll find typical restaurants with foreign food, mostly Turkish, Asian and Arabic. Meals that are often consumed are Döner and Falafel. Both meals cost between €2,00 and €4,00 depending on district and quality.

On several places you can find the typical Berlin Currywurst (curry sausage)

[[Restaurants in Berlin]]

===Seasonal events===
The following events are reoccurring every year. They are listed chronologically:
====Berlinale====
In the first weeks of February, every movie loving person in the world is looking at Berlin. During the Berlinale, movies are awarded, celebrities are visiting the city and all cinemas in the city are showing quality movies. [http://www.berlinale.de/en/HomePage.html Official website] of the Berlinale.

====Karneval der Kulturen====
During the weekend of Ascension Day (end of May, beginning of June), the city explodes and everyone can be found on the streets to celebrate the carnival of cultures. Main event is the parade where different cultural groups perform, show dances or make music. Around it, everyone enjoys the spring weather and party until morning. [http://www.karneval-berlin.de/de/english.175.html Official website] of Karnaval der Kulturen.

====Fête de la Musique====
The worldwide international music day, initiated by the French minister of culture in 1981 and since 1995 a yearly day where music is celebrated. Concerts all over town. [http://www.fetedelamusique.de/en/ Official website] of Fête de la Musique.

==Sports, Activities and the Great Outdoors==
===Parks===
Berlin is said to be the greenest capital of Europe. There are many big parks, and many more small green areas. All parks have their own charms and every season they look different. In spring and summer, when the temperatures reach 20 degrees Celsius or more, you will see many people visiting parks to walk, run, cycle, play outdoor games and most of all sunbathing with a beer!

===Lakes===
In and around Berlin one can find many lakes. In most of them you could swim at your own risk, but it may not always be allowed.
*Wannsee (South West)
*Tegeler See (North West)
*Weißensee (North East)
*Müggelsee (South East)

===Outdoor sports===
Tempelhofer Feld is a great place to practice outdoor sports like kiting, rollerskating, biking or running. The former airport is the biggest open flat area of Berlin, located centrally, and provided with good asphalt roads through and around the field.

===Climbing===
*[http://www.magicmountain.de/ Magic Mountain] - Gesundbrunnen
*[http://www.bertablock.de/ Berta Block] - Pankow
*[http://www.ostbloc.de/ Ostbloc] - Ostkreuz
*[http://www.derkegel.de/ Der Kegel] - Warschauer Straße
*[http://www.diekletterhalle.de/ T-Hall Berlin] - Neukölln

===Other sports===
[http://www.pingpongmap.net/ Ping pong map] - hundreds of locations to play ping pong, both indoors and outdoors.

==Learning German==
There are lots of language exchange options available in Berlin from one on one meetups to clubs that meet regularly in person to social networks available online at your convenience. Here are some of your options:
===Free online courses===
*[http://www.dw.de/learn-german/s-2469 Deutsche Welle] is actually a news website, but offers some courses and tests online. The best feature: slowly spoken news in German with transcript.
*[http://www.goethe.de/lrn/duw/lad/deindex.htm?wt_sc=lernabenteuer App for iPhone or Android] from Goethe Institut
*[http://online-lernen.levrai.de/ Website] with all background information on the German language
*[http://www.goethe.de/lrn/duw/auf/stb/enindex.htm Exercises] from the Goethe Institut
*[http://www.deutsch-perfekt.com/deutsch-lernen Exercises] from Deutsch Perfekt
*[http://www.deutschakademie.de/online-deutschkurs/ Test] from Deutsch Akademie
*[http://www.goethe.de/lrn/lks/enindex.htm Links from the Goethe Institut] to very useful websites
*[http://www.nachrichtenleicht.de Nachrichten Leicht] German news written in easy German. Includes audio read in slow German.

===For one on one / tandem===
*[http://www.sprachenzentrum.fu-berlin.de/slz/tandem/index.html Tandem program] of the Freie Universität
*[https://www.international.hu-berlin.de/an_die_hu-en/studierende/orbis/sprachboerse Language exchange market of the Humbolt University]

===Groups that meet regularly===
[[File:Gaudy_exchange.png|200px|thumb|left‎|Gaudy Exchange]]St. Gaudy Cafe weekly language exchange
*http://www.gaudycafe.com/
*Gaudystraße 1
*[[File:U2.png]]Schönhauser Allee

===Language exchange social networks===
*[http://livemocha.com/ Live Mocha] - community of language learners that help each other

===Paid language courses===
*[http://www.berlin.de/vhs/ Volkshochschule] (probably the cheapest one, with bigger classes)
*http://www.cosmopolilingua.de (Private one to one and small group classes, individual and intense)
*http://www.speakeasy-sprachzeug.com/en/
*http://www.hartnackschule-berlin.de
*http://www.transmitter-berlin.de
*http://www.die-deutschule.de
*http://www.sprachenatelier-berlin.de
*http://www.deutschakademie.de
*http://kapitel-zwei.de/en
*http://www.deutsch-in-berlin.de
*http://www.goethe.de/lrn/enindex.htm
*https://smartergerman.com/ - Private intense lessons, including an option to get to b1 level (Goethe Institute) in 45 - 60 days

== Sightseeing ==
Berlin is extremely easy to get around by [[Berlin#Getting_Around|public transport]]. You can easily visit several locations on one day.

=== Typical touristic attractions ===
[[File:20c_German.jpg|100px|thumb|left|Brandenburger Tor on German euro-coins]]
==== Brandenburger Tor ====
The Brandenburger Tor ([http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brandenburger_gate Brandenburger gate]) is one of the most famous buildings of both Berlin and Germany. It has been build as a city gate, but is now known as a symbol of the reunion of Germany.

==== Reichstagsgebäude ====
The [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Reichstag_%28building%29 Reichstag building] is the former and present building for the German parliament. The burning of the building in 1933 was the direct cause of Hitler taking over all power. The building was not in use as a parliament between 1933 and 1999.
[[File:Fernsehturm_Berlin2.jpg|100px|thumb|left|Fernsehturm (TV-tower)]]
==== Fernsehturm ====
The 368 metres high TV-tower near Alexanderplatz that can be seen everywhere in the city. You can go up in the tower and look back at the city. Entrance fee is €12 for adults. There is a possibility to have diner in the rotating restaurant, but you have to make reservations. For more info, visit [http://www.tv-turm.de/en/index.php].

==== Museuminsel ====
Island in the city center with many museums, mostly classical and historical art and artifacts.
==== Eastside Gallery ====
1,5 kilometre long gallery of painted pieces of the Berlin Wall.
==== Checkpoint Charlie ====
The famous checkpoint where diplomats could cross the border with the DDR.
==== Gedenkstätte Berliner Mauer ====
History of the Berlin Wall, with a real life simulation of the Berlin Wall and a watchtower.
==== Gendarmenmarkt ====
Square with 2 symmetrical churches (French and German) facing each other.
==== Berliner Dom ====
Protestant cathedral
==== Nikolaiviertel ====
Origin of Berlin. Lots of old buildings, including the Nikolai-church, mixed with renovated buildings and typical DDR/communistic architecture.
==== Siegessäule ====
Victory column, built after the victories in the wars against Denmark, Austria and France in the late 19th century.

=== Less touristic attractions ===
==== Sowjetisches Ehrenmal ====
Huge and impressive memorial for the Soviet soldiers that died during World War II. Year round impressive, but extra special are the 23rd of February (day of the Red Army), 9th of May (Capitulation of Germany) and in autumn when the trees around the memorial turn red.
==== Tempelhof ====
Huge former airfield. Built in the 1920's, extended by Nazi-Germany and used to provide West-Berlin during the Cold War. The airport closed in 2008 and was opened as a park in 2010. Over the last years, people started to fill parts of the area with small gardens.

A new video published April 2014 that really shows the vibe of Templehof!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zuh1v5qwjNU#t=53

==== Teufelsberg ====
In south-western Berlin you can find an old American listening station, built upon a man made 'mountain' out of rubbish from World War II. From the station, there's a great view over the city and the dome/ball on top of the station provides a great acoustic. Since 2012, all holes in the fences are repaired and a security guy asks €7 as an entree fee. In the weekends a [http://www.berlinsightout.de/ guided tour] is possible for €15.
==== Waterfall in Viktoriapark ====
==== Eisfabrik ====
==== Pfaueninsel ====
==== Spreepark ====
Abandoned theme park in Plänterwald. Main attractions are a big ferry wheel, decorative dinosaurs and a roller coaster. Please note that entering the park is officially not allowed.
==== Olympic Stadium ====
Built in the 30's under Nazi-regime, it hosted the famous Olympic Summer Games of 1936 and was subject of Leni Riefenstahl's movie 'Olympia'. You can either walk around it, or get a [http://www.olympiastadion-berlin.de/en/stadium-visitor-centre/viewing-and-guided-tours.html guided tour]. If you are more interested, a visit to the [http://dkb-stiftung.de/web/Das_Olympische_Dorf_von_1936.32.htm Olympic Village] could be a nice addition.

==== Berliner Unterwelten ====
Visit an underground peoples bunker or the anti-aircraft towers in Volkspark Humboldthain. Tours organized by [http://berliner-unterwelten.de/home.1.1.html Berliner Unterwelten e.V.]. Entrance at U-bahnhof Gesundbrunnen. The plateau of the 'Flakturmen' with a nice view of northern Berlin can be accessed for free via the park (also accessible for wheelchairs).

=== Museums ===
If you're planning to visit many museums during your stay in Berlin, you might want to buy the '''[http://www.museumsportal-berlin.de/en/plan-your-visit/all-about-admission-fees/everything-three-days/ Museum pass]'''. It costs €19, can be bought at any participating museum and is valid for 3 days.

If you want to see both city and museums, and you're not sure how many museums you'll be visiting, you might be interested in the [[Berlin#Special_tickets|Berlin Welcome Card]] which gives you discount on museums and free use of public transport.
*[http://www.dhm.de Deutsches Historisches Museum] - German history
*[http://www.smb.museum/smb/standorte/index.php?objID=24&p=2 Altes Museum] - Ancient and classical art and artifacts
*[http://www.smb.museum/smb/standorte/index.php?p=2&objID=27&n=15 Pergamommuseum] - Ancient art and artifacts
*[http://www.mauermuseum.de Haus am Checkpoint Charlie] - Berlin Wall
*[http://www.smb.museum/smb/sammlungen/details.php?objectId=17 Alte Nationalgalerie] - 19th century sculptures and paintings
*[http://www.neues-museum.de/ Neues Museum] - Prehistory, early history, Egyptian and other classical artifacts
*[http://www.smb.museum/smb/standorte/index.php?lang=en&p=2&objID=28&n=3 Bode-Museum] Byzantine art and sculptures
*Museum für Naturkunde
*Hamburger Bahnhof Museum
*Jüdisches Museum
*Gedenkstätte Berliner Mauer
*Topographie des Terrors
*DDR-Museum
*Story of Berlin

=== Religious buildings ===

=== Flea markets and other famous markets ===
Berlin is well known for its flea markets. There are several weekly flea markets. The most famous ones:

'''Mauerpark'''<br />
The most famous flea market of Berlin, close to [[File:U2.png]]Eberswalderstraße. Has a lot of 2nd hand stalls, mixed with creative people that make jewelry, paintings, photos/cards, wallets and other stuff themselves. When the weather is right, there's a huge karaoke in the park next to the flea market. Can be very crowded, especially in spring and summer.
*[http://www.mauerparkmarkt.de/ Website]
*Bernauer Straße 63
*Sunday 7:00-17:00h

'''Boxhagener Platz'''<br />
Easy to oversee, since all stands are built around the Boxhagener square. You can take a rest on the square itself, or make a round in approximately an hour. Especially known for its records, books and posters. Other stands sell furniture and objects, but not so many clothes.
*Boxhagener Platz 1
*Sunday 10:00-18:00h

'''Schöneberg'''

'''Arkonaplatz'''

'''Straße des 17. Juni'''

'''Ostbahnhof'''

'''OBI Neukölln'''

=== Vegetable and Food Markets ===
'''Türkischer Markt am Maybachufer'''<br />
Twice weekly (Tuesdays and Fridays) from 11am. This is one of the biggest weekly markets in Berlin. Fruit and vegetables are considerably cheaper than most supermarkets, including Aldi and Lidl. Also you can find many other foods items and a mixed range of household items.

'''Boxhagener Platz'''<br />
Food market on Saturdays 10:00-18:00h on Boxhagener Platz

'''Markthalle Neun'''<br />
[http://markthalleneun.de/markets?lang=en Food market] in a historic market hall:<br />
* Tuesdays 12:00-20:00h (small)
* Fridays 12:00-20:00h (big)
* Saturdays 10:00-18:00h (big)
* International Street Food Thursdays 17:00-22:00h (popular, often extremely crowded)

== Travelling from Berlin ==
Apart from the 2 airports, several (international) trains and busses arrive at and leave from Berlin.
===Trains===
Most '''international trains''' arrive at and depart from Berlin Hauptbahnhof (main railway station).
*to the Netherlands (Berlin-Schiphol)
*to Poland (Berlin-Warsaw/Gdansk/Wrocław Główny)
*to Switzerland (Berlin-Basel)
*to Denmark (Berlin-Copenhagen/Arhus)
*to the Czech Republic (Berlin-Prague)
To find the best connections, or for booking tickets, you can check out the website of the [[http://www.bahn.de/i/view/GBR/en/index.shtml German Railway]]. Booking tickets on forehand can make a huge difference in price.

'''(inter)regional trains''' depart from every major station, such as Alexanderplatz, Ostbahnhof, Spandau and Sudkreuz. There's a difference between regional trains ('''RB''' (Regionalbahn) and'''RE''' (Regionalexpress)) and inter-regional trains ('''IC''' (Intercity) and '''ICE''' (Intercity Express)). The IC's and ICE's drive much faster and over a long distance, mostly to other big cities in Germany. The RB and RE only drive short distances and stop at many smaller stations on the way.

===Buses===
The main bus station for international and inter-regional bus lines is '''ZOB''' ("Zentraler Omnibus-Bahnhof") in western Berlin. It is near S-Bahn station "Messe Nord/ICC" (Circle lines S41/S42) and [[File:U2.png]] station "Kaiserdamm".
Depending on the line and destination, some international/inter-regional buses may also stop at one of these places:
* Ostbahnhof Bus Station (eastern side of the city, at S-Bahn Ostbahnhof)
* Südkreuz station - many buses to/from Poland and Czech Republic stop here (S2, S25, S41, S42, S45, S46, and some mainline trains)
* Hauptbahnhof (main train station) - buses run by DB (German railway) stop here
* Schönefeld Airport (near the terminals) - some buses to/from Poland and Czech Republic stop here

Try [https://www.busliniensuche.de/ BusLinienSuche] for finding buses to various places.

====International Buses====
Some major bus lines that will bring you abroad are:
*[http://www.eurolines.com/en/ Eurolines] - to almost any place in Europe
*[http://ecolines.net/en/ Ecolines] - Poland, Russia, Lithuania, Estonia, Latvia, Belarus, Ukraine
*[http://eclubreisen.de Eclubreisen] - to Ukraine
*[https://www.flixbus.de/ Flixbus]

====Inter-regional buses====
*[https://www.berlinlinienbus.de/index.php?lang=en BerlinLinienBus]
*[http://www.eurolines.de/index.php?id=14&L=1 Eurolines]

===Car===
====Car sharing====
It's easy to find car sharing online. Cars travel from every city to every city. You can find rides or travellers at [http://www.mitfahrgelegenheit.de Mitfahrgelegenheit.de] or [http://www.mitfahrzentrale.de Mitfahrzentrale.de]. There's a great, cheaper alternative to Mitfahrgelegenheit: [http://www.blablacar.de/ BLAH BLAH CAR]
and on CouchSurfing
[https://www.couchsurfing.org/group.html?gid=10289 Group 1]
[https://www.couchsurfing.org/group.html?gid=17463 Group 2]
[https://www.couchsurfing.org/group.html?gid=2920 Group 3]

====Hitchhiking====

Naturally, [[:hitch:Berlin|Hitchwiki]] has the best and most up-to-date resources about thumbing your way out of Berlin. The old fashioned and not-updated any more [http://www.hitchbase.com/orte.php?LANG=ger&l_id=73 Hitchbase] might be an alternative in some cases.

==Settling in Berlin==
If you are planning to stay in Berlin for a longer time, the main concerns will be housing, visa (if necessary), work, health insurance and the necessary bureaucracy. Please note that all information written here are rough guidelines and tips and might be outdated or incomplete.
Be aware that you might get trapped in a vicious circle: to register yourself in Berlin you need an address, to find housing you need work and for work you need to be registered.

===Housing===
Some websites that can be used if you're looking for flat-share(WG)/renting a flat in Berlin:
*[http://www.wg-gesucht.de/en/ WG-Gesucht.de (German/English)] The most used website to search for accomodation/house mates
*[http://www.studenten-wg.de Studenten-wg.de (German)] Another website to find WG's
*[http://www.immobilo.de/mieten/berlin Immobilo.de (German)] Searches multiple websites that lists accomodations.
*[http://www.immobilienscout24.de/Suche/S-T/WG-Zimmer/Berlin/Berlin Immobilienscout24 (German)] For apartments, less used for flatsharing.
*[http://www.wgcompany.de/cgi-bin/seite?st=1&mi=10&li=100 WGcompany (English)] Has a glossary in english with all important terms. Used for flatsharing.
*[http://kleinanzeigen.ebay.de/anzeigen/s-immobilien/berlin/c195l3331 E-bay Kleinanzeigen (German)] Germans offer everything on E-bay.
*[http://berlin.en.craigslist.de/hhh/ Craigslist (English)] Not all very reliable, but sometimes it contains a hidden treasure.
*[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group.html?gid=19711/ CouchSurfing Group 1 (English)] Find local CSers looking for flatmates, available sublets, etc.
*[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group.html?gid=9251/ CouchSurfing Group 2 (English)] Find local CSers looking for flatmates, available sublets, etc.
*[http://www.toytowngermany.com/forum/index.php?showforum=84/ ToyTown (English)] Expat community.
*[https://www.facebook.com/groups/easy.wg/ A Facebook Group (English/German)] A good group to find housing.
*[http://www.bewelcome.org/groups/1437 BW Accommodation group] or [https://www.couchsurfing.org/group.html?gid=19711 CS Accommodation group].
*[http://www.studentenwerk-berlin.de/wohnen/woanders_wohnen/berliner_wbgs/ Berlin Apartment Corporations (German)]
*[http://www.studentenwerk-berlin.de/wohnen/woanders_wohnen/wohnraumboerse_berlin/index.html Flat Search of Studentenwerk (German)]
*[http://www.wbm.de/wbm/cms/de/wohnen/Mietwohnungen.html WBM another corporation that builds flats]
*[https://www.dreamflat.co.uk/ Dreamflat]
*[https://www.wg-cast.de/ WG-Cast]
*[http://www.airbnb.de AirBnB Apartments, Flats and Rooms for rent]

===Buying used items===
Berlin is a hot spot for exchanging/selling/buying used items. You can find many things for sale or even for free:
*[http://kleinanzeigen.ebay.de/anzeigen/s-immobilien/berlin/c195l3331 E-bay Kleinanzeigen (German)] Germans offer everything on E-bay.
*[http://berlin.en.craigslist.de/hhh/ Craigslist (English)] Good place for all sorts of items, including bikes.
*[https://www.facebook.com/groups/freeyourstuff/ A Facebook Group (English)] People offering things for FREE only.

===VISA===
General information on getting a visa for Germany can be found [http://4dayvisa.tumblr.com/ here]
====VISA Office====
[http://www.berlin.de/labo/auslaender/dienststelle/index.html Ausländerbehörde (ABH)]
[http://osm.org/go/0MZv6kuHu-- MAP]

Schedule an appointment ahead of time. The waiting times are not that bad, but it's always best to have an appointment.<br>
They really don't speak English consistently so just be prepared. Bring someone with you if at all possible. Have everything you need when you go. They don't answer emails for nearly 1 month so don't bother there. You can call and ask questions, but have someone call for you who speaks German and then you might get answers.

====Freelance VISA and Artist VISA====
(This is written from a US citizen. Different rules may apply to you, although they may be similar).
These are 2 different things. I obtained my Artist's visa while I was waiting for my Freelance visa to be approved (this will take 6-10 weeks). The Artist's visa does not allow you to work. The Freelance one does (you can list more than one profession on this visa).

====List of things that you need====
* Completed Form (http://www.berlin.de/formularserver/formular.php?72301)
* Letter stating your intentions, how you plan to support yourself, everthing you can think of
* CV
* Passport Copy
* 2 Biometric Photo (not smiling... these can be done in the bottom level of the office... leave an extra 10 minutes for this).
* Bank Statement (proving that you can support yourself without working)
* All Certificates
* All Diplomas
* All Transcripts
* Health Insurance (GERMAN) Proof and all documents
* German Address Registration (do NOT show up without this. You will be turned away. You must register your address)
* References
* €50 in cash (sometimes this is more)
* Artist portfolio (this must be hard copies of your work)
* Letter from 2 prospective employers (I fought this, but it's technically required and you should have it)

===Registering in Germany/Berlin - Bürgeramt===
'''Registering your address'''
Fill out page 3 of [https://docs.google.com/file/d/1RBnLXCEqJ-le6hyQSsyvQ2_0u7Uo7tF-tG4lUc76EPDL6r-8O6ipxGPkZt2-/edit this form] and then go to register.<br />
You must register your address within 2 weeks of coming to Germany and before you can do anything really.<br />
You need to either have a rental agreement or have the main renter to sign the paper or write a letter for you.<br />
[http://www.buergeramt.info/berlin.htm A list] of all the places you can go to register. You don't need to register in your own district.

===Health insurance===
In Germany you need to have a health insurance by law. It can be very expensive. The easiest way to become insured is to have a job. If you're an employee, the insurance is withhold from your loan (15,5%) automatically, and you can enter the 'Gesetzliche Krankenkasse' (insurance by law), where a broad variety of treatments is covered. If you earn more than €52.200 a year, or you are not an employee, you'd have to sign up for a private health insurance, which have a fixed price per month (starting at €130).

A list with [http://www.gesetzlichekrankenkassen.de/preise/berlin/berlin.html 'Gesetzliche' insurances].

Some private health insurances can be found at:
* [http://www.deutscheinsurance.com/ Compare insurances]
* [http://www.aok.de/rheinland-hamburg/mitglied-werden/international-english-89909.php AOK]
* [http://www.hansemerkur.de/ HanseMerkur]
Note that you need to go to an agency office to sign up. You would probably also need to be checked by a doctor before the insurance company will take you in.

If you want to apply to [http://www.bmkb.de/ KSK] (you must be an artist legally here, they will help you with the price of your insurance, but there are a lot of rules you must follow), you can contact this woman:
Ilka Lacherbauer
Medien und Künstler Beratung Ltd.
Tucholskystr. 35
10117 Berlin - Mitte
Fon.: +49 30 - 75 00 86 00
e-mail: info@bmkb.de or lacherbauer@bmkb.de

===SIM Cards===
(this information was gathered from forums)

* http://www.callmobile.de/
* http://www.fonic.de
* http://www.blau.de
* You can get great deals on SIM's at any Saturn store. They have T-Mobile SIM cards for only 5 euro and they come with 10 euro worth of call minutes for free.
* some Turkish phone shops, they sell Vodafone cards with credit for half-price (usually a card with 10 EUR credit for about 6 EUR, and one with 1 EUR credit for 60 cents), and what's best these are pre-activated and work right away, no need to fill out any stupid forms online.
* new SIM. For instance if you take an O2 one for 28.50E, you get 21E credit plus two months of freecalls to O2 (has a good subscrirption in Germany) numbers and to any landline. I think it is a great offer but something that you cannot renew; just comes with the new number.
*Aldi or Penny (yes, the discount stores) have easy prepaid cards for 15euro or something with the same amount of credit on it so you basically pay nothing for it. I don't know if they offer data as well, but the Aldi card uses ePlus networks so you can also charge your credit with ePlus prepaid cards if there is no Aldi around to buy new credit. adli 300mb 300 minutes = less 10 euro ;)

===Bank account===
At some point you would probably need a German bank account. You would need to find the bank of your choice, apply, and identify yourself at a post office (unless you open an account in a bank physically). Choosing your bank is not the easiest thing, since there are many banks to choose from. Criteria can be:
*Monthly fee
*Interest
*Costs of credit card
*Physical/online bank
*ATM-fee (sometimes you have to pay an extra fee if you use another bank's ATM)
*Welcoming bonus
*Ethics of the bank

There's a [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_banks_in_Germany wikipedia page] listing the banks in Germany. To compare banks, visit [http://www.girokonto-vergleich.net/vergleich.html this] and [http://www.aspect-online.de/banken/girokonto/ this] site.
If you're looking for more ethical (social-ecological) banks, check [http://blog.soziales-dorf.eu/module-news-display-sid-152.html this German blog].

==Luggage Storage==
'''Train stations'''
Berlin Hbf,
Alexanderplatz,
Ostbahnhof,
Friedrichstraße,
Potsdamer Platz,
Gesundbrunnen,
Zoologischer Garten,
Südkreuz,
Spandau

'''Other'''
Central Bus Staion ZOB,
Tegel Airport,
Schönefeld Airport,

==Cost of living==
In Berlin you have many choices on how to spend your money. Berlin is a relatively cheap city, although the prices raised over the years.

Below is a list of estimations of prices. The prices can differ a lot, depending on district, location, season, etc.

'''Renting a room''': €150-€600 per month<br />
'''Renting apartment''': €200-€1000 per month<br />

'''Restaurant''': €2 - €15 for a main dish<br />
'''Beer''': €0,70 - €4,00 for 0,5 liter<br />

==FAQs==
[[trash:Berlin]]
[[hitch:Berlin]]
[[velo:Berlin]]
[[cash:Berlin]]
[[nomad:Berlin]]

Ukraine

2019-01-20T17:41:05Z

Iotrj: Reverted edits by Turneralanna (talk) to last revision by Robyt

{{Country header
|country = Ukraine
|region = Europe
|csgroup = 249
|places = [[Dnipropetrovsk]] • [[Donetsk]] • [[Kharkiv]] • [[Kiev]] • [[Odessa]]
|toplinks =
|wikipedia = Ukraine
|hitchwiki = Ukraine
|wikivoyage = Ukraine
|image = Flag of Ukraine.svg
|imagetext =‎ Flag of Ukraine
}}

Ukraine is a country in [[Europe]] with some 46 million inhabitants.

==Language==

The official language is Ukrainian, but in the eastern, southern and central part of the country most people speak Russian. Russian should not be a problem in the western parts, but especially younger people often have problems with Russian.

==Transport==

When travelling between towns and cities inside of the Ukraine one can use the trains and buses (marshrutki). They are not expensive. The timetables for the trains are [http://www.uz.gov.ua/en/passengers/timetables/ on-line in English], but one has to remember that they use the Ukrainian version of the town names here (Kyiv for Kiev, Lviv for Lvov etc.). Travelling by plane is useful only between the capital and other cities - everything else would fly via Kiev.

{{stub}}
[[trash:Ukraine]]
[[hitch:Ukraine]]
[[visa:Ukraine]]
[[nomad:Ukraine]]

New York City

2019-01-20T17:36:19Z

Iotrj: Reverted edits by MarcusR (talk) to last revision by Guaka

{{United States}}
{{City header
|city = New York City
|country = United States
|areas =
|toplinks =
|bwgroup = 131
|csgroup = 2372
|wikipedia = New York City
|hitchwiki = New York Cityxf
|wikivoyage = New York City
|image = Flag_of_New_York_City.svg
|imagetext = Flag of the City of New York
}}
{{TOCright}}

'''New York City''', also known as ''The Big Apple'', is the biggest city in the [[United States]].

== Meetings ==

After the meetups, be sure to share your photos on [http://www.flickr.com/groups/couchsurfingnyc/ our Flickr group].

== New Member Welcome Kit ==
The [http://www.couchwiki.org/en/United_states_new_member_welcome_kit US New Member Welcome Kit] answers a lot of questions and is a great resource for both new members and seasoned CSers.

== Important Numbers & Services ==

=== Emergency Services ===
Dial '''911''' from any phone to contact emergency services when there is an emergency, lives are in danger, serious injury, serious medical condition, crime in progress, or any other situation needing immediate attention.

=== NYC Information ===
Dial '''311''' from any phone for government and non-emergency information or visit [http://www.nyc.gov/apps/311/ their website.]

=== NYC Subway Information ===
Dial '''511''' from any phone for information on the subway and bus system or visit [http://www.mta.info their website.]

=== Government Information ===
[http://www.nyc.gov/ Official NYC website.]

=== Police Stations ===
If you are really unlucky and manage to land yourself into trouble, here's a [http://www.nyc.gov/html/nypd/html/home/precincts.shtml list of the local police stations.]

== Staying Safe ==

=== Safety Tips ===
* [[Safety]]
* [http://www.couchsurfing.org/read_profile_tips.html How to read a profile]
* [http://www.couchsurfing.org/couchrequest_tips.html Finding and requesting a couch]
* [http://www.couchsurfing.org/surf_tips.html Tips for surfing]
* [http://www.couchsurfing.org/host_tips.html Tips for hosting]
* [http://www.couchsurfing.org/solo_tips.html Solo couchsurfing]
* [http://www.couchsurfing.org/family_tips.html Family couchsurfing]
* [http://www.couchsurfing.org/references.html Writing and reading references]
* [http://www.couchwiki.org/en/Handling_Dating_Requests Dating & CS]
* [http://www.couchsurfing.org/scams.html Avoiding scams & dealing with spam]

=== CS Guidelines ===
What's acceptable to do on CS? Read our [http://www.couchsurfing.org/guidelines.html guidelines] and [http://www.couchsurfing.org/terms.html terms of use].

=== References ===
'''Honest, accurate references''' are incredibly important!

You do not have to couchsurf with someone in order to leave a reference. You are encouraged to write a reference whenever you have learned something about a CouchSurfer that will be informative to the community. The [http://www.couchsurfing.org/references.html CS guide to references] gives you more information about when to write a reference and what information to include.

Please remember that reporting a negative experience is not the end of the world. It is normal that not everybody gets along fine and that '''''you are describing your experience for the benefit of others, not judging a person.''''' '''Negative references aren't just for safety issues. They're to give you a better idea of who the person is.''' CS will make every effort to remove any unjustified negative references received in retaliation for having left a negative reference. The [http://www.couchsurfing.org/mdst_faq.html#DeleteRef Member Disputes FAQ] has more information about when CS will remove a reference.

Doing the right thing in reporting a negative experience honestly will not create insurmountable problems, and '''''the clean conscience of not sharing responsibility for seriously bad things happening to other members by far outweighs any inconvenience.'''''

Reporting CSers who behave inappropriately, including but not limited to offensive, violent or sexually inappropriate behavior, who steals from you or engages in any other disturbing conduct, is required by our [http://www.couchsurfing.org/terms.html terms of use]. You must immediately report such person to the appropriate authorities and to us by [http://www.couchsurfing.org/contact.html contacting us] and choosing "Problem with Another Member.”

=== Member Disputes & Safety Team ===

'''You are required to report dangerous members to the MDST.''' You can do this by going to [http://www.couchsurfing.org/contact.html contact us] and choosing "Problem with Another Member." It is important to do this even if you choose not to leave a negative reference or press charges, so the MDST can look out for recurring problems and take action as necessary. If you require assistance with moderating a dispute or filing a police report, please contact MDST and/or a local ambassador.

* [http://www.couchsurfing.org/mdst_faq.html MDST FAQs]

* [http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=6220&post=517373 What can or can't the MDST do?]

=== Theft ===
'''You are required to report dangerous members to the MDST.''' You can do this by going to [http://www.couchsurfing.org/contact.html contact us] and choosing "Problem with Another Member." It is important to do this even if you choose not to leave a negative reference or press charges, so that the MDST can look out for recurring problems and take action as necessary. If you require assistance with moderating a dispute or filing a police report, please contact MDST and/or a local ambassador.

It is not advisable to post a public warning about another member. The MDST will take action and warn members under [http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=6220&post=828170 specific circumstances].

=== CouchSurfing Workshops ===
Please check the [http://www.couchsurfing.org/group.html?gid=2372 NYCS group] and [http://www.google.com/calendar/embed?src=couchsurfingnewyork%40gmail.com&ctz=America/New_York events calendar] for our next workshop. Workshops include information on how to set up a profile, what to expect while hosting and surfing, and how to stay safe while CSing.

=== Self Defense Classes ===
A number of organizations offer self-defense classes in New York City. Many colleges and non-profit organizations will host free or low-cost classes.

* Center for Anti-Violence Education
*: Free or low-cost self-defense workshops for children, teens, women and trans-folk. Located in Park Slope, Brooklyn.
*: 718-788-1775
*: http://www.caeny.org/
* Impact Personal Safety
*: Self-defense courses for children, teens, women and men.
*: 212-255-0505
*: http://www.prepareinc.com/
* Attackproof
*: Unique drills, exercises and principles cover everything from Awareness and avoidance to hand-to-hand and weapons training. Offered in various locations.
*: http://attackproof.com/CLASSES-IN-real-self-defense.html#group%20classes

== Finding a Couch ==

=== Doing a CouchSearch ===
Finding a couch in NYC can be difficult because hosts receive many requests and most people live in small apartments. Send out requests early and be prepared to move around during your stay.

Doing a couchsearch of New York will only bring up hosts in Manhattan, so be sure to search in all five boros (Brooklyn, Queens, Bronx and Staten Island). You can do this by doing a specific search or setting a five mile radius.

Keep in mind that New Jersey is just over the river. Hoboken, Jersey City, Weehawken, Fort Lee, are closer to Manhattan than some parts of Brooklyn & Queens, and provide 24 hour access to the city (check hosts profile to see if they say that they live near a 24 hour bus or the [http://www.panynj.gov/path/ PATH train]).

==== Try doing a CouchSearch for: ====
* Queens: Astoria, NY; Elmhurst, NY; Flushing, NY; Jackson Heights, NY; Long Island City, NY; Ridgewood, NY; Sunnyside, NY

* Bronx, NY

* Brooklyn, NY

* Staten Island, NY

* New Jersey: Hoboken, NJ; Jersey City, NJ; Newark, NJ; Weehawken, NJ; White Plains, NJ; Fort Lee, NJ

* Westchester: Yonkers, NY; Bronxville, NY; White Plains, NY

==== Public Transportation ====
The various public transportation systems allow easy, relatively cheap movement around the NYC metro area. Pretty much everything within a 15-20 mile radius allows easy access to Manhattan. You can go as far as 100 miles out but fares and transit time increase. Maps are available online:
* [http://www.mta.info NYC Transit] (NYC subway and bus)
* [http://www.mta.info/mnr/ MetroNorth] (commuter rail to the north)
* [http://www.njtransit.com/ New Jersey Transit] (commuter rail and bus)
* [http://www.panynj.gov/path/ PATH] (subway to NJ)
* [http://www.mta.info/lirr/ LIRR] (commuter rail to the east)
* [http://www.mta.info/libus/index.html Long Island Bus] (buses to east).

=== Emergency Couch Group ===
Post your last-minute couchrequests in the [http://www.couchsurfing.org/group.html?gid=5845 Last Minute CouchRequest Group]

It is always better to find a host by messaging other members directly. '''Please only use this group for emergencies and last minute couches.''' For example, you should not post to this group if you're looking for a couch 2 months from now.

Please take some extra time to read potential hosts' profiles, including sleeping arrangements and references, in order to find a good match. Usually you look through many profiles before
finding someone to contact. Make sure to take the same care when people are contacting you and offering a last minute couch. We want you to all have good NYCS experiences.

=== Other Accommodation ===
New York hosts are often overwhelmed by requests, so it's not always possible to find a host through CouchSurfing.

'''Map of hostels & affordable hotels:''' http://bit.ly/hnp0zg

==== Temporary Apartment Listings ====
* [http://newyork.craigslist.org/sub/ Craigslist]
*: NOTE: ALWAYS DEAL LOCALLY WITH FOLKS YOU CAN MEET IN PERSON - follow this one rule and avoid 99% of scam attempts on craigslist. (from the craigslist website)
* [http://nyc.sublet.com/ Sublet.com]

==== Hospitality Sites ====
* [http://www.airbnb.com Air BnB]
* [http://www.bewelcome.org BeWelcome]
* [http://www.globalfreeloaders.com/ Global Freeloaders]

==== Hostels ====
* Cheap, clean rooms can be found at the [http://ymcanyc.org/index.php?id=963 YMCA]
* [http://www.hostelworld.com/hostels/New-York Hostel World]
* [http://www.hostels.com/us.ny.ny.html Hostels.com]
* [http://www.hostelbookers.com/hostels/usa/new-york-city/ Hostel Bookers]
* Reviews of NYC hostels [http://www.yelp.com/c/nyc/hostels]

Inexpensive Hostels (list from C. R. Page as of February 2011)
* Royal Park Hotel and Hostel, 258 West 97th Street, New York, USA - Beds from $19.95
* Lafayette International Hostel, 484 Lafayette Av., Brooklyn, New York, USA - Beds from $20
* Tone on Lex, 179 East 94th, New York, USA - Beds from $15
* Williamsburg HostL, 318 Bedford Ave #2, Brooklyn, New York, USA - Beds from $26
* Columbus Circle Hostel, 120 West 60th Street, New York, USA - Beds from $24
* New York Hostel 99, 30 East 129th Street, New York, USA - Beds from $20.95
* AAE New York Hostel, 13909 89th Ave, JFK AIRPORT, New York, USA - Beds from $20.99
* Chocolat Hostel, 850 West End Avenue, New York, USA - Beds from $18.75
* The Candy Hostel, 315 W. 94th Street., New York, USA - Beds from $18.75
* Hostel 104, 2027 1st Avenue, New York, USA - Beds from $21.95
* New York Empire Hostel, 269 Meserole Street, New York, USA - Beds from $19.99
* The New York Loft Hostel, 249 Varet St., Brooklyn, New York, USA - Beds from $20
* AAE Super Eight Hostel New York, 139-01 Jamaica Ave, Jamaica Van Wyck Subway New York, New York, USA - Beds from $20.99
* The Wanderers Inn West, 257 West 113th Street, New York, USA - Beds from $19.50
* Jazz on Lenox, 104 West 128 Street, New York, USA - Beds from $17
* Jazz on Amsterdam Avenue, 201 West 87th Street, New York, USA - Beds from $22
* Broadway Hotel n Hostel, 230 West 101 Street, New York, USA - Beds from $20

== Transportation ==
'''See the [http://en.en.wikivoyage.org/wiki/New_York_(city) New York City Wikivoyage] page for detailed advice about transportation and attractions.'''

=== By Plane ===
There are three major Airports in the NYC area. JFK and LaGuardia (LGA) are both located in Queens.
Newark is located in New Jersey but provides for easy access to the city.

[http://offmanhattan.com/2010/06/21/nyc-airport-transportation/ Off Manhattan's Airport Transportation Guide]

==== JFK ====
The AirTrain costs $5 and runs from JFK and connects to the following subway/train stops
• LIRR trains and E/J/Z subways at Jamaica Station
• The "A" subway line at Howard Beach Station
From these subways and trains most of the 5 boroughs and outlying areas can be reached rather easily.

For trips between (to and from) Manhattan and JFK International Airport, the flat fare is $45.00 plus any tolls using Rate Code 2 on the meter. A NY State Tax Surcharge of $.50 will be added to each trip.

If passengers request multiple stops, the flat rate of $45.00 will be collected at the first stop in either Manhattan or JFK International Airport, and the meter will be activated at Rate Code 1 (standard city rate) for the remainder of the trip. The metered fare should be collected at the last stop, from the last passenger.

Trips between JFK International Airport and New York City destinations other than Manhattan will use that standard metered rate.

If you're looking to cab in don't be afraid to ask people where they're going and see if they're willing to split a cab with you.
Various Express buses are also running and range from $15 - $25 for a trip to Manhattan.

Safety notice: Do NOT accept a ride from people inside or near the airport exit offering a taxi service -- those drivers are unlicensed and their cars do not have meters. Best case you will share the ride with strangers while paying the same rates as your own cab. Worst case... well, just don't use an unlicensed taxi service!

==== LaGuardia (LGA) ====
Various buses run between LaGuardia and the 5 boroughs.
The two most popular buses are the M60 and the Q33. The M60 will take you into Manhattan and travels west along 125th Street, making stops at the 4, 5 and 6 subway lines at Lexington Ave; the MetroNorth station at Park Ave; the 2 and the 3 at Lenox Ave; the A, B, C and D at Saint Nicholas Ave; and the 1 at Broadway. The Q33 drops you off in Jackson Heights near different subway stations depending on where you need to get off. Don't hesitate to ask the bus driver where to get off for your particular subway line if you're unsure.

Cab rides to Manhattan and other areas are metered. During non rush hours the typical cab ride into Manhattan will be at least $30. If you want to take a taxi don't be afraid to ask people where they're going and see if they're willing to share the cost with you.

Safety notice: Do NOT accept a ride from people inside or near the airport exit offering a taxi service -- those drivers are unlicensed and their cars do not have meters. Best case you will share the ride with strangers while paying the same rates as your own cab. Worst case... well, just don't use an unlicensed taxi service!

==== Newark (EWR) ====
New Jersey Transit runs their own AirTrain service from Newark to New York Penn Station for around $15. This is usually the fastest method. See http://www.njtransit.com/rg/rg_servlet.srv?hdnPageAction=AirportConnectionsTo for more information.
Cab rides to Manhattan and other areas are metered. During non rush hours the typical cab ride into Manhattan will be at least $50. If you're looking to take a taxi don't be afraid to ask people where they're going and see if they're willing to share the cost with you.

The least expensive way is to take the New Jersey Transit #62 bus ($1.50) in front of the terminals to Newark Penn Station (20 minutes), and then the PATH train ($2) to lower Manhattan (25 minutes). They are both very frequent during the day.

Safety notice: Do NOT accept a ride from people inside or near the airport exit offering a taxi service -- those drivers are unlicensed and their cars do not have meters. Best case you will share the ride with strangers while paying the same rates as your own cab. Worst case... well, just don't use an unlicensed taxi service!

=== By Bus ===
There are many buses that connect New York with other major cities in the northeast, which are often significantly cheaper and more convenient that Greyhound or even Amtrak. These are the Chinatown buses and will typically run from Chinatown in New York City to the Chinatown area in another city. Often they pick up and drop off passengers on the side of the street, so it is important to know where they are. There are many companies that operate between the major cities, usually running every half hour every day.

The following are a few of the many companies:

New Century Travel <br />
http://www.2000coach.com/ <br />
Operates between NYC and Philly ($20 RT), Washington ($35 RT) and Richmond ($60 RT)

Fung Wah Bus <br />
https://www.fungwahbus.com/Default.aspx <br />
Operates Between NYC and Boston ($30 RT)

Apex Bus <br />
http://www.apexbus.com/ <br />
Operates between NYC and Philly ($20 RT), Washington ($35 RT), Richmond ($60 RT), Baltimore ($35 RT), Rockville, MD ($45 RT), Norfolk ($60 RT), Albany ($45 RT), Atlanta ($200 RT), Nashville ($70 RT)

Bolt Bus <br />
http://www.boltbus.com/ <br />
Operates between NYC and Boston ($16-20 OW), Philly ($13-$15 OW), Baltimore ($18-$20 OW), Washington ($18-$25 OW). However, if you book far enough in advance you can get a ticket for as little as $1 OW. They also offer wifi on board and power outlets.

The best way to find other companies is to google "Chinatown bus New York City'"

=== By Car ===
Goethals Bridge connects New Jersey and Staten Island
Holland Tunnel connects New Jersey and Manhattan
Lincoln Tunnel connects New Jersey and Manhattan
George Washington Bridge connects New Jersey and Manhattan
More information can be found at:
http://www.panynj.gov/bridges-tunnels/

=== By Foot or bicycle ===
The George Washington Bridge lets you walk or ride a bike across it when coming from the mainland (New Jersey). It offers quite a stunning view of the Hudson river and NYC skyline.

=== Mass transit once in the city ===
New York City arguably has the best developed and easiest public transportation system of all major cities in the United States (http://www.mta.info). It is easily navigable, runs 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and is safe. It is an aged system, though, and some subway stations can smell bad and be unbearably hot in the summer, and there is a lot of rat poison applied on a regular basis. But the subway cars are generally clean, climate-controlled and well-maintained. Also, note that you are also subject to random "bag checks" by the police at all times (but I've only seen a couple of instances of this in the last few years).
As a traveler without a car or bicycle you will heavily rely on NYC's public transportation system and you could wind up taking at least half a dozen rides in the subway/bus on any given day. At $2.25 per ride that can become an expensive proposition. Thus, your best bet is to buy an "Unlimited" Metrocard that provides unlimited rides within on the subway and bus system of NYC (all 5 boroughs) for either 7 days ($29) or 30 days ($104). The 1-day and 14-day unlimited cards have been eliminated. In one of the most expensive cities in the world, the Unlimited ride option is one of the most cost-efficient purchases you can make. To determine if the 7-day card is a good value for you, consider this: if you pay for each ride 13 times, you have already spent more than $29.
The Metrocards are available at all times from the vending machines in most subway stations. The pay-per-ride Metrocard will give you a 7% bonus for a purchase of $10 or more (e.g., $10 gets you $10.70). When using a Metrocard (but not the white single-fare cards), you may transfer free from local bus-to-subway, subway-to-local bus or local bus-to-local bus within two hours of the time you paid your fare. So, you could take the subway uptown and then hop on a bus back downtown for $2.25 if you get on the bus within 2 hours of entering the subway station.
Again, if you're going to spend a lot of time in the city and/or will be making a lot of trips, then you should buy the unlimited ride Metrocard rather than the pay-per-ride Metrocard.

=== Bicycling within the city ===
New York City has become more bike friendly over the last couple of years with the establishment of bike lanes on various streets and avenues in the City. If you have a bike, ask your host if there is a safe place to store it.

NYC bike trails<br />
http://www.nycbikemaps.com<br />

== Visiting New York City ==
New York City isn't just Manhattan. It's worth at least a visit to each of the outer boroughs to provide yourself with a well-rounded experience. New York City is comprised of Manhattan (New York County), The Bronx (Bronx County), Queens (Queens County), Brooklyn (Kings County), and Staten Island (Richmond County).
Some highly recommended places outside Manhattan include: Astoria, Queens (take the N or W subway line from Broadway to Ditmars Bvld or the R line to Steinway) located directly across the East river from Manhattan. Astoria has many great ethnic restaurants from Eastern European and Greek to South American and Asian cuisine. The population is very diverse and mostly young. Jackson Heights, Queens (Roosevelt Ave stop on the E,F,R,V or anywhere on the 7 between about 74th Street and 90th Street) is an incredible multicultural neighborhood primarily populated by various Latino groups (bring your Spanish phrasebook!), and don't forget to stop by the Little India. Williamsburg, Brooklyn (L to Bedford Ave.) is an up-and-coming hipster neighborhood filled with many cute shops, restaurants, bars and clubs. Coney Island (D,N,F,Q to the Coney Island station) is not to be missed at just about any time of year if you don't mind the long subway trip. This is such a tiny offering of the hundreds of fascinating and diverse neighborhoods to explore.
When in Manhattan, JUST WALK! You can walk for hours and hours, and almost every street is fascinating. See how places change character over a matter of blocks, how different people live next to one another, etc. This is one of the best cities for just getting lost (although that's a bit difficult given the grid).

=== Museums & Attractions ===
Being the big city that it is, New York City is home to many of the world's finest art museums featuring many well-known and famous paintings. Naturally (and unfortunately), you will have to pay for admission to these museums. Of course, these admissions benefit the museums and help them preserve their collections, but there is a once-weekly exception to this. On Fridays from 4:00 to 8:00 PM, one can gain free admission into the '''Museum of Modern Art''' (also known by its abbreviation, MoMA, and is commonly referred to as that) through their Target Free Friday Nights (which is sponsored by the American department store chain called Target). Outside of the museum before 4:00, a series of dividers are placed to the side of the museum to create a place for people to stand online while they wait to enter for free. Despite the 4 hour time range, one should arrive at least 45 minutes beforehand (3:15) because the line does becomes very long and full of people interested in free tickets. Tickets are given out first-come first-serve, so be sure to arrive early. Yes, the museum will be much more crowded than normally, but this is a great way to see some of the world's finest collections of modern art yet have money for dinner later on that night as well.

'''There are a number of museums in the city that are free, offer free hours, various discounts or suggested donations.'''

Many NYC locals have free passes to museums, through membership, school or work. Be sure to ask around!

[http://www.newyorkology.com/archives/2009/09/museum_free_hou_1.php List of museums with free or discounted hours]

[http://www.ny.com/museums/all.museums.html A list of all museums in NYC]

=== Mobile/cell phone information ===

There are two main GSM providers in the US: AT&T and T-Mobile. Verizon and Sprint do not use SIM cards, so you cannot use your GSM phone with those providers. However, there are also MVNOs (mobile virtual network operators) that buy AT&T and T-Mobile service wholesale and sell it retail on a prepaid basis.

NOTE: '''not all GSM phones are compatible with US GSM service providers''', but if your phone is "tri-band" or "quad-band", it should be compatible for voice and SMS services. Check with your provider to make sure. '''Also make sure that your phone is "unlocked"''' so that it can operate with SIM cards that do not belong to your provider. If your phone is locked to your carrier, it may be possible to have it unlocked for a small fee in the Chinatown area of Manhattan.

If you plan to use data on your smart phone here in the US, 3G data services in the US are often incompatible with phones not made specifically for the US. '''Your phone must be compatible with both frequencies of a provider to be compatible with 3G data.''' If it is not, you can still get data service, just at a slower speed (2G, also known as Edge).

* AT&T uses both the 800 MHz and the 1900 MHz frequency bands for their 3G data network. They use the 700 MHz frequency for their LTE (4G) service.

* T-Mobile uses both the 1700 MHz and the 2100 MHz frequency bands for their 3G data network, which in some cities is as fast as the 4G networks -- with the right phone.

You can input your phone model in [http://www.gsmarena.com/search.php3 this website] to find out its specifications and if it supports the frequencies above, or you can input the IMEI of your phone in [http://www.imei.info/ this website] to find out the model and the frequencies. The IMEI is usually located under the battery of most mobile phones.

Here is a listing of GSM prepaid plans. Note that many of these plans include international minutes and/or SMS text messaging. '''Also note that in the US, the owner of the mobile phone pays for both incoming and outgoing minutes and SMS/text messages,''' but people do not pay more to call you on your phone or send you an SMS/text message.

* AT&T (2nd largest cell phone service provider in the US): http://www.wireless.att.com/cell-phone-service/cell-phone-plans/pyg-cell-phone-plans.jsp

* T-Mobile (4th largest cell phone service provider in the US): http://prepaid-phones.t-mobile.com/prepaid-plans

If you walk into a T-Mobile or AT&T store and ask for a prepaid SIM and activate it in the store, they will probably charge you $5 or $6 for the SIM.

MVNOs:

* Red Pocket buys AT&T service wholesale and sells it retail on a prepaid basis. Their plans are [http://goredpocket.com/plans/ here].

* H2O Wireless also buys AT&T service wholesale and sells it retail on a prepaid basis. Their plans are [http://www.h2owirelessnow.com/pageControl.php?page=plans&category=W here].

* SimpleMobile buys T-Mobile service wholesale and sells it retail on a prepaid basis. Their plans are [http://www.mysimplemobile.com/Simple-Mobile-Plan.aspx here].

A Red Pocket or SimpleMobile SIM card at a store in NYC will cost you $20 or more. You can buy an H2O Wireless SIM card at [http://www.bestbuy.com BestBuy] for $10.

You can get a SIM card from any of these providers on eBay or at their respective websites for $5 or less, plus shipping (often the seller offers free shipping to addresses in the US, and a small shipping fee outside the US). If you buy the SIM online, you can then have the seller ship it to your host or hostel and then activate it online. It is safe to purchase a SIM card on eBay, but just be careful not to purchase a used SIM (the listings clearly state when the SIM is used), and whether you buy from eBay or directly from the provider's website, purchase far enough in advance so that it is delivered before you arrive.

You can also buy an inexpensive phone once you arrive in the US with credit already on it (for example: GoPhone, Virgin Mobile, and Boost Mobile), and you can add to that credit if you need to. Plans differ by provider, so you have to ask what the plan is before you buy the phone. Stores where you can buy such phones:
* Duane Reade (drugstore chain)
* CVS (also a drugstore chain)
* Rite Aid (yes, another drugstore chain)
* BestBuy (electronics chain)

=== Internet Access ===
The [http://nypl.org/hours/index.cfm?Trg=6/ NY Public Library], [http://www.timessquarenyc.org/about_us/info_center.html/ Times Square Information Center], Times Square Plaza and [http://www.apple.com/retail/storelist/ Apple Stores] have computers with free internet access and wifi.

Many of the parks have free wifi, including [http://www.downtownny.com/discover/wifi/ several downtown], [http://www.nycwireless.org/ Madison Square Park], [http://www.unionsquarenyc.org/wireless.html/ Union Square], and [http://www.bryantpark.org/amenities/wireless.php/ Bryant Park], Starbucks and McDonalds.

=== Luggage Storage ===
There are no luggage lockers in New York airports or train stations. The lockers below have been posted to the NYC CS group.

[http://www.schwartztravel.com/ Schwartz Travel Services] 212-290-2626
355 W 36th St. Between 8th & 9th Ave. 2F NY NY 10018 Open: 8:30am - 8pm & 43 W 46th St. Between 5th & 6th Ave. 6F NY NY 10036. Open: 8am - 11pm
Storage Price: approximately $8 to $10 (depending on size). per 24 hours.
Monthly Rate: $3 to $5 a day, per luggage, box or locker.

More information can be found [http://www.nyc.com/visitor_guide/luggage_storage.75878/editorial_review.aspx here]

=== Guides ===
[http://maps.google.com/maps/ms?ie=UTF8&hl=en&msa=33&msid=108047898552674067952.00047d23dc894942569d4&abauth=4abaf1f8:lFs7hSUNRGUnnfdWu50UN48SMVE A Google map made by some CSers in New York] - bars, cafes and fun places to go

[http://newyork.heyletsgo.com/ Hey LetsGo New York]- Lists fun events in New York.

[http://www.panoramicearth.com/2003/New_York/New_York New York Virtual Tour] - Loads of 360 panoramas of New York sights linked to Google maps with local and travel information.

[http://newyorkwalkabouts.blogspot.com/ New York Walkabouts] A NYC blog that's short on commentary, but big on NYC resources as well as quirky NYC history, and off-the-tourist-track info on what to do, see, eat, hear, and lots of links to helpful NYC sites. If you are interested in a '''free walking tour''' with the blog's author (me!) get in touch! http://www.couchsurfing.org/people/cookiecat/



[http://www.writingtravellers.com/tikiwiki/New_York_City] A free guide in which you can add and edit as well. If registered you can create a pdf of the guide via the build a guidebook function.

=== Local suggestions ===

[http://www.nikkiyeager.com/apps/blog/show/5325171-what-i-wish-i-could-tell-every-couchsurfer-about-nyc Tips from a NYC host]

==== Tourist Destinations ====
* '''Central Park''' LOVE the free tours (Wed./Sat./Sun.)(http://www.centralparknyc.org/site/PageNavigator/programs_walkingtours
* '''Union Square''' there always seems to be something going on, and if not, you can either shop, or just walk around or people watch.
* '''Staten Island Ferry''' cheap and fun to get out on the water (and see the Statue of Liberty).
* '''Broadway''' Hit up the TKTS booth at 46th between 8th and Broadway for day-of tickets. Line-up usually starts around 12/1 for the 3 pm sales for shows that night. You can also try the rush tickets for Rent, Avenue Q, and Wicked the day of for 25 dollar tickets.
* '''St. John the Divine''' is spectacular, one of the significant architectural spectacles in the city. Check out Sunday Mass. I'm not a believer, but it's pretty.
* '''Frick''' The MOMA and the Met are amazing (but the MOMA is $20 a pop, except Friday nights, for free) but the Frick has a lot going on. The Bellini, St. Francis in the Desert, is one of the greatest paintings you'll ever see. The Whistlers, Turners, Goyas, and all kinds of cool stuff, are just terrific. And it's not as crowded as the other two.
* '''Top of the Rock''' was magical (still amazed at quality of my pics of Empire State Building from there) as was rest of that area like the ice skating at Rockefeller

==== Best NYC View ====
* Take the PATH Train to '''Hoboken or Jersey City''' for a great view of the Manhattan skyline while you walk along their waterfront promenade. When you return to the WTC station, you circle through the entire pit and get a good view.
* Take the PATH out to Hoboken, and take '''NY Waterways''' back from Hoboken to Pier 11 - you circle the south end of Manhattan, get a good view of the buildings, Governor's island, and you can see Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty (from a distance). $5.50/person.
* Walk across the '''Brooklyn Bridge!''' Perfect views of the city, and awesome pictures. Head over to Grimaldi's for Pizza, or the Brooklyn Ice Cream Factory, both down by the river (under the bridge). Take the train over to Brooklyn and then walk back towards Manhattan. Much better than the other way around and having to turn around to see the skyline.

==== Shows ====
* $5 improv show in the '''UCB theater''' (26th and 8th Ave).
* Indie performance art show at '''the Kitchen''' (19th and 10th Ave)
* '''Comedy Cellar''' Pricey but have always had a great time there.
* movies at '''Angelika''' http://www.angelikafilmcenter.com/angelika_index.asp?hID=1
* Free '''David Letterman''' standby tickets on taping days on West side of Broadway South of Ed Sullivan (heading down into heart of Times Square) Theatre between 12:30 (thereabouts) till about 3pm, people with green clip boards saying "Free David Letterman Tickets!" You have to answer an EASY Question for the ticket... When I went main guest was Alec Baldwin...
* '''ABC NO RIO''' has great punk matinees and art shows. The history of ABC is inspiring. Hopefully they have copies of the zine that tells the history. Maybe Blue Stockings will have it. www.abcnorio.org

==== Hangouts, Bars & Clubs ====
* '''Fat Cat!''' Just by Christopher Street station on Christopher Street. Big basement, live jazz 'til the following morning - table football, ping pong, pool, scrabble and chess. Love it.
* '''The Revival''' of course, with its floor of couches and a nice backyard ... And so many memories from thursday nights. 15th street bw Irvin Place & 3rd Ave
* '''The Crocodile Lounge''', one free full pizza for every drink ! 14th street bw 2nd & 1st Ave
* '''Hotel QT''', free indoor swimming pool/steambath. 45th street bw Broadway and 6th Ave
* '''Lit''' every tuesday night, the most horrible live music you can hear in town, and free vodka from 11 to midnight. 2nd Ave at 5th street
* '''McSoreley's Ale House''' - 7th st bet 2nd / cooper ave
* if you like '''hookah''', '''Cozy's''' on 1st ave and 1st street is wonderful.
* '''Karaoke'''- there are SO many great karaoke bars in the city. I especially like the karaoke room idea (share a room with friends) Try Sing Sing on the Lower East Side.
* '''Xunta''' (174 1st Ave, cross 11th street), Spanish tapas place with great Flamenco performers on thursdays and saturdays. Their tapas list is just mind blowing (their prices too, alas)
* '''Swift''' (308 Spring street), Irish pub with traditional irish music on tuesdays. Makes me really feel like being in Ireland :)
* ''''Slate''' - Great for pool, ping pong in a sort of clubby setting.
* '''Shade''' On the corner of W 3rd and Sullivan. Amazing wine bar, great crapes. Very small, trendy, and chill.
* '''No Malice Palace'''. E 3rd Street between Avenues A and B. A bar/lounge with a back patio and a DJ on weekends. Gets really crowded, but is really fun.
* If you're willing to venture into Queens a bit...the '''Beer Garden'''. Take the N, W to Astoria Blvd. Go E on 31st St towards 24th Rd. Turn left. You can't miss it. A great place to hang out when the weather's nice. A very mixed crowd.
* Best night out- '''Don't Tell Mama's Piano Bar'''- 343 West 46th Street. So fun! Slighty pricey drinks but the entertainment is worth it! Get there before 9 for seats for your whole group!
* '''South Street Sea Port''' is another favorite spot in NYC- there's shopping, the Bodies exhibit, you can watch the ships go by, sitting out along the East River. Great at sunset surrounded by the bridges.
* '''Kurve''' - Restaurant/bar/lounge - corner of 5th st and 2nd Ave. Open LATE. Thursday nights are free live jazz. It's a hip, modern looking place, with couches on one side of the bar and tables on the other. The bar is constantly growing, with many interesting mixed drinks. They just got a brand new set of whiskey. The food is a wonderfully unique modern Thai. The owner, Andy, is a great guy. Tell the bartender's that Al sent you.
* '''Nu Blu''' - Live Latin Jazz club - East side of Ave C between 4th St and 5th St. Music every night of the week. Always a cover, from $5 to $10. Gets a little packed on weekends. Hard to find, but always amazing music.
* '''Spike Hill''' - Live Jazz and Irish Bar - Corner of Bedford Ave and N 7th St in Wiiliamsburg - Great selection of whiskey and scotch in the irish half, great jazz in the jazz half.
* '''Tea Lounge''' at 837 Union Street in Park Slope has really good wine, coffe, cakes and other goodies. The live bands are really good (all bands are from brooklyn) and the area you sit in looks really nice. Total eye candy.
* '''The Royal''' at 506 5th Ave in Park Slope: on the 2nd and 4th Saturday of each mounth has a really good dance party that is off the hook. Early in the night you have really upbeat dance music, then in the middle of the night you have some hip hop mixed with soul and some latin music. Then at the end of the night you have a live drummer and the DJ spins some really trippy beats.

==== Shops ====
* '''The Strand bookstore''' 18 miles of new and used books and really cheap! Corner of Broadway and 12th, near Union Square.
* '''Midtown Comics''' 200 W 40th Street (Corner of 7th Avenue)- is a great place to see alternative nyers and load up on comic books...
* '''The Brooklyn Superhero Supply Company''' in Brooklyn (372 Fifth Avenye), for when you need to get your hands on a cheap supply of wonderflownium for your freeze ray. They are the exclusive dealers of Aardvark Bros. MFG Co (purveyors of Truth Serum, Invisibility Potions, and other supplies) However, you can only purchase anything as long as you swear that it will only be used for good... (all proceeds go towards 826 NYC)
* '''McNally Johnson''' (formerlly McNally Robinson) bookshop in NoLita on Mulberry and Spring Street. I buy books here all the time, even when I get a pretty decent discount at another place. The cafe is lovely and gets pastries from Bathlazar, the staff is friendly, and there's free wi-fi a with purchase. Plus there are plenty of chairs around for browsing purposes.
* '''Blue Stockings Bookstore''' puts on low cost or free cultural events. It´s locate in the Lower East Side.
* Brooklyn Based's [http://brooklynbased.net/email/bb-guide-vintage-shops/ '''Guide to Vintage Stores''']

==== Free & Cheap Events ====

[http://www.freenyc.net/ Free NYC]

[http://www.theskint.com/ The Skint]

[http://www.nycgo.com/free/Official NYC site of Free Activities]

[http://www.freetoursbyfoot.com/nyc/ Free Tours By Foot] Like tours offered in Europe, this company offers free, tip-based New York sightseeing tours that are informative and not aimed at your typical tourist. Fun!

==== Summer Events ====

[http://www.rivertorivernyc.com/ River to River]

[http://www.celebratebrooklyn.org/ Celebrate Brooklyn]

[http://www.summerstage.org/ NYC Summerstage]

[http://www.hudsonriverpark.org/ Hudson River Park]

[http://www.lincolncenter.org/ Lincoln Center]

[http://www.centralpark.com/ Central Park]

[http://www.bryantpark.org/ Bryant Park]

=== Food ===

[http://www.theskint.com/2007/01/free-eats.html The Skint's Free Eats]

[http://nymag.com/restaurants/cheapeats/2009/57877/ New York Magazine's Cheap List]

==== Local suggestions ====
* If you like Indian.. check out '''Panna II''' 93 1st Ave, (Btwn 5th & 6th St - upstairs on the right). The place is inexpensive, super cramped inside and the decor is not to be missed. It's BYO, they do have soda if you bring liquor and glasses if you bring wine or beer.
* best buffalo wings in NYC: '''down the hatch''' in the west village (5 min. walk from the W4th subway station). good cider beer too.
* '''Dokebi''' Korean BBQ
* '''Otafuku''' try the octopus balls (takoyaki) 9th st bet 3rd/2nd ave
* '''Decibel sake bar''' (basement) - 9th st bet 3rd/2nd ave
* '''Congee Village''' (for congee) on Allen, Cong Ly for Pho on Hester
* that arepa place on 7th, a mexican diner called '''Grand Morelos''' (24 hours!) on Grand & Graham in Brooklyn
* '''Reben Luncheonette''' / Delicious Ice Cold for bacon egg & cheese & morir sonando on haevemeyer in BK
* '''Effy's Cafe''' Upper East Side (91st and 3rd) for Mediterranean/Israeli food
* '''Mamoons''' Awesome shwarmas, lines out the door whenever you go. around Bleeker and McDougal
* '''Cafe Dante''' Awesome Cafe Mocha and delicious tiramisu. Cant vouch for anything else. around Bleeker and McDougal
* '''XUNTA''' Some of the best tapas I've had outside of barcelona. Delis sangria & the live flamenco is a treat. The space is casual - the people who work there are very sweet. And it wont break your bank.
* '''S'mac''' just past the Revival....Only macaroni and cheese, and every possible combination you can imagine...pretty inexpensive too!
* '''Criff Dogs''' on St. Marks between 1st Ave and Ave A, with a huge sausage hanging above the door with the words 'Eat me' 15 different kinds of hot dogs, good price... And a hidden bar inside :)
* '''Ali Baba''' 212 E 34th, btw 3rd and 2nd Ave
* '''Turkish Kitchen''' 386 3rd Ave, corner 28th
* '''Sahara''' 513 2nd Ave, corner 29th
* '''Cafe Lalo''' 201 W 83rd St
* '''Little Senegal''' (Le Petit Sénégal) for various west african dishes and hair braids :) This in Harlem - neighborhood's main streets are the blocks surrounding W. 116th Street between St. Nicholas Avenue on the east and Morningside Park to the west.
* '''Ashiya''' 167 1st Avenue Between 10th and 11th Streets. 30 bucks for all you can eat sushi, which includes special rolls and all you can drink cold/hot saki, wine and beer.
* '''Moto''' just off of the Hewes street stop on the JaMeZ, southside, look for a bicycle, which ought to be famous for its charm, tomato soup and date cake. Often has live music during the evenings.
* '''Sea restaurant''' 114 N 6th St, Brooklyn. It's a Thai food restaurant and they serve the best mojitos I've had in my life!
* '''Jackson Diner''' - Indian Food - excellent food and best Indian deal I know in the city is their weekend all you can eat buffet. It used to be $7, but I think it's up to $10 now. It's out in Jackson Heights, which is a bit out in Queens, but of course you'll be heading out to Shea Stadium, to pay your respects, anyway, right? It's right off the 7 train.
* Also, right next to Jackson Diner (literally the next restaurant over) is a Southern Indian place, for you veggie eaters out there. It's exceptional. [Note: As for good neighborhoods to go to, Queens is the most diverse county in America and worth significant investigation.]
* '''Pong Sri''' - my favorite Thai in the city, on the same block as the Baxter Nha Trang
* '''Joe's Shanghi''' - Chinese - Chinatown - sadly, the soup dumplings (their specialty) from yesterday were disappointing (first time I'd gone since getting back in the city) and I worry that an era has passed. But typically their soup dumplings are amazing, and I dislike dumplings.
* '''La Mela''' - one of last great places in Little Italy (if not the last) - make sure to include the 5th course (dessert) so you can have their frozen zabaglione
* '''Zabar's''' - right across the street from H&H, so you get your bagels there and then go to Zabar's to get stuff to put on them.
* '''Kozar's Bialys''' - the best Bialys in the city, they sell them to places (Zabar's has them packaged) but if you go down there, they pump em out 24/7 so they always have hot/fresh ones ready to go. Get it from the source.
* '''Meskerem''' - best Ethiopian in the city and one of my favorite restaraunts in the city. I suggest the Meskerem Special or the Veggetarian Special - two locations, 47th between 9th and 10th and two blocks down from Wash Sq Park
* '''Jr.'s''' - excellent Cheesecake, Brooklyn
* '''Big Nicks''' - my favorite diner in the city. Just remember, the place looks...not amazing, but they have a 24 page menue with tiny writing, and there's a lot of terrific stuff. Excellent burgers, and I love the tuna melts myself.
* '''Rice''' every kind of rice dish from many different countries that you could think of. It's dim, creative, and flavorful. Try the coconut curry over black rice with edamame. :) Several locations-my favorite is in Murray Hill.
* '''The Barking Dog Luncheonette'''- also a few locations in New York, but has hearty, big portions of good American food. Burgers, pot roast, pork chops!
* '''Liquiteria''' - Smoothies - Corner of 11th St and 2nd Ave. The healthiest and tastiest smoothies, juices, and elixirs around. Definitely stop here for a pick me up before you get some coffee.
* '''Spina''' - Italian Restaurant - Corner of 11th St and Ave B. They make their pasta noodles in the dining room fresh while you eat. The wine selection is phenomenal and the sommelier is wonderful (he's also the owner). Just ask him for a wine recommendation based on your dinner and tastes. Again, mention to Rob, Salvatore, or Jenny that Al sent you.
* '''Fu Sushi''' - Sushi - Avenue B between 11th st and 12st - Fu is a wonderful place for sushi. The chefs are detail oriented and creative. The fridge is small so they can't keep a lot of fish on the premises, so what they have is always fresh. It's a cut above any of the sushi places in the whole neighborhood.

===== Cheap Food =====
* Korean bbq and soju shots in K-town (32nd and 6th Ave).
* Bubble tea and hand-pulled noodles in a Chinatown closet sized restaurant
* Taim Falafel (meaning "tasty" in hebrew), ridiculously yummy. Its in the West Village.
* Esperanto, for a sunday brunch. Great live bossa nova music while you eat cheap & good food. Ave C at 9th street.
* Don't forget St. Marks Pl for great japanese food! Kenka or Oh Taisho! yakitori
* Blockheads- Several locations, but my favorite nights out are at 34th and 2nd Ave. Great burritos and CHEAP margaritas in all different flavors.
* Cooper 35/Asian Pub- love this place for the cheap mixed drinks, fun, college-y atmosphere, and the outside patio in the warmer weather. Try the Lychetini!
* Kathi Roll - Indian snacks, especially great after a night on the town and cheap. $4.50 a roll. around Bleeker and McDougal
* local flavor burritos at 114th and broadway are CHEAP and employ homeless shelter folks (open tues/thrus lunch)
* Nha Trang - Vietnamese - single best lunch deal in NYC. A bowl of excellent Pho Thai is $4.75. Most of the other stuff is very good too. They have two locations, one on Baxter and one on Centre, same quality. I prefer the Baxter, but the other is just as good.
* Tasty Dumpling in Chinatown http://newyork.citysearch.com/profile/42260266/new_york_ny/tasty_dumpling.html
* Mamoun's Falafal - just south of Wash. Sq. Park - cheap, delicious, 24 hours
* Snack Dragon - Taco shack - 3rd St between Avenue A and Avenue B (closer to B) Open LATE. Great tacos. Fish, steak, pork, quinoa. Try the Nacharito / Johnny Boy. It's cheap, it's good, it's drunk food.

===== Vegetarian & Vegan =====
Most places in NYC offer vegetarian options, and vegan options are pretty easy to find, too. Here are some of our favorites.
* vegetarian house of dimsum on pell street
* stricty roots on 123rd has simple vegan carribian/soul food
* Kate's Joint - Vegetarian Restaurant/Bar - Corner of 4th and Ave B. Wonderful place to get vegetarian like no other. It's an unabashed reconstruction of meat foods with only vegetarian and vegan ingredients. Shepherd's Pie, buffalo wings, chimichangas, steak, "chicken" francese, not-meat loaf. It sticks to your ribs without sticking to your conscience.

===== Pizza =====
* cafe viva on 96th has HUGE slices of yummy organic piza
* Lombardi's pizzeria AND John's Pizza on Bleeker
* Grimaldi's - Best gourmet pizza in NYC, right by the Brooklyn Bridge, a lovely place for a diner on a warm winter night, so you can walk back over the Brooklyn Bridge afterwards.
* Sal & Carmine's - 102nd Broadway - Pizza - best traditional greasy NYC slice. Don't get toppings, which ain't all that. Just get a plain slice and a Sacilian slice.
* Patsy's Pizza- BEST pizza place! There are many locations in New York City, I think the location in East Harlem is the best, but the Union Square location is a close second.

===== Bagels =====
* '''Bagle Express''' 93rd and 2nd Ave. Delicious, delicious, delicious. Love bagles? Love cream cheese? Yummy!!!
* '''H&H Bagels''' of course

===== Delis =====
* 2nd Ave Deli
* Katz's Deli
* Canrnegie Deli - these delis are listed in order of preference, with the caveat, 2nd Ave closed down for over a year and then re-opened with a new lease in a new location, and some folks say it isn't as good. I probably still prefer the hot pastrami sandwich at Katz's, but otherwise 2nd is superior.

===== Dessert =====
* Cupcakes! Billy's Bakery on 9th Ave and 21st or Buttercup Bakery
* the city bakery on 18th & 5th is a great local spot for hot chocolate and cookies
* Hungarian pastry on 113th and Manhattan Avenue I believe that's really amazing.
* Cones in The Village for the best ice cream in the city. http://newyork.citysearch.com/profile/11512502/new_york_ny/cones.html
* Beard Papa's for the best cream puff and export the Japanese brought to NYC - 2167 Broadway (believe it's somewhere between 72nd and 83rd)
* Rice To Riches (rice pudding)
* best carrot cake in the world is at a little place called LLoyd's. 6087 Broadway, Bronx, NY 10471
* Viniero's - best Italian pastry shop in the city.
* Hungarian Pastry Shop - 113th, Columbia neighborhood, nice little place to get work done. They just expanded too, so maybe it won't be so damn crowded. It's a good place to meet up, when it's cold outside, nice and toasty inside.
* Sicilian pastry shop on 1st Ave @ 11th street called De Robertis Pasticceria. Still family run and much better than Veniero's.
* Chikalicious- Dessert Bar on the lower east side- so tasty, so tiny, so fun! 203 E 10th St

==== Dumpster Diving ====
In Manhattan you can do some great dumpster diving. One spot for that is at the Food Emporium of 83rd Street and 3rd Ave. You might be able to organize a big feast there. But be careful: dumpster diving was criminalized under the so-called quality of life initiatives.

[http://freegan.info/?page_id=2 Freegan.info: Events & Resources]

[http://gridskipper.com/61214/manhattan-dumpster-diving Dumpster Map]

== Medical Information ==

=== Hospitals ===
[http://www.nyc.gov/html/hhc/html/facilities/map.shtml Map with a list of all NYC hospitals.]

=== LifeNet Crisis Helpline ===
* English: 1-800-LIFENET (1-800-543-3638)
* Spanish: 1-877-AYUDESE (1-877-298-3373)
* Mandarin, Cantonese and Korean dialects: 1-877-990-8585
* All other languages: 1-800-LIFENET (1-800-543-3638)

=== National Suicide Prevention Lifeline ===
Call the [http://www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org/ National Suicide Prevention Lifeline] at 1-800-273-TALK (8255), a free, 24-hour hotline available to anyone in suicidal crisis or emotional distress. Your call will be routed to the nearest crisis center to you.
* Spanish: 1-888-628-9454
* For Hearing and Speech Impaired with TTY Equipment: 1-800-799-4TTY (4889)

=== Substance Abuse Hotline ===
For information on substance abuse treatment, call 1-800-662-HELP.

=== Poison Hotline ===
National Poison Hotline
1-800-222-1222

=== Walk-In Clinics ===
http://www.yelp.com/search?find_desc=walk+in+clinic&ns=1&find_loc=New+York%2C+NY

=== Couchsurfing Doctors ===
Are you a doctor and a member of CS who is interested in helping travelers? Add a link to your profile here.

=== Free Medical Services ===

==== NYC Dept of Health ====
STD testing and emergency contractraception.
http://www.nyc.gov/html/doh/html/std/std2.shtml

==== Women's Health Free Clinic ====
STD testing & treatment, emergency contraceptive, gyn exams, pap smears, pregnancy testing, medical abortions. [http://nycfreeclinic.med.nyu.edu/womens-health-free-clinic]

==== New York City Free Clinic ====
primary care, women & men's health, vaccinations, STD testing & treatment, lab work, radiology
[http://nycfreeclinic.med.nyu.edu/information-for-patients/health-services]

==== NYC Condoms ====
Available at bars, colleges, restaurants, medical centers, etc.
http://www.nyc.gov/html/doh/html/condoms/condoms.shtml

=== Sexual Assault ===

==== RAINN National Sexual Assault Hotline ====
Anonymous, confidential counseling from trained volunteers.
http://apps.rainn.org/ohl-bridge/
1-800-656-HOPE

==== If You Have Been Raped in the Past 96 Hours Emergency Guide ====
List of hospitals with special training for survivors of sexual assault.
http://www.nycagainstrape.org/survivors_emergency.html

==== Emergency Contraception for Rape Survivors ====
Information on where to get emergency contraception in several languages.
http://www.health.state.ny.us/nysdoh/consumer/women/emergency_contr.htm
1-800-522-5006

==== NYC Alliance Against Sexual Assault ====
Legal resources, survivor resources, how to press charges, what to do if you do not want to press
charges, fact sheets.
http://www.nycagainstrape.org/survivors.html

==== RAINN Resources ====
* [http://www.rainn.org/get-information Information on Sexual Assault]
* [http://www.rainn.org/get-information/sexual-assault-prevention Ways to Reduce your Risk of Sexual Assault]
* [http://www.rainn.org/get-information/legal-information Reporting the Crime to the Police]

==== NYC Crime Victims Board ====
Assistance and compensation for crime victims.
http://www.cvb.state.ny.us/helpforcrimevictims/helpforcrimevictims.aspx
1-800-247-8035

== Legal Resources for Travelers ==

=== Visa Information ===
http://travel.state.gov/visa/temp/temp_1305.html

=== Consulates in New York City ===
http://gonyc.about.com/od/foreignvisitorstonyc/a/foreign_consula.htm

=== Travelers Aid ===
JFK International Airport, Terminal 6, Jamaica, NY 11430
http://www.travelersaid.org/ta/jfk.html
(718) 656-4870

=== Fraud Prevention ===
(Guidance note: This may not be available/applicable for all cities/CS localities, but something to consider. It may require further investigation to dig up any information. If you can find any for your area or even a generic national helpline for your country, then this is the place to list it.)

=== Immigration Advisory Services ===
'''CUNY Citizenship Now!''' provides free, high quality, and confidential citizenship and immigration law services to help individuals and families on their path to U.S. citizenship. For free immigration assistance, see the website at [http://cuny.edu/about/resources/citizenship/about-us/contact.html] or call their Manhattan office (212) 650-6620.

=== Legal Advice ===

Hopefully one should never need it, but there are resources in NYC for free legal consultation, at least at initial stages.

==== New York City Bar ====
Law clinic and legal hotline.
http://www.nycbar.org/LRS/ActivitiesandServices.htm

==== List of free legal aid organizations in New York State ====
http://www.usattorneylegalservices.com/free-legal-aid-new-york.html

=== CouchSurfing Lawyers ===
Are you a lawyer and a CSer interested in assisting travelers? Add a link to your profile here.

== Your Local CS Ambassadors ==

=== Manhattan ===
* Anthony, New York City Ambassador: http://www.couchsurfing.org/people/ajcut7/
* Barak, New York City Ambassador: http://www.myspace.com/zionist
* Chi Chi, New York City Ambassador: http://www.couchsurfing.org/profile.html?id=2IG3VP0
* Juan, New York City Ambassador: http://www.couchsurfing.org/people/the_juanderer/
* Katemari, New York City Ambassador: http://www.couchsurfing.org/people/katemari/
* Krista, Traveling Ambassador: http://www.couchsurfing.org/people/kristasande/
* Michael, New York City Ambassador: http://www.couchsurfing.org/people/modirsaghir/
* Nicky, New York City Ambassador: http://www.couchsurfing.org/people/nicky.pallas
* Seth, New York City Ambassador: http://www.couchsurfing.org/people/sethnick99/

=== Brooklyn ===
* Cori, Brooklyn City Ambassador: http://www.couchsurfing.org/people/sheepdontswim/
* Joe, New York City Ambassador: http://www.couchsurfing.org/people/joe%20che
* Kym, Brooklyn City Ambassador: http://www.couchsurfing.org/people/thejazzgurl/
* Courtney, Brooklyn City Ambassador: http://www.couchsurfing.org/people/cookiecat/

=== Queens ===
* Cris, New York City Ambassador: http://www.couchsurfing.org/people/grasshoper/
* JC, New York City Ambassador: http://www.couchsurfing.org/people/jtothec/
* Mabel, Woodside City Ambassador: http://www.couchsurfing.org/people/koala75/
* Nelson, New York City Ambassador: http://www.couchsurfing.org/people/hacn/

=== Nomadic ===
* George: http://www.couchsurfing.org/people/gc21/
* Krista: http://www.couchsurfing.org/people/kristasande/
* Taly and Zohar: http://www.couchsurfing.org/people/zoharandtaly/
* Timmy: http://www.couchsurfing.org/people/timmy_tofu/
* Timothy: http://www.couchsurfing.org/people/tadhg1979/

=== US Ambassadors ===
* http://www.couchwiki.org/en/United_States_Ambassadors
[[trash:New York City]]
[[hitch:New York City]]
[[velo:New York City]]
[[nomad:New York City]]
[[cash:New York City]]

User:Iotrj

2019-01-20T17:33:30Z

Iotrj: Created page with "Hello, on Trustroots my nickname is "wind"."

Hello, on Trustroots my nickname is "wind".

User talk:Guaka/archive1

2019-01-20T17:30:04Z

Iotrj: Undo revision 11212 by Iotrj (talk)

Which bot did I do? [[User:Azarethroy|Azarethroy]] 12:51, 28 April 2009 (UTC)
:Haha, oops! [[User:Azarethroy|Azarethroy]] 13:24, 28 April 2009 (UTC)

That's awesome. I've been toying with it. And I just noticed you installed VideoFlash -> [[Free Hugs Campaign]] :) [[User:Azarethroy|Azarethroy]] 22:48, 30 April 2009 (UTC)

== Rollbacks ==

I still don't understand all those rollbacks. I make some edit, press save. Later I check and suddenly there is a rollback to the last edit from guaka. Maybe there are some pre-settings, that don't allow me to edit certain pages and make automatic roll back? Because this happens only on the main page and some other core pages. My last edit was here https://wiki.trustroots.org/en/Wiki.trustroots.org:About and suddenly there was also a rollback.

== Hospitality Club ==

Why you wanna keep HC on the main page? HC is completely out-dated. I guess using the website is even a safety risk as there is no maintainance of the website. Also it's not possible to delete account there.

:Ah yeah it's good you removed it from the [[main page]]. Thanks. [[User:Guaka|guaka]] ([[User talk:Guaka|talk]]) 14:26, 2 January 2019 (CET)

== wiki emails ==

I'm not getting my confirmation email. Does the wiki have permission to send emails? --[[User:Metal.lunchbox|Metal.lunchbox]] 20:56, 20 October 2009 (UTC)--[[User:Metal.lunchbox|Metal.lunchbox]] 20:56, 20 October 2009 (UTC)

:Just quickly fixed something in my mail servers. Should be better now. [[User:Guaka|guaka]] 08:50, 21 October 2009 (UTC)

I cannot get confirmation email on my gmx adress neither, but for hotmail it works fine (I would rather get the emails at gmx...) --[[User:Bikepunk|Bikepunk]] 22:09, 28 October 2009 (UTC)

:I requested an extra line in DNS (<tt>@ TXT v=spf1 a mx ~all</tt>) that might resolve this. [[User:Guaka|guaka]] 22:25, 28 October 2009 (UTC)

:: I still never get confirmation email @gmx.com ... [[User:Bikepunk|Bikepunk]] 01:17, 29 October 2009 (UTC)

::: The DNS update will take some time. I'm not doing the DNS myself, and even when it's updated it takes time to propagate... [[User:Guaka|guaka]] 01:18, 29 October 2009 (UTC)
:::: I've tried again today, and I still do not get emails @gmx.com [[User:Bikepunk|Bikepunk]] 14:20, 6 November 2009 (UTC)

::::: Hmm, Roy is transferring the couchwiki.org domain to me so that we can change stuff more quickly. Still, it might be another problem, but I want to make sure the DNS is correct first. I'll keep you updated. [[User:Guaka|guaka]] 23:29, 6 November 2009 (UTC)

:::::: Sorry for the delay guys. I've just emailed Kasper re: transferring the domain to him, so he can make any changes himself. [[user:azarethroy|azarethroy]] (15:51, 10 November 2009 (UTC))

:The transfer came through. I added a field in the DNS that should fix this issue. Let me know if it's better now - or not. [[User:Guaka|guaka]] 10:10, 9 December 2009 (UTC)
:: I still do not get emails at gmx.com :( [[User:Bikepunk|Bikepunk]] 18:34, 28 December 2009 (UTC)

== blocking those anoying bots ? ==

Hey

as you've seen, from yesterday a nasty bot is "attacking" couchwiki. I "undo"ed as much as possible, but since this bot is changing his IP for each edit, should we block th IPs, he's using ?
[[User:Bikepunk|Bikepunk]] 05:55, 14 November 2009 (UTC)

:It's possible to block thousands of IPs but I set up reCAPTCHA and no bot edits since then, I think it'll be adequate for now. [[User:Guaka|guaka]] 10:46, 14 November 2009 (UTC)



== What's the go with copying from wikipedia ==

See community portal for question.

:[[Couchwiki:Community_Portal#Added_cheat_sheet_from_wikipedia_-_compatible_licence.3F|And for the answer]] :) [[User:Guaka|guaka]] 16:03, 21 December 2009 (UTC)

== OpenID not working for me - see community tech portal ==

See [[Couchwiki:Tech#Bugs_to_fix]]

I tried logging in with my Aol Open ID but it say's it's cancelled. I ticked all the boxes except email for the moment. Is there a problem? I also have a twitter/hotmail accounts. I'm not sure I want them all linked though..... --118.208.189.140 08:59, 22 December 2009 (UTC)

:Hmm, AOL's OpenID might not work properly with MediaWiki OpenID extension. I'll try upgrading to the latest version of the extension (some time) to see if that solves it. Right now I'm only sure that MyOpenID and the WordPress OpenID provider plugin work for me :) [[User:Guaka|guaka]] 01:35, 27 December 2009 (UTC)

:: Same person as above. Still not working. I suppse with the NY period you've been very busy. --[[Special:Contributions/118.208.187.106|118.208.187.106]] 03:05, 9 January 2010 (UTC)

:::I upgraded to the latest version of the OpenID plugin (for mediawiki 1.15). I hope it works now. Otherwise, there might be relevant info [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/OpenID at the openid extension page at mediawiki.org]. [[User:Guaka|guaka]] 13:09, 9 January 2010 (UTC)

::::Happy to report it works with AIM openid. I'm not sure on my username though? Can I change it? (not asking you to do it yet).

:::::Cool that it works!
:::::I don't think it's easy to change usernames in mediawiki... [[User:Guaka|guaka]] 02:56, 16 January 2010 (UTC)

== Community Portal needs your attention. ==

http://couchwiki.org/en/Couchwiki:Community_Portal

== ref wiki command ==

Hi guaka. You told me a while ago that you would install an extension to make the ref tags work. Is there any progress on that? I would like to migrate the bw-fact-finding wiki to couchwiki but I need the ref things for this to make sense. Thanks for your help! [[User:Saraedum|Saraedum]] 12:49, 7 November 2011 (UTC)

:Ah, ok, I will try to set it up later this week. [[User:Guaka|guaka]] 06:19, 8 November 2011 (UTC)

:I installed the [[Special:Version|Cite extension]]. All should be good now. [[User:Guaka|guaka]] 06:21, 13 November 2011 (UTC)

::[[Help:Editing]] still doesn't show working ref commands. [[User:Saraedum|Saraedum]] 17:42, 16 November 2011 (UTC)

== IsIn Template ==

The [[Template:IsIn]] isn't working anymore, but I've no how idea how it worked anyway. It's heavy in use and I'd like to see it up again ... any ideas? [[User:Midsch|Midsch]] ([[User talk:Midsch|talk]]) 15:12, 24 December 2012 (CET)

:I emptied the includeonly part of the template for now. http://en.wikivoyage.org/wiki/Template:IsIn might have an anwer... I'll look into that after I manage to do something about the spambots. [[User:Guaka|guaka]] ([[User talk:Guaka|talk]]) 16:21, 24 December 2012 (CET)

== relation to BW wiki / your message ==

Hi Guaka, I hope this is the right place and method to respond. Thank you for recognising my little contribution. You asked what I think of this couchwiki vs. bewelcome wiki. As a disgruntled CS user after the ToU change, I registered with BW and found the local group including the associated BW wiki, so I updated a few things there. With the CS wiki shutdown I became actively aware of Couchwiki, and generally I think the effort of maintaining information should be placed where it benefits most users. So if we document something not specific to a particular hospex network, why not document it on neutral ground and refer to it from everywhere. Likewise, in my contributions to couckwiki I would not try to copy statistic and general purpose data that can be found on wikipedia already, not would I concentrate on classic mass-tourist description of sights, but primarily on the practical aspects of how to get around, how to live on little budget, and interesting stuff to see beyond the main tourist paths.
This might also be a distinguisihing feature of couchwiki vs. wikivoyage. Whether the split is worth it depends of course if each wiki has enough momentum to build a document pool that is worth consulting. Looks like the Germany coverage is rather poor, as far as I can tell from the country/land index pages :( --[[User:KarlEMuc|KarlEMuc]] ([[User talk:KarlEMuc|talk]]) 01:10, 19 January 2013 (CET)

== Nice idea here, but it really misses Marketing! ==

Hello Guarka, nice you kept this wiki, but it would need much better Marketing, I guess one have to be pretty nerd to find this! Better explain, what to do in order to be found, when people search for couchsurfing in Google! I was thinking about launching realcouchsurfing.org, to enable a platform that unites all, that are not so happy with biggest hospitality exchange becoming a for profit organization, it would be much better, have this wiki, a discusstion/decision making forum and a guide, howto get well ranked in Google in one place. A domain having the buzzword couchsurfing in domain frame, could be an advantage to rank well against the now-for-profit-c$ webseite, how do you think about that?

:Hi Pianist! Eh, what exactly do you want to do? And what do you want me to do? :) [[User:Guaka|guaka]] ([[User talk:Guaka|talk]]) 10:36, 7 June 2013 (CEST)

== Attribution ==
Hello Guaka! My name is Aleksandra and I am the community manager for Wikitravel.org. I have recently come across your website (which I find really nice) and noticed that you are republishing our travel guide content without a proper attribution, which is a violation of our writers' copyright. Please contact me as soon as possible at awocial@internetbrands.com. Thank you! [[User:AlexW|AlexW]] ([[User talk:AlexW|talk]]) 00:11, 27 June 2013 (CEST)

:Sorry I don't have (much) time to work on this wiki. It's a community wiki, so in that sense I see two options:
:1. Feel free to work it out on this wiki. Add a list or add the attribution where you think it's needed.
:2. Let your writers contact me about their copyright and I'll set things straight.
:Cheers, [[User:Guaka|guaka]] ([[User talk:Guaka|talk]]) 23:12, 27 June 2013 (CEST)

:: Thank you, Guaka for your prompt response! Adding attribution is something that has to be '''implemented throughout your destination articles which use Wikitravel content'''. Please have a look at your [http://couchwiki.org/en/Beijing Beijing] page. The content from the first section is copied from Wikitravel wikitravel.org/en/Beijing page. I suggest you read wikitravel.org/shared/How_to_re-use_Wikitravel_guides that explains how to '''re-use Wikitravel guides'''. Basically, at the bottom of every article that has content copied from Wikitavel you would have to write something like ''This article is derived from the article wikitravel.org/en/Beijing on wikitravel.org/en. There it is published under the Creative Commons Attribution/Share-Alike 3.0 License. More details and the full list of contributors can be found on the associated wikitravel.org/wiki/en/index.php?title=Beijing&action=history history page and '''link back to Wikitravel'''. Please correct the attribution to point to the appropriate Wikitravel pages as soon as possible as otherwise this would be considered violation of our writers' copyrights. Let me know if you have any questions. You can contact me via email at awocial@internetbrand.com. Looking forward to hearing back from you. Cheers! [[User:AlexW|AlexW]] ([[User talk:AlexW|talk]]) 01:29, 28 June 2013 (CEST)

::: I created [[Template:Wikitravel]], which I put on [[Beijing]]. Feel free to edit the template and add it where you seem fit. That's about as much time as I can spend on this.
::: If any of the original writers have any problems with their work being copied I'll be happy to hear from them and I'll do my best to resolve their issues. Cheers, [[User:Guaka|guaka]] ([[User talk:Guaka|talk]]) 01:12, 30 June 2013 (CEST)

:::: Guaka, this cannot be just a template. It has to be a proper attribution embedded within the article as this is a '''violation of the Attribution-Share License and the rights of Wikitravel.org as the original content creator'''. In view of the foregoing, Internet Brands, Inc. who owns Wikitravel.org, herby requests that you cease and desist copying content from Wikitravel.org, unless you '''provide proper attribution to Wikitravel.org wikitravel.org/shared/How_to_re-use_Wikitravel_guides'''. wikitravel.com/en/Beijing you have a page that is properly attributing Wikitravel.org and the article contributors. Please scroll to the bottom to see how the attribution should look like. We expect you to timely comply with the requests set forth herein. Should this use continue, Internet Brands, Inc. reserves all rights and remedies provided by law. Looking forward to your response. Warm regards, [[User:AlexW|AlexW]] ([[User talk:AlexW|talk]]) 23:45, 1 July 2013 (CEST)

:::::I've taken most of the site offline for now so that this can be properly resolved. I hope that makes all of you IB employees feel all warm inside. [[User:Guaka|guaka]] ([[User talk:Guaka|talk]]) 00:56, 5 July 2013 (CEST)
:::::: Guaka, please let me know if there is any way I can help you with the attribution. Warm regards, [[User:AlexW|AlexW]] ([[User talk:AlexW|talk]]) 03:19, 9 July 2013 (CEST)

::::::: We checked all articles and deleted everything that could have possibly come from Wikitravel. No need for attribution anymore. Let me know if there's still a page that we missed that you want us to delete. [[User:Guaka|guaka]] ([[User talk:Guaka|talk]]) 10:58, 9 July 2013 (CEST)

User talk:Guaka/archive1

2019-01-20T17:28:02Z

Iotrj: Reverted edits by Iotrj (talk) to last revision by Guaka

Which bot did I do? [[User:Azarethroy|Azarethroy]] 12:51, 28 April 2009 (UTC)
:Haha, oops! [[User:Azarethroy|Azarethroy]] 13:24, 28 April 2009 (UTC)

That's awesome. I've been toying with it. And I just noticed you installed VideoFlash -> [[Free Hugs Campaign]] :) [[User:Azarethroy|Azarethroy]] 22:48, 30 April 2009 (UTC)

== Hospitality Club ==

Why you wanna keep HC on the main page? HC is completely out-dated. I guess using the website is even a safety risk as there is no maintainance of the website. Also it's not possible to delete account there.

:Ah yeah it's good you removed it from the [[main page]]. Thanks. [[User:Guaka|guaka]] ([[User talk:Guaka|talk]]) 14:26, 2 January 2019 (CET)

== wiki emails ==

I'm not getting my confirmation email. Does the wiki have permission to send emails? --[[User:Metal.lunchbox|Metal.lunchbox]] 20:56, 20 October 2009 (UTC)--[[User:Metal.lunchbox|Metal.lunchbox]] 20:56, 20 October 2009 (UTC)

:Just quickly fixed something in my mail servers. Should be better now. [[User:Guaka|guaka]] 08:50, 21 October 2009 (UTC)

I cannot get confirmation email on my gmx adress neither, but for hotmail it works fine (I would rather get the emails at gmx...) --[[User:Bikepunk|Bikepunk]] 22:09, 28 October 2009 (UTC)

:I requested an extra line in DNS (<tt>@ TXT v=spf1 a mx ~all</tt>) that might resolve this. [[User:Guaka|guaka]] 22:25, 28 October 2009 (UTC)

:: I still never get confirmation email @gmx.com ... [[User:Bikepunk|Bikepunk]] 01:17, 29 October 2009 (UTC)

::: The DNS update will take some time. I'm not doing the DNS myself, and even when it's updated it takes time to propagate... [[User:Guaka|guaka]] 01:18, 29 October 2009 (UTC)
:::: I've tried again today, and I still do not get emails @gmx.com [[User:Bikepunk|Bikepunk]] 14:20, 6 November 2009 (UTC)

::::: Hmm, Roy is transferring the couchwiki.org domain to me so that we can change stuff more quickly. Still, it might be another problem, but I want to make sure the DNS is correct first. I'll keep you updated. [[User:Guaka|guaka]] 23:29, 6 November 2009 (UTC)

:::::: Sorry for the delay guys. I've just emailed Kasper re: transferring the domain to him, so he can make any changes himself. [[user:azarethroy|azarethroy]] (15:51, 10 November 2009 (UTC))

:The transfer came through. I added a field in the DNS that should fix this issue. Let me know if it's better now - or not. [[User:Guaka|guaka]] 10:10, 9 December 2009 (UTC)
:: I still do not get emails at gmx.com :( [[User:Bikepunk|Bikepunk]] 18:34, 28 December 2009 (UTC)

== blocking those anoying bots ? ==

Hey

as you've seen, from yesterday a nasty bot is "attacking" couchwiki. I "undo"ed as much as possible, but since this bot is changing his IP for each edit, should we block th IPs, he's using ?
[[User:Bikepunk|Bikepunk]] 05:55, 14 November 2009 (UTC)

:It's possible to block thousands of IPs but I set up reCAPTCHA and no bot edits since then, I think it'll be adequate for now. [[User:Guaka|guaka]] 10:46, 14 November 2009 (UTC)



== What's the go with copying from wikipedia ==

See community portal for question.

:[[Couchwiki:Community_Portal#Added_cheat_sheet_from_wikipedia_-_compatible_licence.3F|And for the answer]] :) [[User:Guaka|guaka]] 16:03, 21 December 2009 (UTC)

== OpenID not working for me - see community tech portal ==

See [[Couchwiki:Tech#Bugs_to_fix]]

I tried logging in with my Aol Open ID but it say's it's cancelled. I ticked all the boxes except email for the moment. Is there a problem? I also have a twitter/hotmail accounts. I'm not sure I want them all linked though..... --118.208.189.140 08:59, 22 December 2009 (UTC)

:Hmm, AOL's OpenID might not work properly with MediaWiki OpenID extension. I'll try upgrading to the latest version of the extension (some time) to see if that solves it. Right now I'm only sure that MyOpenID and the WordPress OpenID provider plugin work for me :) [[User:Guaka|guaka]] 01:35, 27 December 2009 (UTC)

:: Same person as above. Still not working. I suppse with the NY period you've been very busy. --[[Special:Contributions/118.208.187.106|118.208.187.106]] 03:05, 9 January 2010 (UTC)

:::I upgraded to the latest version of the OpenID plugin (for mediawiki 1.15). I hope it works now. Otherwise, there might be relevant info [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/OpenID at the openid extension page at mediawiki.org]. [[User:Guaka|guaka]] 13:09, 9 January 2010 (UTC)

::::Happy to report it works with AIM openid. I'm not sure on my username though? Can I change it? (not asking you to do it yet).

:::::Cool that it works!
:::::I don't think it's easy to change usernames in mediawiki... [[User:Guaka|guaka]] 02:56, 16 January 2010 (UTC)

== Community Portal needs your attention. ==

http://couchwiki.org/en/Couchwiki:Community_Portal

== ref wiki command ==

Hi guaka. You told me a while ago that you would install an extension to make the ref tags work. Is there any progress on that? I would like to migrate the bw-fact-finding wiki to couchwiki but I need the ref things for this to make sense. Thanks for your help! [[User:Saraedum|Saraedum]] 12:49, 7 November 2011 (UTC)

:Ah, ok, I will try to set it up later this week. [[User:Guaka|guaka]] 06:19, 8 November 2011 (UTC)

:I installed the [[Special:Version|Cite extension]]. All should be good now. [[User:Guaka|guaka]] 06:21, 13 November 2011 (UTC)

::[[Help:Editing]] still doesn't show working ref commands. [[User:Saraedum|Saraedum]] 17:42, 16 November 2011 (UTC)

== IsIn Template ==

The [[Template:IsIn]] isn't working anymore, but I've no how idea how it worked anyway. It's heavy in use and I'd like to see it up again ... any ideas? [[User:Midsch|Midsch]] ([[User talk:Midsch|talk]]) 15:12, 24 December 2012 (CET)

:I emptied the includeonly part of the template for now. http://en.wikivoyage.org/wiki/Template:IsIn might have an anwer... I'll look into that after I manage to do something about the spambots. [[User:Guaka|guaka]] ([[User talk:Guaka|talk]]) 16:21, 24 December 2012 (CET)

== relation to BW wiki / your message ==

Hi Guaka, I hope this is the right place and method to respond. Thank you for recognising my little contribution. You asked what I think of this couchwiki vs. bewelcome wiki. As a disgruntled CS user after the ToU change, I registered with BW and found the local group including the associated BW wiki, so I updated a few things there. With the CS wiki shutdown I became actively aware of Couchwiki, and generally I think the effort of maintaining information should be placed where it benefits most users. So if we document something not specific to a particular hospex network, why not document it on neutral ground and refer to it from everywhere. Likewise, in my contributions to couckwiki I would not try to copy statistic and general purpose data that can be found on wikipedia already, not would I concentrate on classic mass-tourist description of sights, but primarily on the practical aspects of how to get around, how to live on little budget, and interesting stuff to see beyond the main tourist paths.
This might also be a distinguisihing feature of couchwiki vs. wikivoyage. Whether the split is worth it depends of course if each wiki has enough momentum to build a document pool that is worth consulting. Looks like the Germany coverage is rather poor, as far as I can tell from the country/land index pages :( --[[User:KarlEMuc|KarlEMuc]] ([[User talk:KarlEMuc|talk]]) 01:10, 19 January 2013 (CET)

== Nice idea here, but it really misses Marketing! ==

Hello Guarka, nice you kept this wiki, but it would need much better Marketing, I guess one have to be pretty nerd to find this! Better explain, what to do in order to be found, when people search for couchsurfing in Google! I was thinking about launching realcouchsurfing.org, to enable a platform that unites all, that are not so happy with biggest hospitality exchange becoming a for profit organization, it would be much better, have this wiki, a discusstion/decision making forum and a guide, howto get well ranked in Google in one place. A domain having the buzzword couchsurfing in domain frame, could be an advantage to rank well against the now-for-profit-c$ webseite, how do you think about that?

:Hi Pianist! Eh, what exactly do you want to do? And what do you want me to do? :) [[User:Guaka|guaka]] ([[User talk:Guaka|talk]]) 10:36, 7 June 2013 (CEST)

== Attribution ==
Hello Guaka! My name is Aleksandra and I am the community manager for Wikitravel.org. I have recently come across your website (which I find really nice) and noticed that you are republishing our travel guide content without a proper attribution, which is a violation of our writers' copyright. Please contact me as soon as possible at awocial@internetbrands.com. Thank you! [[User:AlexW|AlexW]] ([[User talk:AlexW|talk]]) 00:11, 27 June 2013 (CEST)

:Sorry I don't have (much) time to work on this wiki. It's a community wiki, so in that sense I see two options:
:1. Feel free to work it out on this wiki. Add a list or add the attribution where you think it's needed.
:2. Let your writers contact me about their copyright and I'll set things straight.
:Cheers, [[User:Guaka|guaka]] ([[User talk:Guaka|talk]]) 23:12, 27 June 2013 (CEST)

:: Thank you, Guaka for your prompt response! Adding attribution is something that has to be '''implemented throughout your destination articles which use Wikitravel content'''. Please have a look at your [http://couchwiki.org/en/Beijing Beijing] page. The content from the first section is copied from Wikitravel wikitravel.org/en/Beijing page. I suggest you read wikitravel.org/shared/How_to_re-use_Wikitravel_guides that explains how to '''re-use Wikitravel guides'''. Basically, at the bottom of every article that has content copied from Wikitavel you would have to write something like ''This article is derived from the article wikitravel.org/en/Beijing on wikitravel.org/en. There it is published under the Creative Commons Attribution/Share-Alike 3.0 License. More details and the full list of contributors can be found on the associated wikitravel.org/wiki/en/index.php?title=Beijing&action=history history page and '''link back to Wikitravel'''. Please correct the attribution to point to the appropriate Wikitravel pages as soon as possible as otherwise this would be considered violation of our writers' copyrights. Let me know if you have any questions. You can contact me via email at awocial@internetbrand.com. Looking forward to hearing back from you. Cheers! [[User:AlexW|AlexW]] ([[User talk:AlexW|talk]]) 01:29, 28 June 2013 (CEST)

::: I created [[Template:Wikitravel]], which I put on [[Beijing]]. Feel free to edit the template and add it where you seem fit. That's about as much time as I can spend on this.
::: If any of the original writers have any problems with their work being copied I'll be happy to hear from them and I'll do my best to resolve their issues. Cheers, [[User:Guaka|guaka]] ([[User talk:Guaka|talk]]) 01:12, 30 June 2013 (CEST)

:::: Guaka, this cannot be just a template. It has to be a proper attribution embedded within the article as this is a '''violation of the Attribution-Share License and the rights of Wikitravel.org as the original content creator'''. In view of the foregoing, Internet Brands, Inc. who owns Wikitravel.org, herby requests that you cease and desist copying content from Wikitravel.org, unless you '''provide proper attribution to Wikitravel.org wikitravel.org/shared/How_to_re-use_Wikitravel_guides'''. wikitravel.com/en/Beijing you have a page that is properly attributing Wikitravel.org and the article contributors. Please scroll to the bottom to see how the attribution should look like. We expect you to timely comply with the requests set forth herein. Should this use continue, Internet Brands, Inc. reserves all rights and remedies provided by law. Looking forward to your response. Warm regards, [[User:AlexW|AlexW]] ([[User talk:AlexW|talk]]) 23:45, 1 July 2013 (CEST)

:::::I've taken most of the site offline for now so that this can be properly resolved. I hope that makes all of you IB employees feel all warm inside. [[User:Guaka|guaka]] ([[User talk:Guaka|talk]]) 00:56, 5 July 2013 (CEST)
:::::: Guaka, please let me know if there is any way I can help you with the attribution. Warm regards, [[User:AlexW|AlexW]] ([[User talk:AlexW|talk]]) 03:19, 9 July 2013 (CEST)

::::::: We checked all articles and deleted everything that could have possibly come from Wikitravel. No need for attribution anymore. Let me know if there's still a page that we missed that you want us to delete. [[User:Guaka|guaka]] ([[User talk:Guaka|talk]]) 10:58, 9 July 2013 (CEST)

User talk:Guaka/archive1

2019-01-20T17:19:35Z

Iotrj:

Trustroots Wiki:About

2019-01-20T17:15:54Z

Iotrj: Reverted edits by Iotrj (talk) to last revision by Guaka

{{trwiki}}

'''Trustroots Wiki''' is a wiki for [[Trustroots]] and related projects. We can use it to build Trustroots travel guides, as a notepad for ideas and whatever else you come up with.

In a former life the Trustroots Wiki was '''Couchwiki''', a travel community guide for hospitality networks like [http://couchsurfing.org/ CouchSurfing], [http://hosptalityclub.org/ Hospitality Club], [http://bewelcome.org/ BeWelcome], [http://BeLodged.com/ BeLodged], [http://www.globalfreeloaders.com/ Global Freeloaders], [http://servas.org/ Servas] etc.

A travel community guide is something like [http://wikivoyage.org/ Wikivoyage] but more personal and more about community activity. It helps you experience travel with the senses of a local.

== Why use Trustroots Wiki? ==
Simple. Because Couchwiki is open to anyone and everyone. It is in keeping with the philosophy of inclusion and openness. We believe in decentralized control, in self-moderation, and that everyone who has something valuable to contribute may do so with ease.

== What are the guidelines ==
See [[project:Guidelines|Guidelines]]

==History and background==
Back in August 2006 [[User:Guaka|guaka]] ([[User talk:Guaka|talk]]) started the original Couchsurfing Wiki in 2006 (and [[:hitch:|hitchwiki]] a bit later, and [[:hitch:|trashwiki]] in 2008). In 2007 he stopped volunteering for couchsurfing because of the direction chosen, a direction which became clearer and more crystallized throughout the years (the 2011 sellout and the draconian ToU of 2012 were not really a surprise).

Since 2007 the couchsurfing wiki wasn't really maintained anymore and in 2009 there were talks about deleting the entire couchsurfing wiki and the idea was born to start an independent wiki, that is Couchwiki. In December 2012 the Couchsurfing corporation finally announced they will render the couchsurfing wiki inaccessible to the general public. This deletion finally happened in 2013, which finally allowed a proper wiki community around hospitality exchange to come into life.

== Hosting and costs ==
Couchwiki was [[:moneyless:free-wiki-hosting|hosted for free]] by Guaka, who also pays for the domain name. Trustroots Wiki is kinda the same for now.

Trustroots Wiki:About

2019-01-20T16:50:03Z

Iotrj: /* History and background */

{{trwiki}}

'''Trustroots Wiki''' is a wiki for [[Trustroots]] and related projects. We can use it to build Trustroots travel guides, as a notepad for ideas and whatever else you come up with.

In a former life the Trustroots Wiki was '''Couchwiki''', a travel community guide for hospitality networks like [http://couchsurfing.org/ CouchSurfing], [http://hosptalityclub.org/ Hospitality Club], [http://bewelcome.org/ BeWelcome], [http://BeLodged.com/ BeLodged], [http://www.globalfreeloaders.com/ Global Freeloaders], [http://servas.org/ Servas] etc.

A travel community guide is something like [http://wikivoyage.org/ Wikivoyage] but more personal and more about community activity. It helps you experience travel with the senses of a local.

== Why use Trustroots Wiki? ==
Simple. Because Trustroots Wiki is open to anyone and everyone. It is in keeping with the philosophy of inclusion and openness. We believe in decentralized control, in self-moderation, and that everyone who has something valuable to contribute may do so with ease.

== What are the guidelines ==
See [[project:Guidelines|Guidelines]]

==History and background==
Back in August 2006 [[User:Guaka|guaka]] ([[User talk:Guaka|talk]]) started the original Couchsurfing Wiki in 2006 (and [[:hitch:|hitchwiki]] a bit later, and [[:hitch:|trashwiki]] in 2008). In 2007 he stopped volunteering for couchsurfing because of the direction chosen, a direction which became clearer and more crystallized throughout the years (the 2011 sellout and the draconian ToU of 2012 were not really a surprise).

Since 2007 the couchsurfing wiki wasn't really maintained anymore and in 2009 there were talks about deleting the entire couchsurfing wiki and the idea was born to start an independent wiki, that is Couchwiki. In December 2012 the Couchsurfing corporation finally announced they will render the couchsurfing wiki inaccessible to the general public. This deletion finally happened in 2013, which finally allowed a proper wiki community around hospitality exchange to come into life.

In December 2018 Couchwiki was transformed into Trustroots wiki. Mainly because there was no activity on Couchwiki any more. With a closer connection to Trustroots it might be possible to revive this wiki.

== Hosting and costs ==
Couchwiki was [[:moneyless:free-wiki-hosting|hosted for free]] by Guaka, who also pays for the domain name. Trustroots Wiki is kinda the same for now.

Hospitality exchange

2019-01-05T20:47:37Z

Iotrj:

The concept of '''Hospitality Exchange''', also known as “accommodation sharing”, “hospitality services” (short “hospex”), and “home stay networks”, refers to centrally organized [[social network]]s of individuals, generally travelers, who offer or seek accommodation without monetary exchange. Generally, these services connect users via the internet.

== History ==

In 1949, Bob Luitweiler founded the first hospitality service called [[Servas Open Doors]] as a cross national, non-profit, volunteer run organization advocating interracial and international peace. In 1965, John Wilcock set up the Traveler's Directory as a listing of his friends willing to host each other when traveling. In 1988, Joy Lily rescued the organization from imminent shutdown, forming Hospitality Exchange. In 2000, Veit Kuhne founded [[Hospitality Club]], the first widely known Internet-based service (many others existed since the late 90s but never reached the high number of users that HC reached). In 2004, Casey Fenton started [[CouchSurfing]], now the largest hospitality exchange organization.

== How they work ==

Generally, after registering, members have the option of providing very detailed information and pictures of themselves and of the sleeping accommodation being offered, if any. The more information provided by a member improves the chances that someone will find the member trustworthy enough to be their [[host]] or guest. Names and addresses may be [[verification|verified]] by volunteers. Members looking for accommodation can search for [[host]]s using several parameters such as age, location, gender, and activity level. Home stays are entirely consensual between the [[host]] and guest, and the duration, nature, and terms of the guest's stay are generally worked out in advance to the convenience of both parties. No monetary exchange takes place except under certain circumstances (e.g. the guest may compensate the host for food). After using the service, members can leave a noticeable reference about their host or guest.

Instead of or in addition to accommodation, members also offer to provide guide services or travel-related advice. The websites of the networks also provide editable travel guides and forums where members may seek travel partners or advice. Many such organizations are also focused on "social networking" and members organize activities such as camping trips, bar crawls, meetings, and sporting events.

Some networks cater to specific niche markets such as students, activists, religious pilgrims, and even occupational groups like police officers.

== Benefits ==
=== Monetary savings ===
As these networks provide accommodation at no charge, monetary savings can be significant.

=== Local contact ===
Hospitality exchange gives travelers the chance to experience what life is like for people living in other places. In addition, making interpersonal connections and fostering understanding of different cultures may in the long run also be important to international relations. During hospitality exchanges, hosts may show off their local knowledge and exciting places “off the tourist map”. Not only may travelers get a distinct experience, but they will also get a feel for the everyday lives of local residents.

=== Reciprocity ===
These systems foster richer and more convenient travel experiences not so much on the premise of [[altruism]], but on the basis of [[social exchange theory]]. Implicit in the agreement to host travelers is the ability to ask to be hosted by them in the future. If one enjoys having interesting guests in their home, this works out well for both parties. It works comparatively better if you are visited by travelers from a locale you find particularly attractive. Thus, hosting someone from [[New York City]] in [[Gainesville, Florida]] seems to be an unbelievable opportunity. Moreover, if you are a Westerner visiting someone in a [[developing country]], your stay might be the only way that this individual or family could afford a trip to a rich nation. This may mean more than just a relaxing vacation for such disadvantaged parties.

=== Ecological sustainability ===
Accommodation sharing reduces the demand for hotels, which, depending on the location can be detrimental for the environment.

== Drawbacks ==
=== Lack of guarantee ===
There is no contractual agreement between users in these systems. Reservations are made, but if they are for some reason broken, there is no higher authority to which one could plead for a refund or other compensation. The only repercussion will be the poor rating you give that user and your only consolation will be that your warning will deter others from visiting or hosting them. For those who feel insecure unless their travel arrangements are written in stone before departure, this system will not be comforting.

=== Potential interpersonal conflict or awkwardness ===
There is a chance that guest and host will not get along. Perhaps there will be scheduling or ideological conflicts. Maybe you will find that hosts or visitors have misrepresented themselves. Perhaps the experience will not live up to your expectations. Intense interpersonal communications in advance and a flexibility once you have arrived is your best bet. These experiences require additional planning and courtesy towards the demands of your host. Thus, your living conditions, length of stay, and overall experience will be circumscribed by the living conditions you enter into.

=== Digital divide and demographic segregation ===
As use of these services generally requires access to the internet and knowledge of the English language, the sample population found in searches of these databases is really much less diverse than a geographical representation of worldwide users might suggest.

=== Security ===
Staying in someone's house, or inviting people into your house leaves open the possibility of being taken advantage of.

== Example networks ==
There are countless websites that serve the idea of hospitality service, with new ones appearing as this phenomenon becomes more popular. While this page is not intended to be a directory listing, here is a small sample of the well-established and long-standing networks:

* [[CouchSurfing]] - A very active network with over 14 million members in more than 200 countries
* [[BeWelcome]] - An active network with over 115.000 members in more than 200 countries
* [[Trustroots]] - An active network with over 34.000 members
* [[Hospitality Club]] - An out-dated network with over 790.000 members, but most of them not active any more
* [[Servas Open Doors|Servas International]] - Human rights and global peace oriented since 1949. A relatively small network now with over 15.000 members(?) with a very long history

=== Specialized networks ===

Some networks offer specialised hospitality services. There are at least 15 (specialised) hospitality services.<ref>[http://www.hospitalityguide.net/ HospEx - Hospitality Exchange Networks Overview]</ref>, here are some examples:

* [[Lesbian and Gay Hospitality Exchange International]] [http://www.lghei.org/];
* [[Warm Showers]] - Hospitality network towards touring cyclists;
* Dachgeber[http://dachgeber.de/] - Hospitality network towards touring cyclists in Germany with about 3000 members. (See our German article [[:de:Dachgeber|Dachgeber]].)
* [[Pasporta Servo]][http://www.tejo.org/eo/ps_lingv_en/] - for [[Esperanto]] speakers;
* [[WWOOF]][http://www.wwoof.org/] - "Worldwide Opportunities on Organic Farms", help on the property is exchanged for food, accommodation, education and cultural interaction;
* HelpX[http://www.helpx.net/] - "Help Exchange", help is exchanged for food, accommodation, experience and cultural interaction;
* Homeshare International [http://www.homeshare.org/] - charity organisation providing exchange of housing for help in the home.
* Ridester[http://www.ridester.com] -- ride sharing for travelers.

== References ==
{{reflist}}

== External links ==
* [http://en.wikivoyage.org/wiki/Hospitality_exchange Article on www.wikivoyage.org]

{{wikipedia}}

[[Category:Hospitality exchange networks]]
[[Category:Concepts]]
[[share:Hospitality exchange]]
[[hitch:Hospitality exchange]]
[[nomad:Hospitality exchange]]

Rural hospitality

2019-01-05T17:22:27Z

Iotrj:

{{rural}}
'''Rural hospitality''' stands for rural hospitality exchange. Here is your one stop portal to interacting with the world through internet hospitality websites - whether it's [[Couchsurfing]], [[BeWelcome]] or [[Warm Showers]] - all are welcome to participate. [[:trustroots:|Trustroots]] is a good new place to find rural hospitality, as its built around searching on a map.

How it works: Please read through our guides and once you are familiar with how it works, and how it is different to a normal urban hospitality experience please check out the country pages and maps where you are either going to visit or reside.

''Note: This has been created with the [http://www.utoronto.ca/divenv/mts/glossary.html#d developed] world in mind. A draft outline of a model for the [http://en.wiktionary.org/wiki/developing developing] can be found at [[rural hospitality in the developing world]].<br />''




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== [[File:Nuvola_apps_bookcase.png|30px]] Basics ==
New to Rural Hospitality?
* '''[[Rural Hospex#Vision Statement|Vision Statement]]'''
* '''[[Rural Hospex#Purpose|Purpose]]'''
* '''[[Rural Hospex#Definition|Definition]]'''
* '''[[Rural Hospex#What is the difference between a rural and urban Hospex experience.3F|Rural vs Urban]]'''
* '''[[Rural Hospex#Expectation of Host|Expectation of Host]]'''
* '''[[Rural Hospex#Expectation of Surfer|Expectation of Surfer]]'''
* '''[[Rural Hospex#Icon|Icon]]'''
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== [[File:Nuvola_apps_bookcase.png|30px]] [http://maps.google.com/maps/ms?hl=en&ie=UTF8&t=p&msa=0&msid=205252692637269758370.00045ef1142b9b3703c81&ll=28.921631,13.710938&spn=147.464744,68.554687&z=2 Maps] ==

<b>For now we still have our old Google map network seen [http://maps.google.com/maps/ms?hl=en&ie=UTF8&t=p&msa=0&msid=205252692637269758370.00045ef1142b9b3703c81&ll=28.921631,13.710938&spn=147.464744,68.554687&z=2 here].

Check back later this year and hopefully there will be a new map system up and running :) </b>
* '''[http://maps.google.com/maps/ms?ie=UTF8&hl=fr&oe=UTF8&msa=0&msid=116145128319189688118.00047d61977b4f44c7162&ll=57.421294,-90.966797&spn=29.408584,107.138672&t=h&z=4 Canada]'''
* '''[http://maps.google.com/maps/ms?hl=en&ie=UTF8&msa=0&ll=-28.536275,134.912109&spn=37.943652,79.013672&z=4&msid=116082787856478952868.0004810df9736db58c8fc Australia]'''
* '''[http://maps.google.com/maps/ms?ie=UTF8&hl=en&oe=UTF8&msa=0&msid=107088168112611112343.0004770e47ed01b366cfb&ll=62.471724,8.876953&spn=21.631913,79.013672&z=4 Scandinavia]'''
* '''[http://maps.google.com/maps/ms?ie=UTF8&hl=en&msa=0&ll=40.094882,-1.82373&spn=12.766728,19.775391&z=6&msid=113144055528929546446.00046c98a264706e3d140 Iberian Peninsula]'''
* '''[http://maps.google.com/maps/ms?hl=en&ie=UTF8&t=p&msa=0&ll=46.920255,3.427734&spn=13.657503,28.300781&z=5&msid=113144055528929546446.0004605cd5254b0b0620c France]'''
* '''[http://maps.google.com/maps/ms?hl=en&ie=UTF8&msa=0&ll=46.717269,8.239746&spn=3.751128,9.876709&z=7&msid=116082787856478952868.0004810e4ee76eec76d64 Switzerland]'''
* '''[http://maps.google.com/maps/ms?hl=en&ie=UTF8&msa=0&msid=107088168112611112343.000477e16a046f20a4b07&ll=51.862924,7.822266&spn=13.533852,39.506836&z=5 Germany]'''
* '''[http://maps.google.com/maps/ms?hl=en&ie=UTF8&msa=0&ll=47.754098,13.590088&spn=3.678491,9.876709&z=7&msid=116082787856478952868.0004810e4affcda81c335 Austria]'''
* '''[http://maps.google.com/maps/ms?ie=UTF8&hl=fr&msa=0&msid=102441544612975733598.0004781fe675a96025b02&ll=54.316523,-4.790039&spn=12.811724,39.506836&t=p&z=5 UK and Ireland]'''
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== [[File:Nuvola_apps_bookcase.png|30px]] Languages ==
* '''[[Le Rural Hospex en Français]]'''
* '''[[Ländliche Hospex in der Deutschen]]'''
* '''[[Hospex Rurale in Italiano]]'''
* '''[[Rural Hospex em Português]]'''
* '''[[Hospex Rurales en Español]]'''

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== [[File:Nuvola_apps_bookcase.png|30px]] [[Rural Hospex Guides|Rural Guides]] ==
* '''[[Rural Hospitality Serbia]]'''
* '''[[Rural Hospitality Canada]]'''

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== Vision Statement ==

'''To build an international Rural Hospitality Network :) '''
<br />
<br />

== Purpose ==

The purpose behind Rural hospitality is twofold,
# To allow travelers to '''experience rural areas''' that are often overlooked, letting them experience ways of life completely different to those found in cities.
# To allow rural communities to '''experience culture exchange''' they otherwise wouldn’t.

== Definition ==

Rural areas (also referred to as "the country", countryside) are settled places '''outside towns and cities'''. Such areas are distinct from more intensively settled urban and suburban areas, and also from unsettled lands such as outback, American Old West, or wilderness. '''Inhabitants live in villages, hamlets, on farms and in other isolated houses.'''

=== Population Limitation ===

Since this definition is not clear enough for everyone, generally the maximum population for villages is considered top be 2,500 persons.[http://www.ntia.doc.gov/legacy/ntiahome/fttn99/glossary.html 1][http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rural_area 2]

=== Alternative definition ===

A village can also be defined as:

''A village is human scale: it is large enough so that all the needs of its inhabitants can be met, with complete specialisation of tasks, but not so large that there are anonymous people; in a village everybody is known, and strangers are instantly recognised and assessed. Settlements smaller than villages are called "hamlets". In a hamlet there are not enough people for a diversity of specialisation of tasks, so culture is limited to necessities. ''

<br />

<i>For further clarity please read [[What Rural Means]] to make sure that you understand the difference between rural and "out of big cities".

''See the [http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=9949&post=853121 discussion].''</i>

== Languages ==

This wiki page should be translated into more languages. How many more? The more the merrier. If you can help with translations please contact the [http://www.couchsurfing.org/group.html?gid=18641 Rural CS Team].

* [[Le Rural Hospex en Français]]

* [[Ländliche Hospex in der Deutschen]]

* [[Hospex Rurale in Italiano]]

* [[Rural Hospex em Português]]

* [[Hospex Rurales en Español]]

For this wiki in other languages please click [http://couchwiki.org/en/Rural_Couchsurfing_-_Additional_Languages here] :)

''Flags were removed from the wiki as hospitality exchange isn't about nationalism [http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=9949&post=6011499 1]''

== What is the difference between a rural and urban Hospitality experience? ==

'''The principal difference is the location.'''

Note that there can be some other differences:

* No or few internet access
* Difficulty to reach the place
* Difference of activities to do around
* Difference in lifestyle of host(s)
* In some cases, more help needed or expected than in urban environments(Click the following to read more [[WWOOF vs Rural Hospex]])

== Expectation of Host ==

A rural host can expect from his guest exactly the same things as in an urban area:

* Respect of his place
* Understanding and respect of his way of life
* Sharing time, experiences, conversation, and some daily tasks (dishes, cooking…)
* A great experience in general

A rural host can also sometimes expect:

* A little more help in the garden or the house

== Expectation of Guest ==

A rural guest at the very least is expecting to discover what it is to live in a rural environment in the country they are traveling through.

A guest in a rural area can expect:

* A place to stay (bed, couch, place on the floor, place for a tent…)
* Understanding and respect of his way of life
* Sharing time, experiences, conversation, and some daily tasks (dishes, cooking etc.)
* A quiet place to rest and forget your busy city life
* A great experience in general

Additional things that can be expected:

* Discovering a bit of the daily life if on a farm or an alternative community for example.
* Participating a little to the daily tasks (and then maybe learn and experience new things) (1)

(1)The guest has to make sure that he/she understands what is going to happen during the stay and that he/she is going to be able to give the little help that might be expected.

== Country Guides ==

Rural areas change as the landscape changes. Please check your country page to find out information about anything rural related.

The meaning of rural changes from place to place, and while we have put a general population limitation in place we encourage people to come up with their own definition that suites their area, along with a matching icon. Moderators of the relevant group should maintain a basic wiki page for their respective area, if for nothing else than to explain the process of how to be added to the map.

See a list of the regions by clicking - [[Rural Hospex Guides]].

== Promotion ==

Rural Hospitality has mostly spread through word of mouth and by people reading the groups within the website www.couchsurfing.org. It is hoped that it will transcend couchsurfing and be open for members of all hospitality exchange websites.

=== Groups ===

* [http://www.couchsurfing.org/group.html?gid=9949 main Rural Couchsurfing group]

The French Rural CS group got up and running through the promotion of groups. Read [http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=18641&post=2809095 here] to follow the steps they took. This is the main way to promote Rural Couchsurfing - by making a Rural Group and then linking it to the main country group, as done in [http://www.couchsurfing.org/group.html?gid=176 France] and [http://www.couchsurfing.org/group.html?gid=351 Australia].

* [http://www.bewelcome.org/groups/673 Rural Hospitality group on BeWelcome]

This group has just started (August 2012) but it is hoped that will become active and a place for people to interact about their rural experiences.

=== Newsletters/News feed ===

Rural Hospitality has been spread through a variety of Couchsurfing newsletters that are managed by volunteers. Please see examples from [http://couchwiki.org/en/Australian_CS_Newsletter_February_2008#News_from_around_the_Australian_States Australia][http://couchwiki.org/en/Australian_CS_Newsletter_March_2008#Australian_Rural_CouchSurfing_news 1][http://couchwiki.org/en/Australian_CS_Newsletter_April_2008#Australian_Rural_CouchSurfing_news 2][http://couchwiki.org/en/Australian_CS_Newsletter_February_2009#News_from_around_the_Australian_States 3] and [http://couchwiki.org/en/French_CS_Newsletter_%28Novembre_2010%29#Histoire_d.27h.C3.B4te:_le_Couchsurfing_Rural_dans_le_Giennois_.21 France]. Rural Couchsurfing has also been mentioned in the official [http://www.couchsurfing.org/news/alternative-travel/get-away-from-it-all/ News Feed][http://www.couchsurfing.org/news/cs-organization/quick-guide-to-cs-groups-3/ 1], it would be great if it could be periodically mentioned here so that new members could find out about it too.

=== Permanent website placements ===

Rural Hospitality has been placed in the Couchsurfing.org [http://www.couchsurfing.org/rural_surfing.html tips secion!]

=== Other Media (Pictures) ===

Pictures are currently stored on the [https://picasaweb.google.com/114554606265727234977 Rural Couchsurfing Picaso account].

== Icon ==

Rural hosts may want to add an icon to their profile as well as a link to this wiki page explaining that they are rural hosts.

Possible ideas for an icon are:

[[File:rural.gif]]
[[File:try1.jpg]]
[[File:RCSIcon2.gif]]
[[File: Rural_bw.png]]

To see some icons for Rural [http://www.couchsurfing.org/group.html?gid=20891 India] click the following link.

[[Rural CS India Icons]]

To add an icon for Rural CouchSurfing to your couch description, just copy paste the code below:

<nowiki><a href="http://couchwiki.org/en/Rural_CouchSurfing"><img src="http://couchwiki.org/public/images/8/82/RCSIcon2.gif"></a></nowiki>

Note: the last two images appear the same but the second has a white background and the third has a transparent background. The code to put an icon in your couch description is for the third image. You can change the image by substituting the url from one of the other images for it.

More ideas are '''MOST''' welcome! There is no reason to only have one icon, the greater the variety the better. More discussion about icons [http://www.couchsurfing.com/group_read.html?gid=9949&post=1428360 here].

== Examples ==

Listed below are some examples of Rural Couchsurfing hosts all over the world:

In [http://www.couchsurfing.com/profile.html?id=2HBLTGF Australia]

In [http://www.couchsurfing.com/profile.html?id=1KUH46K France]

In [http://www.couchsurfing.com/profile.html?id=326LQ4P Ireland]

In [http://www.couchsurfing.com/profile.html?id=5VROO2P Mexico] Located [http://bosquevillage.com/ here]

In [http://www.couchsurfing.com/profile.html?id=2XV320A Morocco]

In [http://www.couchsurfing.com/profile.html?id=B5BEJP Norway]

In [http://www.couchsurfing.com/people/freebird28 Portugal]

In [http://www.couchsurfing.org/people/skywalke/ Slovenia]

== Background, Past and Future ==

Click here to read more about the [[Background, Past and Future]] of Rural Couchsurfing.

== Feedback ==

If you would like to propose a change to Rural Couchsurfing please do so [http://www.couchsurfing.org/group.html?gid=18641 here] or contact us directly at: ruralcouchsurfing@gmail.com

If you want to see an overview you can check out our administration page. [[Administration]]


__NOTOC__

[[Category:Rural]]

Rural hospitality

2019-01-05T17:21:58Z

Iotrj:

{{rural}}
'''Rural hospitality''' stands for rural hospitality exchange. Here is your one stop portal to interacting with the world through internet hospitality websites - whether it's [[Couchsurfing]], [[BeWwelcome]] or [[Warm Showers]] - all are welcome to participate. [[:trustroots:|Trustroots]] is a good new place to find rural hospitality, as its built around searching on a map.

How it works: Please read through our guides and once you are familiar with how it works, and how it is different to a normal urban hospitality experience please check out the country pages and maps where you are either going to visit or reside.

''Note: This has been created with the [http://www.utoronto.ca/divenv/mts/glossary.html#d developed] world in mind. A draft outline of a model for the [http://en.wiktionary.org/wiki/developing developing] can be found at [[rural hospitality in the developing world]].<br />''




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== [[File:Nuvola_apps_bookcase.png|30px]] Basics ==
New to Rural Hospitality?
* '''[[Rural Hospex#Vision Statement|Vision Statement]]'''
* '''[[Rural Hospex#Purpose|Purpose]]'''
* '''[[Rural Hospex#Definition|Definition]]'''
* '''[[Rural Hospex#What is the difference between a rural and urban Hospex experience.3F|Rural vs Urban]]'''
* '''[[Rural Hospex#Expectation of Host|Expectation of Host]]'''
* '''[[Rural Hospex#Expectation of Surfer|Expectation of Surfer]]'''
* '''[[Rural Hospex#Icon|Icon]]'''
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<div style="float:left; background-color:#fffff4; border:1px solid #dadada; width:99%;">
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== [[File:Nuvola_apps_bookcase.png|30px]] [http://maps.google.com/maps/ms?hl=en&ie=UTF8&t=p&msa=0&msid=205252692637269758370.00045ef1142b9b3703c81&ll=28.921631,13.710938&spn=147.464744,68.554687&z=2 Maps] ==

<b>For now we still have our old Google map network seen [http://maps.google.com/maps/ms?hl=en&ie=UTF8&t=p&msa=0&msid=205252692637269758370.00045ef1142b9b3703c81&ll=28.921631,13.710938&spn=147.464744,68.554687&z=2 here].

Check back later this year and hopefully there will be a new map system up and running :) </b>
* '''[http://maps.google.com/maps/ms?ie=UTF8&hl=fr&oe=UTF8&msa=0&msid=116145128319189688118.00047d61977b4f44c7162&ll=57.421294,-90.966797&spn=29.408584,107.138672&t=h&z=4 Canada]'''
* '''[http://maps.google.com/maps/ms?hl=en&ie=UTF8&msa=0&ll=-28.536275,134.912109&spn=37.943652,79.013672&z=4&msid=116082787856478952868.0004810df9736db58c8fc Australia]'''
* '''[http://maps.google.com/maps/ms?ie=UTF8&hl=en&oe=UTF8&msa=0&msid=107088168112611112343.0004770e47ed01b366cfb&ll=62.471724,8.876953&spn=21.631913,79.013672&z=4 Scandinavia]'''
* '''[http://maps.google.com/maps/ms?ie=UTF8&hl=en&msa=0&ll=40.094882,-1.82373&spn=12.766728,19.775391&z=6&msid=113144055528929546446.00046c98a264706e3d140 Iberian Peninsula]'''
* '''[http://maps.google.com/maps/ms?hl=en&ie=UTF8&t=p&msa=0&ll=46.920255,3.427734&spn=13.657503,28.300781&z=5&msid=113144055528929546446.0004605cd5254b0b0620c France]'''
* '''[http://maps.google.com/maps/ms?hl=en&ie=UTF8&msa=0&ll=46.717269,8.239746&spn=3.751128,9.876709&z=7&msid=116082787856478952868.0004810e4ee76eec76d64 Switzerland]'''
* '''[http://maps.google.com/maps/ms?hl=en&ie=UTF8&msa=0&msid=107088168112611112343.000477e16a046f20a4b07&ll=51.862924,7.822266&spn=13.533852,39.506836&z=5 Germany]'''
* '''[http://maps.google.com/maps/ms?hl=en&ie=UTF8&msa=0&ll=47.754098,13.590088&spn=3.678491,9.876709&z=7&msid=116082787856478952868.0004810e4affcda81c335 Austria]'''
* '''[http://maps.google.com/maps/ms?ie=UTF8&hl=fr&msa=0&msid=102441544612975733598.0004781fe675a96025b02&ll=54.316523,-4.790039&spn=12.811724,39.506836&t=p&z=5 UK and Ireland]'''
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== [[File:Nuvola_apps_bookcase.png|30px]] Languages ==
* '''[[Le Rural Hospex en Français]]'''
* '''[[Ländliche Hospex in der Deutschen]]'''
* '''[[Hospex Rurale in Italiano]]'''
* '''[[Rural Hospex em Português]]'''
* '''[[Hospex Rurales en Español]]'''

</div>

<div style="float:right; background-color:#eff8fb; border:1px solid #dadada; width:99%;">
<div style="padding:10px 15px 15px 15px;">

== [[File:Nuvola_apps_bookcase.png|30px]] [[Rural Hospex Guides|Rural Guides]] ==
* '''[[Rural Hospitality Serbia]]'''
* '''[[Rural Hospitality Canada]]'''

</div>

</div>



<div style="clear:both; height: 10px;"><br /></div>


|-
|}

== Vision Statement ==

'''To build an international Rural Hospitality Network :) '''
<br />
<br />

== Purpose ==

The purpose behind Rural hospitality is twofold,
# To allow travelers to '''experience rural areas''' that are often overlooked, letting them experience ways of life completely different to those found in cities.
# To allow rural communities to '''experience culture exchange''' they otherwise wouldn’t.

== Definition ==

Rural areas (also referred to as "the country", countryside) are settled places '''outside towns and cities'''. Such areas are distinct from more intensively settled urban and suburban areas, and also from unsettled lands such as outback, American Old West, or wilderness. '''Inhabitants live in villages, hamlets, on farms and in other isolated houses.'''

=== Population Limitation ===

Since this definition is not clear enough for everyone, generally the maximum population for villages is considered top be 2,500 persons.[http://www.ntia.doc.gov/legacy/ntiahome/fttn99/glossary.html 1][http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rural_area 2]

=== Alternative definition ===

A village can also be defined as:

''A village is human scale: it is large enough so that all the needs of its inhabitants can be met, with complete specialisation of tasks, but not so large that there are anonymous people; in a village everybody is known, and strangers are instantly recognised and assessed. Settlements smaller than villages are called "hamlets". In a hamlet there are not enough people for a diversity of specialisation of tasks, so culture is limited to necessities. ''

<br />

<i>For further clarity please read [[What Rural Means]] to make sure that you understand the difference between rural and "out of big cities".

''See the [http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=9949&post=853121 discussion].''</i>

== Languages ==

This wiki page should be translated into more languages. How many more? The more the merrier. If you can help with translations please contact the [http://www.couchsurfing.org/group.html?gid=18641 Rural CS Team].

* [[Le Rural Hospex en Français]]

* [[Ländliche Hospex in der Deutschen]]

* [[Hospex Rurale in Italiano]]

* [[Rural Hospex em Português]]

* [[Hospex Rurales en Español]]

For this wiki in other languages please click [http://couchwiki.org/en/Rural_Couchsurfing_-_Additional_Languages here] :)

''Flags were removed from the wiki as hospitality exchange isn't about nationalism [http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=9949&post=6011499 1]''

== What is the difference between a rural and urban Hospitality experience? ==

'''The principal difference is the location.'''

Note that there can be some other differences:

* No or few internet access
* Difficulty to reach the place
* Difference of activities to do around
* Difference in lifestyle of host(s)
* In some cases, more help needed or expected than in urban environments(Click the following to read more [[WWOOF vs Rural Hospex]])

== Expectation of Host ==

A rural host can expect from his guest exactly the same things as in an urban area:

* Respect of his place
* Understanding and respect of his way of life
* Sharing time, experiences, conversation, and some daily tasks (dishes, cooking…)
* A great experience in general

A rural host can also sometimes expect:

* A little more help in the garden or the house

== Expectation of Guest ==

A rural guest at the very least is expecting to discover what it is to live in a rural environment in the country they are traveling through.

A guest in a rural area can expect:

* A place to stay (bed, couch, place on the floor, place for a tent…)
* Understanding and respect of his way of life
* Sharing time, experiences, conversation, and some daily tasks (dishes, cooking etc.)
* A quiet place to rest and forget your busy city life
* A great experience in general

Additional things that can be expected:

* Discovering a bit of the daily life if on a farm or an alternative community for example.
* Participating a little to the daily tasks (and then maybe learn and experience new things) (1)

(1)The guest has to make sure that he/she understands what is going to happen during the stay and that he/she is going to be able to give the little help that might be expected.

== Country Guides ==

Rural areas change as the landscape changes. Please check your country page to find out information about anything rural related.

The meaning of rural changes from place to place, and while we have put a general population limitation in place we encourage people to come up with their own definition that suites their area, along with a matching icon. Moderators of the relevant group should maintain a basic wiki page for their respective area, if for nothing else than to explain the process of how to be added to the map.

See a list of the regions by clicking - [[Rural Hospex Guides]].

== Promotion ==

Rural Hospitality has mostly spread through word of mouth and by people reading the groups within the website www.couchsurfing.org. It is hoped that it will transcend couchsurfing and be open for members of all hospitality exchange websites.

=== Groups ===

* [http://www.couchsurfing.org/group.html?gid=9949 main Rural Couchsurfing group]

The French Rural CS group got up and running through the promotion of groups. Read [http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=18641&post=2809095 here] to follow the steps they took. This is the main way to promote Rural Couchsurfing - by making a Rural Group and then linking it to the main country group, as done in [http://www.couchsurfing.org/group.html?gid=176 France] and [http://www.couchsurfing.org/group.html?gid=351 Australia].

* [http://www.bewelcome.org/groups/673 Rural Hospitality group on BeWelcome]

This group has just started (August 2012) but it is hoped that will become active and a place for people to interact about their rural experiences.

=== Newsletters/News feed ===

Rural Hospitality has been spread through a variety of Couchsurfing newsletters that are managed by volunteers. Please see examples from [http://couchwiki.org/en/Australian_CS_Newsletter_February_2008#News_from_around_the_Australian_States Australia][http://couchwiki.org/en/Australian_CS_Newsletter_March_2008#Australian_Rural_CouchSurfing_news 1][http://couchwiki.org/en/Australian_CS_Newsletter_April_2008#Australian_Rural_CouchSurfing_news 2][http://couchwiki.org/en/Australian_CS_Newsletter_February_2009#News_from_around_the_Australian_States 3] and [http://couchwiki.org/en/French_CS_Newsletter_%28Novembre_2010%29#Histoire_d.27h.C3.B4te:_le_Couchsurfing_Rural_dans_le_Giennois_.21 France]. Rural Couchsurfing has also been mentioned in the official [http://www.couchsurfing.org/news/alternative-travel/get-away-from-it-all/ News Feed][http://www.couchsurfing.org/news/cs-organization/quick-guide-to-cs-groups-3/ 1], it would be great if it could be periodically mentioned here so that new members could find out about it too.

=== Permanent website placements ===

Rural Hospitality has been placed in the Couchsurfing.org [http://www.couchsurfing.org/rural_surfing.html tips secion!]

=== Other Media (Pictures) ===

Pictures are currently stored on the [https://picasaweb.google.com/114554606265727234977 Rural Couchsurfing Picaso account].

== Icon ==

Rural hosts may want to add an icon to their profile as well as a link to this wiki page explaining that they are rural hosts.

Possible ideas for an icon are:

[[File:rural.gif]]
[[File:try1.jpg]]
[[File:RCSIcon2.gif]]
[[File: Rural_bw.png]]

To see some icons for Rural [http://www.couchsurfing.org/group.html?gid=20891 India] click the following link.

[[Rural CS India Icons]]

To add an icon for Rural CouchSurfing to your couch description, just copy paste the code below:

<nowiki><a href="http://couchwiki.org/en/Rural_CouchSurfing"><img src="http://couchwiki.org/public/images/8/82/RCSIcon2.gif"></a></nowiki>

Note: the last two images appear the same but the second has a white background and the third has a transparent background. The code to put an icon in your couch description is for the third image. You can change the image by substituting the url from one of the other images for it.

More ideas are '''MOST''' welcome! There is no reason to only have one icon, the greater the variety the better. More discussion about icons [http://www.couchsurfing.com/group_read.html?gid=9949&post=1428360 here].

== Examples ==

Listed below are some examples of Rural Couchsurfing hosts all over the world:

In [http://www.couchsurfing.com/profile.html?id=2HBLTGF Australia]

In [http://www.couchsurfing.com/profile.html?id=1KUH46K France]

In [http://www.couchsurfing.com/profile.html?id=326LQ4P Ireland]

In [http://www.couchsurfing.com/profile.html?id=5VROO2P Mexico] Located [http://bosquevillage.com/ here]

In [http://www.couchsurfing.com/profile.html?id=2XV320A Morocco]

In [http://www.couchsurfing.com/profile.html?id=B5BEJP Norway]

In [http://www.couchsurfing.com/people/freebird28 Portugal]

In [http://www.couchsurfing.org/people/skywalke/ Slovenia]

== Background, Past and Future ==

Click here to read more about the [[Background, Past and Future]] of Rural Couchsurfing.

== Feedback ==

If you would like to propose a change to Rural Couchsurfing please do so [http://www.couchsurfing.org/group.html?gid=18641 here] or contact us directly at: ruralcouchsurfing@gmail.com

If you want to see an overview you can check out our administration page. [[Administration]]


__NOTOC__

[[Category:Rural]]

Main Page

2019-01-05T17:17:20Z

Iotrj:

Trustroots

2019-01-05T17:09:43Z

Iotrj: Undo revision 11192 by Iotrj (talk)

Trustroots

2019-01-05T17:08:05Z

Iotrj: Reverted edits by Iotrj (talk) to last revision by Guaka

'''[https://www.trustroots.org/ Trustroots]''' is a hospitality exchange network run by a UK non-profit foundation. The software is open source.
It was started in December 2014 is being built by a small team of activists who felt that the world of sharing is being taken over by corporations trying to monetize people's willingness to help each other. Same team brought you also [[:hitch:|Hitchwiki]], [[:trash:|Trashwiki]] and [[:nomad:|Nomadwiki]].

{{stub}}

== Tribes ==

As of December 2018 Trustroots has 26 tribes. At the moment these are:

{{tribes}}

== History ==

Here's some ideas for names and descriptions that were floating around before Trustroots was launched.

=== Name for a new Hospex network ===

We sent out to a bunch of people and asked them to suggest names for the new project. Initially the codebase was just called "Bikeshed".

==== Initial description ====
* Community site about sharing (rides, meals, info and whatnot) with hospitality exchange in core. Aims to be little bit hippie and for nomads at the beginning, but also has long term goals to reach more mainstream audiences. Wants to change how people behave by encouraging them to "share".
* Something along lines hitchwiki/nomadwiki BW/CS/FB
* Trust in the core of the site.
* Hospex

==== History ====
* Started to collect names: February 18, 2014
* Initially name was suggested on June 10, 2014 by Kasper.
* We finally decided on it on Dec 10, 2014 together with Kasper, Mikael, Callum, Natalia and Carlos.

==== Name ideas ====
abunding, abundice, abundness, abundly, abundeous, axessible, axess, trusteous, truestarred, abundhood, bravurance, bravout, yobravo, cobravo, hopbravo, bravohop, bravohopping, Crobbu - "Globe" in Sicilian - all domains available, Something from Tribe?, Something from Share, Bravo variants aren't bad either - sounds a bit tacky - reminds some telly stuff, NomadLink, Nomadity, NomadX, NowMad, NowMads, Roadfriend, Roadie, '''TrustRoots''' (suggested by Guaka), Trusty, Mondohop, TrustNomad, NomadicTrust, NomadTrust, NomadRoots

==== Slogans ====
* Tribal connection
* Tribal community
* Welcome home

== Related Projects ==

==== Our own projects ====
* [[:hitch:|Hitchwiki]]
* [[:trash:|Trashwiki]]
* [[:nomad:|Nomadwiki]]

==== Hospex friends ====
Non-profit projects that focus on free software and real life sharing.
* [BeWelcome](https://www.bewelcome.org/)
* [Warmshowers](http://warmshowers.org/)
* [Hackercouch](https://hackercouch.com/)

==== Other projects ====
might be interesting to check out
* [ThePoosh](http://thepoosh.org/)
* [Volunteersbase](http://www.volunteersbase.com/)
* [RoamALot](https://www.roamalot.com/)
* [Hitchlog](http://www.hitchlog.com/)
* http://findanomad.com/
* http://where-my-nomads.at/
* http://www.backpackclub.org/
* https://www.horizonapp.co/
* http://www.wwoof.net/
* https://www.helpx.net/
* https://www.workaway.info/
* http://www.ecobasa.org/en/
* http://www.borrowmybike.org
* http://bike-sharing.org/
* http://www.bikesurf.org/
* http://mumimhere.info/
* https://www.worldpackers.com/
* http://www.pitchplace.org/
* http://www.sustainablecouch.org/
* http://www.staydu.com/
* http://thereiam.org/
* http://nomad.network/
* https://foodsharing.de/
* https://www.yunity.org/
* https://nomadbase.io/

==== Airbnb'ish projects ====
* http://www.staydu.com/
* https://www.guesttoguest.com/en/
* https://www.gocampr.com/

[[Category:Hospitality exchange networks]]

Trustroots

2019-01-05T17:07:16Z

Iotrj:

Main Page

2019-01-05T17:06:28Z

Iotrj: /* Good stuff */

{{trwiki}}

The [[Trustroots Wiki]] is a community guide for [[Trustroots]], and more generally for hospitality exchange networks. It can also serve as an informal workspace for stuff related to hospitality. Currently we are working on {{NUMBEROFARTICLES}} articles.

{{tribes}}

== Good stuff ==
* '''[[How To Write A Couch Request]]'''
* '''[[How To Be A Good Guest]]'''
* '''[[How To Be A Good Host]]'''
* [[Rural Hospitality]]
* [[Guide to punk]]
* [[:Category:Social_Movements|Social Movements]]
* [[:Category:100_Things|100 Things to do in every city]]
* [[:Category:Etiquette_Guides|Etiquette Guides]]
* [[List of projects related to Hospitality Exchange]]

== Regional guides ==

* '''[[Africa]]'''
* '''[[Asia]]'''
* '''[[Central America]]'''
* '''[[Europe]]'''
* '''[[Middle East]]'''
* '''[[North America]]'''
* '''[[Oceania]]'''
* '''[[South America]]'''

Trustroots Wiki is a Travel community guide for anyone involved in hospitality exchange networks such as [[Trustroots]], [[BeWelcome]], [[Warm Showers]] and [[CouchSurfing]]. We have a lot of experience with wikis and we think that anyone should be able to edit [[Project:About|this wiki]]. We try to avoid setting rules though we do have some '''[[Project:About#What are the Guidelines|guidelines]]'''. All content is available under a ShareAlike Attribution Creative Commons license.

New to hospitality exchange networks? Want to know more? Check out and improve [[A Brief History of Hospitality Exchange Networks]]

== Discussions ==

'''[[Project:Why wikicouch|Why Couchwiki?]]'''
* [[Project:Community Portal|Community in control]]
* [http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/ Creative Commons License]
* [[Multilingual]]
* [[Hospitality exchange]] is more than [[CouchSurfing]]

This wiki originally started as Couchwiki, in 2009, when [[CouchSurfing]] management [https://www.couchsurfing.com/groups/3727/threads/15894435 decided] to [https://www.couchsurfing.com/groups/3727/threads/18308442 delete] the [[CouchSurfing wiki]].

__NOTOC__

[[Category:Browse]]
[[trash:Main Page]]
[[share:Main Page]]
[[hitch:Main Page]]
[[velo:Main Page]]
[[cash:Main Page]]
[[nomad:Main Page]]

Main Page

2019-01-05T17:04:07Z

Iotrj: /* Good stuff */

{{trwiki}}

The [[Trustroots Wiki]] is a community guide for [[Trustroots]], and more generally for hospitality exchange networks. It can also serve as an informal workspace for stuff related to hospitality. Currently we are working on {{NUMBEROFARTICLES}} articles.

{{tribes}}

== Good stuff ==
* '''[[How To Write A Couch Request]]'''
* '''[[How To Be A Good Guest]]'''
* '''[[How To Be A Good Host]]'''
* [[Rural Hospitality]]
* [[Guide to punk]]
* [[:Category:Social_Movements|Social Movements]]
* [[:Category:100_Things|100 Things to do in every city]]
* [[:Category:Etiquette_Guides|Etiquette Guides]]
* '''[[List of projects related to Hospitality Exchange]]'''

== Regional guides ==

* '''[[Africa]]'''
* '''[[Asia]]'''
* '''[[Central America]]'''
* '''[[Europe]]'''
* '''[[Middle East]]'''
* '''[[North America]]'''
* '''[[Oceania]]'''
* '''[[South America]]'''

Trustroots Wiki is a Travel community guide for anyone involved in hospitality exchange networks such as [[Trustroots]], [[BeWelcome]], [[Warm Showers]] and [[CouchSurfing]]. We have a lot of experience with wikis and we think that anyone should be able to edit [[Project:About|this wiki]]. We try to avoid setting rules though we do have some '''[[Project:About#What are the Guidelines|guidelines]]'''. All content is available under a ShareAlike Attribution Creative Commons license.

New to hospitality exchange networks? Want to know more? Check out and improve [[A Brief History of Hospitality Exchange Networks]]

== Discussions ==

'''[[Project:Why wikicouch|Why Couchwiki?]]'''
* [[Project:Community Portal|Community in control]]
* [http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/ Creative Commons License]
* [[Multilingual]]
* [[Hospitality exchange]] is more than [[CouchSurfing]]

This wiki originally started as Couchwiki, in 2009, when [[CouchSurfing]] management [https://www.couchsurfing.com/groups/3727/threads/15894435 decided] to [https://www.couchsurfing.com/groups/3727/threads/18308442 delete] the [[CouchSurfing wiki]].

__NOTOC__

[[Category:Browse]]
[[trash:Main Page]]
[[share:Main Page]]
[[hitch:Main Page]]
[[velo:Main Page]]
[[cash:Main Page]]
[[nomad:Main Page]]

List of projects related to Hospitality Exchange

2019-01-05T17:02:47Z

Iotrj:

==== Our own projects ====
* [[Trustroots]][https://www.trustroots.org/]
* [[:hitch:|Hitchwiki]]
* [[:trash:|Trashwiki]]
* [[:nomad:|Nomadwiki]]

==== Hospex friends ====
Non-profit projects that focus on free software and real life sharing.
* [[BeWelcome]][https://www.bewelcome.org/]
* [[Warm Showers]][http://warmshowers.org/]
* https://hackercouch.com/

==== Other projects ====
might be interesting to check out
* http://thepoosh.org/
* http://www.volunteersbase.com/
* http://www.hitchlog.com/
* http://findanomad.com/
* http://where-my-nomads.at/
* http://www.backpackclub.org/
* https://www.horizonapp.co/
* http://www.wwoof.net/
* https://www.helpx.net/
* https://www.workaway.info/
* http://www.ecobasa.org/en/
* http://www.borrowmybike.org
* http://bike-sharing.org/
* http://www.bikesurf.org/
* http://mumimhere.info/
* https://www.worldpackers.com/
* http://www.pitchplace.org/
* http://www.sustainablecouch.org/
* http://www.staydu.com/
* http://thereiam.org/
* http://nomad.network/
* https://foodsharing.de/
* https://www.yunity.org/
* https://nomadbase.io/

==== Airbnb'ish projects ====
* http://www.staydu.com/
* https://www.guesttoguest.com/en/
* https://www.gocampr.com/

[[Category:Hospitality exchange networks]]

List of projects related to Hospitality Exchange

2019-01-05T16:59:43Z

Iotrj:

==== Our own projects ====
* [[Trustroots]][https://www.trustroots.org/]
* [[:hitch:|Hitchwiki]]
* [[:trash:|Trashwiki]]
* [[:nomad:|Nomadwiki]]

==== Hospex friends ====
Non-profit projects that focus on free software and real life sharing.
* [[BeWelcome]][https://www.bewelcome.org/]
* [[Warm Showers]][http://warmshowers.org/]
* https://hackercouch.com/

==== Other projects ====
might be interesting to check out
* [[ThePoosh]][http://thepoosh.org/]
* [[Volunteersbase]][http://www.volunteersbase.com/]
* [[Hitchlog]][http://www.hitchlog.com/]
* http://findanomad.com/
* http://where-my-nomads.at/
* http://www.backpackclub.org/
* https://www.horizonapp.co/
* http://www.wwoof.net/
* https://www.helpx.net/
* https://www.workaway.info/
* http://www.ecobasa.org/en/
* http://www.borrowmybike.org
* http://bike-sharing.org/
* http://www.bikesurf.org/
* http://mumimhere.info/
* https://www.worldpackers.com/
* http://www.pitchplace.org/
* http://www.sustainablecouch.org/
* http://www.staydu.com/
* http://thereiam.org/
* http://nomad.network/
* https://foodsharing.de/
* https://www.yunity.org/
* https://nomadbase.io/

==== Airbnb'ish projects ====
* http://www.staydu.com/
* https://www.guesttoguest.com/en/
* https://www.gocampr.com/

[[Category:Hospitality exchange networks]]

List of projects related to Hospitality Exchange

2019-01-05T16:57:41Z

Iotrj:

==== Our own projects ====
* [[Trustroots]][https://www.trustroots.org/]
* [[:hitch:|Hitchwiki]]
* [[:trash:|Trashwiki]]
* [[:nomad:|Nomadwiki]]

==== Hospex friends ====
Non-profit projects that focus on free software and real life sharing.
* [[BeWelcome]][https://www.bewelcome.org/]
* [[Warmshowers]][http://warmshowers.org/]
* [[Hackercouch]][https://hackercouch.com/]

==== Other projects ====
might be interesting to check out
* [[ThePoosh]][http://thepoosh.org/]
* [[Volunteersbase]][http://www.volunteersbase.com/]
* [[Hitchlog]][http://www.hitchlog.com/]
* http://findanomad.com/
* http://where-my-nomads.at/
* http://www.backpackclub.org/
* https://www.horizonapp.co/
* http://www.wwoof.net/
* https://www.helpx.net/
* https://www.workaway.info/
* http://www.ecobasa.org/en/
* http://www.borrowmybike.org
* http://bike-sharing.org/
* http://www.bikesurf.org/
* http://mumimhere.info/
* https://www.worldpackers.com/
* http://www.pitchplace.org/
* http://www.sustainablecouch.org/
* http://www.staydu.com/
* http://thereiam.org/
* http://nomad.network/
* https://foodsharing.de/
* https://www.yunity.org/
* https://nomadbase.io/

==== Airbnb'ish projects ====
* http://www.staydu.com/
* https://www.guesttoguest.com/en/
* https://www.gocampr.com/

[[Category:Hospitality exchange networks]]

List of projects related to Hospitality Exchange

2019-01-05T16:53:29Z

Iotrj:

==== Our own projects ====
* [Trustroots](https://www.trustroots.org/)
* [[:hitch:|Hitchwiki]]
* [[:trash:|Trashwiki]]
* [[:nomad:|Nomadwiki]]

==== Hospex friends ====
Non-profit projects that focus on free software and real life sharing.
* [[BeWelcome]][https://www.bewelcome.org/]
* [[Warmshowers]](http://warmshowers.org/)
* [[Hackercouch]](https://hackercouch.com/)

==== Other projects ====
might be interesting to check out
* [ThePoosh](http://thepoosh.org/)
* [Volunteersbase](http://www.volunteersbase.com/)
* [Hitchlog](http://www.hitchlog.com/)
* http://findanomad.com/
* http://where-my-nomads.at/
* http://www.backpackclub.org/
* https://www.horizonapp.co/
* http://www.wwoof.net/
* https://www.helpx.net/
* https://www.workaway.info/
* http://www.ecobasa.org/en/
* http://www.borrowmybike.org
* http://bike-sharing.org/
* http://www.bikesurf.org/
* http://mumimhere.info/
* https://www.worldpackers.com/
* http://www.pitchplace.org/
* http://www.sustainablecouch.org/
* http://www.staydu.com/
* http://thereiam.org/
* http://nomad.network/
* https://foodsharing.de/
* https://www.yunity.org/
* https://nomadbase.io/

==== Airbnb'ish projects ====
* http://www.staydu.com/
* https://www.guesttoguest.com/en/
* https://www.gocampr.com/

[[Category:Hospitality exchange networks]]

List of projects related to Hospitality Exchange

2019-01-05T16:48:19Z

Iotrj: Created page with "==== Our own projects ==== * [Trustroots](https://www.trustroots.org/) * Hitchwiki * Trashwiki * Nomadwiki ==== Hospex friends ==== Non-pr..."

==== Our own projects ====
* [Trustroots](https://www.trustroots.org/)
* [[:hitch:|Hitchwiki]]
* [[:trash:|Trashwiki]]
* [[:nomad:|Nomadwiki]]

==== Hospex friends ====
Non-profit projects that focus on free software and real life sharing.
* [BeWelcome](https://www.bewelcome.org/)
* [Warmshowers](http://warmshowers.org/)
* [Hackercouch](https://hackercouch.com/)

==== Other projects ====
might be interesting to check out
* [ThePoosh](http://thepoosh.org/)
* [Volunteersbase](http://www.volunteersbase.com/)
* [Hitchlog](http://www.hitchlog.com/)
* http://findanomad.com/
* http://where-my-nomads.at/
* http://www.backpackclub.org/
* https://www.horizonapp.co/
* http://www.wwoof.net/
* https://www.helpx.net/
* https://www.workaway.info/
* http://www.ecobasa.org/en/
* http://www.borrowmybike.org
* http://bike-sharing.org/
* http://www.bikesurf.org/
* http://mumimhere.info/
* https://www.worldpackers.com/
* http://www.pitchplace.org/
* http://www.sustainablecouch.org/
* http://www.staydu.com/
* http://thereiam.org/
* http://nomad.network/
* https://foodsharing.de/
* https://www.yunity.org/
* https://nomadbase.io/

==== Airbnb'ish projects ====
* http://www.staydu.com/
* https://www.guesttoguest.com/en/
* https://www.gocampr.com/

[[Category:Hospitality exchange networks]]

Hospitality exchange

2019-01-04T18:44:27Z

Iotrj: Undo revision 11177 by Iotrj (talk)

The concept of '''Hospitality Exchange''', also known as “accommodation sharing”, “hospitality services” (short “hospex”), and “home stay networks”, refers to centrally organized [[social network]]s of individuals, generally travelers, who offer or seek accommodation without monetary exchange. Generally, these services connect users via the internet.

== History ==

In 1949, Bob Luitweiler founded the first hospitality service called [[Servas Open Doors]] as a cross national, non-profit, volunteer run organization advocating interracial and international peace. In 1965, John Wilcock set up the Traveler's Directory as a listing of his friends willing to host each other when traveling. In 1988, Joy Lily rescued the organization from imminent shutdown, forming Hospitality Exchange. In 2000, Veit Kuhne founded [[Hospitality Club]], the first widely known Internet-based service (many others existed since the late 90s but never reached the high number of users that HC reached). In 2004, Casey Fenton started [[CouchSurfing]], now the largest hospitality exchange organization.

== How they work ==

Generally, after registering, members have the option of providing very detailed information and pictures of themselves and of the sleeping accommodation being offered, if any. The more information provided by a member improves the chances that someone will find the member trustworthy enough to be their [[host]] or guest. Names and addresses may be [[verification|verified]] by volunteers. Members looking for accommodation can search for [[host]]s using several parameters such as age, location, gender, and activity level. Home stays are entirely consensual between the [[host]] and guest, and the duration, nature, and terms of the guest's stay are generally worked out in advance to the convenience of both parties. No monetary exchange takes place except under certain circumstances (e.g. the guest may compensate the host for food). After using the service, members can leave a noticeable reference about their host or guest.

Instead of or in addition to accommodation, members also offer to provide guide services or travel-related advice. The websites of the networks also provide editable travel guides and forums where members may seek travel partners or advice. Many such organizations are also focused on "social networking" and members organize activities such as camping trips, bar crawls, meetings, and sporting events.

Some networks cater to specific niche markets such as students, activists, religious pilgrims, and even occupational groups like police officers.

== Benefits ==
=== Monetary savings ===
As these networks provide accommodation at no charge, monetary savings can be significant.

=== Local contact ===
Hospitality exchange gives travelers the chance to experience what life is like for people living in other places. In addition, making interpersonal connections and fostering understanding of different cultures may in the long run also be important to international relations. During hospitality exchanges, hosts may show off their local knowledge and exciting places “off the tourist map”. Not only may travelers get a distinct experience, but they will also get a feel for the everyday lives of local residents.

=== Reciprocity ===
These systems foster richer and more convenient travel experiences not so much on the premise of [[altruism]], but on the basis of [[social exchange theory]]. Implicit in the agreement to host travelers is the ability to ask to be hosted by them in the future. If one enjoys having interesting guests in their home, this works out well for both parties. It works comparatively better if you are visited by travelers from a locale you find particularly attractive. Thus, hosting someone from [[New York City]] in [[Gainesville, Florida]] seems to be an unbelievable opportunity. Moreover, if you are a Westerner visiting someone in a [[developing country]], your stay might be the only way that this individual or family could afford a trip to a rich nation. This may mean more than just a relaxing vacation for such disadvantaged parties.

=== Ecological sustainability ===
Accommodation sharing reduces the demand for hotels, which, depending on the location can be detrimental for the environment.

== Drawbacks ==
=== Lack of guarantee ===
There is no contractual agreement between users in these systems. Reservations are made, but if they are for some reason broken, there is no higher authority to which one could plead for a refund or other compensation. The only repercussion will be the poor rating you give that user and your only consolation will be that your warning will deter others from visiting or hosting them. For those who feel insecure unless their travel arrangements are written in stone before departure, this system will not be comforting.

=== Potential interpersonal conflict or awkwardness ===
There is a chance that guest and host will not get along. Perhaps there will be scheduling or ideological conflicts. Maybe you will find that hosts or visitors have misrepresented themselves. Perhaps the experience will not live up to your expectations. Intense interpersonal communications in advance and a flexibility once you have arrived is your best bet. These experiences require additional planning and courtesy towards the demands of your host. Thus, your living conditions, length of stay, and overall experience will be circumscribed by the living conditions you enter into.

=== Digital divide and demographic segregation ===
As use of these services generally requires access to the internet and knowledge of the English language, the sample population found in searches of these databases is really much less diverse than a geographical representation of worldwide users might suggest.

=== Security ===
Staying in someone's house, or inviting people into your house leaves open the possibility of being taken advantage of.

== Example networks ==
There are countless websites that serve the idea of hospitality service, with new ones appearing as this phenomenon becomes more popular. While this page is not intended to be a directory listing, here is a small sample of the well-established and long-standing networks:

* [[CouchSurfing]] - A very active network with over 1.3 million members in more than 200 countries
* [[BeWelcome]] - An active network with over 115.000 members in more than 200 countries
* [[Trustroots]] - An active network with over 34.000 members
* [[Hospitality Club]] - An out-dated network with over 550.000 members, but most of them not active any more
* [[Servas Open Doors|Servas International]] - Human rights and global peace oriented since 1949. A relatively small network now with over 15.000 members(?) with a very long history

=== Specialized networks ===

Some networks offer specialised hospitality services. There are at least 15 (specialised) hospitality services.<ref>[http://www.hospitalityguide.net/ HospEx - Hospitality Exchange Networks Overview]</ref>, here are some examples:

* [[Lesbian and Gay Hospitality Exchange International]] [http://www.lghei.org/];
* [[Warm Showers]] - Hospitality network towards touring cyclists;
* Dachgeber[http://dachgeber.de/] - Hospitality network towards touring cyclists in Germany with about 3000 members. (See our German article [[:de:Dachgeber|Dachgeber]].)
* [[Pasporta Servo]][http://www.tejo.org/eo/ps_lingv_en/] - for [[Esperanto]] speakers;
* [[WWOOF]][http://www.wwoof.org/] - "Worldwide Opportunities on Organic Farms", help on the property is exchanged for food, accommodation, education and cultural interaction;
* HelpX[http://www.helpx.net/] - "Help Exchange", help is exchanged for food, accommodation, experience and cultural interaction;
* Homeshare International [http://www.homeshare.org/] - charity organisation providing exchange of housing for help in the home.
* Ridester[http://www.ridester.com] -- ride sharing for travelers.

== References ==
{{reflist}}

== External links ==
* [http://en.wikivoyage.org/wiki/Hospitality_exchange Article on www.wikivoyage.org]

{{wikipedia}}

[[Category:Hospitality exchange networks]]
[[Category:Concepts]]
[[share:Hospitality exchange]]
[[hitch:Hospitality exchange]]
[[nomad:Hospitality exchange]]

Trustroots Wiki:About

2019-01-04T18:37:23Z

Iotrj: /* Why use Trustroots Wiki? */

{{trwiki}}

'''Trustroots Wiki''' is a wiki for [[Trustroots]] and related projects. We can use it to build Trustroots travel guides, as a notepad for ideas and whatever else you come up with.

In a former life the Trustroots Wiki was '''Couchwiki''', a travel community guide for hospitality networks like [http://couchsurfing.org/ CouchSurfing], [http://hosptalityclub.org/ Hospitality Club], [http://bewelcome.org/ BeWelcome], [http://BeLodged.com/ BeLodged], [http://www.globalfreeloaders.com/ Global Freeloaders], [http://servas.org/ Servas] etc.

A travel community guide is something like [http://wikivoyage.org/ Wikivoyage] but more personal and more about community activity. It helps you experience travel with the senses of a local.

== Why use Trustroots Wiki? ==
Simple. Because Trustroots Wiki is open to anyone and everyone. It is in keeping with the philosophy of inclusion and openness. We believe in decentralized control, in self-moderation, and that everyone who has something valuable to contribute may do so with ease.

== What are the guidelines ==
See [[project:Guidelines|Guidelines]]

==History and background==
Back in August 2006 [[User:Guaka|guaka]] ([[User talk:Guaka|talk]]) started the original Couchsurfing Wiki in 2006 (and [[:hitch:|hitchwiki]] a bit later, and [[:hitch:|trashwiki]] in 2008). In 2007 he stopped volunteering for couchsurfing because of the direction chosen, a direction which became clearer and more crystallized throughout the years (the 2011 sellout and the draconian ToU of 2012 were not really a surprise).

Since 2007 the couchsurfing wiki wasn't really maintained anymore and in 2009 there were talks about deleting the entire couchsurfing wiki and the idea was born to start an independent wiki, that is Couchwiki. In December 2012 the Couchsurfing corporation finally announced they will render the couchsurfing wiki inaccessible to the general public. This deletion finally happened in 2013, which finally allowed a proper wiki community around hospitality exchange to come into life.

== Hosting and costs ==
Couchwiki was [[:moneyless:free-wiki-hosting|hosted for free]] by Guaka, who also pays for the domain name. Trustroots Wiki is kinda the same for now.

Trustroots Wiki:About

2019-01-04T11:53:38Z

Iotrj: Reverted edits by Iotrj (talk) to last revision by Guaka

Hospitality exchange

2019-01-04T11:52:06Z

Iotrj: Reverted edits by Iotrj (talk) to last revision by Guaka

The concept of '''Hospitality Exchange''', also known as “accommodation sharing”, “hospitality services” (short “hospex”), and “home stay networks”, refers to centrally organized [[social network]]s of individuals, generally travelers, who offer or seek accommodation without monetary exchange. Generally, these services connect users via the internet.

== History ==

In 1949, Bob Luitweiler founded the first hospitality service called [[Servas Open Doors]] as a cross national, non-profit, volunteer run organization advocating interracial and international peace. In 1965, John Wilcock set up the Traveler's Directory as a listing of his friends willing to host each other when traveling. In 1988, Joy Lily rescued the organization from imminent shutdown, forming Hospitality Exchange. In 2000, Veit Kuhne founded [[Hospitality Club]], the first widely known Internet-based service (many others existed since the late 90s but never reached the high number of users that HC reached). In 2004, Casey Fenton started [[CouchSurfing]], now the largest hospitality exchange organization.

== How they work ==

Generally, after registering, members have the option of providing very detailed information and pictures of themselves and of the sleeping accommodation being offered, if any. The more information provided by a member improves the chances that someone will find the member trustworthy enough to be their [[host]] or guest. Names and addresses may be [[verification|verified]] by volunteers. Members looking for accommodation can search for [[host]]s using several parameters such as age, location, gender, and activity level. Home stays are entirely consensual between the [[host]] and guest, and the duration, nature, and terms of the guest's stay are generally worked out in advance to the convenience of both parties. No monetary exchange takes place except under certain circumstances (e.g. the guest may compensate the host for food). After using the service, members can leave a noticeable reference about their host or guest.

Instead of or in addition to accommodation, members also offer to provide guide services or travel-related advice. The websites of the networks also provide editable travel guides and forums where members may seek travel partners or advice. Many such organizations are also focused on "social networking" and members organize activities such as camping trips, bar crawls, meetings, and sporting events.

Some networks cater to specific niche markets such as students, activists, religious pilgrims, and even occupational groups like police officers.

== Benefits ==
=== Monetary savings ===
As these networks provide accommodation at no charge, monetary savings can be significant.

=== Local contact ===
Hospitality exchange gives travelers the chance to experience what life is like for people living in other places. In addition, making interpersonal connections and fostering understanding of different cultures may in the long run also be important to international relations. During hospitality exchanges, hosts may show off their local knowledge and exciting places “off the tourist map”. Not only may travelers get a distinct experience, but they will also get a feel for the everyday lives of local residents.

=== Reciprocity ===
These systems foster richer and more convenient travel experiences not so much on the premise of [[altruism]], but on the basis of [[social exchange theory]]. Implicit in the agreement to host travelers is the ability to ask to be hosted by them in the future. If one enjoys having interesting guests in their home, this works out well for both parties. It works comparatively better if you are visited by travelers from a locale you find particularly attractive. Thus, hosting someone from [[New York City]] in [[Gainesville, Florida]] seems to be an unbelievable opportunity. Moreover, if you are a Westerner visiting someone in a [[developing country]], your stay might be the only way that this individual or family could afford a trip to a rich nation. This may mean more than just a relaxing vacation for such disadvantaged parties.

=== Ecological sustainability ===
Accommodation sharing reduces the demand for hotels, which, depending on the location can be detrimental for the environment.

== Drawbacks ==
=== Lack of guarantee ===
There is no contractual agreement between users in these systems. Reservations are made, but if they are for some reason broken, there is no higher authority to which one could plead for a refund or other compensation. The only repercussion will be the poor rating you give that user and your only consolation will be that your warning will deter others from visiting or hosting them. For those who feel insecure unless their travel arrangements are written in stone before departure, this system will not be comforting.

=== Potential interpersonal conflict or awkwardness ===
There is a chance that guest and host will not get along. Perhaps there will be scheduling or ideological conflicts. Maybe you will find that hosts or visitors have misrepresented themselves. Perhaps the experience will not live up to your expectations. Intense interpersonal communications in advance and a flexibility once you have arrived is your best bet. These experiences require additional planning and courtesy towards the demands of your host. Thus, your living conditions, length of stay, and overall experience will be circumscribed by the living conditions you enter into.

=== Digital divide and demographic segregation ===
As use of these services generally requires access to the internet and knowledge of the English language, the sample population found in searches of these databases is really much less diverse than a geographical representation of worldwide users might suggest.

=== Security ===
Staying in someone's house, or inviting people into your house leaves open the possibility of being taken advantage of.

== Example networks ==
There are countless websites that serve the idea of hospitality service, with new ones appearing as this phenomenon becomes more popular. While this page is not intended to be a directory listing, here is a small sample of the well-established and long-standing networks:

* [[CouchSurfing]] - A very active network with over 1.3 million members in more than 200 countries
* [[Hospitality Club]] - A very active network with over 550,000 members in more than 200 countries
* [[Servas Open Doors|Servas International]] - human rights and global peace oriented since 1949. A relatively small network now with over 15,000 members(?) with a very long history.

=== Specialized networks ===

Some networks offer specialised hospitality services. There are at least 15 (specialised) hospitality services.<ref>[http://www.hospitalityguide.net/ HospEx - Hospitality Exchange Networks Overview]</ref>, here are some examples:

* [[Lesbian and Gay Hospitality Exchange International]] [http://www.lghei.org/];
* Warm Showers[http://www.warmshowers.org/] - Hospitality network towards touring cyclists;
* Dachgeber[http://dachgeber.de/] - Hospitality network towards touring cyclists in Germany with about 3000 members. (See our German article [[:de:Dachgeber|Dachgeber]].)
* [[Pasporta Servo]][http://www.tejo.org/eo/ps_lingv_en/] - for [[Esperanto]] speakers;
* [[WWOOF]][http://www.wwoof.org/] - "Worldwide Opportunities on Organic Farms", help on the property is exchanged for food, accommodation, education and cultural interaction;
* HelpX[http://www.helpx.net/] - "Help Exchange", help is exchanged for food, accommodation, experience and cultural interaction;
* Homeshare International [http://www.homeshare.org/] -- charity organisation providing exchange of housing for help in the home.
* Ridester[http://www.ridester.com] -- ride sharing for travelers.

== References ==
{{reflist}}

== External links ==
* [http://en.wikivoyage.org/wiki/Hospitality_exchange Article on www.wikivoyage.org]

{{wikipedia}}

[[Category:Hospitality exchange networks]]
[[Category:Concepts]]
[[share:Hospitality exchange]]
[[hitch:Hospitality exchange]]
[[nomad:Hospitality exchange]]

List of hospitality exchange networks

2019-01-04T11:49:07Z

Iotrj:

{| class="wikitable sortable" style="text-align: center; font-size: 85%; width: 100%; table-layout: fixed;"
|-
! Network
! Founder
! Date created
! Number of members
! Legal form
! Income
! Software
|-
! [http://amigost.com/ Amigost]
| ???
| 2006
| ???
| ???
| ???
| Proprietary
|-
! [[Belodged]]
| ???
| 2007
| 8100
| Corporation (PanUnique AG)
| ???
| Proprietary
|-
! [[BeWelcome]]
| [[BeVolunteer]]
| 2007
| 115,000
| Non Profit
| Donations
| GPL
|-
! [http://www.comitasintergentes.org/ Comitas Inter Gentes]
| Sascha Bretag
| 2007
| ???
| ???
| ???
| Joomla
|-
! [[CouchSurfing]]
| [[Casey Fenton]]
| 2004
| 14,000,000
| C corporation (with "B Lab certification")
| "verification" money
| Proprietary
|-
! [[couchsurfing.net - traveller's community for international connections|Couchsurfing.net]]
| ???
| ???
| ???
| ???
| ???
| ???
|-
! [[Friendship Force]]
| ???
| ???
| ???
| ???
| ???
| ???
|-
! [[GlobalFreeLoaders]]
| ???
| ???
| ???
| ???
| ???
| ???
|-
! [[Hospitality Club]]
| Veit Kühne
| 2000
| 790,000
| Sole proprietorship
| Google Ads
| Proprietary
|-
! [[HOSPEX]]
| ???
| ???
| ???
| ???
| ???
| ???
|-
! [[Lesbian & Gay Hospitality Exchange International]]
| ???
| ???
| ???
| ???
| ???
| ???
|-
! [[MeetURplanet]]
| ???
| ???
| ???
| ???
| ???
| ???
|-
! [[Pasporta Servo]]
| ???
| ???
| ???
| ???
| ???
| ???
|-
! [http://www.place2stay.net/ Place2Stay]
| ???
| ???
| ???
| ???
| ???
| ???
|-
! [http://www.schlafbuch.de/ Schlafbuch der Erdenbürger]
| ???
| ???
| ???
| ???
| ???
| ???
|-
! [[Servas]]
| Bob Luitweiler
| 1949
| 15,000
| NGO
| Annual fee
| Paper based
|-
! [[Stay4Free]]
| ???
| ???
| ???
| ???
| ???
| ???
|-
! [http://www.teacherstravelweb.com/ Teachers Travel Web]
| ???
| ???
| ???
| ???
| Annual fee
| ???
|-
! [[Tripping]]
| [[Jen O'Neal]]
| 2009
| 700
| social entrepreneurship company / profit reinvested into site
| ???
| ???
|-
! [[Trustroots]]
| Trustroots Foundation
| 2014
| 34,000
| Non Profit
| ???
| ???
|-
! [[Warm Showers List]]
| Randy Fay?
| 2005
| 119,000
| 501c3 organization
| Donations
| Drupal
|-
! [http://www.welcometraveller.org/ Welcome Traveller Network]
| ???
| ???
| ???
| ???
| ???
| ???
|-
! [http://www.womenwelcomewomen.org.uk/ Women Welcome Women World Wide]
| ???
| ???
| ???
| ???
| ???
| ???
|}

== See also ==
* https://ideas.trustroots.org/comparison-of-hospitality-exchange-platforms/

[[Category:Hospitality exchange networks]]

List of hospitality exchange networks

2019-01-04T11:43:52Z

Iotrj:

{| class="wikitable sortable" style="text-align: center; font-size: 85%; width: 100%; table-layout: fixed;"
|-
! Network
! Founder
! Date created
! Number of members
! Legal form
! Income
! Software
|-
! [http://amigost.com/ Amigost]
| ???
| 2006
| ???
| ???
| ???
| Proprietary
|-
! [[Belodged]]
| ???
| 2007
| 8100
| Corporation (PanUnique AG)
| ???
| Proprietary
|-
! [[BeWelcome]]
| [[BeVolunteer]]
| 2007
| 115,000
| Non Profit
| Donations
| GPL
|-
! [http://www.comitasintergentes.org/ Comitas Inter Gentes]
| Sascha Bretag
| 2007
| ???
| ???
| ???
| Joomla
|-
! [[CouchSurfing]]
| [[Casey Fenton]]
| 2004
| 14,000,000
| C corporation (with "B Lab certification")
| "verification" money
| Proprietary
|-
! [[couchsurfing.net - traveller's community for international connections|Couchsurfing.net]]
| ???
| ???
| ???
| ???
| ???
| ???
|-
! [[Friendship Force]]
| ???
| ???
| ???
| ???
| ???
| ???
|-
! [[GlobalFreeLoaders]]
| ???
| ???
| ???
| ???
| ???
| ???
|-
! [[Hospitality Club]]
| Veit Kühne
| 2000
| 790,000
| Sole proprietorship
| Google Ads
| Proprietary
|-
! [[HOSPEX]]
| ???
| ???
| ???
| ???
| ???
| ???
|-
! [[Lesbian & Gay Hospitality Exchange International]]
| ???
| ???
| ???
| ???
| ???
| ???
|-
! [[MeetURplanet]]
| ???
| ???
| ???
| ???
| ???
| ???
|-
! [[Pasporta Servo]]
| ???
| ???
| ???
| ???
| ???
| ???
|-
! [http://www.place2stay.net/ Place2Stay]
| ???
| ???
| ???
| ???
| ???
| ???
|-
! [http://www.schlafbuch.de/ Schlafbuch der Erdenbürger]
| ???
| ???
| ???
| ???
| ???
| ???
|-
! [[Servas]]
| Bob Luitweiler
| 1949
| 15,000
| NGO
| Annual fee
| Paper based
|-
! [[Stay4Free]]
| ???
| ???
| ???
| ???
| ???
| ???
|-
! [http://www.teacherstravelweb.com/ Teachers Travel Web]
| ???
| ???
| ???
| ???
| Annual fee
| ???
|-
! [[Tripping]]
| [[Jen O'Neal]]
| 2009
| 700
| social entrepreneurship company / profit reinvested into site
| ???
| ???
|-
! [[Warm Showers List]]
| Randy Fay?
| 2005
| 119,000
| 501c3 organization
| Donations
| Drupal
|-
! [http://www.welcometraveller.org/ Welcome Traveller Network]
| ???
| ???
| ???
| ???
| ???
| ???
|-
! [http://www.womenwelcomewomen.org.uk/ Women Welcome Women World Wide]
| ???
| ???
| ???
| ???
| ???
| ???
|}

== See also ==
* https://ideas.trustroots.org/comparison-of-hospitality-exchange-platforms/

[[Category:Hospitality exchange networks]]