Berlin Sojourn

Gay Games pre-trip:
July 29-31, 2010
2 nights from $546 per person

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For many people the first thing that comes to mind when hearing "Berlin" is the Berlin Wall. The Berlin of today is in many the antithesis of what it was in the communist era. Streets that had grown somber and desolate are now alive with artistic expression, and burgeoning business. And a city that had uniform race thrust upon it, is now of the most cosmopolitan cities in Europe.

Compared to other European cities, Berlin with its less than 800 years is considered a rather young city, but its history is unique, and is known for much more than the Berlin Wall. The two founding towns Cölln and Berlin affiliated in 1307 for a union. After riots, elector Friedrich II. declared the twin town his residence in 1451.

1701, after elector Friedrich III had coronated himself as king Friedrich I in Prussia, Berlin rose to a Royal Capital and Residence Town. Numerous well-known buildings were designed then, and his grandson Friedrich II (1740–1786) continued with the architectural redesign of the city, assisted by the famous architect Knobelsdorff. This largely shapes the stunning Berlin we see today, alongside modern architectural masterpieces, beautiful parks, and fantastic pedestrian streets and squares.

Package Highlights:

• Fully escorted with the services of a Zoom Vacations Concierge throughout the trip.

•2 nights at the Axel Hotel Berlin, one of the newest hotels in the city.

• Breakfast daily

• One way economy train reservation from Cologne to Berlin. The picturesque German countryside unfolds as castles and charming villages come into view from the train.

• Taste of Berlin Tour: Our expert guide will show us the area of government administration - centers of old and new power, The Potsdamer Platz - the new center of Berlin, Historical Berlin - Unter den Linden - Nikolaiviertel – Gendarmenmarkt, Berlin architecture - traditional and modern architecture - town planning, Jewish life in Berlin, The Wall - old frontier, original parts of the wall, Checkpoint Charlie.

• Exploring the Berlin gay districts.

Accommodations: The Axel Hotel Berlin

Situated in Schöneberg, the heart of the gay scene in the city, Axel Hotel Berlin is fascinating for its cosmopolitan spirit and delicious, by the careful combination of design and comfort, and for excellent service. The charm and elegant mix of gold on black, overlay and textures make Axel Hotel Berlin a unique space in the German capital.

Rooms: The hotel has 86 design rooms, fully equipped to provide guests with maximum comfort: king size bed, plasma TV, On Stage iPod speakers, safe, room service, wi-fi ... 6 suites, 10 junior suites all of which are located in areas that characterizes the cylindrical shape of the building representative.

Location: Axel Hotel Berlin is situated only a few steps away from the legendary KaDeWe department store as well as the main commercial street, Ku’Damm, where the top, international fashion stores are to be found. Bars, restaurants, bookshops, discos, cinemas and fashion boutiques with style and glamour form part of an extensive hedonistic universe loaded with history.

Spa: Experiencing the rhythm of a city as dynamic as Berlin requires lots of energy. Head up to the sixth floor of the hotel and reactivate your body and your mind with the spectacular views of the city´s horizon. Enjoy the spa circuit of Axel Wellness.

Kitchen: Delight yourself with our exquisite culinary dishes while you enjoy the pleasant views of the restaurant´s interior or the views from the terrace. The Berlin mornings awake with sumptuous breakfasts: an abundant and varied buffet with an assortment of delicious handmade pastries, cereals, cheeses, fruits, natural juices and an exclusive selection of aromatic teas and coffees. Our elaborate menu offers meals and dinners designed for the most demanding gourmet eaters, and a competitive business menu with creative and natural cuisine.

Sky Bar: The coolest summer nights are experienced at Sky Bar, the open-air bar-lounge on the top floor of the hotel. Enjoy the Berlin night with a perfect mixture of music, exquisite cocktails, friends, leisure and glamour, while you admire the spectacular views of the city. And since we believe that things are made up of more than one color, Sky Bar surprises you both night and day.

Air: International and domestic airfare not included. Zoom Vacations has negotiated a 5% off your fare with American Airlines on this trip.  Go to aa.com/rainbow, type in your departure city and arrival city and don’t forget to enter the Promotion Code: (9470AI). Click " Get Fare".

*Land only Introductory rate, based on double occupancy. Prices are subject to change. Need a roommate? Zoom Vacations is happy to match you with someone, at no additional charge. Or, you may pay a single supplement and go as a single.

Please read Terms and Conditions prior to booking.