Tacheles

Tacheles was the pride of Berlin. The famous artist squat was much more than just a place where artists used to live illegally. Before the government closed it in an attempt to "clean up the area," Tacheles was a mecca for artists. The graffiti that covered the walls told a story as did the artists that lived and sold their art there. The prints and originals were among some of the best in the world and the artists came from all over. It's a shame that it has since closed but Berliners still have much love for the great building.

To truly experience Berlin and the raw spirit that guides it, Tacheles must be experienced. Whether is it summer or winter, the fumes of anarchic order, freedom, creativity and personality unique to Berlin permeate from Tacheles. A bombed out building that stands as a testimony to WWII, Tacheles also harbors the memories and lingering effects of the Cold War, combining the events of Berlin's history as a background that explains Berlin's identity today. This collective of artists of every medium provides a profound understanding of Berlin. Whether you are there to drink, loiter, crash on the beat up outdoor furniture, or dance at the venues inside (Café Zapata is not to be missed), a night at Tacheles can never be described as predictable or ordinary - such as walking in one night to find sand covering the backyard, and ending up dancing with Brazilians as musicians banged on makeshift drums. I suggest definitely taking the time to explore the art galleries in the three floors, artists from all over the world are ready to share their stories with you, as well as explain their attachment to Berlin and its powerful influence. Locals, ex-patriots and tourists alike party all night as hours speed by. Walk in to enjoy a beer at Tacheles and find yourself inexplicably stumbling out at dawn, having met some of the world's most interesting and unique people.

Alas, the legendary Tacheles Kunsthaus has finally been sold and will likely be demolished. Even so, it is still worth a visit to the area to check out if you may still venture inside. Ask any of the locals in the area about it and they will likely fill you in about what an incredible place it once was.

Probably my most favorite place at night in Berlin. I remember coming here ten years ago, not knowing anything about it, and the place instantly came back to me when I revisited this year and the year before. Give yourself a good few hours and come in the late afternoon when artists are still meandering around inside. But outside the backyard is full of interesting people, and you can spend an entire night back there without realizing it. Although it keeps being threatened to be closed, I think it's back alive for good now. All in all, just go there.

We were meant to go on an 'alternative tour' around Berlin but got on the wrong train and decided to do our own alternative tour (the alternative alternative tour). Tacheles was the first place we came across and what a place it was. As you enter the dark building, an aroma of wee instantly hits your nose. Once you get over this and climb the stairs covered in graffiti, you can feast your eyes on walls of graffiti and art. It's so much better going here than to a museum, you really feel a part of it and can even meet some of the artists living there.