The Great thing about the actuarial profession is that it's constantly evolving, it never stands still and the changes that are made are for the better. In the last 20 years the industry is so different in both it's offering and how it's perceived by others. This month, Travelling Actuary, Eve Hartridge visits a city that mirrors our profession in every way, Berlin.
Berlin, for me is the 'must-go' destination of Europe. The city is remarkable; ste  eped in history and unrecognisable from the bleak images beamed across our televisions just over 20 years ago. So much has happened in this Capital my head spins just thinking about listing them. I found Berlin one of the most welcoming and progressive destinations I have visited in recent times. Berliners are just so positive in their attitudes towards themselves and their city. Of course the city has had its fair share of moments it would rather it didn't, but these are acknowledged in an open and honest way. Anyone with a keen interest in learning and modern history will not be disappointed. I liked it, I liked it a lot, did you guess?
Where to Stay:
For the ultimate room with a view, there is one hotel that stands out from the rest, the Hotel Adlon Kempinski. Situated a few feet away from the stunning Brandenburg Gate, this stylish luxury retreat has been a favourite with A-listers for nearly a century. Much of the art deco history remains, including two stunning winter gardens. In recent years the hotel' Presidential Suite became world news when Michael Jackson chose to dangle his child from one of the windows. Aside from showbiz goings on this hotel is a perfect blend of old and ne  w, universally classic. As an added extra, be sure not to miss the award winning spa, booking one of the private rooms complete with private sauna, hot-tub and steam room is the final word in relaxation.
www.kempinski.com
What to See:
This should perhaps be called, where to start.
Seeing Berlin by foot is one option, however a far better (not to mention, rather geeky and great fun) way to get about is by Segway. Segways are brilliantly enjoyable, and can reach a rather unexpected 20kph - they're also illegal in the UK which for me creates more allure. Berlin is full of squares, parks and cycle paths, ideal for the Segway. From experience a Segway tour guide is always fun and extremely knowledgeable, and Berlin is no exception. In a 4 hour tour you can take in all of the major sites including the recreated Checkpoint Charlie, the genuine Wall section, The Jewish memorial, the parliament building, former Gestapo headquarters, and Brandenburg Gate to name just a few. There is a  break in the tour for a drink and sit down- if you're felling brave perhaps sample some currywurst. Just be sure to wear comfortable shoes, after a segway tour your feet will hurt
www.citysegwaytours.com/berlin
In Berlin there are so many Museums they even have a Museum Island! In an afternoon spent here you can learn about everything from The Third Reich to Prussian art. Stepping away from Museum Island it's worth exploring the Topography of Terror if you have an interest in World War II, it is also conveniently situated next to one of the few original strips of wall in the city. If the history of Berlin and the fall of the Iron Curtain is more where your interest lies a visit to the Berlin Museum, almost opposite Hotel Adlon would be for you. This museum is interactive and an very accessible way to learn about this city's history. Sadly it still shows the fall of the wall in 1989 to a David Hasselhoff soundtrack.
www.topographie.de
For something a little different, visit the Absinthe Depot, although not the home of the 'Green Fairy' Berlin was one of the few Bohemian centres that didn't ban the notorious liquor in the 1920s. The tasting session is fun and the guide is both fun and knowledgeable. So, give it a go, be daring.
Where to Eat
German cuisine is quite distinctive and sometimes not suited to the vegetarian pallet- mainly due to their fondness of sausages in many guises and varieties. Here are some suggestions:
For an unusual dining experience visit the Unsicht Bar. This is Berlin's dining in the dark experience, and although it takes a little getting used to it is worth it to experience the increased taste sensation. The waiters in the bar are extraordinary and all registered blind.
It comes as no great surprise that the Hotel Adlon offers one of the best gourmet fine dining experiences in the city. The tasting menu at 'Lorenz' is well worth a visit and booking is advisable.
Berlin is a large city and you really need a bird's eye view to see it all. If you head over to the TV Tower located in the former East Germany you can do just that. At the top of the Tower is a rotating bar and restaurant. Booking again is advisable and the cuisine is traditional German fayre.
www.tv-turm.de
Getting there
From Heathrow fly to Berlin with BMI. Their business class is excellent with both service and food of a high standard. If you have time the BMI Lounge is also worth a visit, it's spacious and what they offer is high quality.
www.flybmi.com
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