It was with lots of excitement that I left for Heathrow a few days ago. Not only was I going to be exploring Berlin, a city I have visited numerous times over the years for business and pleasure with much enthusiasm but I was also going on my first Escorted Tour with The Ultimate Travel Company. I had heard nothing but good reviews about these Escorted Tours and based on the positive feedback I had convinced my god parents that going on one with Ultimate was just the thing for them. Not only would the small group size result in an intimate trip with like minded people who appreciate both culture and gastronomy.
Our itinerary was jam packed with a selection of the best Berlin had to offer when it comes to the Arts and food. Those of you who have travelled with a guide will know what a key role they play in bringing to life a city and ours, Tim, was just fantastic. With an incredible wealth of knowledge and a good sense of humour, Tim shared ‘his’ Berlin with us. I learnt more about the city, its history and what it has to offer in 3 days than I had in all my visits before.
The small group, many who had clearly travelled with Marie-Therese before and had gotten to know each other over the years, was just the right size and ever so easy to get on with. Conversations over lunch and dinner flowed with laughter filling the background.
Highlights of the trip for me were without a doubt La Traviata performed by the Deutsche Oper, the porcelain room at Schloss Charlottenburg and Sunday brunch at the Adlon hotel to finish it all of.
There was never a dull moment and I have to confess my brain at times struggled to keep track of all the interesting facts we were told. However there was no pressure to partake in all activities and not everybody did.
I will not be surprised if over the next few days the famous bust of Nefertiti with running commentary by Tim, Giselle dancing as a Vili and the voice of Violetta appear in my dreams. Overall I had a brilliant time in Berlin and I feel confident my god parents will enjoy their trip with Ultimate when they travel.