Orientation and language in Berlin

Orientation

Berlin is a large and beautiful city and most of the areas are worth visiting so if you are not careful you may get lost occasionally. Avoid this situation by getting a good map that covers not only the center but the outer areas too. You should have a transit map because the public transport system might be confusing as in the larger stations directional signs may not be present. Remember the final station or stop of the U-bahn and S-bahn because the trains will be headed in that direction and that stop will be indicated on the signs. Memorize the name of the important districts or boroughs, as these are what the signs will point to. For any further info go to the Tourist Information office in Berlin.

Orientation and language problems when finding Berlin accommodation

Locating, contacting and booking cheap hotels in Berlin should be easy, but sometimes can be a small adventure. Most of the employees in hotels usually know English at some level and you can communicate with them. Check the website of the hotel to see if they offer support in your language. Pay attention when they are explaining how to get to the hotel. Ask them to repeat the address, give you more details and if they can, to send you a map. When you get there ask the receptionist to mark the location of your Berlin accommodation on the map so you will know how to find it.

Language in Berlin

The main language is German but you can find information in English and French. Most of the public transport staff and the people at the touristic points of interest will know English although at a beginner level. When you need to ask for directions or help, approach younger people, as there is a greater chance of them knowing English, but talk slowly and clearly and without an accent. Don`t expect them to be a walking info center about what happens in Berlin or to know all the public transport routes. Many of the people you see on the street are recent immigrants or tourists like you. In some places, you may do better with Russian than English. Take a dictionary with you, if not to learn some words, at least to use it to show other people what you are saying. All in all, people are rather friendly and you will easily find someone to help you.