Jane writes on 5 July

Ian and Alix(sister) in France on Friday

Ian in East Berlin on Saturday

The amazing thing about travel is how things can change in such a short time. We left a heatwave of 38 degrees in France and found ourselves within the space of one day in another country, in 14 degrees and pouring rain. Away with the sarong and out with the rain jacket. Berlin hasn't exactly got the same beauty as South Western France, but it certainly has its attractions. I love this City. It's exciting and vibrant and full of art and music and exhibitions. The curious thing has been seeing all the things that were plundered/saved from the places we have just been to in Turkey. We've seen the framework in its original place, now we're seeing the contents in other places. What we don't see here, we can catch up with in St Petersburg, probably. Or in London. or Edinburgh....

What's left in Turkey!

Pergamon rebuit in Berlin

I guess that more people get to see these amazing constructions and carvings in major Western cities. But, I wonder if they will ever be returned home?

We  have loved our 4 full days in Berlin. Our apartment is in the old GDR and the area still looks very Eastern Bloc, but inside the makeover is fully brand new Ikea. We bought the 5 day public transport pass and we've been everywhere. Our fascination has been not only with the antiquities, but also with the 20th Century events in Berlin; the rise and fall of the Nazi party, the Wall and Reuinification. This is a city well worth visiting. Tom has joined us, and has encouraged us to visit some more esoteric museums including the Bauhaus. We will go on to Poland together tomorrow. To encounter Ian's relatives there for the first time. Exciting.