A lifestyle expat travel blog about culture, history, Brexit, the Royal Family, travels around the world, Europe, and being British in Berlin!
Oh.
My.
God!
I simply can’t believe that summer’s here.
Already!
But where did the time go?
One minute it was May, then just like that, it was July!
Gosh!
I’m so sorry that I haven’t updated you on what I’ve been doing on the blog, although I updated my followers everywhere else!
Please forgive me.
And why forsooth?
Because.
I’ve got deadlines!
Deadlines?!?
Yep!
Deadlines!
I know!
I’m sure you all think I live a carefree life.
And I do.
Sort of.
But you know.
Outside the wonderful job of being the marvellous and ever lovely: The British Berliner
I am also a wife.
And a mother.
I have a day job.
I recently re-acquainted myself with not one but two, expat organisations in Berlin namely, the Berlin British Ladies Club (BBLC) and the Berlin International Women’s Club (BIWC).
I’m associated with many galleries, museums, history, music, film, art and charitable organisations in Germany who all strive for my attention.
And I embarked on a DBA – a Doctor of Business Administration.
So you see.
I’ve got deadlines!
The others don’t worry me as much as the academic one does.
Sometimes I feel overwhelmed.
Overwhelmed I tell you!
All the same, did I travel at all this year?
Go on now.
Who do you think I am?
Of course I did!
Because man / woman / child / people cannot live by work alone-ish!
And in order to calm down, you need to do something that delights you.
In my case, travel!
So where did I go?
I’ve been to:
I’ll be going to:
In short, I’ve got lots to tell you, but I can’t tell you now, ‘cos I’m too busy!
I’ll get to it though.
I promise.
Yep!
I went to Georgia again!
And just like that.
Summer’s here!
Yay!
Follow The British Berliner on Twitter!
Tweet
If you’re not in Berlin, you’re boring!
Eek!
Here comes the sun! Book today to get more from Summer. Yeah! Use this link to save at least 15% or more, on your dream destination if you book now. Stay anytime before 28 September, 2023!
Minimum 15% saving available on new accommodation bookings at participating properties indicated by the
“Getaway Deal” badge on the search results and room selection pages. Bookings must be made before 11:59 pm
CET on 28/09/23 for stays with check-in from 04/04/23 and check-out on or before 28/09/23. Discount applies to
the cost of room only (excluding any additional fees or taxes). If you make any changes to your booking you may
lose your discount and be liable for the full amount. Discount cannot be used in conjunction with any other
promotion except Genius discounts. Room rates labelled “Partner Offer” are excluded from this promotion. This
offer is provided by the participating property and subject to availability.
That’s it for now.
Thank you so much everyone. I really appreciate it lots.
All content will continue to remain free of charge but if you feel like buying me a cup of tea, I will graciously accept!
Don’t forget, please SHARE this post!
Cheers!
And just like that. Summer’s here!
Tweet
DISCLOSURE!
Please note that The British Berliner is a participant in affiliate programmes designed to provide a means for sites to earn fees by advertising and linking to Booking.com. In short, every time a Booking.com service is used, booked, and paid for via my link, I get a little percentage, but at no extra cost to yourself!
A win-win for all!
But enough about me!
See you in Berlin.
If you have any questions, send me a Tweet, talk to me on Facebook, find me on LinkedIn, make a comment below or send me an Email: victoria@thebritishberliner.com
If you like this post, please Share it! Tweet it! Or Like it!
Exciting news.
I’m going to visit Georgia again!
Yay!
I know!
I could tell you all about the great time that I had when I first went to Georgia, in 2019!
Or.
You could read all about it yourself. Here are the links:
You’re welcome!
Georgia, otherwise known as the Republic of Georgia, is a country located at the crossroads of Western Asia and Eastern Europe!
It’s surrounded to the west by the Black Sea, to the north by Russia, to the south by Turkey and Armenia, and to the south-east by Azerbaijan, covers a territory of 69,700 square kilometres or 26,911 sq. miles, and has a population of about roughly 3.7 million people.
The largest city, which also happens to be the capital city, is Tbilisi.
Most people have never heard of it!
In fact, when I first heard mention of Georgia, I thought it was Georgia – the American state – in the USA.
But it isn’t.
It’s Georgia.
A country in the Caucasus.
A country from the former USSR.
In Europe!
I’m British and I live in Europe.
People always write to me about one very important issue and that is:
I’m sure you’ve thought about it.
Haven’t we all?
What with the war on Ukraine n’ all!
It’s hardly surprising.
But you don’t need to be.
It’s as safe as any other country!
However let me be clear, my blog is not about political affairs and neither am I a politician, a civil servant, or a secret agent!
I wish!
My opinions are my own, and my own only. Nonetheless.
Nonetheless!?!
Yes.
I’ll tell you something for nothing.
Roughly 1.5 million international tourists and travellers visit Georgia yearly, and most visits are completely and utterly trouble-free.
Having said that, official advice is against ALL travel to the Western part of Georgia namely the Russian-occupied regions of South Ossetia, Abkhazia, and against all but ESSENTIAL travel to areas in the centre of Georgia immediately adjacent to the Administrative Boundary Lines with Abkhazia and South Ossetia.
You’ll be quite fine in Tbilisi – the capital city – located in the Eastern part of Georgia.
However, if you have any concerns, or need further help or information, I recommend the following:
As you all pretty much know by now, I’m a great believer in train travel but Georgia is quite far from Germany, so I’m going to fly!
There are 45 airlines that fly into the country.
The last time I went to Georgia, I flew from Berlin to Tbilisi – via Turkish Airlines.
This time around, I’m flying with a budget airline called Pegasus.
My outward journey from Berlin-Brandenburg (BER) to Tbilisi (TBS) will be via a seven-hour (7) stop-over in Istanbul-Gokcen (SAW).
I love Istanbul, but those 7 hours will probably be hanging around at the airport, rather than on shopping!
Sigh!
However, you don’t even need to fly, as you can either take a ferry from ports in the Black Sea region, the Georgian train from Azerbaijan or take a bus from the Republic of Azerbaijan, Armenia or Turkey!
Note: I don’t recommend driving, as country roads are awful!
It wasn’t the last time I went.
In Autumn!
In fact, there were very few tourists around, as “the season,” was effectively over.
This time, I’ll be going in May!
I don’t believe it’ll be that crowded!
But if you’re going in the height of summer, prepare to gird your loins, and fight your way through!
Plan well.
Having said that, if that’s the only time that you can travel, don’t let anything get in your way.
Georgia definitely made an impression on me.
It’s of historical and architectural interest, the food and wine is impressive, the country is small, and the locals are friendly and very, very helpful!
Is it any wonder that I jumped at the chance to visit again!
Not.
A.
Problem.
It’s amazing how many languages a typical European speaks.
Most speak a minimum of three (3)!
If you speak Azerbaijani, Armenian or Russian, you’re good to go.
Besides, within the regions of tourist Georgia, everyone pretty much speaks English too!
Ha! Ha!
Not unless you want to!
Georgia is cheap!
Cheap!
Cheeeeap!!
For everyone!
Feel free to eat the gourmet meal you’ve always dreamed of!
In fact, it’s so cheap, that according to the document Tbilisi In Figures, the capital city – Tbilisi – is the 3rd cheapest city in Central Asia and 11th cheapest in the world!
Wow!
Prices are low, and the quality and standards of hotels and apartments available are, when considered, pretty alright!
Frankly, if you’re paying between €20.00 – €70.00 per night, for huge apartments with terraces, working kitchens, and historical art, you simply can’t go wrong!
Book ahead to get good prices.
Absolutely!
Start Here!
Georgia is pretty small, and in Tbilisi, quite walkable.
And of course, you could take local trains or the bus.
Uber isn’t supported in Georgia but they do have Yandex Taxi or Bolt which works very well in Georgia, Russia & Ukraine! You can download the Yandex Taxi App here and the Bolt App here!
You’ll practically ride for free, as my taxi fare was …
Wait for it.
€1.05 or $1.16!!
Or for familiarity, and that’s perfectly OK. Use Uber.
Stay safe and take a taxi at night. In fact, if you use my Uber Affiliate code – 3krwf3hree9q – you’ll get €5 off the first 5 rides!
Wow!
Of course!
Yep!
This time around, I was invited by the Iakob Gogebashvili Telavi State University (TeSaU) as part of the HERiPRENEURSHIP Project / Study Visit to Georgia!
The HERiPRENEURSHIP Project is a project that aims to raise awareness of cultural heritage, and create new investment opportunities in tourism and the cultural and creative industries, at UNESCO designated areas in the Black Sea basin!
So of course, I’ll be starting from the capital city of Tbilisi, but I’ll also be visiting Mtskheta, Jvari, Samtavro, Svetistkhoveli, Shuamta, Tsinandali, and Telavi!
Yeah!
Georgia’s got culture, has a vibrant history and isn’t over-run by the package tourist.
Yet.
It’s also extremely cheap.
For many international visitors, Georgia isn’t a destination that immediately comes to mind, but if you’re in the Caucasus area, make it a point of duty to spend a few weeks days, in as many places as you can manage.
If you’re looking for a new destination that isn’t really on the beaten path, say hello – GEORGIA!
Georgia is a wine-filled adventure, and I’ll be travelling there again!
You can too.
Let’s do it!
Follow The British Berliner on Twitter!
Tweet
If you’re not in Berlin, you’re boring!
Eek!
Here comes the sun! Book today to get more from Summer. Yeah! Use this link to save at least 15% or more, on your dream destination if you book now. Stay anytime before 28 September, 2023!
Minimum 15% saving available on new accommodation bookings at participating properties indicated by the
“Getaway Deal” badge on the search results and room selection pages. Bookings must be made before 11:59 pm
CET on 28/09/23 for stays with check-in from 04/04/23 and check-out on or before 28/09/23. Discount applies to
the cost of room only (excluding any additional fees or taxes). If you make any changes to your booking you may
lose your discount and be liable for the full amount. Discount cannot be used in conjunction with any other
promotion except Genius discounts. Room rates labelled “Partner Offer” are excluded from this promotion. This
offer is provided by the participating property and subject to availability.
That’s it for now.
Thank you so much everyone. I really appreciate it lots.
All content will continue to remain free of charge but if you feel like buying me a cup of tea, I will graciously accept!
Don’t forget, please SHARE this post!
Cheers!
I’m going to visit Georgia again!
Tweet
DISCLOSURE!
Please note that The British Berliner is a participant in affiliate programmes designed to provide a means for sites to earn fees by advertising and linking to Booking.com. In short, every time a Booking.com service is used, booked, and paid for via my link, I get a little percentage, but at no extra cost to yourself!
A win-win for all!
So what are you waiting for?
Thanks a million!
See you in Berlin.
If you have any questions, send me a Tweet, talk to me on Facebook, find me on LinkedIn, make a comment below or send me an Email: victoria@thebritishberliner.com
If you like this post, please Share it! Tweet it! Or Like it!
At last!
He’s King!
Yeah!
A couple of weeks ago, I told you about how I talked about King Charles III on German TV!
𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐂𝐫𝐨𝐰𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐨𝐟 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐊𝐢𝐧𝐠
— The Royal Family (@RoyalFamily) May 6, 2023
The Archbishop of Canterbury places St Edward’s Crown on The King’s anointed head. The clergy, congregation and choir all cry ‘God Save The King’.#Coronation pic.twitter.com/kGrV3W0bky
For almost a thousand years, Coronations have been held at Westminster Abbey, and the Order of Service draws on this long tradition, centred around the liturgical theme of 'Called to Serve'.#Coronation
— The Royal Family (@RoyalFamily) May 6, 2023
Read the Order of Service in full:
Today's the day!@royalfamily #Coronation pic.twitter.com/kFmvfRDvnp
— The Prince and Princess of Wales (@KensingtonRoyal) May 6, 2023
I’m a monarchist to the core and with the passing away of our beloved Queen, the reign of the Crown passed to her eldest child – Charles!
The Crown!?!
Ahem!
Eek!
As you might know,
And you should ‘cos if you don’t, where have you been?
Exactly!
But I digress.
As you might know, Charles III performed the Coronation Ceremony on May 6th, 2023, otherwise known as Operation Golden Orb, and is now properly and officially King!
Long Live the King!
King Charles III 🇬🇧👑 #Coronation pic.twitter.com/7rOKI9DZVt
— CoutureAndRoyals (@CoutureRoyals) May 6, 2023
Here are a few videos about the real Royal Family!
Watch how King Charles’ Coronation unfolded…in 90 seconds!
Watch how King Charles III and Queen Camilla are crowned at Westminster Abbey.
Now watch the King’s Coronation side by side with his mother’s Coronation (Queen Elizabeth II) in 1953!
Isn’t it marvellous?
What. A. Day.
— The Prince and Princess of Wales (@KensingtonRoyal) May 6, 2023
Thank you to everyone who made it happen #Coronation pic.twitter.com/qaYFXSjjli
Now, if you thought that was it.
It’s over.
He’s King now.
Let’s get back to work!
Er. No!
You’re sorely mistaken!
We’re British!
We do things differently!
No matter what anyone says!
Nobody does centuries of pomp, pageantry, tradition and ceremony like we do.
Not only that, but 7,000+ military officers from across the UK and the Commonwealth participated in the largest military ceremonial operation, creating an extraordinary image across London last seen seventy (70) years ago!
Wow!
So, we’ve only just got started!
The photographs & images below speak for themselves, but please remember, some of the photographs have copyright specifications so you can share them, but there might be terms and conditions, especially those from the Department for Culture, Media & Sport (DCMS) and the Ministry of Defence!
In fact, people across the United Kingdom, the Commonwealth, and the world celebrated not only the Coronation Day itself, but throughout the Weekend!
Myself included!
Weekend?
Yes, the weekend!
Not only that, but in the UK, Monday 8th May was a Bank Holiday!
Now since I live in Germany, there is no public holiday for me, but on May 8th, I joined the Berlin British Ladies Club (BBLC) and we took part in the The Coronation Big Lunch Tea instead!
Forget shopping.
Join the picnic!
Have Lunch!
Or make your own!
“Whether this is your first ever Big Lunch or whether it is an annual part of your local calendar, we send our warmest good wishes to each one of you, and all those who will be with you, at what we hope will be a truly enjoyable event for everyone.”
— The Royal Family (@RoyalFamily) May 7, 2023
A message from The King and… pic.twitter.com/wlPqQr7Nck
If you’re that way inclined, I’ve enclosed a few ideas for the Coronation Big Lunch, Breakfast or Dinner!
Here’s the recipe for Coronation Quiche!
Here’s a video on how to make a very simple Coronation Cake.
So simple, I might even make it myself!
Here’s a recipe for a Coronation Cake!
Or watch the Coronation Concert taking place on the grounds of Windsor Castle, showing on public screens in London and available via the BBC world-wide (licence-free), on May 7th!
📸 The stage for the #CoronationConcert
— BBC Studios (@bbcstudios) April 30, 2023
New rendered images have been released ahead of the star-studded concert on Sunday 7 May, produced by BBC Studios. Windsor Castle will host the spectacular live concert, with over 100 countries watching from around the world. pic.twitter.com/7Y75WWWeEx
But what’s it all about though?
If you really haven’t a clue, here’s an animated video that tells you everything you need to know!
Here’s the Coronation Service.
In Full.
But obviously, you can rush through or go backwards and forwards!
And here’s a very, short summary of the Coronation Weekend – Behind the scenes with The Prince and Princess of Wales!
Even shorter!
The Coronation Weekend
— The Prince and Princess of Wales (@KensingtonRoyal) May 13, 2023
A film by Will Warr
▶️ Watch the full film on YouTube:https://t.co/qesQ6ICcuj pic.twitter.com/UzQza2LZpB
I hope you like it?
Enjoy!
If you would like to see more extraordinary photos from King Charles III’s Coronation via the BBC, just click HERE!
For a complete guide to the King’s Coronation, click HERE!
The Coronation of King Charles and Queen Camilla, was a once in a life-time celebration.
What more do you need to know?
Follow The British Berliner on Twitter!
Tweet
If you’re not in Berlin, you’re boring!
Eek!
It’s Spring. Time to Get Away. Yeah! Use this link to save at least 15% or more, on your dream destination if you book now. Stay anytime before 28 September, 2023!
Minimum 15% saving available on new accommodation bookings at participating properties indicated by the
“Getaway Deal” badge on the search results and room selection pages. Bookings must be made before 11:59 pm
CET on 28/09/23 for stays with check-in from 04/04/23 and check-out on or before 28/09/23. Discount applies to
the cost of room only (excluding any additional fees or taxes). If you make any changes to your booking you may
lose your discount and be liable for the full amount. Discount cannot be used in conjunction with any other
promotion except Genius discounts. Room rates labelled “Partner Offer” are excluded from this promotion. This
offer is provided by the participating property and subject to availability.
That’s it for now.
Thank you so much everyone. I really appreciate it lots.
All content will continue to remain free of charge but if you feel like buying me a cup of tea, I will graciously accept!
Don’t forget, please SHARE this post!
Cheers!
Charles III Coronation in Pictures & Videos – Long Live the King!
Tweet
DISCLOSURE!
Please note that The British Berliner is a participant in affiliate programmes designed to provide a means for sites to earn fees by advertising and linking to Booking.com. In short, every time a Booking.com service is used, booked, and paid for via my link, I get a little percentage, but at no extra cost to yourself!
A win-win for all!
So what are you waiting for?
Thanks a million!
See you in Berlin.
If you have any questions, send me a Tweet, talk to me on Facebook, find me on LinkedIn, make a comment below or send me an Email: victoria@thebritishberliner.com
If you like this post, please Share it! Tweet it! Or Like it!