Famous

The citizens of Berlin have taken Vicky into their hearts.

My friend Wickie

They also seem well aware of her penchant for funny hats. 

Rad

You may recall my extreme delight at cycling the streets of Berlin on Bessy, my rusty velocipede, despite her many failings.

Well, sadly, Bessy wore out her novelty faster that I thought possible. I'm a pretty patient fellow and easygoing (or lazy) enough to put up with a lot of faults. However, in this case, it all became too much. She had to be put out of my misery. 

Viva la revolucion! (of the Earth around the Sun)

This weekend in Berlin the weather was eerily similar to a Perth winter. The temperature hovered around 20˚C and Berliners flocked to the sunny parts of the streets. However, as chuffed as Vicky and I were to get out in the sunshine and get some (much needed) Vitamin D, we also didn't fancy cramming ourselves alongside hundreds of Germans on popular outdoor seating, nor wait in the mind-boggling-ly long line for ice-cream (out of season!). How could we, too, enjoy this wonderful turn in the season?

Luckily, Maria Bonita came to our rescue. She sells take-away margaritas. We were able to get a couple and stroll around P-Berg in shirtsleeves and comfort. 

salt-encrusted rim and all

It was spectacular.  Saturday was the warmest day in Berlin for over one hundred years. I enjoyed my first iced-drink on the streets. Thank you, global warming conspiracy!

Adventures in the spin trade

Berlin is tremendous for cycling. Being a keen cyclist, this makes me glad. Not only do I save billions of money on public transport fees, I get to appreciate a lot more of the city and simply feel a whole lot better about this 'living' caper.

Ernest Hemingway agrees with me, so you'd better toe the line. Would you argue with Ernest Hemingway? No, 'cause he'd punch you in the mouth and then write about it and the rest of the world would know that you were the arsehole of the story. Get on your bikes!

However, it's not all breadbaskets and roses. The unaware may run into some pitfalls (even literally). So, I will share some tips with you, both graphical and lexical, so that you, too, may appreciate the fabulous joy that is riding in Berlin.