My First Month in Berlin: It’s Loud, Expensive, and… Kind Of Amazing

Getting Used to “Na, wie geht’s dir?”

Okay, deep breath. It’s been a month since I moved to Berlin, and honestly, it’s been a whirlwind. Before coming, I’d practiced phrases like “Na, wie geht’s dir?” (So, how are you?) a million times. I’d even attempted to sound cool and confident saying it. But the first time I actually used it with a neighbor while getting my mail, I nearly tripped over my own feet! It felt incredibly awkward, a little forced. But now? It’s starting to feel… natural. I’m learning that even when you mess up the pronunciation, people appreciate the effort. “Mir geht’s gut, danke” (I’m doing well, thank you) is pretty much my default response now, and I’m getting used to hearing it back.

The Price of Living (and Pizza!)

One of the biggest shocks, and I mean huge, was the cost of everything. My old village back in [insert hometown – let’s say Ukraine] was incredibly cheap. Rent was practically nothing. Here? It’s a completely different world. I was having this conversation with a colleague, Mark, the other day, and he said, “Berlin is so much louder, or? Ja, das stimmt.” (Yes, that’s true.) “Die Mieten sind hier natürlich auch viel teurer.” (The rents here are naturally much more expensive.) And he was right. It’s not just the rent; groceries, drinks, even a simple coffee – it all costs more. The worst part? The pizza! “Die Pizze hier kosten ein Vermögen!” (The pizza here costs a fortune!). Seriously, I had a small pizza the other night that cost nearly €20! It’s a constant reminder that I’m living in a very different city.

Variety is the Spice of Life (and My Wallet)

But then you start to see why people love Berlin. There’s so much variety. “Es gibt so viele verschiedene Küchen.” (There are so many different cuisines). You can get anything you want, from traditional German food (Schnitzel, anyone?) to Thai, Vietnamese, Ethiopian, Turkish… It’s amazing! I went to this amazing little Vietnamese place near my apartment – the Pho was incredible. I’m trying to branch out and try new things, but it’s tough on a student budget!

The “Hektisch” Factor

Despite all the amazing food and culture, sometimes it’s just… too much. I noticed Mark talking about it too – “Ich finde es manchmal, dass die Stadt aber auch zu hektisch ist.” (I sometimes find that the city is also too hectic). And he’s right! It’s overwhelming at times. The crowds, the noise, the constant movement… It can be stressful. I definitely miss the quiet of my village.

Small Victories: Understanding “Gewöhnung”

I think it’s important to realize it’s all about “Gewöhnung” (getting used to it). It took me a while to understand that “Manchmal, ja.” (Sometimes, yes.) is a perfectly valid response, even if it’s a little vague. And honestly, the more I’m here, the more I’m starting to appreciate the energy.

Making Plans and Finding Connections

Which brings me to the best part: making friends. Yesterday, I was talking to my flatmate, Sarah, and she suggested, “Na, dann wollen wir morgen zusammen einen Spaziergang machen? (So, shall we go for a walk together tomorrow?)” “Super Idee!” (Great idea!). It’s little things like that that make this whole experience feel less daunting.

Next Steps: Learn More German, Embrace the Chaos

My German isn’t perfect – far from it. I still stumble over words and make silly mistakes. I accidentally ordered a “Käse-Toast” (cheese toast) with extra cheese the other day, and I’m pretty sure I butchered the pronunciation of “Kartoffeln” (potatoes) at the supermarket. But I’m learning. I’m trying to be patient with myself and just keep practicing. And, most importantly, I’m trying to enjoy the chaos. Berlin is loud, expensive, and sometimes overwhelming, but it’s also a really exciting place, and I’m starting to feel like I’m finding my place here. Ich bin gespannt! (I’m looking forward to it!).