Germany is in the Euro with current exchange rates meaning £1=€1.27 (approximately). Berlin is one hour ahead of the UK and the temperature in November has an average high of 10˚C and an average low of 5˚C.
EU citizens are free to enter Germany requiring only a national ID card or a valid, up-to-date passport for entry of stays of up to 90 days. If travelling with children between the ages of 7 and 15, they must have their own passport with a photograph.
Germany caters reasonably well to the needs of disabled travellers, with access ramps or lifts where necessary in most public buildings. Assistance is usually required when boarding public transport. On Deutsche Bahn long distance services, you can arrange this when buying your ticket.
The British Embassy is located at, 70-71 Wilhelmstrasse, Tel: (+49) 30 204 570 while police headquarters are at Platz der Luftbrűcke 6, beside Tempelhof airport. Tel: 6995. The local emergency numbers are 110 for the police or 112 for ambulance and fire services. There is also a 24-hour medical centre, at Kassenärztliche Bereitschaftsdienst. Tel: (+49) 30 310 031.
Ordinary over-the-counter medications are available at pharmacies (Apotheke) in every town. If you are requiring specialist medication it is advised you bring a plentiful supply with you as it may not be readily available. Depending on the type of medication, (i.e. syringes) ensure you have a letter from your doctor explaining your requirement of the medication and the dosage.
As with any trip abroad, you should make sure you have adequate travel insurance in case you require medical care whilst overseas. UK citizens travelling in Europe should carry a European Health Insurance Card. This replaces the old E111 forms as from January 2006. The EHIC card is available free from www.ehic.org.uk and entitles you to free or reduced rate health care if you become ill or get injured in many European countries, under a reciprocal arrangement with the UK’s NHS.
Lastly, most hotels and public buildings offer wifi internet access or you can try the following:
- Surf & Sushi, 17 Oranienburger Strasse. Open from noon.
- Plan@t Internettreff, 4 Niederbarnimstrasse. Open from 11am.
- Netz Galaxie, 19 Joachimstalerstrasse.
- Al Harma, 16 Raumerstrasse. Open from 10am.
