Week 47: The AuraLabs

Navigating the Berlin Transit Maze 🤯

Last week, following a rewarding Erasmus+ project in Brandenburg, I took the opportunity to spend a night in the vibrant city of Berlin.

Like many tourists before me, I quickly ran into the complexities of the Deutsche Bahn system. Finding the right app to buy tickets, securing an additional ticket for my friend, locating the correct train on the platform, and even dealing with vending machines that only accepted cash—it was quite the initiation!

Interestingly, the railway system visually reminds me a lot of the Bangkok MRT. People in Bangkok often mention their metro was designed by Germans. However, unlike DB, the MTR supports VISA cards. A big plus for the Berlin system, though, is the lack of individual ticket checks at the door, which prevents long, crowded queues.

Berlin’s Unique Architecture and Budget Stays 🏙️

Check out what I dubbed the “Pixel Tower” – the Berlin version!

Accommodation around the Ostkreuz area was surprisingly acceptable. We managed to snag a four-room Airbnb for just 117 euros. Just remember that Berlin also enforces a city tax of 7.5% on top of your booking.

Diving into New Media Art at AuraLabs ✨

The AuraLabs, a fascinating new media gallery, was right nearby. I was particularly impressed by their large-room VR project. The perfectly synchronized sound effects (SFXs) and visual effects (VFXs) created a truly immersive experience.

Another standout exhibit used Leap Motion technology. It mapped hand gestures to a dancer’s movements on screen—so as you moved your hand, the digital dancer would mirror the action.

I also loved this 3D-printed rotating circle. When light was shone through it, you could see miniature human figures. As the circle spun, the figures crossed paths and then separated, offering a poetic metaphor for the human journey and connection.

Historic Landmarks and Quirky Finds 🎨

Leaving AuraLabs, we came upon the East Side Gallery, a powerful section of the Berlin Wall that has been transformed into an international memorial for freedom by various artists.

Next was the impressive Oberbaum Bridge, where the train runs high above while pedestrians stroll beneath the arches.

The bridge even features some playful ‘gamification’ elements.

And of course, more urban art to be found underneath!

Airport Oddities ✈️

Finally, on the way out, I encountered perhaps the strangest sight: the airport waiting room bathroom was selling sex toys! It makes you wonder why someone would need one right before or during a flight… a truly baffling travel essential!

Eventually went back to Tallinn, just missed it’s first snow.