For a Gay Time in Berlin

For a Gay Time in Berlin

The area around Nollendorfplatz is the heart and soul of gay Berlin, even though areas like Schönhauser Alle in Prenzlauer Berg, Schlesische Straße in Kreuzberg, and various clubs in the Mitte-Scheunenviertel area are more popular with the younger crowd. However, in a city that historically has been a center of gay culture and one that has an openly gay mayor, Klaus Wowereit, the gay scene is not limited to these areas. Typical for Berlin is the integration of homosexuals of all walks of life throughout the city—from the politician and manager to the bus driver and waiter. The general attitude of most Berliners towards gays is very tolerant and open-minded; however, openly gay couples should avoid areas such as Lichtenberg or the state of Brandenburg. These areas are exceptions in a city that has an estimated 300,000 gays and lesbians in residence.

Large festivals such as the annual Christopher Street Day bring together hundreds of thousands of gays and lesbians each summer. Gay travelers are embraced by the city's tourist office: up-to-date information is provided in special brochures, such as "Out in Berlin" at the tourist infostores. Detailed information on gay-friendly hotels and the clubbing and bar scene are provided by the city's largest gay community center, the Mann-o-Meter e.V. (Bülowstr. 106, Schöneberg, 030/216-8008, www.mann-o-meter.de). Talks are held in the café, which has a variety of books and magazines. It's open weekdays 3-11, Saturday 3-10.