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Resources & References

Resources & References

Brandenburg, Germany

Essential Apps & Websites

Apps

  • VBB Fahrinfo App:

    Public transport schedules, real-time updates, mobile ticket purchases.

  • DB Navigator App:

    National and regional train schedules and tickets across Germany.

  • Google Maps/Apple Maps:

    General navigation, walking directions, driving routes, public transport.

  • Google Translate:

    Download German offline language pack for translation without an internet connection.

  • Uber:

    Ride-sharing services within Potsdam.

Useful Websites

  • Visit Potsdam (visitpotsdam.de):

    The official tourism website for Potsdam.

  • SPSG (spsg.de):

    The official website for the Prussian Palaces and Gardens Foundation Berlin-Brandenburg.

  • VBB (vbb.de):

    The official website for the Berlin-Brandenburg public transport association.

  • Deutsche Bahn (bahn.com):

    The official website for Germany's national train operator.

  • Filmpark Babelsberg (filmpark-babelsberg.de):

    The official website for the film park.

Print Resources

Rick Steves' Berlin & Potsdam

This guidebook provides detailed walking tours and practical advice for both cities.

Find on Amazon

DK Eyewitness Berlin

Offers comprehensive visual guides, including a dedicated section on Potsdam, with illustrations and maps.

Find on Amazon

Local Maps & History

Obtain free city maps from tourist information centers in Potsdam or Berlin. These are helpful for orientation.

"Iron Kingdom" "Bridge of Spies"

Emergency & Medical Information

Emergency Numbers & Contacts

  • Police, Fire, Ambulance: Dial 112 (Europe-wide).
  • Non-emergency Police: Dial 110.

Hospital & Clinic Locations

  • Ernst von Bergmann Klinikum Potsdam: Charlottenstraße 72, 14467 Potsdam.
  • This is a major hospital with emergency services.

Further Reading & Exploration

Documentaries & Films

  • "Bridge of Spies" (2015) - compelling Cold War drama featuring the Glienicke Bridge.
  • Iconic films like "Metropolis" (1927) filmed at Babelsberg Studio.
  • Seek out documentaries on Frederick the Great or Prussian history.

Music & Art

  • Listen to classical music from Frederick the Great's era.
  • This sets the mood for your palace visits.

Online & Language

  • Join TripAdvisor forums or Reddit communities (e.g., r/Germany, r/Berlin).
  • Use apps like Duolingo, Babbel, or Pimsleur to learn basic German phrases.
  • Even a few words enhance your interactions.

Lost Document Protocol

Lost Document Procedures

Reporting Loss

  • Report lost or stolen passports to the local police immediately.
  • Obtain a police report, which you will need.

Embassy Assistance

  • Contact your country's embassy or consulate in Berlin.
  • They can assist in obtaining a replacement travel document.

Natural Disaster

  • In case of severe weather events like major storms or floods.
  • Follow local authority instructions.
  • Emergency information broadcast on local radio/TV and via official warning apps (e.g., NINA app).

Print Resources

Recommended Guidebooks

History & Local Interest

Further Reading & Exploration

Documentaries & Films

  • "Bridge of Spies" (2015) for Glienicke Bridge focus.
  • "Metropolis" (1927) and "The Grand Budapest Hotel" (2014) filmed at Babelsberg Studio.
  • Documentaries on Prussian history or the Cold War.

Music & Online Communities

  • Listen to classical music from Frederick the Great's era.
  • Join TripAdvisor forums or Reddit communities.
  • Use apps like Duolingo or Babbel.

Lost Document Procedures

Reporting Steps

  1. Report lost or stolen passports to local police immediately.
  2. Obtain a police report; this documentation is critical.

Embassy Assistance

  1. Contact your country's embassy or consulate in Berlin for help.
  2. They assist in obtaining a replacement travel document.

Natural Disaster Protocols

Weather Events

In case of severe weather events like major storms or floods, follow local authority instructions.

Official Communications

Emergency information is typically broadcast on local radio/TV.

Warning Apps

Also via official warning apps (e.g., the NINA app in Germany).

Safety Advisory

Always prioritize personal safety and follow official guidance during any emergency situation.

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