June 5. Beginning the day with a walk to the U-Bahn to go to the Zoo. It started off as a cloudy and cool day but it was perfect for a day at the zoo. We began with a little insight about the zoo. The Berlin Zoo is known as the largest zoo in Europe and it is very popular, just as it was when it had just opened. However, when World War II ensued, things became difficult even for the zoo. There was not only the risk of being bombed, but also animal starvation and difficulties with trying to transport animals. Today, the zoo has grown with Berlin and progressed. It is popular among many tourists and it is one of the few zoos in Europe to host a panda. I think this site was one of my favorites to visit not only because it was a fun place, but because not many people think of the animals and the zoos that are also affected in wars. In terms of transportation, the focus today was the difficulties in transporting the animals and their food during and right after World War II. Transportation is important to so many lives, not just our own.

Later that day, the class visited Potsdamer Plaza: an integral area of transportation. Basically all types of transportation can be found at this spot. During the war, it was an area of vulnerability because the buildings surrounding the center of the plaza were so tall that a sniper could easily wipe anyone out that was down in the plaza. Today, it is a lively and busy spot that visibly shows how various forms of transportation can be used.

Pictured above is the famous home to Berlin’s beloved panda Jiao Qing.