A GREENER GERMANY -

Germany is one of the most ecologically sound nations in the world. Its ability to maintain carbon neutrality and reduce its footprint in a world economy is second to none.

We recently had an opportunity to visit that environmentally conscious country. In ten days, we traveled to four different cities to see how committed they were to this green initiative.

LEIPZIG

HAMBURG

FRANKFURT

BERLIN

Berlin is the capital of Germany situated 55 miles west of Poland and about 112 miles south of the Baltic Sea. This design destination embraces 3.7 million people and is within easy reach to Spree River Valley.

The Westin Grand Berlin via 360 MAGAZINE.

Our base camp, The Westin Grand Berlin, nestled in midtown, has a steadfast presence. The command authority, all within a two-mile radius, follows the continuation of its excellence. This is one of the best places for shopping in the world. Perfect for a visit with family, friends, or business. Guests can relax and rejuvenate at the 24-hour day spa and fitness center. The bar and terrace on the ground floor are literally the best means to impress every guest. The reception and concierge are within easy reach of the well-kept grounds. The 6th floor suites contain 1.5 bathrooms, double terraces, double vanities, large Samsung televisions mounted, a living room with berth, and sliding doors, which extend into the bedroom.

Making the Cut's Esther Perbandt is on the cover of 360 MAGAZINE. — ‘Making the Cut’s’ Esther Perbandt is on the cover of 360 MAGAZINE. Perbandt. Photographed by Vaughn Lowery in Berlin.

Since July 2007, Berlin Fashion Week takes place twice a year, once in January and July. Since its conception, it has grown into a magnet for emerging designers from around the world. Esther Perbandt alias the ‘Queen of Black’ is a stylized illustration. As the candidate of the first season of “Making the Cut” by Amazon Prime, she pierced the hearts of millions of viewers with her insatiable desire for design.

During an interview with 360 MAGAZINE, she further confessed her love for fashion and pledged to become more sustainable through the continued use of local manufacturers, eliminating unnecessary travel. In the same vein, Berlin makes every effort to minimize its environmental impact by setting high ecological standards. As a progressive smart city, where green trends often thrive, they focus on providing an abundance of public parks. In fact, the local municipalities have determined that outdoor recreation stations are essential to achieving a better way of life. Moreover, residents are more interested in public transportation and cycling than driving.

Pugnat luxury knitwear based in Berlin via 360 MAGAZINE.

Pugnat is a luxury knitwear house known for their superb craftsmanship of hats and garments.

Andrea Murkudis, renowned German retailer, at his showroom in Berlin via 360 MAGAZINE.

Andreas Murkudis, renowned German retailer, at his showroom in Berlin via 360 MAGAZINE.

Andreas Murkudis, a style umpire, manages a handful of showrooms from Germany, brokerage everything from designer duds to furnishings. He boasts high-quality, handcrafted items that will last a lifetime. After all, everything hinges on green or slow fashion.

Berlin's William Fan coated canvas outerwear via 360 MAGAZINE. — William Fan’s boutique in Berlin via 360 MAGAZINE.

William Fan, a local designer who is often featured in Vogue, created a collection of coated canvas outerwear, which is considered a more cost-effective and durable manufacturing alternative – it’s scratch resistant and waterproof.

Wilmina Hotel in Berlin via 360 MAGAZINE.

Lovis Restaurant inside Wilmina Hotel in Berlin via 360 MAGAZINE. — Lovis Restaurant and Wilmina Hotel in Berlin via 360 MAGAZINE.

Lovis Restaurant and Wilmina Hotel in Berlin via 360 MAGAZINE.

Wilmina Hotel, formerly a women’s prison, has been re-invented in a trendy hostel. Hoteliers used their interior design backgrounds to redefine what might have become an unsightly abandoned shipwreck. Instead, it has become one of the most stylish lodges with an indoor swimming pool, playrooms, dining area, and outdoor entertainment areas.

Berlin’s nightlife is second to none. With hidden gems that stay open from sunset to sunup.