Hamburg by night...

The hamburgers (not sure that this is very politically correct) have their own ‘going out ritual’. It’s amazing to see so many faces of the city in only one night. Break in gently with a few cocktails at the Strad Pauli beach bar. It’s the largest of the 4 Hamburg beach bars but it is also the nicest, sand palm trees, bars all round, sun beds, lounge chairs... every thing you need to relax! The Caribbean atmosphere contrasts greatly with the view on the industrial port, is Germany after all! Around midnight it’s time to move on and get to the more typical and crazier part of town ‘Reeperbahn AKA Kietz’. Venture down this street just out of curiosity and try a few bloody Mary shots at the Hamburger Berg (that is if Karina, the tall transvestite in pointy leather shoes lets you in). Now that the party is truly started jump in a cab and proceed to a proper night club. There are many located on the harbour front, slightly out of town. We went to Indochine which has a traditional oriental decorum inspired by the Budda Bars. Past midnight the port is lighted up and it is delightful to rest one’s feet sat on the large terrace on garden sofas whilst admiring the view. One could think that at this point the night is over… but no … not in Hamburg! Your last stop is the Fish market. The name is rather misleading as you can find all sorts of goods and, for the bravest, have one last dance and one last beer under the large market hall. A truly out of the ordinary experience.