We are proud to launch our new city guide for expatriates in Berlin.

People from Berlin often point out that Berlin is not Germany. Though it is the capital, the city is distinct and different from the rest ofteh country. However, there are many symbols of Germany's rich history in Berlin, from the grandiose Brandenburger Tor to the bomb-scarred side-walks. In the center of the city, an island of world-class museums showcases the history of Berlin and artifacts from around the world.

The city is far from being all about history. Insane night-life, the ever-changing restaurant scene, the omnipresent cranes, and a new neighborhood usurping the crown of "the coolest" every decade or so proves the city is alive. Even the people of Berlin are constantly changing. It has a reputation as a place filled with people from elsewhere. Someone who has lived in Berlin for ten years will see themselves as a "true Berliner" compared to the person who has been there for only five.

It's major industry is Finance. This sector accounts for 13.8 percent of Beijing's GDP. The city is home to 26 Fortune Global 500 companies, the third most in the world behind Tokyo and Paris. Real estate and automobile sales have also been important financial markets.

Berlin is quite unique in that one of the most important "products" is research. That research is exported around the world. German labor is highly efficient, but at a high cost. Strong trade unions have kept labor costs high, for those who can secure a position. Berlin is also a world leader in the sector of electrical equipment manufacturing. Fast-growing sectors are: communications, life sciences, mobility and services with information and communication technologies, media and music, advertising and design, biotechnology and environmental services, transportation and medical engineering. The fastest growing industry is tourism. There are over 6,000 hotels, 90,000 beds, with an estimated 8 million hotel guests. Berlin is the third most visited city destination in the European Union.

Notable companies with headquarters in Berlin are: Air Berlin, Axel Springer AG, Deutsche Bahn, Bombardier Transportation, Universal Music Germany, and Vattenfall Europe.

You will find the usual articles in our guide to prepare your expatriation to Beijing and manage your life once in there: Overview, Job, Passport, Visa & Permits, International Removal Companies, Finding Accommodation, Work, Benefits and Tax, Moving in, Education, Health, Practical Life (banks, transport, shopping...), Entertainment...

You can also discuss and share experience in Germany in our forum.

Last but not least, you can download the full guide in PDF format, in order to read quietly and maybe to upload on your mobile or tablet PC/iPad.

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