Park Inn Berlin: Budget Stay with a Thrilling Twist

Park Inn Berlin

Park Inn was the first hotel we stayed at in Berlin, and it made quite an impression. It was affordable, centrally located, and perfectly decent for our needs. We returned several times over the years, often finding great deals on Hotels.com that made it an easy choice for our Berlin adventures.

However, it's been a few years since our last stay there. During our final visit, we found the beds uncomfortably firm – we'd wake up feeling completely stiff and having slept terribly. Perhaps we've just gotten older and more particular about our comfort!

An Unforgettable Surprise Gift

One year, Helle surprised me with an incredible gift from home. It was meant to be a secret until we reached Berlin, but during the car ride there, she couldn't contain her excitement any longer.

I was going to jump off the top of the hotel... with a rope attached to my back. Umm, thanks!

At the top of Park Inn, there's a small walkway extending out into thin air, 125 meters above the ground. You can book a base jump directly from their website. I normally enjoy speed and climbing, but this looked absolutely wild. I had to wait several days before my jump, and those butterflies in my stomach grew stronger each time I looked up at the hotel's peak during our daily outings.

The Big Day (Almost)

Park Inn Berlin

When the day finally arrived, I was incredibly tense and nervous. However, when we approached the guides, they informed us that it was too windy for safe jumping. So I had to wait – very anxiously – for a couple more days.

The Leap of Faith

Park Inn Berlin

When I finally got the green light, I took the elevator up to the 32nd floor and climbed the last two floors to the roof. Up there, several other very excited people were getting fitted with harnesses. I was understandably nervous and tried to appreciate the amazing view over the city and the TV tower.

Then it was my turn. I walked to the platform where my harness was checked and a wire was attached to my back. I was led to the end of the walkway and greeted by a broadly smiling guide. She asked if I was ready, and I gave a somewhat uncertain "yes."

Shortly after, I was hoisted up, positioned horizontally, and pushed out over the building. I dangled there for a moment until the brake was released, and I plummeted toward the ground just meters from the hotel's glass facade. Just before hitting the ground – or rather, another rooftop above some shops – the line braked and brought me to a complete stop right above a cheerful guide.

Back on Solid Ground

When I finally made it down to the plaza where Helle was waiting, it was on shaky legs. The first thing I said was that NOW I really wanted a large beer. And I got one.

It's an absolutely incredible experience that I'd highly recommend if you're into a bit of speed and excitement!

Note: Always check current availability and safety conditions before booking any extreme activities. The base jump experience may have changed since our visit.