Berlin is the capital city and one of the sixteen states of the Federal Republic of Germany. It is the heart of the Berlin- Brandenburg metropolitan region, located in northeastern Germany. With a population of 3.4 million, Berlin is the country's largest city, and the second most populous city in the European Union.

Berlin is one of the most influential centers in European politics, culture and science. The city serves as an important hub of continental transportation and is home to some of the most prominent universities, sport events, orchestras, and museums. Its economy is based on the service sector, encompassing a diverse range of media and life science corporations, convention venues, research institutes, and creative industries.

The rapidly evolving metropolis enjoys an international reputation for its festivals, contemporary architecture, nightlife, and avant-garde arts. Being a major tourist centre and home to people from over 180 nations, Berlin is a focal point for individuals who are attracted by its liberal lifestyle, urban eclecticism, and artistic freedom.

First documented in the 13th century, Berlin became successively the capital of the Kingdom of Prussia (from 1701), the German Empire (1871-1918), the Weimar Republic (1919-1932) and the Third Reich (1933-1945). After World War II, the city was divided. East Berlin became the capital of the GDR (East Germany), while West Berlin remained a West German enclave surrounded by the Berlin Wall from 1961-1989. Following the reunification in 1990, the city regained its status as the capital of all Germany.

TRIUMPHANT TRAVEL THINK TANK

The Market Trends & Innovations Convention has become an essential element at The ITB Berlin as the think tank of the tourism industry. Up by 25 percent, a total of 9,000 trade visitors from a/lover the world took part in 2007. In March 2008, the world’s leading travel industry convention is entering its fifth year with top issues and prominent speakers. The ITS Business Travel Days will offer once again a platform for business travel managers with practical workshops, country forums, and a Suppliers Day The US research and consulting firm PhoCusWright will organize a top-quality travel technology conference on 6 March 2008. Partner country the ITB Berlin 2008 will be the Dominican Republic.

RECORD NUMBER OF EXHIBITORS

The world’s largest exhibition for electro-magnetic coils, electric motors and transformers, windings and insulations wiil take place in Berlin in June 2008. The Coil Winding is held parallel to the INDUCTICA 2008, the international congress with experts from universities and renowned companies in the industry Trade visitors registering in advance have free access to the congress.