As the Berlin morning fog dissipates, revealing the iconic Bebelplatz in all its historic grandeur, there lies a gem amongst its cobblestones: Hotel de Rome.

Last weekend, my family and I, including two spirited youngsters, decided to let Hotel de Rome be our urban sanctuary. Spoiler alert: It was a poetic blend of the past meeting the present, much like a techno beat playing in a vintage vinyl shop.

The façade, stoic and regal, belies the kaleidoscope of experiences that awaits within. Those Atelier Prométhée magenta urns standing sentry at the entrance aren’t just decorative pieces; they are the vanguards of taste and sophistication. As we stepped in, our senses were greeted by the almost ethereal glow of Olivia Steele’s neon birdcage, encapsulating the soul of the city—a delicate balance between confinement and freedom.

Having two kids, we are always on a quest for immersive experiences. And with Hotel de Rome's proximity to Berlin's wonders, our days were packed. Sightseeing was the main course, with the Zoo being the cherry on top. Ah, to see the delight in our children’s eyes as they encountered exotic creatures, just moments away from our hotel abode!

Nightfall at the hotel is nothing short of cinematic. The Rooftop Terrace is where we, the modern flâneurs, found solace. As the Berlin skyline erupted in a ballet of lights, we toasted to life, sipping meticulously crafted cocktails, each sip echoing the city's multifaceted tales.

As the day surrendered to night, our suite beckoned. A symphony of heritage design and contemporary luxury awaited us. The king-sized bed, more a cloud than a piece of furniture, cradled our weary bodies. There's a unique comfort in knowing that while the world outside continues its relentless pace, within these walls, time stands still, even if just for a night.

Hotel de Rome? Picture it as a fusion of old-school tales with the now.