Berlin
Tasty Thai treats in a Berlin park
Frying pans sizzle, and the scent of coriander fills the air. A beaming woman shreds papaya, while another stirs a pot of soup.
There's an oriental feast underway, and everyone's invited.
During warm summer weekends Berlin's Preußen Park transforms into 'Thaipark', a colourful open air food market where dozens of stalls offer tasty Thai, Filipino and Vietnamese treats.
What began as a weekly gathering of local Thai residents - a chance to meet up and enjoy a communal meal - has, over several decades, become one of Berlin's true culinary highlights.
In fact, Preußen Park is probably the place to head for authentic oriental home-style cooking, although surprisingly, this food-fest is still relatively unknown amongst Berliners themselves.
Also remarkable is the fact that it even exists at all, because this permit-less marketplace is, of course, highly unofficial.
Yet despite various attempts in the past to curtail Thai Park's culinary activities, Berlin's authorities now prefer to turn a blind eye and not spoil the party.
The food, of course, is the main attraction, but you might also be tempted by another of the park's weekend offerings: traditional Thai massage at a reasonable price.
It's said to do wonders for the digestive system, so if you're happy to be publicly kneaded, it's the perfect post-prandial workout. Simply lie down and relax as those extra calories are pummelled into oblivion.
See also:
Berlin's best oriental food options
Budget eats in student canteens
Community kitchens
Discover the glorious U3 Metro
Preußen Park: Brandenburgische
Straße 10707 Berlin
Opening times: warm weekends from midday until about 7pm
