The allure of L.A. -- for better or for worse -- is undeniable. Los Angelenos know their city will never have the sophisticated style of Paris or the historical riches of London, but they cheerfully lay claim to living in the most entertaining city in the United States, if not the world. It really is warm and sunny most days of the year, movie stars actually do live and dine among the commoners, and you can't swing a cellphone without hitting a roller-blading blonde at the beach.

Last sunny days in beautiful Berlin before long grey winter. Cruising around with bicycles at 26 degrees. Check out the videoguide to Calypso, the vintage shoe store in the mitte and the shooping sites around the city.