My name is Jo Eckardt. I studied literature, history, and social work - in Cologne and then in New York where I lived from 1984 to 2001. In 2001 I returned to Germany, settling in Berlin, my favorite city!

A few years later I started my own touring company called A Friend in Berlin (www.afriendinberlin.de). There is so much to see and experience in Berlin: the obvious highlights and landmarks, reminders of Berlin's complicated past, but also lots of surprises such as the many parks and canals, beer gardens, and amazing restaurants at reasonable prices. What I love most though are the stories behind the landmarks - when history becomes alive.

I also love traveling in other cities and regions, especially in historic towns, and I've created several VoiceMap tours to share my passion with you. Check out all my tours! I also write books, mostly in German, but some are in English too (under the name Jo Thun).