A Year In Berlin

Staatsbibliothek Potsdamer is my favourite building in Berlin and probably in the world, it's such a strange shape, and feels very different depending on what part you're in. Some low roofs, some huge rooms, a couple of spiral staircases, a few slabs of concrete, comfortable chairs, and a cafe that sells really disgusting sausages, it all somehow works together to make a great library.

I've generally been in the 'capitalism not perfect but gud, socialism sounds gud but isn't in reality' camp but only had a basic understanding of why. Berlin is very socialist so I figured while being here I'd commit some time to reading about it, seeing the sights, and trying to understand it better.

Have worked through these, seen the Socialist Memorial and a few exhibitions, and started dropping into The Left Berlin. I think I'll write about where I stand on it someday, and I would like to talk if it's something you're interested in too.

Crypto: There are regular events, and Berlin Blockchain week is nice to have here. There's also a couple of dedicated crypto coworking spots, one where I spend most of my time (shout out to hellno.eth, df, and levertz for being around for most of that time too).

Falafel: Everywhere

Clubbing: I haven't done much clubbing and didn't expect to, but the places I've seen have been fun. There is definitely no major city in the world that accepts such madness, both in the clubs and on the streets/ Späti.

Winter: Everyone says that winter in Berlin is depressing... Can confirm it is dark and freezing, but actually not so awful. There is a lot going on and they have enough interesting indoor events to get through, Stranger Chess even migrate indoors to the lobby of a cinema for the coldest months. There are loads of parks so it's usually possible to get a walk around one in the couple of hours or daylight.

Loud Sirens: Ambulances are absurdly loud. Turns out they use horns not sirens so there is no ramp up of noise.

Door Naming??: You don't have an apartment number, but you put your name on the door. It's annoying cause to update the name you have to find out the name of the person who was renting before you. Also I'd rather not have my name on the front of the building? I haven't done it yet and just avoid getting mail at home.

Insane Metro: Particularly on weekends the metro is crazy, never too busy, but always a complete mess, with a lot of very crusty people.

Overall I've had a good year (8/10) and I'm glad I moved here. I plan to stay a bit longer and might do another update when I do eventually leave.