Most Berliners I talk to say that Communism was a terrible chapter in history.

During the 50 years of Communist rule people were desperate. Decent wages, open conversation, and the freedom to travel were dreams far, far out of reach.

In spite of this, now that Communism has left Eastern Berlin, there is a sub-culture that seems to be terribly nostalgic for the "good ol' days." For times that, according to one man I met, "ensured everyone had a job and a place to live."

You see this nostalgia in random neighborhoods and tourist shops where Communist collectibles, cars, and drinks are sold (a notable favorite being an ice cream cone with a shot of liquor.)

The car I've included a picture of was the primary car available during Communism. The waiting list to get this car was 10 years on paper, but in reality, the wait might be 15 - 20 years.

Yet there are some who romanticize and long for those days. I'll never understand why, but it goes to show there is a very very strange dynamic contributing to the diversity of this city.