The iconic Rigaer Straße was the last stronghold in East Berlin, where "rebels without a cause" started occupying buildings in the 90s, that had been abandoned to live and promote an alternative lifestyle.
Gradually, the occupants were forced to regularise their situation by entering the system and paying normal rents. Today, only one housing project and a few community centres and bars remain, keeping the spirit of the time alive.
In the same vein, but without going as far as anarchism, Astral Junction, is an innovation hub that offers a unique experience combining sustainability, upcycling, slow fashion, underground music and contemporary art, where you could even enjoy homemade vegan snacks and bio smoothies, milkshakes and lemonades.
The shop is not only a commercial space but also a meeting place for the art alternative community. They host weekly workshops, art and music events, promoting social interaction and philosophical discussions. For instance, on Wednesdays at 20h they host a walk in cinema to unwind, meeting people and watch an epic movie, on donation-based basis.
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"Neue Nationalgalerie" is THE museum for modern art in Berlin, it is simply a must-go. Recently renovated with more to come, it's an absolute must-visit!
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The farmer's market on Karl-Marx-Platz in Rixdorf, Berlin is one of my favorite markets and a favorite of tourists & locals alike! Great street food, too.
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Few places in Berlin are as extravagant in style as "Tadijk Tearoom". One thing's for sure: you'll be leaving Mitte at the doorstep!
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"Mamecha" could be one of the most authentic yet affordable Japanese food places in Berlin. You can even order its tea & cakes online!
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The "Hoffmann Collection" in Berlin is an ever-changing gallery that's actually the collector's own home. The experience was better that I'd imagined...
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"Galander Bar" is one of those hidden gems of ex-West Berlin. A long time ago, it was known as Mon Cheri, a brothel well known for its raucous parties...
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Sometimes I just have a craving for sushi, and most people agree that "The Catch" is one of the best places in Berlin to indulge in fresh fish...
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You could have lived in Berlin all of your life and easily missed "Klosterruine" right next to Alexanderplatz in the center of the city, just like I had...
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"Maxim Gorki Theater" in Berlin is one of a kind. It's the smallest one but its plays are always thoughtful and I love eating leisurely at the cafeteria...
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"PalaisPopulaire" in Berlin hosts the art collection of Deutsche Bank, often in cooperation with intern. museums. Check out the "I like Mondays" tours.
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"Neuzwei Vintage Store" is a very refreshing escape from ordinary second-hand vintage shops in Berlin-Neukölln. It's like a small, unobtrusive boutique...
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"Bikini Berlin" is not your typical mall. Looking over the Zoo and the memorial church, with just some carefully chosen shops, it's in the right direction.
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