People call me crazy, but I’ve always wished I could have visited the Soviet Union before it collapsed. Don't get me wrong—I didn't admire the oppressive system or wish to live under communist rule; I just think experiencing life behind the Iron Curtain firsthand would have been fascinating.
Fortunately, my travel and work have allowed me to explore several former Soviet Republics and Eastern Bloc satellite states. In particular, business frequently takes me to Leipzig, Germany—a key historic hub of the former German Democratic Republic (DDR).
While the economy of former East Germany has largely caught up with its western counterparts, physical remnants of its communist past still peak through the modern landscape. Looking out the window of a Leipzig tram, scenes of urban industrial grit are common.
Weathered facades and abandoned, graffiti-strewn factories bear a striking resemblance to the Rust Belt cities of the American Midwest.
Yet, time has marched steadily forward. Over the last decade, Leipzig has reinvented itself—earning a widespread reputation as one of Europe's premier havens for artists, musicians, and creatives drawn by affordable rent and expansive studio spaces.
Beyond its artistic revival, Leipzig's best operational feature is its sheer walkability. Paired with a comprehensive tram network and a deeply embedded cycling culture, owning a car here feels like an unnecessary burden rather than a convenience.
Vibrant local dining, lively bars, and a legendary classical and contemporary music scene offer endless reasons to visit. (And for those seeking familiar comforts, there's even a Starbucks in the central square).
For me, exploring Leipzig feels like stepping through layers of history. It's a privilege to wander the streets and learn about the storied past of an intellectual and creative powerhouse—a city whose thinkers, composers, and citizens have made enduring cultural contributions to the world.
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