The Ampelmännchen - literally 'little traffic light man' - of East Berlin was a source of constant amusement as we walked the streets during our stay. They distinguish themselves from the traffic lights of West Berlin by the hats they wear on their heads. As New Yorkers visiting Europe, the culture of patiently waiting for lights to change despite the lack of visible traffic is something that comes to mind at every cross section. Depending on our rush, we would alternately abide by or violate convention.