The downside is, Berlin is not really integrated into Germany.
I'd kind of consider that a selling point. Berlin is cool and is different from the rest of the country. But I guess whatever floats your boat.
It's why so many people flock to large cities - you feel less like an 'outsider' because the population of these cities is so varied.
And where the hell are the non-smokers hiding?
That said...NY's Central Park doesn't have shit on Tiergarten. Literally one of the most beautiful places I've been on the planet.
Someone said it too! I have had few arguments with people, mostly New Yorkers, over this.
Also, it is really not true that you can truly integrate, even in Berlin, without speaking German.