Yes, the Soviet Union is mostly remembered for its grey, daunting, and utopian aspects, but those who lived through it can attest to its beauty as well. 

As a seasoned professional in tourism, I've encountered numerous perspectives on the Soviet era. For instance, my guests from the USA once remarked that the Soviet Union was renowned for its exemplary social security, healthcare, and education systems. 

My memories of those times aren't as vivid as they once were, overshadowed by the grey and chaotic period that followed the Soviet collapse. Yet, I recall the kindergartens I attended and the one where my grandmother taught. I remember the shops, perpetually semi-full, hinting at a peculiar uniformity. It was almost comical to see every third person wearing identical clothing - a shared wardrobe among the populace.

I reminisce about the public transport, the theatres, the cinemas, and most importantly, the people.

The Enigmatic Transformation of Soviet People

The transformation of the Soviet people remains one of the greatest enigmas for me. Known as 'Sovieticus', they were intellectual, quiet, and well-behaved. In our village, even truck drivers engaged in international literature, borrowing books from my parents' extensive library. The metamorphosis of these same individuals into seemingly different characters post-collapse is something I still struggle to comprehend.

However, the Soviet Union was neither the monster portrayed by Western propaganda nor the utopia depicted by Soviet media. It possessed a unique atmosphere and drive, now irrevocably changed, surviving only in memories akin to an ancient era.

The Enduring Legacy of Soviet Culture

But its legacy endures in architecture, music, movies, literature, dances, designs, statues, paintings, and more. These remnants of Soviet heritage are particularly evident in Armenia, though often overlooked or denied.

Soviet modernism, especially its architecture, enjoys global acclaim but is undervalued in its homeland. The brutalist sculptures and minimalistic mosaics, symbols of equality and social justice, are testimonies to an era often unappreciated compared to ancient civilizations like Greek or Roman.

Unfortunately, post-Soviet countries have struggled to move beyond negative stereotypes and recognize the touristic value of this heritage. It's not about promoting the Soviet Union, but rather acknowledging and appreciating the values of a bygone era.

History in Perspective: Learning from the Soviet Experience

The Soviet era, with all its problems and mistakes, ultimately led to its collapse. Yet, it's essential to view it through the lens of history, acknowledging its contributions without being overshadowed by its downfall. Let's approach it as history, preserving and learning from an entire century of heritage.