#beautiful metro station in russia

[nstvanshika]

Immerse yourself in the splendor of Russia with FBT DMC's Idyllic Russia Tour Package 6 Nights 7 Days. This carefully curated journey allows you to experience the best of Moscow and St. Petersburg, two of Russia’s most iconic cities. Begin your adventure in Moscow, where you will explore the heart of the city, Red Square, with its awe-inspiring St. Basil’s Cathedral and the historic Kremlin. Enjoy a stroll down the famous Arbat Street, filled with local shops, street performers, and cultural artifacts. Don’t miss the Moscow Metro tour, renowned for its beautifully decorated stations, often referred to as the “Underground Palace.” Continue your journey to St. Petersburg, the cultural capital of Russia. The Idyllic Russia Tour Package 6 Nights 7 Days includes a visit to the Hermitage Museum, one of the largest and most prestigious museums in the world. Wander through the opulent halls of the Winter Palace and explore the magnificent Peterhof Palace, known for its elaborate fountains and gardens. Experience the charm of St. Petersburg with a scenic boat cruise along the Neva River, offering panoramic views of the city's stunning architecture. FBT DMC ensures top-notch accommodations, guided tours, and seamless transfers, providing a hassle-free and enriching travel experience. With FBT DMC's Idyllic Russia Tour Package 6 Nights 7 Days, discover the rich history, culture, and beauty of Russia, making memories that will last a lifetime.

For more information, visit: - https://www.fbtdmc.com/russia-idyllic-tour-package-from-india.php

[marklakshmanan]

Was this newsletter shared with you?

Subscribe now.

Scotts Thoughts

February 22, 2024

I spend almost no time watching, or getting worked up about, Tucker Carlson. The former Fox News personality has drawn criticism for his recent interview with Vladimir Putin, which took place just days before opposition leader Alexei Navalny was found dead in a Russian penal colony.

Of course western journalists should try to interview Vladimir Putin. Or for that matter, Nicolas Maduro, Xi Jinping and Kim Jong Un.

But over two hours, Tucker Carlson did not ask Putin about how so many of his opponents wind up imprisoned and murdered, or the warrant the International Criminal Court has out for his arrest for war crimes in Ukraine.

Russia's President Vladimir Putin gives an interview to Tucker Carlson at the Kremlin in Moscow.

(Photo by GAVRIIL GRIGOROV/POOL/AFP via Getty Images)

Yet I did see the three-minute celebration Tucker Carlson posted of the Kiyevskaya metro station in Moscow.

"One of the ways you understand a place is through its infrastructure," he declared. "What we found shocked us…No graffiti, there’s no filth, there are no foul smells…or people waiting to push you on the train tracks and kill you….How do you explain that?"

"How does Russia," Carlson goes on, "have a subway station…that’s nicer than anything in our country?"

Carlson is careful to say the video is not an endorsement of Putin, or Josef Stalin, whose government built the station. But the clear implication of the video, scored with dreamy music and swelling strings, is that even though Vladimir Putin’s regime imprisons and kills political opponents, and invades neighboring countries without provocation, it’s all worthwhile because Moscow has an immaculate metro station. No grime! No graffiti!

And the Kiyevskaya station does appear handsome, with gold-trimmed marble pylons, and large mosaics that herald Russian-Ukrainian unity in the old Soviet Union. A portrait of Vladimir Lenin presides over the platform.

Many commentators compared Tucker Carlson’s enthusiasm for Moscow’s metro to the boast of Italians fascists of the 1930’s that Benito Mussolini "made the trains run on time" (a claim historians dispute).

But that homage to the Moscow metro reminded me of another legend from Russian history. Field Marshall Grigory Potemkin was said to have built facades of phony, idyllic-looking villages along the route that Empress Catherine II took to Crimea in 1787, to improve her view. The term "Potemkin village" now describes constructions that obscure reality.

Subway stops have been a favored place of mine to find people to interview in a great city — Chicago, New York, Paris — because you encounter people in transit from a cross-section of neighborhoods. Many are in a hurry, and shake you off. But many make time to share sharp opinions about the mayor, the president, and life in general.

I notice Tucker Carlson did not interview anyone in the Moscow metro station. They were in town to interview Vladimir Putin, but he didn’t ask any Muscovites to say what they thought of their president, or the elections in March, the invasion of Ukraine, Alexei Navalny, or other imprisoned dissidents. They didn’t ask anyone, "What would you like to ask President Putin?"

Even Tucker Carlson must know that asking Russians their opinions might be dangerous. Do you think there might be no graffiti in a Moscow metro station because anyone who considers spray-painting a slogan knows they could wind up in a gulag? Is the immaculate beauty of that metro station a Potemkin village glossing over the fear with which many Russians live?

Charles Maynes, NPR’s Moscow correspondent, confirms, "The metro is a jewel." But he also told us that he interviews people on the street only without using their last names, for their safety. And — "if you don’t talk about the war."

[glimpseofadaydream]

Good morning folks

So Tucker Carlson asked a question and even though I'm not in charge, I will answer it: the Moscow Metro (just as the St Petersburg Metro) are not just considered metro stations, they are also considered cultural heritage and therefore treated like "sights" or museums.

They have stunning art and architecture from the Soviet era (and even before that, with art going back for centuries) and Russians take somewhat of pride in that.

Putin is known for being a big fan of the Soviet era and so it is presumable, that his administration takes great care of it. Generally, since it has very stunning art and architecture in it, littering or graffiti is really looked down upon.

Anyone, who travels to Russia, will come across that information sooner or later and there are even tourist guides, who give plans on which metro stations are the most beautiful and worth looking at (there are over 200 of them and some of them are really worth looking at but no tourist has the nerve to metro-crawl from metro station to metro station). The fact, that Carlson doesn't mention that, makes him look Incredibly uninformed and dumb, because it's reeeeeeaally hard to miss when you travel to Moscow or St Petersburg.

With that being said,

Have a nice week everyone ♥️

[lookbookfly21]

Discover the Wonders of Russia: Unforgettable Tour Packages from India with Look Book Fly

Russia, the largest country in the world, is a land of rich history, captivating culture, and breathtaking landscapes. From the grandeur of Moscow's Red Square to the opulence of St. Petersburg's palaces, Russia offers a diverse range of experiences for travelers. If you're dreaming of exploring this fascinating destination, Look Book Fly is here to make your travel dreams come true. Our Russia tour packages from India are carefully curated to provide you with an unforgettable journey through this enchanting country.

 1.       Moscow: The Heart of Russia

Our Russia tour packages begin with the vibrant capital city of Moscow. Step into the iconic Red Square, surrounded by architectural wonders such as the Kremlin, St. Basil's Cathedral, and the State Historical Museum. Marvel at the stunning beauty of the Moscow Metro, known as an underground art gallery with its ornate stations. Explore the historic Arbat Street, filled with charming cafes, shops, and street performers. Moscow is a city that seamlessly blends its rich history with modernity, offering a captivating experience for every traveler.

 2.       St. Petersburg: The City of Tsars

Next on your journey is St. Petersburg, the cultural capital of Russia. Immerse yourself in the grandeur of the Hermitage Museum, one of the largest and most prestigious art museums in the world. Admire the intricate details of the Peterhof Palace and its stunning gardens. Take a leisurely boat ride along the city's picturesque canals, known as the "Venice of the North." St. Petersburg's architectural masterpieces, including the Winter Palace and the Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood, will leave you in awe of the city's beauty and history.

 3.       Trans-Siberian Railway: An Epic Adventure

No trip to Russia is complete without experiencing the legendary Trans-Siberian Railway. Embark on an epic journey as you traverse across the vast Siberian wilderness, witnessing ever-changing landscapes and immersing yourself in the local culture. Enjoy the comfort of the train's luxurious cabins and soak in the breathtaking views of mountains, forests, and lakes along the way. The Trans-Siberian Railway is not just a mode of transportation; it is an adventure that allows you to truly connect with the soul of Russia.

 4.       Cultural Delights and Local Experiences

Our Russia tour packages from India also include opportunities to explore the rich cultural heritage of the country. From witnessing traditional folk performances to visiting local markets and trying authentic Russian cuisine, you will have a chance to immerse yourself in the local way of life. Engage with friendly locals, learn about their customs and traditions, and create lasting memories through these unique cultural experiences.

 5.       Professional Guides and Hassle-Free Travel

At Look Book Fly, we understand the importance of a seamless travel experience. Our Russia tour packages from India include professional guides who are well-versed in the country's history, culture, and attractions. They will ensure that you have a comprehensive understanding of the places you visit and provide valuable insights throughout your journey. We take care of all the logistics, including accommodation, transportation, and sightseeing, so you can relax and enjoy every moment of your trip.

 In conclusion, Look Book Fly offers captivating Russia tour packages from India that allow you to explore the wonders of this incredible country. From the bustling streets of Moscow to the majestic palaces of St. Petersburg and the epic adventure of the Trans-Siberian Railway, our packages provide a well-rounded experience that combines history, culture, and natural beauty. Embark on a journey that will leave you with lifelong memories and a deep appreciation for the treasures of Russia. Book your Russia tour with Look Book Fly and let us take you on an unforgettable adventure.

[downfalldestiny]

محطة ميترو بالعاصمة موسكو _ روسيا 🔥☘️!.

Metro station in the capital,

Moscow _ Russia 🔥☘️ !.

[nevermindrussia]

Moscow subway: the underground palace (slightly haunted maybe)

Hi there, my dear followers! Today I'd like to dilute all the plenty of posts of Russian history, and tell you something about modern Russia. My beautiful follower from US have suggested me a nice idea to write about Moscow public transportation system. But the whole topic seems to be too wide and maybe too boring. Because we have basically the same, for example, the New-Yorkers or Londoners have: some buses, some trams, and, of course, subway. But Moscow subway itself is a very specific thing! I realized it only when started to say that transportation post would be boring :)) That's one of my favourite parts in blogging - when you suddently find out some things, which are very familiar to you, could be new and surprizing for somebody else :)

So, today's post is about Moscow subway!

Komsomolskaya station

In Russian subway is called метрополитен [metropoliten], and as in case of пригородные электропоезда, literally no-one calls it by it's full name. We say метро [metro] instead of this.

To be honest, I bearly could choose some certain pictures for the post. Because almost all stations of Moscow metro are incredibly beautiful. Every one has it's own unique design and decoration. And every one, depending on a year of it's construction, represents some design and architecture trends of the time.

The station on picture above is one of the oldest in Moscow metro. It's the part of the first metro line, open in 1935, and is decorated in Empire style, which is typical for early Soviet times. Most of central stations, built in 30th-50th, look the same lush and rich.

Central stations of Moscow metro: Novoslobodskaya, Ploschad' Revolyucii , Mayakovskaya, Kiyevskaya

New stations had been added constantly. And late Soviet ones were way less pompous. But, as you remember — a specific face was given to every one of them.

The stations open in 90s, are maybe the least attractive. The designs were humble and minimalistic, for 90th as a whole were very hard times for Russia (лихие девяностые they were called, and лихой [likhoi] is some special word meaning simultaneously "evil", "wild", "reckless", "dashing" and many other nuances):

Stations open in 90s: Altuf'yevo, Volzhskaya

In 2000s funding of metro construction increased, so Russian architectors were able to design beautiful stations again. In modern style though, like that:

Stations of 2000s - 2020s: Troparyovo, Stakhanovskaya, Slavyansky bul'var

So what can I tell you of Moscow metro? In fact, there are the whole websites and blogs about it, so information is plenty. No-one longread post can accomodate it :) So here will be just a few random facts of it.

Let's go then.

1. For today Moscow metro has 250 stations, 14 lines with 435 kms of summary lenght. Every day it transfers 6 670 000 passengers.

2. The cost of passage now is 61 roubles and doesn't depend on travel distance: you pay only once when coming in through a turnstile. We call them so, though nothing in it turns now :) They look like double doors (unfortunately, I cannot attach more photos to show'em to you), which open since you pay. Btw, it turned so in 2010th only; before it there were gates, which were always open; but if you try to pass it without payment, barrier doors pop out from two sides with a loud clang and block your way. Very often they work too late and punch your flanks instead of closing before you. The same could be if you've paid, but pass too slowly or too fast or a turnstile is just faulty. Some researchers consider it - someone jokingly, someone seriously - one of the reasons why Soviet and Russian people were so incredulous and alert about possibilities :) Just imagine, you can see an open way but cannot tell if you'll be hit by invisible danger on it or not :) As for me, I was extremely scared of it when I was a kid; so many Russian children did. It seems to me I can hear this clang even today :)

3. During WWII, when Soviet Union was under attack of nazis army, some stations were used as bomb shelters for people of Moscow. The Kirovskaya station (known today as Chistye Prudy) had become the headquarters of the Supreme Commander-in-Chief. On 6th of Novemder, 1941, the Mayakovskaya station was converted into an event hall for the festive event, dedicated to the Revolution Day. There was even a musical concert right on the underground station.

4. Stations of Moscow metro are mostly named after the on-ground objects, which are located nearby: streets, squares, railway stations, the whole districts and so on. The most common structure of a station name is «***ская» ["***skaya"], where -ск is a suffix describing attachment. For ex., завод (a factory, a plant) - заводской (something related to a plant, for ex. заводской рабочий - "a plant worker", заводская проходная - "a plant entrance"). And the -ая ending is related to feminine, due to the "station", which is a feminine word in Russian. Specially for my dear follower, who suggested the idea of the post: yes, some stations are named after famous Russian people. But this is also the inheritance of on-ground objects names. For ex.:

Пушкинская [pushkinskaya] - after Pushkinskaya square; after A. S. Pushkin, a great Russian poet and writer, who is literally a starter of modern Russian language, being too heavy and solemn before him;

Чеховская [chekhovskaya] - after Chekhov street (today is given back it's historical name Malaya Dmitrovka); after A. P. Chekhov, a Russian writer and scriptwriter, who was able to show all the slight moving of human emotions through some everyday and familiar life events;

Достоевская [dostoyevskaya] - after Dostoyevsky street; after F. M. Dostoyevsky, a Russian writer, who had represented in his novels all the complicated way of human soul, acknowleging itself and finding it's place in the world harmony.

5. There are lots of city legends about Moscow metro. Most of them were produced by "diggers" - a very specific 90s subculture of city speleologists, who used to get into metro tunnels in some unofficial, prohibited and dangerous ways: through sewage or vent systems, for example. Diggers had a wide classification of paranormal creatures, allegedly met in metro tunnels and systems, such as various types of ghosts. Some people said they saw ghosts even on stations, for ex., Aviamotornaya, Mar'ina Roscha and Sokol stations. Moscow metro has even it's own ghost trains - the whole 2 of them! Both are allegedly seen at the Circle line, after midnight, before metro closing. Also there is an extremely popular legend of giant mutant rats. According to these tales, rats, living in metro tunnels, are as big as dogs. Sometimes they are also blind of bald or both, depends of storyteller's imagination :)

6. There is a special government subway line called Metro-2. For it's top secret, no-one knows exactly, where is it located - just somewhere from the city center leading to the south, outwards Moscow. Obviously, no ordinary people can get there. Some people even question isn't it another legend; but it actually exists, according to some direct and indirect confirmations.

So,

I guess that's all I'd like to tell you about Moscow metro. Stay tuned and learn more of modern and historical Russia! Also a friendly reminder that you can feel free to ask me anything via ask form — I'd be happy to make a post or to by your requests.

See you!

[greencheekconure27]

The band Okean Elzy performed the song "Oi, chiy tam kin stoit" at the charity concert "All Is Going to Be Alright". The band Okean Elzy gave Ukrainians a present for Easter and played a charity concert "All Is Going to Be Alright" at the Golden Gate (Ukrainian – Zoloti Vorota) metro station. It was the Kyiv metro that became a shelter for thousands of Kyiv citizens during the shelling and bombing of the capital. It is symbolic that the country's favorite band will perform songs, which have become the soundtracks of the lives of millions of Ukrainians, at one of the most beautiful metro stations in Ukraine and abroad. OE jointly with 1+1 media and Kyivstar will unite millions of people who are fighting for the victory every day, each in its own front line. Proceeds from the broadcasting will be addressed to help the youngest Ukrainians – children, affected by the brutal war of Russia.

[green-ann]

Valery Legasov’s Moscow

Part 1

So, I’ll begin my story of visiting places related to Valery Legasov in Moscow.

I developed this excursion myself, based on my time, logistics and place of my residence in Moscow.

1. National Research Centre “Kurchatov Institute”

Address: Academician Kurchatov square, 1

Our little adventure began at 7 a.m. on Schukinskaya metro station, from where we started to move through a little park, where lots of locals are having a morning walk with their dogs and kids.

10 minutes and we found ourselves on Kurchatov square, in the center of which there is a monument to Igor Vasilyevich Kurchatov – a giant head, with two smaller monuments on the sides - in the form of an open book.

Outstanding scientist and organizer, academic adviser of the USSR nuclear project, founder and first director of the Institute of Atomic Energy, three times Hero of Socialist Labor, laureate of the Lenin and State Prizes of the USSR, academician. A great scientist of the 20th century, who had a significant impact on the course of the history of the country and the world.

National Research Centre «Kurchatov Institute» - first national laboratory in Russia, one of the leading research centers of the world. Founder of the Soviet nuclear project. A leader in creating fundamentally new technologies of the 21st century.

Going around the building on the left side, we will find another entrance for the institute staff, on the left there is a sensor that shows the radiation level at the moment.

Valery Legasov was a post-graduate student at the Department of Molecular Physics of the I. V. Kurchatov Institute of Atomic Energy since 1964, then worked there as a junior and senior researcher, head of the laboratory, and also served as the secretary of the Party Committee of the Institute.

In 1972, he defended his doctoral dissertation (Doctor of Chemical Sciences), was appointed Deputy Director for Scientific Work of the I. V. Kurchatov Institute of Atomic Energy.

He worked here as the First Deputy Director of the Institute from 1983 to 1988.

I cannot describe my feelings from being in this place neither in Russian nor in English…the place to which Valery Alekseevich gave so many years of his life.

2. V.A. Legasov’s house

Address: Pekhotnaya street, 26

From this point we cross the road and in a couple of minutes we found ourselves on the quiet Pekhotnaya Street. During the active development of the Shchukinsky district in the 50’s, these houses were specially built for the academicians of the Kurchatov Institute, so that they do not spend a lot of time getting from home to work, e.g., academician Alexandrov lived in house No. 28, and Velikhov in house No. 24. But we are mostly interested in number 26. A beautiful two-story mansion behind a high fence. Academician Legasov lived and worked in this house to the end of his days. It still belongs to his family.

No words needed, I guess.

@alyeen1 @elenatria @litttlesilkworm @kaiserrr19 @kylos-scarf @the-jewish-marxist @odense @bewareofdragon @gwinny3k @lastnightfanfictionsavedmylife @natasharedfox @owlboxes @borislegasov @borisboyfriend @valerafan2 @art-is-a-malady @cinemaocd @drunkardonjunkyard

[thewolfandthesea]

Facts about Ukraine

Ukraine is the largest country in Europe. At 603,628 sq. km., it stretches from Russia in the east to Poland in the west, with the Black Sea running along its southern border. Its nearly three times the size of the UK and beats the second biggest country, France, by 50,000 sq. km. The state is divided into 24 oblasts (counties). With such a large area, Ukraine has a lot to offer. From the beautiful Carpathian mountains that offer picturesque landscapes of forests, rivers and valleys, to beaches found near the city of Odesa and vibrant cultural cities like Kyiv and Lviv. Not only is it an extremely large country, but also a very unique and exciting one.

Ukraine is home to seven sites protected by the UNESCO World Heritage List. These include Kyiv’s Saint-Sophia Cathedral and Lviv’s historic centre, Chernivtsi University, as well as unique wooden churches in the Carpathians and the beech forests that surround them.

The Ukrainian language is the only official language in Ukraine. Interestingly, the Ukrainian language was rated the 3rd most beautiful language, in 1934, behind French and Persian; it was also rated the 2nd most melodious, behind Italian. In addition, many Ukrainians are bilingual: in many areas, you will find people who speak Russian or those who understand it. The dominant religion is Eastern Orthodox Christianity, which has heavily influenced Ukrainian architecture, literature and music.

Ukraine has a well-developed system of public transportation. Every large city and regional center is connected to the railway network and receives passenger trains daily from other major cities. Many cities also contain cheap and efficient bus and tram services, costing as little as 8UAH (0.3$). Airports in Ukraine are easily accessible by public transport and service buses, or taxis which would cost about 7UAH per km. To reach Kyiv Boryspil Airport you can also take an express train from the railway station.

The world’s deepest metro station Arsenalna, along Kyiv’s Sviatoshynsko-Brovarska train line, is the world’s deepest metro station at 105.5 metres below the ground. Staring down from the top of the steep escalator to the darkness of the metro below can be quite scary. However, their construction took place during the cold war era; the threat of nuclear bombs meant such deep-lying stations could protect the citizens of Kyiv from such disaster. Thus, the influence of conflict in the 20th century can be seen, even in such mundane activities as the morning commute to work.

The traditional Ukrainian diet includes chicken, pork, beef, eggs, fish and mushrooms. Ukrainians also tend to eat a lot of potatoes, grains and fresh and pickled vegetables. The Ukrainian cuisine is extremely varied and exciting, with different ethnic minorities and a rich multicultural history bringing a range of different foods to the table. Nonetheless, popular traditional dishes include varenyky (boiled dumplings with mushrooms, potatoes, sauerkraut, cottage cheese or cherries) and holubtsi (stuffed cabbage rolls filled with rice, carrots and meat). The most famous Ukrainian dish is borscht. Whilst many Russians claimed it derived from the motherland, many Ukrainians passionately believe they are the founders of this dish. It consists of soup made from beetroot, cabbage and potato; true borscht also contains meat, most commonly, pork. Famous Ukrainian drinks are Lviv beer, horilka (vodka) with pepper, medovucha – horilka with honey, Zakarpattya wine and Lviv coffee. Ukrainians prepare very tasty desserts: cheesecake (syrnyk), poppycake (makivnyk), honeycake (medivnyk) and many many others.

Chiken Kyiv is not from Kyiv. Contrary to popular belief, the delicious stuffed chicken breast dish is not from Kyiv. In fact, there are several suggestions as to its origins. Whilst some believe that it was created in the Russian Empire, others have suggested that it was created in France and became assimilated into Russian culture under the name, Côtelettes de volaille. It was then renamed Chicken Kyiv by New York restaurants trying to appease their Russian clientele in the 20th century. Neither Chicken France nor Chicken New York, have the same ring to them though...

Ukraine has a mostly temperate, continental climate. Precipitation is disproportionately distributed; it is the highest in the west and north and the lowest in the east and southeast. Winters vary from cool along the Black Sea to cold farther inland. Average annual temperatures range from 5.5 °C–7 °C in the north, to 11 °C–13 °C in the south. Summers are not so hot and temperatures range from 17°C to 25(30) °C. However, winters can be very cold, attracting lots of snow and creating a beautiful wintery wonderland, perfect to enjoy an authentic christmassy getaway!

Complex history Ukraine’s history is both incredibly interesting and complex. Its unfortunate geography meant that it has changed hands many times throughout the centuries. Arguably, its modern routes can be traced back to the Kyivan Rus, a powerful medieval state that thrived in the middle ages, but was struggling by the 12th century. The following centuries saw Ukraine change hands between the Mongols, Ottomans and the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth, with Cossack communities attempting to live independently in some areas of Ukraine. During the 18th and 19th centuries, however, Ukraine was divided between the Habsburg Empire and the Russian Empire. By the 20th century, the Habsburg Empire had all but collapsed. In 1918, Ukraine was annexed by the Soviet Union, a status that would characterise their existence throughout the 20th century, as the breadbasket of the USSR. Whilst Ukraine’s struggle throughout history has been extremely tough, cultural influences, from Habsburg architecture to Soviet monuments, give the country a wealth of depth and expression.

Ukraine was at the heart of one of the biggest catastrophes of the 20th century. Chernobyl Nuclear Powerplant exploded in 1986, leaving a once-thriving community of Ukrainians completely destroyed. The effects of the explosion were felt far and wide, and have recently been dramatised, albeit brutally honestly, in HBO’s recent series of the same name. Recently, it has been possible to return to Chernobyl. Here, you can witness the destruction caused by this disaster, and understand yet another obstacle that Ukraine has managed to overcome as a country.

Following on from Ukraine’s complex history, it is also one of the youngest countries in the world. It was only in 1991 that the country finally achieved its independence. Such a feat gave many young Ukrainians hope that their country would thrive on its own in the near future. The years succeeding this independence have still been difficult, with Russia continually flexing its muscles. But Ukrainians are proud, patriotic and, undoubtedly as a result of their history, strong. With accelerating agricultural and IT industries, there is much hope and opportunities for the country barely older than most millennials.

There are many different festivals and fairs in Ukraine. Ukrainian musicians are flourishing in rock, pop, jazz, folk, electric, drum and bass. Hence, festivals, such as Dubno-fest and Leopolis Jazz Fest in Lviv are extremely popular. Moreover, Atlas Weekend festival is one of Europe’s biggest festivals, attracting over 500,000 people this year, showing contemporary modern popular music. Meanwhile traditional and ethnic festivals provide insight into conventional Ukrainian celebrations. Many, however, are far from conventional. These include Malanka festival in Bukovina, the Land Of Dreams Festival in Lviv, the medieval festival of Tustan, the Festival of the Brynza in Rahiv and Sorochinsky Fair.

Spread Love

M & S

[primortravel]

New Post has been published on https://primortravel.com/16-interesting-and-surprising-facts-about-russia/

16 Interesting and Surprising Facts About Russia

Did you know that more than 5 million tourists visited Russia in 2019? While that may seem like a lot of people, Russia is a country that many people never visit. It is an underrated destination that you should add to your bucket list if you haven’t already. Russia is the perfect travel destination to experience delicious food, interesting culture, and beautiful architecture!

Are you thinking about traveling to Russia? If so, there are some facts you need to know before you go. Keep reading for 16 facts about Russia that will make you want to jump on an airplane soon. 

Fun and Interesting Facts About Russia

1. The World’s Longest Railway Is in Russia

Did you know that the longest railway in the world is in Russia? The Trans-Siberian Railway extends from Moscow to Vladivostock, a total of 5,772 miles. If you want to take your time and travel around Russia by train, the Trans-Siberian Railway makes it easy to do so. You can choose to ride in a first-class cabin or third-class seats, depending on your budget and the experience you want to have. 

The Trans-Siberian Railway even connects to China and Mongolia if you have the desire to visit those countries as well. Read more: Mongolia Pictures from the Russian Border to the Gobi Desert

2. Russia Is Home to A Lot Of Famous Literature 

If you are someone that loves literature, you probably know that Russia is home to some of the best and most esteemed writers. A few of the great Russian authors include Alexander Pushkin, Alexander Solzhenitsyn, Ivan Turgenev, and Vladimir Nabokov. The famous Russian authors that you may also know are Fyodor Dostoevsky (Crime and Punishment) and Leo Tolstoy (War and Peace) and Anton Chekhov (A renowned playwright known for The Seagull)

Many famous literary writers have a museum dedicated to them that you can visit in Russia. Most can be found in Moscow and St. Petersburg. Whether you are a superfan of their work or you don’t know who they are, you can learn something new about them and Russian literature by visiting their museums. 

3. Russia Has 12 Active Volcanos

Another one of the most surprising facts about Russia is that it has 12 active volcanos! Of those volcanos, Kamchatka is one of the most commonly visited due to its accessible location. 

If you are someone that loves nature and beautiful landscapes, you should visit Kamchatka. This active volcano has over 1,000 different species of plants. It’s also home to brown bears, sheep, and wolves.  You can choose to visit Kamchatka on your own or go on a guided tour. If you are unfamiliar with the Russian language, an organized tour is the easier option. 

4. Siberia Makes Up a Majority of the Land

Did you know that Siberia makes up 77% of the Russian Federation? Siberia is a large region in Northern Russia. While it makes up 77% of the land, only 20% of Russian people live in Siberia due to the harsh conditions. 

We drove across Siberia in the summertime and it was beautiful. Siberia reminded us a lot of Canada. And the people were so friendly and welcoming. If you love to get off the beaten path while traveling, you should visit Siberia. It is known for its natural beauty, and if you are lucky, you may even spot a reindeer. Read: Motherland Calls – Mother Russia Stands Proud Over Volgograd

5. Russians Have Plenty of Superstitions

Another interesting fact about Russia is that, in general, Russians tend to have many superstitions and traditions. One of the most common traditions is to only give flowers in odd numbers. Many Russians believe that an even number of flowers are only for cemeteries. If you give a Russian an even number of flowers, they make take it personally. 

In addition to not giving out an even number of flowers, Russian’s also believe you should not wear clothes inside out. If you put your clothes on inside out, the Russians believe you will be beaten. 

6. Russia Has One of the World’s Busiest Metros

The metro station in Moscow is the fourth busiest metro station in the world. The only busier metro stations are in Seol, Shanghai, and Tokyo. More than 2 billion people ride the metro each year in Russia.

One of the best things about Russia having a busy metro is that it makes it easier for locals and tourists to get around. There are trains for almost everywhere you could want to go. Read more: 17 Exciting Things to do in Moscow

7. Tetris Was Invented in Russia

Many people don’t know that the game, Tetris, was invented in Russia. In 1984, Alexey Pajitnov developed the first version of Tetris for the Electronika 60 computer. The game quickly caught on and spread throughout Russia. By 1987, the game was released in Europe and North America, and it became one of the most popular computer games in the world. 

8. Russians Learn Not to Smile

Another one of the best Russian facts is that Russians learn not to smile while growing up. While smiling in many cultures is a sign of happiness and friendliness, Russians don’t view it that way. To Russians, smiling is a sign of weakness and not showing one’s true feelings. Russians do smile at people they know well and care about, but not at strangers as many other cultures do. 

If you smile at a Russian on the street, don’t expect them to return the favor, however, we found that many Russians smiled and waved back while driving in Russia.

9. Russia Is the Largest Country by Land Mass

Based on the total landmass, Russia is the largest country in the world. That is excellent for travelers because that means there is plenty to explore. The total landmass of Russia is 6,601,665 square miles. That is equal to 11% of the world’s total landmass! For comparison, the next biggest country is Canada at 3,855,101 square miles. Read: 72 Funny And Interesting Facts About Canada

10. 54% Of the Russian Population Is Female

There is a big difference between the male and female population in Russia. While females in Russia make up 54% of the population, males only make up 46% Why is there such a big difference in the population? The population gap began during World War II when 25 million Russian soldiers died during the war. While there is no longer a war going on, men still have a much shorter lifespan than women do in Russia. 

Many Russians live in rural communities where the way of life is harsh. Russian men often fall victim to hunting accidents, poor health care, and too much vodka. We can attest that there was a lot of Vodka drinking in Russia at all times of the day.

11. Folk Dancing Is a Tradition in Russia 

Folk dancing is an important part of Russian history and Russian culture. Khorovod is one of the most common types of Russian folk dancing. This style of dance consists of people dancing in a circle while holding hands. 

Russians perform folk dances at festivals, markets, and in the theater. If you get the chance to travel to Russia, be sure to attend a Russian folk dance performance to learn more about the culture and traditions of Russia. 

12. 20% Of the Earth’s Trees Are in Russia

If you are someone that loves nature, this is a fact you will enjoy. Around 20% of all the trees in the entire world are in Russia. That ends up being around 640 billion trees. 

Many of the trees are in remote areas of Siberia. They are part of wild, untouched forests that are too cold to travel to. These untouched forests are home to the endangered Siberian Tigers. 

13. Russia Is Home to the Coldest Village in the World

Because Russia has harsh winter conditions, it is probably no surprise that Russia is home to the coldest village in the world. Winters in Oymyakon, Russia average -58 degrees Fahrenheit. The coldest recorded temperature in Oymyakon is -96 degrees Fahrenheit. 

Living in these harsh temperatures comes with its fair share of disadvantages. For example, if someone tries to wear glasses outside, the glasses will freeze on their face. Also, cars have to stay in heated garages or they will not start. 

If you want to take a trip to the coldest village in the world, it won’t be easy. To get there, you first have to travel to Yakutsk, and from there, it is a two-day car ride to Oymyakon. If you decide to visit Oymyakon, be sure to pack for winter. 

14. Russia Sold Alaska for 7.2 Million Dollars

In 1897, Russia sold Alaska to the United States for only 7.2 million dollars. With inflation, that is around 120 million dollars today. At the time, Russia needed the money, and there weren’t many Russian settlers living in Alaska. 

In addition to needing the money, Russia believed that selling the land to the United States would help offset Europe’s power. Check out: The Best Places to Visit in Alaska

15. Russia Has 11 Time Zones

Did you know that Russia is so big that it has 11 different time zones? Even though Russia has 11 time zones, it still isn’t the country with the most time zones. France has the most time zones due to all the small islands that are a part of France.  While Russia doesn’t have the most time zones, it still has a lot. If you decide to travel across Russia, you may experience jet lag without even leaving the country!

16. Lake Baikal Has More Water Than Any Other Lake on Earth

Located in Siberia, Lake Baikal is the largest freshwater lake in the world by water volume. It contains 23% of the world’s freshwater and has more water than all of the Great Lakes in North America combined.

Did You Enjoy These Facts About Russia?

Russia is an amazing place to visit if you love history, culture, and architecture. While Russia isn’t one of the most popular tourist destinations, it is perfect for anyone that wants to get off the beaten path. 

Did you enjoy reading this article on facts about Russia? Are you currently planning a trip to Russia? If so, check out our ultimate Russia travel guide to learn everything you need to know about traveling in Russia. 

Read more fun facts about the world:

Source link

#Travel #TravelBlogs #TravelGuides #Traveling #TravelTips

[salmankhanholics]

★ Race me around Russia!

27 August,2021 

Salman-Katrina shoot chase sequence, complete with trams, carriage and metro, in St Petersburg over six days for Tiger 3!

As is true of any Salman Khan offering, there has been enough interest around Tiger 3. But the hype around the spy thriller intensified this week as the leading man’s long-haired and bearded look went viral online. Now, mid-day has found out further details about the Russia schedule. It turns out that among other scenes, Khan and Katrina Kaif shot for a hyper-stylised chase sequence around hotspots of St Petersburg under the watchful gaze of director Maneesh Sharma.   

The sequence, filmed over six days, comes at a crucial juncture in the narrative. “In the film, Salman — who plays RAW agent Avinash Singh Rathore — will sport multiple disguises. The chase scene sees him flaunting the long-haired look as he, along with Katrina, chase down one of the baddies around the streets of the city, including opposite St Isaac’s Cathedral,” 

says a trade source. The action director has designed the set-piece such that it will offer glimpses of the beautiful city as Khan’s pursuit takes him from one mode of transport to another. “It begins with the actors inside a tram, then a horse-drawn carriage, after which they hop on to a car, and finally reach the underground metro. Since each metro station is uniquely decorated with details about Russia’s past, the makers wanted at least one scene to be set in a station.”While fans from Russia continue to post their selfies with Khan, the superstar headed to Istanbul on Wednesday. “After that, a schedule in Vienna is lined up. Producer Aditya Chopra doesn’t want to spare any expense for the actioner.”

[morganalefays]

which countries have you visited? and what were your favorite parts of them?

I have been to a lot of countries but not spent that much time in any of them so theres still a ton to see! but here are some things i loved about the places i have visited.

China (Shanghai, Hangzhou, Suzhou) china was sooooo cool. so unlike anything im used to. i could say many nice things but one thing is that they had these insane nightclubs, i have a video somewhere of me sitting on a curb digging silver confetti out of my bra

India (Goa) Definitely one of the most beautiful places i’ve been, all the flowers, trees and greenery were unreal

Egypt (Hurghada, Cairo) ok can i be honest with you guys........ i was probably most starstruck by seeing the pyramid of chephren BECAUSE we had to play this math PC game all the time in 8th grade where you were supposed to break out of the pyramid and when i saw it i was like wow i can’t believe i won the game

USA (San Francisco) i was obsessed with the redwood forests and san francisco really is unapologetically A LOT

Israel (Jerusalem, Bethlehem) i’ve never been somewhere more loaded with energy than Jerusalem. so much culture, religion and history. obviously a lot of that comes form tragedy and conflict but its a town that means a lot to many people and you can really feel that

Finland (Helsinki) i was only in helsinki for a day, but i love the palette of the city if that makes sense. like the colours and the architecture feels very fitting for its geographical location.

Denmark (Copenhagen) i go to copenhagen every year cause its just really easy to go over the day from where my grandparents live. Tivoli (an amusement park) is so magical to me and i just love the atmosphere even if i don’t go on any ride.

United Kingdom (London, Glasgow, Edinburgh) i’m so impressed with british theatre, i’v’e seen a few plays in london and they’ve all been really good. i feel like the culture around going to the theatre is much less elitist than in my country as well.

Iceland (Reykjavik) i think im gonna have to go live in reykjavik at some point. i just felt really at home in iceland. the nature is so beautiful it makes you want to cry this is some fantasy shit.

Germany (Berlin, Cologne) i like in germany how the history is always so present and made a part of the cities identity instead of hiding it away.

France (Paris, Bordeaux) france to me kind of really lives up to what you imagine france to be like. like “here’s a beautiful little town from the 12th century surrounded by winerys”. also had an absurd experience of going to a wine tasting with a class of 17 year olds

Spain (Tarragona) tapas!!!! my friend’s boyfriend who is from the region ordered all the food and showed us what is good which is really helpful when you’re a clueless swedish person (but also omg never getting used to eating dinner at like 10? he’d be like let’s eat and im like.... its bedtime)

Portugal (Lisbon, Sintra) sintra is something taken out of a fairytale! we did like three castles in one day and i loved every single one of them

Italy (Rome, Venice, Florence, Bologna) if you love history, languages, religion and art like i do, italy is a fucking DREAM. you’ll just walk around and like stumble on the colloseum or something. i came upon this closed off ruin with like a million cats running around and i read the sign and it was just like “this is where caesar was murdered”

Russia (St. Petersburg) i was there with my russian class in high school and i fell in love with st petersburg, but especially seeing the winter palace was magical to me. and random but the metro stations are amazing? i vividly remember one with like whole ass chandeliers in it

Greece (a few different islands) i’m just gonna say it... greek people are very hot. also there are some really nice beaches

Turkey (Bodrum) all turkish people i have visited are so generous and loving and make the best food

[ayquebella]

Vintage St. Petersburg Russia Architectural Landmarks and Monuments Antiqued Gold-Tone & Dark Blue Enamel Panel Link Travel Bracelet

What a pretty bracelet that highlights some of St. Petersburg’s most famous architectural landmarks! This gorgeous, antiqued gold-tone and dark blue enamel bracelet has nine linked panels with artistic scenes reminiscent of the rich architectural history found in St. Petersburg. These images represent some of the iconic buildings and ensembles of the historic core located in the immediate vicinity of the Russian city, which are collectively designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and called the Historic Centre of Saint Petersburg and Related Groups of Monuments.

This collective site has been recognized for its architectural heritage, fusing Baroque, Neoclassical and traditional Russian-Byzantine influences. The nine bracelet panels have artistic images of МЕТРО, МУЗЕЙ, КОЛОННА (abbreviated from АЛЕКСАНДРОВСКАЯ КОЛОННА), КРЕПОСТЬ, ЛЕНИНГРАД, ТЕАТР, АРКА (abbreviated from АРКА ГЛАВНОГО ШТАБА), a second МУЗЕЙ, and a second МЕТРО. (See full description of all 9 landmarks below.)

Vintage St. Petersburg Russia Architectural Landmarks and Monuments Antiqued Gold-Tone & Dark Blue Enamel Panel Link Travel Bracelet

This remarkable landmark travel bracelet with its vibrant, dark blue enamel, will recall memories of St. Petersburg and is a must-have for any world traveler or collector!

Vintage St. Petersburg Russia Architectural Landmarks and Monuments Antiqued Gold-Tone & Dark Blue Enamel Panel Link Travel Bracelet

FULL DESCRIPTION OF LANDMARKS:

МЕТРО (“Metro”) for the St. Petersburg Metro, Uprising Square station, (ПЛÓЩАДЬ ВОССТÁНИЯ), the rapid transit system which features exquisite decorations and artwork making it one of the most attractive and elegant underground train stations in the world.

МУЗЕЙ (“Museum”) for the State Russian Museum (ГОСУДАРСТВЕННЫЙ РУССКИЙ МУЗЕЙ), the world’s largest depository of Russian fine art from the 10th Century to the 21st Century.

КОЛОННА (“Column”), abbreviated from АЛЕКСАНДРОВСКАЯ КОЛОННА, for the Alexander Column monument (the “Alexandrian Column”), the focal point of Palace Square which is a column made from a single piece of red granite, topped with the statue of an angel holding a cross, and an ornately decorated base with bas-reliefs featuring allegorical and winged figures.

КРЕПОСТЬ (“Fortress”) for Saints Peter & Paul Cathedral (ПЕТРОПАВЛОВСКИЙ СОБОР), the Russian Orthodox cathedral built on the grounds of the Paul and Peter Fortress, a star fortress citadel.

ЛЕНИНГРАД (“Leningrad”) for the Admiralty Building, one of St. Petersburg’s most conspicuous landmarks with a gilded spire topped by a golden weathervane in the shape of a small sail ship.

ТЕАТР (“Theater”) for St. Petersburg’s world-famous famous theaters for opera and ballet, the Alexandrinsky Theatre, the Mariinsky Theatre and the Mikhailovsky Opera and Ballet Theatre.

АРКА (“Arch”) abbreviated from АРКА ГЛАВНОГО ШТАБА for the arch of the General Staff Building (ЗДАНИЕ ГЛАВНОГО ШТАБА), the monumental, Neoclassical, bow-shaped building with two wings separated by a tripartite triumphal arch that now houses the Hermitage Museum and the Western Military District.

МУЗЕЙ (“Museum”) for the Kunstkamera Museum (МУЗЕЙ КУНСТКАМЕРА), the Baroque-style edifice complete with a turret, and is the first museum of Russia.

МЕТРО (“Metro”) for the St. Petersburg Metro, А́ВТОВО station, in which the British newspaper, The Guardian, included it on its list of 12 most beautiful metro stations in the world because of its Neoclassical design.

[newstfionline]

Headlines

The Covid-19 economic shock (NYT) The economy’s recovery from the fastest, deepest recession in U.S. history is likely to be a long, grinding affair. More than $6.5 trillion in household wealth vanished during the first three months of this year as the pandemic tightened its hold on the global economy, the Federal Reserve said this week. That’s roughly equivalent to the economies of the United Kingdom and France combined. “This is the biggest economic shock in the U.S. and in the world, really, in living memory,” Fed Chair Jerome H. Powell said Wednesday. “We went from the lowest level of unemployment in 50 years to the highest level in close to 90 years, and we did it in two months.” Almost 90 percent of the 20 million workers who lost their jobs in April said they had been laid off temporarily and expected to return to their jobs, a possible sign the economy might quickly return to normal. Yet economists are far less sanguine. After a quick initial bounce this year, the economy “will go largely sideways” until a coronavirus vaccine is developed, according to economist Mark Zandi of Moody’s Analytics.

Tenants behind on rent in pandemic face harassment, eviction (AP) Jeremy Rooks works the evening shift at a Georgia fast-food restaurant these days to avoid being on the street past dusk. He needs somewhere to go at night: He and his wife are homeless after the extended-stay motel where they had lived since Thanksgiving evicted them in April when they couldn’t pay their rent. They should have been protected because the state’s Supreme Court has effectively halted evictions due to the coronavirus pandemic. But Rooks said the owner still sent a man posing as a sheriff’s deputy, armed with a gun, to throw the couple out a few days after rent was due. The pandemic has shut housing courts and prompted most states and federal authorities to initiate policies protecting renters from eviction. But not everyone is covered and a number of landlords—some desperate to pay their mortgages themselves—are turning to threats and harassment to force tenants out. The evictions threaten to exacerbate a problem that has plagued people of color like Rooks long before the pandemic, when landlords across the U.S. were filing about 300,000 eviction requests every month. The data and analytics real estate firm Amherst projects that 28 million renters, or about 22.5% of all households, are at risk of eviction.

Pandemic leads to a bicycle boom, and shortage, around the world (AP) Fitness junkies locked out of gyms, commuters fearful of public transit, and families going stir crazy inside their homes during the coronavirus pandemic have created a boom in bicycle sales unseen in decades. In the United States, bicycle aisles at mass merchandisers like Walmart and Target have been swept clean, and independent shops are doing a brisk business and are selling out of affordable “family” bikes. Bicycle sales over the past two months saw their biggest spike in the U.S. since the oil crisis of the 1970s, said Jay Townley, who analyzes cycling industry trends at Human Powered Solutions. The trend is mirrored around the globe, as cities better known for car-clogged streets, like Manila and Rome, install bike lanes to accommodate surging interest in cycling while public transport remains curtailed.

Mexico desperate to reopen 11 million-job tourism industry (AP) An irony of the coronavirus pandemic is that the idyllic beach vacation in Mexico in the brochures really does exist now: The white sand beaches are sparkling clean and empty on the Caribbean coast, the water is clear on the Pacific coast and the waters around the resort of Los Cabos are teeming with fish after 10 weeks with no boats going out. There are two-for-one deals and very eager staff. It’s all only an airline flight—and a taxi ride, and a reception desk—away, and that’s the problem. There are a number of ways to think about it: Might it be safer to travel than stay home? How much is mental health worth, and, if people are going to socially distance anyway, why not do it in a beautiful, isolated place? On the other hand, despite the pandemic, flights are often crowded, even hotels in Mexico that bend over backward to disinfect everything have little capacity to actually test their employees, and while fellow guests are likely to be few and far between, they also probably won’t be wearing masks. In Quintana Roo state, where Cancun is located, tourism is the only industry there is, and Cancun is the only major Mexican resort to reopen so far. Mexico’s tourism income crashed in April, when it was only 6.3% of what it was one year ago. Hundreds of thousands of hotel rooms were closed. Tourism provides 11 million jobs, directly or indirectly in Mexico, and many of those workers were simply sent home to wait it out.

Top US diplomat finds virtual path into Venezuela amid rift (AP) A year after shutting down the U.S. Embassy in Caracas, Washington’s top diplomat in Venezuela has found a way to slip back inside the South American nation—at least virtually. Each Thursday afternoon, James Story hits the “Go Live” button on Facebook from his office in the U.S. Embassy in Bogota or his home in the Colombian capital hundreds of miles from Caracas. In a freewheeling approach, he answers questions in fluent Spanish from Venezuelans and the few U.S. citizens still in the country, addressing the latest intrigue and turmoil bubbling over in Venezuela and the United States. For 30 minutes, Story talks about everything from Venezuela’s purchases of gasoline from Iran, despite its vast oil reserves, to recent unrest in the U.S. over George Floyd’s death in police custody to accusations that President Nicolás Maduro is undermining Venezuela’s constitution. Story’s low-budget, weekly question-and-answer session on the popular social media platform is a way for Story to get his message out since he’s deprived of traditional tools such as visiting hospitals and schools, talking to local reporters and hosting cocktail parties for power brokers.

Colombia’s confirmed coronavirus cases rise above 50,000 (Reuters) Reported coronavirus cases in Colombia have risen to over 50,000, the country’s health ministry said on Sunday, as neighboring Ecuador approaches the same milestone. The disease overwhelmed Ecuador’s health system, in some cases leaving authorities unable to collect the bodies of the deceased and forcing the government to temporarily store corpses in refrigerated shipping containers. Colombia’s economy has been battered by the twin ills of a coronavirus quarantine put in place by President Ivan Duque and falling oil prices.

Europe’s borders reopen but long road for tourism to recover (AP) Borders opened up across Europe on Monday after three months of coronavirus closures that began chaotically in March. But many restrictions persist, it’s unclear how keen Europeans will be to travel this summer and the continent is still closed to Americans, Asians and other international tourists. Border checks for most Europeans were dropped overnight in Germany, France and elsewhere, nearly two weeks after Italy opened its frontiers. The European Union’s 27 nations, as well as those in the Schengen passport-free travel area, which also includes a few non-EU nations such as Switzerland, aren’t expected to start opening to visitors from outside the continent until at least the beginning of next month, and possibly later.

Surveillance tech (Worldcrunch) Following pushback from Black Lives Matter activists, Amazon has suspended police use of its facial recognition software for one year. IBM followed suit, also announcing it will stop offering its similar software for “mass surveillance or racial profiling.” But the moves come amid a tumultuous few months for so-called “surveillance tech,” which some have touted during the pandemic as a necessary tool to ensure public cooperation to stem the spread of a deadly virus. Despite the potential medical benefits, the use of geolocation technology to curb COVID-19 has raised concerns over fundamental data protection, especially in countries like China, South Korea and Israel where tracking has been more intrusive: enlisting credit card records for purchase patterns, GPS data for travel patterns, and security-camera footage for verification. In Russia, the pandemic proved a convenient excuse to test a nascent, China-inspired citizen monitoring system, backed by a Moscow court ruling in early March stating that the city’s facial recognition system does not violate the privacy of its citizens. Even places not particularly known for their police state-like tactics are pushing limits: In Paris, cameras were installed at the popular Châtelet metro station to monitor mask use, as it is illegal to take public transportation without a mask. Similar (and seemingly well-intentioned) efforts like fast-tracked coronavirus data collection apps have raised suspicions of data protection breaches by both hackers and governments, including in the Netherlands and South Africa. In Germany, a country known for its hard stance on privacy protection, new surveillance tools are being met with a considerable amount of defiance.

American sentenced to 16 years in Russia on spying charges (AP) A Russian court on Monday sentenced an American businessman to 16 years in prison on spying charges, a sentence that he and his brother rejected as being political. The Moscow City Court read out the conviction of Paul Whelan on charges of espionage and sentenced him to 16 years in a maximum security prison colony. The trial was held behind closed doors. Whelan, who was arrested in Moscow in December 2018, has insisted on his innocence, saying he was set up. Speaking after the verdict, U.S. Ambassador John Sullivan denounced the secret trial in which no evidence was produced as an egregious violation of human rights and international legal norms. He described Whelan’s conviction as a mockery of justice and demanded his immediate release.

For Migrants in Russia, Virus Means No Money to Live and No Way to Leave (NYT) Migrant workers from Central Asia, shrugging off the risk of coronavirus infection, have gathered in groups each day outside their countries’ embassies in Moscow, banging on doors and fences and shouting for officials to come out and tell them when they can finally get on a charter flight home. With regular flights canceled, charters offer the only feasible way out for the more than five million migrant workers from former Soviet republics now stranded in Russia as a result of the pandemic, with many living in increasingly dire circumstances. While Russia has been battered by the virus, with the third most cases in the world after the United States and Brazil, the crisis has hit migrant workers especially hard, as they were the first to lose their jobs and often the last to receive medical help. Many have no money for food and, once infected with the coronavirus, have been left in crowded dorms to fight the disease by themselves. Many would like to return to their countries. But they can’t. Before the pandemic hit, more than 15 flights left Moscow each day for various cities in Uzbekistan, Central Asia’s most populous nation. Today, there are only two charters a week, and the embassy’s waiting list has more than 80,000 names.

Press freedom in the Philippines (Foreign Policy) The journalist Maria Ressa, the founder of news site Rappler, has been found guilty of criminal libel by a Manila court in a case Human Rights Watch described as a “devastating blow” to press freedom in the Philippines under President Rodrigo Duterte. Ressa and another Rappler journalist, Reynaldo Santos Jr., were sentenced to up to six years in prison under the country’s cybercrime prevention act of 2012, which includes libel. The article that was deemed libelous predated the law, but a later online update of a typo was enough for prosecutors to consider it worthy of an indictment.

18 dead, 189 hurt as tanker truck explodes on China highway (AP) A tanker truck exploded on a highway in southeastern China on Saturday, killing 18 people and injuring at least 189 others, authorities said. The explosion caused extensive damage to nearby buildings. One photo showed firefighters hosing down a row of buildings with blown-out facades well into the night. The truck carrying liquefied gas exploded around 4:45 p.m. on the Shenyang-Haikou Expressway south of Shanghai in Zhejiang province, the official Xinhua News Agency said, citing local authorities.

Hong Kong families, fearing a reign of terror, prepare to flee the city (Washington Post) China’s Communist Party has haunted Leung’s family for generations. Her father, Guo Yao, fled forced labor and the violent purges of the Cultural Revolution for a better life in Hong Kong, where he arrived with his wife in 1973 to find relative freedom and prosperity. Now, 17 years after the death of her father, Leung is preparing to flee Hong Kong. A new law approved by the Communist Party to take effect this summer will allow China’s powerful state security agencies to operate in the territory, paving the way for political purges and intimidation of government critics by secret police. Officials are pushing to impose party propaganda in schools. With their political freedoms deteriorating, nurses, lawyers, business people and other skilled workers are rushing to renew documents that could provide a pathway to residency in Britain, or finding ways to emigrate to Taiwan, Canada or Australia. Applications for police certificates required to emigrate soared almost 80 percent to nearly 21,000 in the latter half of 2019 from a year earlier, even before the advent of the security law, coinciding with a crackdown on pro-democracy protests. Animal rescue groups have reported an increase in surrendered dogs as their owners leave Hong Kong. Protesters fearing persecution have sought refuge in Germany, the Netherlands and United States. The exodus of talent recalls the pre-handover years, when anxiety over Beijing’s rule drove tens of thousands of people out of Hong Kong.

Netanyahu turns to rich friend to fund corruption trial fees (AP) Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is on trial for accepting gifts from wealthy friends. But that has not stopped him from seeking another gift from a wealthy friend to pay for his multimillion-dollar legal defense. The awkward arrangement opens a window into the very ties with billionaire friends that plunged Netanyahu into legal trouble and sheds light on the intersection of money and Israeli politics. Netanyahu has asked an Israeli oversight committee to allow a 10 million shekel ($2.9 million) donation from Spencer Partrich, a Michigan-based real estate magnate, to fund his legal defense. The request for financial aid from a friend is not illegal, and Israeli politicians have a long tradition of hobnobbing with wealthy Jewish supporters abroad. But to some, the optics of Netanyahu’s request are sketchy. “It is a problem that we have prime ministers who have ties to moguls,” said Tomer Naor, of the Movement for Quality Government in Israel, a good governance group. “When the borders blur, you are blinded by the big money. You want more of it. Then all of a sudden the friend asks for a little favor and that poses a problem.”

Nigeria attacks (Foreign Policy) At least 141 people were killed in two militant attacks in Northern Nigeria over the weekend, both have been claimed by Islamic State West Africa Province. The attacks in Monguno and Nganzai districts of Borno state killed at least 60 people, while a separate attack in Gabio district killed at least 81. The United Nations, which has a humanitarian base in Monguno, said it was “appalled” by the attacks.

[assamartist]

Moscow have one of the beautiful metro stations in the world with historic architecture and landmarks. #russia #moscow #ussr #saintpetersburg (at Moscow, Russia) https://www.instagram.com/p/CBMPPx8JzMV/?igshid=1e1ht9w17edzg

[haveclotheswilltravel]

I know I’ve said this a million times, but Russia is an absolutely amazing country to visit. If you ever have the opportunity to see it, DO NOT hesitate. Living in Moscow for a little over a year has been one of the most surprisingly fantastic experiences of my life. 

I know there are many preconceived notions about what Moscow, Russia is like, though, especially as an American.…I had many of them before I moved there. So, hopefully, this post will shed a little light on what to expect, should you ever decide to visit Moscow!

(Note: These are not in any particular order, just a list of what surprised me!)

12 Things That Surprised Me About Moscow, Russia (As an American)

1.) How safe it is in Moscow. As an American, I had this image in my head of Moscow being one of the most dangerous cities in the world…where an American would be in mortal danger at all times if they were visiting. I could not have been more wrong. Moscow is one of the safest cities I have ever been to.

Sure, if you’re in politics or organized crime, then perhaps Moscow isn’t the safest city. But as an average tourist visiting – you are likely safer here than you are at home. (I’m from a small city in Wisconsin, and honestly felt safer walking alone in Moscow at night than I do back home.)

This was always something that family and friends remarked about as well when visiting. They couldn’t get over how safe the city is. 

That being said, Moscow is still a big city. Exercise caution as you would anywhere else – don’t be a complete idiot. Be aware of your surroundings and your belongings. Keep your eyes open for pickpockets, especially in busy tourist areas.

2.) Russians’ perspective of Americans being in their country. For the most part, everyone’s attitude in Moscow that I’ve encountered over this last year has been of genuine curiosity – “What brings you to Moscow as an American? How do you like it here? What do you think of the cold?” 

As an American, I had this preconceived notion that Muscovites wouldn’t like me being here. I couldn’t have been more wrong. Everyone has been very kind and not a single person ever voiced a prejudice about Americans. (And from what I’ve come to gather, most Russians are not the sort to hold their opinions back in order to be polite.) 

3.) How nice the vast majority of Muscovites are. Moscow is a very large city, and I didn’t meet every single person living here. However, again, I had this idea that all Russians would be rather cold or rude to me. This, again, couldn’t have been further from the truth.

In Russian culture, it’s not normal to smile much, especially at strangers. So, I can see how Russian people may come off as unfriendly to a foreigner. However, once you talk to most people here, they are very friendly!

Inside the Kremlin. Putin works on the 3rd floor of this building, I was told .

4.) The average Russian in Moscow did not care about my American politics that much (or at least, it does not come up in conversation as frequently as I thought it would). I had lived in Australia for the previous US presidential election, and it was literally the only thing most people wanted to talk to me about. (I started replying I was Canadian when I asked where I was from, to avoid having that conversation over and over again.)

I also lived in Argentina for a year after that, and most people could not wait to chat with me about Trump and the current American political climate (all just out of curiosity – not malice). 

However, I have had it come up only a handful of times in conversation while in Russia. Sure, there are always some grumbles about Putin, but no one is going out of their way to hear my thoughts on America’s current political situation. (I’m assuming this is because Russians are also just as sick of having to talk about their thoughts on Putin…)

5.) How English-friendly Moscow is. This is a fairly recent change, though. I had arrived in Moscow just weeks after they had hosted the World Cup. Most signs and menus were translated because of this. Many of the younger generations of Muscovites also know basic English. 

Knowing a handful of words in Russian is useful in order to be polite. However, you’ll be just fine with only know English if you visit Moscow (or St. Petersburg for that matter). 

6.) How beautiful and colorful Moscow is – even the metro! As an American, we only ever think of the drab and grey apartment buildings built during the Stalin era. However, even the architecture built during that time was beautiful in its own right. Plus, the multitude of gold-domed and colorful Orthodox cathedrals look straight out of a fairytale. And have you seen the metro in Moscow?! Some of the stations resemble art museums!

Inside the Moscow metro.

7.) How quiet it is – even in the metro! Now, Moscow isn’t as quiet as Tokyo is. It is, however, not too far behind! Most people are not overly loud or talking on cellphones while on public transport. Sure, if a large group of people is walking down the street, they’ll likely be chattering amongst themself. But overall, this city is rather quiet for its large population. Not many people will be honking their horns either. (Unless it’s rush hour… then it might get a little loud on busy roads.) 

8.) How clean Moscow is. Being from the US, I’m always picturing New York or Chicago or San Francisco when I think of large cities. These are cities not exactly known for their cleanliness (especially when it comes to public transport). So, the fact that there is hardly any litter on the streets of Moscow, and I don’t want to burn my clothes and bathe in bleach after using the metro… never failed to surprise me!

9.) The fashion in Moscow. I mean, I was always aware that Moscow is a very fashion-forward city. However, I was still surprised by how nicely dressed the vast majority of Russian women are. Classy and timeless is the best way to describe the style of Moscow women – I loved it! (Most women would wear dresses and fantastic shoes and fur coats.)

10.) The amount of wealth in Moscow. Moscow is always in the top 10 lists of cities for “where billionaires live.” I couldn’t get over the number of Maseratis and Bentleys you could see on the road at any given time. Or just how packed the Chanel stores would be… We tend to not think of this, though, when we think of Moscow. (And for good reason… this wealth isn’t exactly evenly distributed.)  

11.) How difficult it is to get a visa to Russia as an American. Even if you only want a tourist visa to visit Moscow, as an American, this is going to be a painful process. We’ve gone through rigorous visa processes in the past with our previous international moves… but Russia takes the cake as the most difficult one we’ve experienced. You also need an “invitation letter” to apply for your visa – which is a new one for me too! (Click here for more on that.) 

12.) That Lenin’s body is on display in Red Square. Soviet leader Vladimir Ilych Lenin’s embalmed body can be visited inside Lenin’s Mausoleum, also known as Lenin’s Tomb. His preserved body has been on public display there since shortly after his death in 1924. It’s weird and rather surprising to see, to say the least. He looks more like a wax figurine nowadays. 

Now, I’m curious which, of these things surprised you the most about Moscow? Let me know in the comments!

Click here to see all of my blog posts from Russia. 

Travel Insurance

It’s a good idea, no matter where your adventure takes you, to have travel insurance. You never know what might happen! Whether you get sick before your trip and can’t go, or you become sick or injured while on your adventure – being covered with travel insurance is a must. Some credit card companies do provide this service (check with yours), or you can get a quote from companies such as RoamRight. You can click here for your free quote. 

Visa Requirements

To check if your country requires a Visa for traveling to Russia, click here. 

*Disclosure: some of these links are affiliate links. Meaning, if you click a link and make a purchase, Have Clothes, Will Travel gets a very small commission at no extra cost to you. Thank you for supporting the brands that make this blog possible! I am also a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.

12 Things That Surprised Me About Moscow, Russia (As an American) I know I’ve said this a million times, but Russia is an absolutely amazing country to visit.