Asya: Russian Summer

Posted 01:07 AM, June 24, 2006, by lenawine

For updates on Asya's adventures in Russia, check out her blog at:
http://asyagu.blogspot.com/

If you want to see her pictures, go to: http://www.mumrik.us/

See excerpt from her blog below.

I've been in Russia since Monday and its definitely a very interesting country. I already have some stories, including grandma's selling flowers, policemen, and adventurous teenagers at their high school prom/graduation bonanza. But more of this later, when I get back from a much needed trip to a cooler, less crowded dacha (summer house) outside the city.

Impressions of Moscow:
Although this isn't typical (so I'm told), Moscow is HOT this time of year. It's hot, crowded, and there is no air conditioning for anyone but the very wealthy and the particularly picky tourists. The city streets remind me of pictures I've seen of busy Chinese cities: cars parked 3 deep so there's only one lane for the enormous amount of traffic, many people, pretty dirty. But despite this, Moscow is a beautiful city. In the center of town, everything is old, historic. I can walk around there for hours, given I don't attract the attention of a hungry policeman who wants some lunch money. So far, I seem to do ok blending in if I keep my mouth closed. As you know, this is sometimes difficult for me.

Anyway, I'll post more later, but if you're curious what Moscow looks like and where I live, go see my pictures at http://www.mumrik.us/ (don't laugh, my dad made the site, in dedication to my cat). Click on the photos link and then look at the Russia 2006 album. You can sort the pictures by date, etc on the upper right hand side. If you want to see what the life of high school students in Russia is like, click the Russia 2006: Sasha Graduation album to see pictures from our friend's high school graduation. There are some very interesting dresses. I will keep updating this page with new pictures, so check back later for more.

Hope you enjoy!

posted by Asya @ 12:49 AM