Where Paul Goes Next

We didn’t know what to expect. The only thing I heard about Russia was that the people were cold. I hate to prove negative stereotypes correct, but damn were there some sorry, cold SOBs. Sadly, that was only the tip of the iceberg.

We came up with a quote that pretty much sums up our experience… “Third world country with first world prices.”  Sure, there was some grandness and architecture like I’ve never seen, but there was also undrinkable tap water, sprawling urban decay, rotting drunkards, polluted road and water ways, rampant prostitution, innumerable, lurking, shady men, and corrupt law enforcers to name a few. Meanwhile, the restaurant and shopping prices were obscene. We never felt threatened or uncomfortable, besides not being able to find our way out of a Gypsy market OR the metro in Moscow OR being picked up by complete strangers as a mode of transport OR being lost on a daily basis OR almost every interaction we had with a local. Other than that it was very relaxing. Ha!

The cuisine was the trip’s saving grace as we were able to partake in tastes from some of the former Soviet Union countries, such as Georgia, Bulgaria, Azerbaijan, and Uzbekistan. Some might say we got carried away but for us, these were small, vital escapes from the otherwise harsh realities that awaited us outside. 

Besides enjoying the cuisine, we were extremely grateful to have some friends in Moscow. As Russia is not the most convenient of places for a foreigner, their guidance, knowledge, and eagerness to help was very much appreciated. Thank you Vladmir & Anna for softening the Russian experience (a little bit).