Russia... more than just Beets, Noodles, and Furry Hats

So we've been in St Petersburg Russia for 2 full days now, and tonight we head on an overnight train to Moscow. My observations thus far:

- The Russian language is much more difficult than one might think after studying it for 3 months.
- People in Russia generally don't like to smile, move out of a person's path, or be pleasant in any way (this is all part of the experience!)
- Food in Russia is much BETTER than you might expect. Last night we had delicious Armenian food, for example, and the Borshcht is to die for!
- Baggage loss on Russian flights is extremely common; but worry not, for baggage will be returned to your hotel within one day (albeit some articles may be missing from said baggage)
- Animal cruelty is acceptable and legal in Russia (this surprised me). It is not uncommon to see an average Joe parading a baby black bear or monkey around for tourist dollars. I asked our guide what happens to the baby black bears when they grow up big and strong enough to beat up thier evil owners, and she told me that the fate of the baby bears "eez not goot".
- Always keep your guard on. Don't look the police straight in the eye or they may harrass you for ID or money, and we hear that the Mafia really does dominate. Another interesting sight we saw today was a man laying on the sidewalk. He looked like someone had just freshly cut out his right eye, but no one seemed to care. (this WAS a sketchier part of town, but still...)

But really, this is a beautifully unique city, and 2 days is not NEARLY enough to do it justice. Besides wandering the side streets, trying to speak Russian, and sampling delicacies, we've seen the Hermitage and two other Palaces between the 4 of us. (one of which included the famous AMBER ROOM; a rediculous Amber stone paneled space within Katherine the Great's Pushkin Palace). And, we have a new travel mate named Sean. He's a Calgarian Nurse, and just splendid to have along. More on him later, I'm sure.

Sorry so short, but we have a train to catch! Please send good vibes, as I will be alone on our over night train to Moscow tonight and don't care to lose an eye.


Amber