Hi All,
Well I am currently in Ekaterinberg, which is 1800km from moscow.
Moscow ended up lovely. Visited the park of the fallen idols, vodka museum, Convent near swan lake, Yeltsins grave and just walked and walked for hours and miles. Meet some lovely people that were doing the shorter trip so I had to say goodbye to them and it felt extremely weird to say if you are ever in Oz looks us up instead of saying see you back in london. I am sure to get use to it.
Our first big train journey was exciting. I was chomping at the bit (ahh ho, love his saying)to get started on my way. The station was chaos but with the aid of our honcho we found our carriage no worries and settled in for a 26 hr trip.
It is amazing how time flies when you just keep sleeping, and I definately love to sleep on any moving thing. We were able to get off every now and then and sample the goods, I could have even brought a shadleer and a stuffed bird, but unfortunately I didnt have room in my back pack.
We arrived in Ekateringberg arounf8pm, but it was enough time to have a quick shower and head out for some food other than sandwiches. After dinner we went to a club/bar where I think the age of female was early 20's, males late 30's. It blows me away that all these lovely looking girls are going for pretty average older men. Where have all the good men gone?
Today through the showers, sun and humidity we ventured to a monastry where the Romanovs (last Zar of Russia) were found burried several years ago. It was a very moving site, churches and forest made it a very reflective place.
We then ventured to the europe/asia border. Yes I was the typical tourist. I stood either side of the line and had my photo taken. I did however feel a little under dressed. pparently it is a custom here in Ekateringberg to have your wedding photos taken there. So I must remember that if I ever take the plunge.
Anyway thats about it from here. We leave at 3am today to head to Irkurts and Lake Bikal. I think the trip is 40 odd hours, but I am sure to survive.
Have included some photos. Sorry only a couple of photos somehow today I have just lost all of them from the past week as well as this morning. Gotta love technology.
I hope all is well and catch you soon.
Lisa xx
